Direct-to-Lung (DTL) vaping refers to a specific inhalation technique that significantly influences the user’s experience and the type of equipment they need. It describes a single, continuous draw where the vapor goes straight into the lungs without being held in the mouth first. Understanding this style is necessary because it dictates the required hardware specifications and the appropriate e-liquid composition. This method is distinct from other inhalation styles and is generally favored by those seeking a high volume of vapor and intense flavor delivery.
The Mechanics of Direct-to-Lung Vaping
DTL vaping involves a physical technique similar to taking a deep breath or inhaling from a hookah. The user opens their throat and pulls the vapor directly into their lungs in one fluid motion, bypassing the initial collection phase in the mouth. This technique is often described as having an open or “airy” draw due to the lack of airflow restriction in the device.
This method is designed to maximize the volume of vapor inhaled, which results in the dense, large clouds often associated with this style. Because of the large volume of vapor taken in with each puff, DTL vaping typically uses e-liquids with a much lower nicotine concentration. Nicotine levels are generally kept between 3 to 6 milligrams per milliliter to avoid an overly harsh throat sensation or excessive nicotine intake from the high vapor output.
DTL vapers often use e-liquids with a high percentage of Vegetable Glycerin (VG), commonly around a 70% VG to 30% Propylene Glycol (PG) ratio. This high VG ratio allows for a more robust delivery of the e-liquid’s flavor profile.
Essential Hardware for DTL Use
The direct-to-lung technique requires specific hardware designed to handle the necessary airflow and power output. Devices for DTL are built around “sub-ohm” vaping, meaning the coil resistance is below 1.0 ohm, often ranging from 0.15 to 0.5 ohms. This low resistance allows electricity to flow more freely, creating a higher power output and generating more heat to vaporize the large volume of e-liquid required for the technique.
These setups must operate at a much higher wattage than other styles, with most DTL devices performing optimally between 40 to over 100 watts. The increased power is necessary to rapidly heat the low-resistance coils and convert the often-thicker, high-VG e-liquid into vapor quickly. To manage this high heat production, DTL devices feature wide and adjustable airflow channels.
Wide airflow prevents the coil from overheating and allows the user to take the unrestricted, airy draw characteristic of the DTL style. The tanks used for this method are typically larger to accommodate the faster consumption of e-liquid that occurs at high wattages. Furthermore, the mouthpiece, or drip tip, on a DTL tank is noticeably wider to facilitate the smooth, direct path of the vapor into the lungs.
DTL Compared to Mouth-to-Lung (MTL)
Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) vaping is the other primary inhalation method and is more akin to smoking a traditional cigarette. The most immediate difference is the draw: DTL is loose and airy, while MTL features a tight, restricted draw where the vapor is briefly collected in the mouth before being inhaled into the lungs.
In terms of vapor production, DTL creates significantly larger and denser clouds due to the high power and open airflow, whereas MTL produces a more discreet amount of vapor. This difference in vapor volume dictates nicotine usage. MTL setups are suitable for higher nicotine concentrations, often 12 milligrams per milliliter and above, because the user inhales a smaller volume of vapor with each puff.
The two styles cater to different user preferences. DTL is often preferred by those who enjoy maximum vapor production and flavor intensity. MTL, with its restricted draw and higher nicotine tolerance, is generally recommended for people transitioning from smoking who seek a sensation that closely mimics a cigarette.