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Vaping: everything you need to know about its components and useful answers

By SQDC.ca | Published on November 20th, 2025

The first time you hold a vape in your hand, it may seem simple: just a battery and a cannabis cartridge.

In reality, each component has a very specific role to play.

Before using a vape, you should get to know its parts. In this article, we explore the main components of a cannabis vaping device to help you better understand their role and effect in using cannabis by inhalation.

Drawing of a 510 thread vape from the legal cannabis market

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Before going farther

Though several types of vaping devices can be found on the regulated and unregulated markets, this article focuses specifically on 510-thread vapes. Be aware that there are minor differences to consider depending on the type of vape you use; for example, not all cartridges are necessarily compatible. Keep on reading to learn more.

What’s a vape?

Also called a vape pen or a “penjamin” in everyday speech, a vape is an electronic device that lets users consume unburned liquid cannabis extract in aerosol form. Vapes have two main parts: a battery and a cartridge.

The most common vapes are 510-thread vapes. When empty, the cartridge is removed and replaced with a new one; you don’t throw out the whole device. The 510-thread standard provides a high level of compatibility among the various brands, making it the most common type in the industry.

Learn more about vaping cannabis.

Why 510?

The number 510 refers to the size of the thread used to screw the cartridge into the battery, namely 5 mm in diameter with 10 threads.

Components of a vape battery

A vape battery provides the electric current used to heat the vaping liquid and transform it into an aerosol. The battery is turned on either by pressing a button (for safety purposes) or, on some devices, by beginning to inhale through the mouthpiece. Vapes usually have four main parts: a charging port, an indicator light, an on/off button and a connector into which the cartridge is inserted. Here are some additional details:

The charging port

Generally a USB-C or micro-USB port. For recharging the device’s battery.

An indicator light

To indicate the device’s status: on, inhaling, battery status, preheat mode, temperature (voltage), etc.

On/off button

For turning the device on and off. On some vapes, the button may also be used to activate the preheat function or change the temperature (voltage).

510 thread connector

System used to connect the cartridge and the battery. The threading keeps the two parts solidly together, like a nut and bolt. The female end is usually on the battery.

Minimalist black icon with a question mark in a speech bubble, for the Did you know section or interesting facts

The type of information displayed and how it is displayed can vary from model to model. When buying a new vape, you should read the manufacturer’s information sheet to understand the battery’s specifications and how to use it safely.

Components of a vape cartridge

The cartridge per se has several parts, namely the mouthpiece, the coil (heating element), the connector with the battery (510-thread in this article’s case) and the tank. Here are short descriptions of each:

Mouthpiece

Also called the tip or drip tip. This is the part of the device that is brought to the mouth so the aerosol can be inhaled.

Coil

This is the heating element. It’s used to convert the cannabis extract into an aerosol. Located inside the cartridge’s tank, it consists of small metal wires that are heated by battery and in contact with the vaping liquid. The wires are usually arranged in a ceramic, cotton or quartz sleeve, which absorbs and evenly distributes the heat.

When the user inhales through the mouthpiece, the battery supplies electricity to the coil, which heats the cannabis extract, producing an aerosol which can be inhaled.

510-thread

Male end used to screw the cartridge into a 510-thread vape battery.

Tank

The tank contains the coil and liquid cannabis extract for vaping. The liquid is exposed to the heated coil, which transforms it into an aerosol that can be inhaled through the mouthpiece.

Drawing of the battery and cartridge components of a 510-thread cannabis vape

Can I refill vape cartridges myself?

To avoid the risk of misuse and contamination, Canadian law prohibits the sale of this type of device. Only prefilled factory-sealed cannabis vape cartridges are allowed. The cartridges for some types of vapes can be refilled but only ones that come from the unregulated market.

Are all vaping cartridges compatible?

In theory, the 510-thread standard allows different brands of cartridges and batteries, whether from the regulated or unregulated market, to be used together. However, just because a cartridge is compatible doesn’t mean it’s safe.

Using products from the unregulated market carries significant health risks. For legal products, we advise checking that the battery matches the specifications for the cartridge, which will ensure optimal operation. At the SQDC, all cartridges are compatible with the batteries it sells.

Learn more about the different types of vapes

Drawing of various types of cannabis vapes: 510-thread, disposable, refillable and pod

What should I consider before buying a cannabis vape?

For lower-risk use, buy legal products.
Short inhalations spaced out over time are recommended to avoid overheating the battery and risking undesirable effects from cannabis consumption.
Make sure your cartridge is compatible with your type of vape.
While cannabis can be carried on flights in Canada, air pressure changes could cause a vape to malfunction.
Store cannabis products in a cool, dry location out of the reach of children and pets.

While the vaping products sold at the SQDC are a lower-risk alternative to their unregulated counterparts, using cannabis is never without risk. Also, how and how much other people use a product should not be the benchmark you use to determine your use.

If you have any questions about the various vaping devices, cartridge compatibility or vaping products, speak with an advisor in one of our stores or through our online chat service!

Products

What is a cannabis vape?

A vape is an electronic device that heats a liquid cannabis extract to produce an aerosol that can be inhaled. Vapes usually consist of a battery and a cartridge.
I’ve never vaped before. What’s the best way to start?

Take it slow and easy at the start:
- Choose a low-THC product.
- Begin with a short puff, then wait at least an hour.
- Avoid also consuming alcohol or nicotine.
- Be in a calm, safe place with people you trust.
Can we refill empty vape cartridges ourselves?

No. In Canada, only prefilled factory-sealed cartridges are allowed. This reduces the risk of contamination and misuse.
What does “510 thread” mean?

It’s the name of screwing standard: threads 5 mm in diameter with 10 threads. It allows the vape cartridge to be screwed into the battery. The standard is widely used and ensures compatibility among many products, provided they come from the regulated market.
Who can help me choose a vaping device?

Our in-store advisors and those staffing our online chat service are available to answer your questions confidentially and professionally.
What are the parts of a vape cartridge?

The cartridge contains a liquid cannabis extract and a coil (heating element) and comes with a mouthpiece. It is usually connected to the battery via a 510 thread-type connector or magnetically attached pod.
Are vape cartridges compatible with each other?

Not necessarily. Even if many cartridges are 510-thread, their compatibility still needs to be checked. Combining products from different sources, especially ones from the unregulated market and nicotine products, can carry risks. At the SQDC, all cartridges are compatible with the batteries it sells.
Does the SQDC sell house brand vapes?

No. The SQDC does not have a house brand. The company acts as a retailer that sells Health Canada-approved products from Québec and Canadian suppliers.
What does the vape battery do?

The battery provides the power needed to heat the vaping liquid. It may have an on/off button or turn on automatically when inhaling begins. Batteries also have a charging port, an indicator light and a 510-thread connector.
Does the SQDC sell wax pens?

No. Wax pens are used to consume solid extracts like wax and are not sold at the SQDC. They are different from vapes and are closer to another method of use called dabbing.