The Technology Behind the SnapVape Pod: Dual Mesh Coil, Airflow, and Top-Fill

Anyone looking into modern e-cigarettes will inevitably come across a variety of technical terms. This also applies to the SnapVape Pod, a refillable vape based on the principle of a modular reusable system. But what exactly is behind terms like dual mesh coil or top-fill? In this article, we explain the technology of the pod system objectively and clearly.

What is a SnapVape Pod and how is it constructed?

A vape pod is the heart of many current e-cigarettes. It serves as a tank for the e-liquid and simultaneously contains the heating element that vaporizes the liquid. Unlike closed disposable devices, the Snap Vape brand uses a modular principle. The SnapVape battery with a capacity of 1100 mAh (priced at CHF 11.50) forms the base. The separately available SnapVape empty pod is attached to it.

This empty pod (CHF 7.50) has a tank volume of 10 ml and features a transparent section through which the visible liquid level can be checked at any time. The leak-proof design protects the battery from liquid penetration. For customers of the former partner shops snustrend.com and dampfwelt.ch (collaboration until 2025), the complete system is now available at Schnupfhus.com.

What is a dual mesh coil?

To understand how the e-liquid is converted into vapor, the concept of a dual mesh coil needs to be explained.

A classic coil traditionally consists of a coiled wire. In modern pod systems, however, the so-called mesh has prevailed. A mesh is not a single wire, but a fine metal grid or net. The advantage of this grid lies in its significantly larger surface area. When current from the battery flows through the grid, it heats up evenly over a large area.

The prefix "dual" in this context means that not just one, but two such grid elements are built into the coil. These two heating elements work together to distribute the heat even better and vaporize the liquid more efficiently. Especially with liquids containing nicotine salt – such as the SnapVape E-Liquid with 20 mg/ml – the dual mesh coil ensures that the flavor is transferred precisely and consistently. The even heat distribution also protects the wicking material (the cotton in the coil that absorbs the liquid), which can help extend the pod's lifespan.

What is the airflow control used for?

In addition to the heating technology, the air supply plays a crucial role in the vaping experience. The integrated airflow control, often just called airflow, is located on the bottom or side of the pod.

When users adjust the pod's airflow, they change the draw resistance of the e-cigarette. The mechanics behind it are simple: a small slider or rotary ring opens or closes the air inlets. When you draw on the mouthpiece of the pod, negative pressure is created, and air flows through these openings past the hot coil, mixes with the vapor, and reaches the mouth through the chimney.

How airflow affects the vapor:

• Closed airflow (tight draw): When the air slots are almost completely closed, a strong draw resistance is created. This is similar to drawing on a traditional filter cigarette (Mouth-to-Lung or MTL). The vapor becomes more concentrated, warmer, and the flavor is often perceived as more intense.
• Open airflow (loose draw): If the air openings are slid wide open, a lot of air flows through. The draw resistance is low. The additional air makes the vapor cooler, and the amount of vapor produced increases.

This infinitely variable adjustability thus makes it possible to tailor the device to your own individual preferences.

Top-fill: Refilling explained

A key feature of a refillable vape is how it is handled during refilling. Many older models had to be detached from the battery and opened at the bottom (bottom-fill). The SnapVape Pod uses a top-fill system instead.

Top-fill simply means "filling from the top". To fill the SnapVape empty pod, it usually does not need to be removed from the battery. Typically, the mouthpiece is detached or a silicone seal on the top is opened to reveal the filling port. The e-liquid from the 10 ml bottle can then be squeezed directly into the tank. The system is designed to make the refilling process clean and quick.

The system in everyday life: Reusable vs. disposable

The Swiss vape market has changed in recent years. While disposable e-cigarettes dominated for a long time, the focus is now shifting to systems that rely on reusability. The combination of a rechargeable battery and a replaceable empty pod reduces the amount of electronic waste generated, as the 1100 mAh battery is kept after the liquid is consumed and is charged via USB-C.

This principle is also reflected in the cost structure, as the cost and environment comparison shows. A SnapVape E-Liquid in a 10 ml bottle with 20 mg/ml nicotine salt costs CHF 7.90 and is available in ten flavors, including Banana Ice, Cherry Watermelon Freeze, Fresh Mint, Grape Ice, Juicy Peach, Kiwi Passion Fruit Guava, Strawberry Ice, Triple Mango, Watermelon Ice, and Wild Berries. A set consisting of one empty pod and one e-liquid is priced at CHF 15.40.

For beginners, there are also configured starter kits: A starter kit with a battery, empty pod, and one e-liquid costs CHF 26.90. A variant with two e-liquids is available for CHF 34.90. Important: These products are sold exclusively to adults aged 18 and over, as nicotine is a highly addictive substance.

Conclusion

The SnapVape Pod system utilizes established technical standards of the vaping industry and combines them in a compact format. The dual mesh coil ensures efficient vaporization of the liquid due to its large surface area, while the integrated airflow control allows adjustment of the draw resistance. Thanks to the top-fill design, refilling the 10 ml tank is straightforward. By separating the battery and the pod, the system offers a functional alternative to disposable products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to replace the pod?

Yes. Although the pod can be refilled multiple times via the top-fill system, the permanently installed dual mesh coil is a wear part. If the vapor tastes burnt or the vapor production significantly decreases, the empty pod must be replaced with a new one (CHF 7.50).

Can I change the dual mesh coil separately?

No. In the SnapVape system, the coil is permanently integrated into the 10 ml empty pod. The entire plastic pod is always replaced, while the 1100 mAh battery continues to be used.

What does 20 mg/ml nicotine salt mean?

The e-liquid (CHF 7.90) contains nicotine in the form of nicotine salt with a concentration of 20 milligrams per milliliter. Nicotine salt is a special form of nicotine developed for vaping. Please note that nicotine is highly addictive and the products are intended only for adults aged 18 and over.

How do I know when I need to refill?

The pod features a design with a visible liquid level. You can see from the outside through the transparent plastic how much of the maximum 10 ml of liquid is still left. Refill in good time to prevent the cotton in the coil from running dry and burning.