If you vape, or have ever had an interest in vaping, you have probably heard about people having issues with their batteries exploding. While this is an unfortunate event, it doesn’t happen as often as people seem to think. And, realistically, the majority of the time that batteries explode, it’s due to the user not being careful.
One of the most common reasons that batteries malfunction is because they are charged improperly. Vapor devices use lithium-ion batteries, which are also used in a variety of other products such as cell phones and laptops.
When a lithium-ion battery is charged improperly, it can combust. However, they are still considered safe, overall. In fact, some experts say that the batteries used in vaping products are 99.99% safe. It’s that 0.01% that is causing all the commotion.
Batteries need to be wrapped properly. The wrapping around the batteries used in replaceable battery mods help with grounding the battery. If the wrapping starts to tear or bubble, it leaves you with an unsafe battery. However, many don’t realize this. Another concern is leaving batteries loose in pockets or purses. If the battery is in your pocket with your keys, for example, and a circuit is completed, you’re going to have problems.
Many chargers or vaping devices with built in batteries can be charged through a USB port. The problem with this is that many mistakenly think that the batteries can be charged with any charging cable. However, some charging cables have a higher output than the battery can handle. This leads to overheating of the battery, which in turn can lead the battery to explode.
Overall, according to a study in 2015, the U.S. Fire Administration found that there were only 25 injuries caused by battery explosions used in vaping mods in the United States between 2009-2014.
On the other hand, if you’ve been listening to the news or your coworkers lately, you’ve probably heard a lot about the new Samsung Galaxy Note 7 explosions. Before sales on the phone were halted by Samsung on September 2, there had been 35 reported explosions of the phone. These explosions all happened within about two weeks of the phone’s release.
Since then, the company has not only halted sales, it has issued a full recall of all Galaxy Note 7s that were sold. This is over 2.5 million devices. On top of this, the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission warned everyone to stop charging and using their Note 7s. The FAA has also requested that you not turn on or charge your Note 7 while in the airport or on a plane.
The released information about the phone’s explosions states that it is a problem with charging the battery. It overheats, leading to disastrous effects.
Realistically, any device with a battery can combust. It’s happened for decades with cell phones, computers, even flashlights. The reason that you hear about the vapor product explosions is because of media hype. There is so much going on in the vaping community that it is constantly in the media. And what makes a better, though over-hyped, story than a vaper’s battery exploding?