Can Metal Detectors Detect Vapes?

In recent years, the rise of vaping has sparked curiosity about its detection, particularly in places where smoking is prohibited.

As schools, airports, and other venues implement stricter security measures, many wonder: can metal detectors detect vapes?

This article delves into the intricacies of how metal detectors work and whether your vape will set off alarms.

Anatomy Of A Vape Pen

1. Mouthpiece

The mouthpiece, often called a “drip tip,” is where you inhale.

It's usually removable and comes in various shapes, sizes, and colors, made from materials like glass, silicone, or plastic.

2. Tank or Cartridge

This is where the cannabis oil is stored. “Cartridge” usually refers to pre-filled units, while “tank” is for refillable options.

Refillable tanks often have a fill line to guide how much oil to add.

3. Atomizer

The atomizer is the heating element that vaporizes the e-liquid.

Made from metals like stainless steel or nichrome, it heats up with an electric current to create vapor.

Its metal construction makes it detectable by metal detectors.

4. Power Button and Sensor

Some vape pens feature a power button that activates the atomizer when pressed.

Others are draw-activated, turning on automatically when you inhale.

Many use a five-click method to prevent accidental activation, allowing users to cycle through temperature settings.

5. Battery

Vape pens typically use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which contain metals like lithium and cobalt.

These metals are crucial for powering the heater but can trigger metal detectors, particularly in security-sensitive areas like airports.

Some batteries allow for adjustable voltage to control the heating temperature.

6. External Material

Vapes often have a combination of metal and plastic in their outer casing.

The metal adds durability, while plastic keeps the design lightweight.

This blend enhances the vape's quality, but the metal components remain detectable by metal detectors.

How Do Metal Detectors Work?

Metal detectors work by creating an electromagnetic field.

When a metal object passes through or comes into close contact with this field, it disrupts it, causing the detector to trigger an alert.

The sensitivity level of the detector can differ based on the model and its settings.

Some detectors are more sensitive to smaller metal objects, including those found in vaping devices.

Can Metal Detectors Detect Vapes?

Yes, metal detectors can typically detect vape pens due to their metal components.

However, the detection may depend on the size of the vape pen, the sensitivity of the metal detector, and the specific environment in which it’s being used.

Smaller or more discreet vapes may be less likely to trigger alarms compared to larger models.

How Do You Sneak Vape Through A Metal Detector?

1. Place in bag

Remove all metal parts from the vape device and place them on the scanning tray to avoid triggering the electromagnetic field of the metal detector.

After removing the metal accessories, you can pass your vape device through the metal detector in your pocket.

2. Leave it at home

If you are worried that your vape device will be confiscated on certain occasions, then the safest thing to do is to leave your vape device at home.

This way, you don't have to worry about your vape device being seized even if you encounter any situation that might trigger a check while you are out.

Conclusion

While metal detectors can detect vapes, whether yours will be flagged depends on several factors, including the type of metal detector and the materials used in your vape.

Attempting to sneak a vape through a metal detector is not advisable, as it may violate security protocols.

By staying informed and prepared, you can avoid unnecessary delays and ensure your vaping devices are handled appropriately.