- Identify parts of the E-Cig that constitute voltage, current, and resistance. Discuss the role each plays in the E-Cig and typical values for each including units.
In this section of our discussion, the components of the E-Cig and their functions in relation to Ohm’s Law factor (i.e., current, voltage, and resistance) will be summarized. The rechargeable battery is the voltage source (sometimes called the electromotive force (EMF) that causes electrons to flow (current) through the light and heater. The example E-cig in figure 1 shows the two resistors (i.e., the heater and light (LED) represented by
and Since the current divided equally by each resistor
, the voltage (4.2v) is the same across each resistor (parallel resistors). The current leaving (1.909A) the battery is equal to the current returning to the battery. The heater applies energy (vaporization to the nicotine/liquid cartridge when the user inhales or pulls on the E-cig. The integrate circuit (I.C. or microprocessor) controls the heater and light. The microprocessor has an applied voltage and current (although relatively small when compared to the other components). The operation of the microprocessor is beyond the scope of our present course/discussion
*Discuss the electrical dangers of an E-Cig. Give specific examples.
E-cig accidents are most often caused by the rechargeable batteries. Explosions can be caused by overcharging, incompatible chargers, and the improper handling of carrying spares in the pocket with the terminals exposed to other metal objects like car keys and coins. In 1991, the relative new lithium-ion battery replaced the older lithium metal battery which was very explosive.
The user should never use the E-cig while it is being charged. There is a chance of too much current draw and overheating which could result in damage to the E-cig circuit components and an electric shock to the user. The subject of electric shock by such a small device might seem unusual. To briefly explain the phenomena of electric shock, there is a relatively small current necessary to cause electric shock in a human. Here is a brief representation of values of current and their possible effects on a human.
*.001A or 1ma (Threshold of Sensation)
*.01A or 10ma (Mild Sensation)
*.01A to 0.1A or 10ma to 100ma (Painful to Breathing difficulties)
*0.1A to 0.2A or 100ma to 200ma (Death)
*0.2A to 1A or 200ma to 1000ma (Breathing Stops, Severe Burns)
*There are many electrical safety rules. Pick one, and discuss its application on a small system, such as the E-Cig.
One safety measure on a small system such as an E-cigarette would be to always keep the terminals separated and therefore prevent electrical shortages. One example of how ignoring this preventative measure could be even more dangerous when applied to an automotive system would be to allow a tool such as a long screwdriver to come into contact with the positive and negative terminals of the large battery (12-V) in an automobile. This “dead short” can produce a high level of current (i.e., 600A, 400A, 300A, etc.) Even though this 12 V has relatively low voltage the cranking amps of the battery can be as high as 800A. Consider the Power Formula (P=IV) P= (800A) (12V) = 9,600watts or 9.6kw
References
Schultz, M.E. 2016. Grob’s Basic Electronics 12th edition Pg 95-96.
Velvet Cloud. (2018, June 19). OHM’S LAW 101 AND E-CIG TECH: Understanding Vape Electrical Lingo. Retrieved from Velvetcloud: https://velvetcloud.com/blogs/news/ohms-law-101-and-e-cig-tech-understanding-vape-electrical-lingo
