Silicone Drip Tip – What is it in Vaping?
Definition
A silicone DripTip“>drip tip is a soft, heat-resistant mouthpiece made from medical- or food-grade silicone that attaches to the top of a vapetank, RDA or Kit“>starter kit. It replaces the standard hard plastic or metal mouthpiece, providing a cushioned, non-slip surface for your lips while vaping. The primary purpose is comfort—silicone stays cooler during long draws and reduces the chance of lip-grip fatigue. It also offers electrical insulation, which adds an extra layer of short circuit protection when used on sub-ohm or Mod“>squonk mod set-ups.
Technical Details
Silicone drip tips are injection-moulded from high-temperature silicone rated to 220–260 °C, well above the coil heat most Australian vapers reach. They conform to the two dominant standards:
- 510: 8.5 mm base diameter, 12 mm height, 5 mm bore (fits most MTL and sub-ohm tanks)
- 810: 12.5 mm base, 15 mm height, 8–10 mm bore (common on cloud-chasing RDAs and RTAs)
Inside the tip is a stainless steel or PEEK insert that locks into the atomiser’s chimney, preventing collapse when pushed by teeth. Variations include wide-bore cloud tips, condensed flavour tips, and hybrid silicone-resin designs. Some are flanged to act as heat sinks, while others feature integrated airflow restriction rings.
Usage & Tips
Push the silicone drip tip firmly until it seats flush; if it spins, add a thin O-ring or wrap dental floss around the base. Clean weekly with warm soapy water—avoid alcohol, which can swell the silicone. Replace if you notice tears or permanent discolouration from steeping juices high in sweetener. Never dry-burn coils with the tip installed; the radiant heat can scorch the silicone and release undesirable compounds.
History & Context
Silicone drip tips debuted in 2014 as a comfort upgrade for high-wattage sub-ohm tanks. Australian import regulations favour medical-grade silicone, making the domestic market a testbed for vibrant colours and ergonomic shapes that have since become global trends.