Cartridges pair with a battery, creating what’s sometimes called a “vape pen.” They contain pre-filled cannabis oil that can be vaporized for inhalation.

A battery powers an atomizer in the cartridge, which heats the oil and activates its cannabinoids and terpenes. Some batteries feature functions that enable temperature customization and session monitoring.

What is a vape cartridge?

Cartridges are a convenient and discreet way to enjoy medical cannabis. They allow patients to inhale the medication with a button, providing instant symptom relief. They’re also small and emit very little odor. Cartridges are available in various shapes, sizes, and rechargeability options.

Some are pre-loaded with distillate or live resin oil; others can be loaded with a syringe filled with your favorite oil. They can also be used with a 510-threaded standard rechargeable battery (not included) to create a “vape pen.”

Stand-alone cartridges connect to the battery via a 510-threaded attachment that screws into the product. For the best vaping experience, your battery should be regulated to operate at a low power level. Too high voltage can cause your oil to burn through the wick and ruin your experience.

Many oil cartridges contain thinning agents such as polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, or vegetable glycerin to maintain a consistent oil consistency for standard atomizer functionality. Natural cannabis-derived terpenes can also be re-added to the oils to create different flavor profiles and effects.

The duration of your cartridge will depend on several factors, including the rate of consumption and the type of cannabis vaped. Speak with your budtender to learn more about use and how to get the most out of your cartridge.

How does a vape cartridge work?

The cartridges in oil vaporizers have openings that allow them to be filled with a vaporizing oil. The bottom of the cartridge contains a ceramic core with metal pins at the center, and when paired with a compatible battery, those pins get hot and vaporize the oil contained within the cartridge.

Cartridges have many options, from shapes and sizes to the material used to create the cartridge’s contents. Some cartridges are made of glass, while others are made of polyfill or cotton wicks that hold cannabis oils. Cartridges can be pre-filled with oil flavored with terpenes or have raw cannabinoid extract inside. Generally, pre-filled cartridges are less expensive than purchasing and refilling individual oils and can be used for up to 200 puffs before replacement.

It is important to note that some cartridges have proprietary connections, which can only be used with the brand of vape battery they were designed for. While this can offer consumers a unique visual presentation and tailored experience, it can also prevent using other batteries with the cartridge. It can be inconvenient for people who want to switch between brands. Purchasing pre-filled cartridges from regulated dispensaries that adhere to strict manufacturing guidelines and produce top-quality products is advisable.

Moreover, vape cartridges can be purchased pre-filled with various oils from cannabis enthusiasts, concentrate producers, or licensed retailers. They are also available empty and refillable. Refillable cartridges are usually capped with a locking base that must be removed using a unique tool to allow the user to fill it.

Some manufacturers recommend a maximum number of times that a cartridge can be refilled before compromising the integrity of the internal components and degrading the ability to produce optimal results.

Cartridges hold a liquid, extract or distillate, and heat the contained material to vaporization when combined with a battery. This produces a smooth, clean inhalation without burning the concentrate to the end of combustion or exposing harmful chemicals.

Early cartridge designs used cotton, fiberglass, or carbon fiber ‘wicks’ in conjunction with an exposed heating element to vaporize oils. These low-cost options are generally regarded as low quality, prone to leaking and known for producing sub-standard and inconsistent vapors. Modern cartridges utilize ‘wickless’ atomizers that are often made from a variety of metal materials. This innovation offers vastly improved vapor production, child safety features, and a more sophisticated look and feel.

Many cartridges feature internal holes of varying sizes to offer compatibility with a wide range of oil viscosities or ‘thicknesses.’ Choosing the correct hole size will prevent your oil from flooding the atomizer and potentially clogging the device. Some oils contain thinning agents such as propylene glycol (PEG), vegetable glycerin (VG), or medium chain triglycerides, like coconut oil, to maintain a consistency conducive to standard atomizer function.

What is a vape cartridge made of?

Cartridges are made of a mouthpiece and a chamber that holds the oil. They work with a battery that powers an atomizer to heat the oil, creating the vapor you inhale. Different types of cartridges are suited to various cannabis oils, and the style you choose will depend on your desired experience.

Some cartridges are refillable, so you can use them repeatedly after they’re empty. However, some are disposable. This can be convenient, especially for new users who may need more time to commit to the maintenance and cleaning required with a dab rig and nail setup.

The atomizer inside a cartridge is usually made of titanium or nichrome, which generates the vapor by heating the oil as it passes over the coil. The cartridge also has an electrode pin, often made of brass and plated in chrome or gold. This electrode pin allows you to connect your cartridge to a compatible battery.

Some cartridges have additives, such as polyethylene glycol (PEG), propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), and medium chain triglycerides (MCT), to help the oils maintain a consistency suitable for standard atomizer function. However, these have become controversial due to health concerns, so you’re more likely to find terpene-only cartridges on the market.