Wicking The Aromizer Rtda: A Step-By-Step Guide

RDTAs, or rebuildable dripping tank atomizers, are a type of vape atomizer that combines the features of both RDAs (rebuildable dripping atomizers) and RTAs (rebuildable tank atomizers). While the deck of an RDTA is designed like an RDA, it also has a tank section that feeds juice to the build, eliminating the need for constant dripping. This offers users more flexibility, as they can choose to drip e-liquid directly onto the coils or store it in the tank for later use. However, RDTAs can be more complicated to operate, especially for novice vapers, and may leak if not handled properly. Wicking an RDTA requires some finesse and trial and error to ensure it doesn't leak and to prevent dry hits. This involves carefully mounting and positioning the coils, as well as using the appropriate amount of cotton wick to absorb the e-liquid.

Choosing the right cotton for your aromizer

When it comes to choosing the right cotton for your aromizer, there are a few factors to consider. The type of cotton you choose will depend on your specific device and your personal preferences for performance and convenience. Here are some guidelines to help you make an informed decision:

Types of Cotton

Firstly, understand the different types of cotton commonly used in vaping:

• Silica Cotton: This type of cotton is known for its heat resistance and ability to withstand higher temperatures without burning.
• Organic Cotton: Free from pesticides and other chemicals, organic cotton is a pure and natural option that provides a clean and crisp vaping experience.
• Japanese Cotton: This variety is highly absorbent and known for its ability to retain liquid. It is often favoured for its superior wicking capabilities.

Wick Material Compatibility

Not all wicking materials are created equal. Some common materials used in vaping wicks include silica, cotton, rayon, and hemp. Make sure to choose a cotton that is compatible with your specific atomizer and vaping device.

Absorbency and Wicking Efficiency

The absorbency and wicking efficiency of the cotton will impact the overall performance of your aromizer. Look for a variety that can absorb and retain an adequate amount of e-juice while also delivering a consistent supply of liquid to the heating coils. Japanese cotton, for example, is renowned for its superior absorbency and wicking capabilities.

Heat Resistance

Consider the heat resistance of the cotton, as it will be in direct contact with the heating coils. You want a material that can withstand higher temperatures without burning or degrading too quickly. Silica cotton, in particular, is known for its heat resistance.

Taste and Purity

The type of cotton you choose can also impact the taste and purity of your vape. Organic cotton, for instance, is free from chemicals and pesticides, ensuring a pure and clean-tasting vape. Other types of cotton may impart a slight flavour to the vapour, so consider your preferences for a neutral or flavoured vaping experience.

Convenience and Maintenance

Finally, consider the convenience and maintenance requirements of the cotton. Some types of cotton may be easier to work with, wick more efficiently, and require less frequent replacement. For example, Japanese cotton is known for its durability and superior wicking capabilities, which can lead to a more consistent and low-maintenance vaping experience.

How to roll your cotton

To roll your cotton, you can try the "Scottish Roll" method. This method involves rolling the cotton and packing it tightly into the coil. Although it may seem counterintuitive, this method can help to improve the flavour and vape time. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to roll your cotton using the Scottish Roll method:

• Take a small piece of cotton and roll it into a tight ball.
• Pack the cotton ball into the coil, ensuring it is very tight. You may need to use a tool like a paperclip to feed it through.
• Spread out the bottom of the cotton using the paperclip or a similar tool.
• Adjust the cotton as needed to ensure it is snug but not too tight. You want to avoid choking the coil, which can inhibit airflow and flavour.
• Prime the coil by dripping a small amount of e-juice onto it.
• Install the coil into your atomizer, following the manufacturer's instructions.
• Saturate the wick with e-juice and let it sit for a few minutes to ensure it is fully absorbed.
• Connect the atomizer to your vape device and take a few test draws to ensure it is working properly.

The Scottish Roll method may not work for everyone, but it is worth trying to see if it improves your vaping experience. Remember to experiment with different types of cotton, coil geometries, and power levels to find the best configuration for your needs.

How to cut your cotton

To cut your cotton for wicking the Aromizer RTDA, you will need to follow a few simple steps. Firstly, it is important to understand that the cotton will fray slightly no matter what cutting method you use. If the frayed edges will not be visible in your final product, you don't need to worry about it. However, if you want to minimise fraying, you can try a few different techniques.

One method is to use Fray Check, a liquid sealant that prevents fraying. Simply cover the cutting lines with Fray Check and let it dry before cutting. Another option is to use pinking shears, which will create a zigzag edge that is less prone to fraying. Alternatively, you can try using very sharp fabric scissors or a rotary cutter, as X-Acto blades tend to pull out more fraying.

When cutting your cotton, make sure to cut it long enough to reach the bottom of the tank. You will also need enough cotton to saturate the wicks, so they don't get dry. Once you have cut your cotton to the desired length, place the tails in the wicking channels, making sure they go all the way through. Then, prime the wick by dripping a small amount of e-juice onto the coil.

Overall, cutting your cotton for wicking the Aromizer RTDA is a straightforward process, but taking the time to do it carefully will ensure a better vaping experience.

How to mount your cotton

Mounting your cotton properly is crucial to ensure even airflow and prevent dry hits and burning wicks. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare Your Coils

Before mounting your cotton, you should have your coils ready. Wrap your coils tightly, ensuring each coil is roughly the same diameter. This will make it easier to mount and adjust them later. If you're using a single coil build, you can skip to the next step. For dual coil builds, prepare two coils.

Step 2: Mount the Coils on the Build Deck

Now, it's time to mount the coils on the build deck. If your aromizer has a Velocity-style two-post build deck, slide the legs of the coil into the corresponding upper and lower mounting holes. If it uses a different deck style (with clamps or three posts), attach the coil leads to their corresponding mounting posts. Position the coil directly over the airflow holes for even heating.

Step 3: Tighten the Set Screws

Once the coils are in place, use the provided micro-screwdriver or Allen key/hex key to tighten the set screws. Ensure the coils are secure and there is no play after tightening. Loose set screws can result in a poor connection and affect your vaping experience.

Step 4: Adjust and Dry Fire the Coils

If you're using a dual coil build, repeat the mounting process for the second coil, ensuring it is positioned correctly. Now, dry fire the coils to check if they heat up evenly. Attach your aromizer to a device and check the resistance. Use pliers to crimp the coils together and adjust for even heating across the wraps.

Step 5: Prepare the Cotton

For wicking, you can use cotton pads, cotton balls, or specialised cotton products like Cotton Bacon. Cut or tear a piece of cotton that is roughly the same width or thickness as the diameter of your coils. Spread the cotton across your work area, perpendicular to the grain. This will help create a fluffy wick.

Step 6: Roll the Cotton (Scottish Roll Method)

Take one edge of the cotton and slowly roll it onto itself. Don't roll it too tightly, as you want to maintain fluffiness. Cut the rolled cotton into two equal pieces. These will be your wicks for each coil.

Step 7: Slide and Cut the Wicks

Take one of the rolled cotton pieces and slide it through a coil. Roll one end of the cotton into a small tip to make it easier to pull through. Pull the cotton through until the coil is halfway along the length of the wick. Now, carefully cut the cotton, leaving just enough to plug the juice channels completely. Avoid using too much cotton, especially if you're using high VG ratio e-liquid, as it may result in dry hits due to slower wicking.

Step 8: Tuck the Wicks into the Juice Channels

Most aromizers have a retainer ring that you can use to tuck in the wicks. Nudge any stray cotton strands into the juice channels using a small tool like a paper clip. Screwing down the ring can help hold the wicks in place and prevent them from being dislodged when reassembling the tank.

Step 9: Check the Wicks and Reassemble

Ensure the cotton completely covers the juice channels without any excess hanging down. Now, you can reassemble the tank. Be careful not to disturb the wicks when screwing the tank back on, as it may lead to leaking. Fill up the tank, and you're almost ready to vape!

Step 10: Prime the Cotton

Before vaping, it's a good idea to prime the cotton by dripping a small amount of e-liquid onto the wicks and coils. Avoid getting liquid into the airflow holes. Press the fire button a few times to vaporize the liquid, blowing on the coils to prevent overheating.

And that's it! You've successfully mounted and wicked your aromizer. Now, you can enjoy a customised vaping experience with your preferred e-liquid flavours. Remember to maintain and replace your wicks regularly for the best performance. Happy vaping!

How to juice your cotton

Juicing your cotton is an important step in the process of vaping. The cotton is what absorbs the e-juice, which is then vaporized and inhaled. Here is a detailed guide on how to juice your cotton:

Step 1: Prepare Your Cotton

Before you begin, it is important to have the right type of cotton for your vape. While regular cotton balls can be used, it is recommended to use cotton specifically designed for vaping, such as Cotton Bacon. Cut or tear the cotton to the desired size, ensuring it is not too thick or too thin. For the best results, the width of the cotton should be similar to the width or diameter of your coils.

Step 2: Roll the Cotton

Once you have the cotton prepared, it's time to roll it. Spread the piece of cotton perpendicular to its grain across your work area. This means that if the cotton is facing you with one end away from you, you should spread it across your table. The goal is to make the cotton as fluffy as possible, so take one edge and slowly roll it onto itself. Be careful not to roll it too tightly, as you want to maintain its fluffiness.

Step 3: Cut the Rolled Cotton

After rolling, cut the cotton into two equal pieces. These pieces will be used for your coils. Take one piece and roll one end until it forms a small tip. This will make it easier to pull the cotton through the coil in the next step.

Step 4: Thread the Cotton Through the Coil

Now, carefully thread the cotton through the coil. Pull it through until the coil is sitting roughly halfway along the length of the cotton. You want to ensure that the cotton is secure and won't move around. At this point, you can trim the excess cotton if needed, leaving just enough to reach the juice channels.

Step 5: Saturate the Cotton

This is the juicing step! Carefully drip your chosen e-juice along the cotton wick and coil. Be cautious not to let any juice drip into the airflow holes, as this can cause leakage. Saturate the cotton thoroughly, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

Step 6: Dry Fire the Coils

Before reassembling your vape, it is a good idea to dry fire the coils. Attach your vape to a device and press the fire button a few times, allowing the coils to heat up and vaporize the excess juice. Blow on the coils occasionally to prevent them from overheating. This step helps to get rid of the cotton taste that sometimes occurs with new wicks.

Step 7: Reassemble and Fill Your Tank

Once your cotton is juiced and the coils are heated, it's time to reassemble your vape. Carefully screw the tank back on, being careful not to dislodge the wicks from the juice channels, as this can lead to leakage. With the tank secured, fill it with your desired e-juice, screw on the top cap, and you're ready to vape!

Remember, this process may vary slightly depending on the specific model of your vape, but the general steps of juicing your cotton remain the same. Always take your time and be careful when handling the cotton and e-juice to ensure a pleasant vaping experience.

Frequently asked questions