A dab rig, also known as an oil rig or a wax rig, is a specialized device used for vaporizing and consuming cannabis concentrates1. Here is a detailed introduction:
Structure
- Base and Chamber：Usually has a small base that holds water, similar to a bong. The water chamber is designed to cool and filter the vapor. Different from a bong, the chamber of a dab rig is often smaller and may not have as many complex percolators or filtration devices.
- Dab Nail or Banger：This is a crucial part of the dab rig, replacing the dry herb bowl of a traditional bong. It is typically made of materials like quartz, glass, ceramic, or titanium. The concentrate is placed on the heated dab nail or banger to be vaporized.
- Carb Cap：A small cap that fits over the dab nail or banger. It helps to control the airflow and build up pressure inside the rig, allowing the concentrate to vaporize more efficiently and at a lower temperature, reducing waste.
- Mouthpiece：The part through which the user inhales the vapor. It is usually designed to be small, allowing for a more concentrated and flavorful hit.
Working Principle
- Heating：The dab nail or banger is heated using a propane or butane torch, or an electric nail (e-nail). The user heats the nail to the appropriate temperature, which can vary depending on the type of concentrate and personal preference.
- Vaporization：Once the nail is hot enough, a small amount of cannabis concentrate, such as wax, oil, or shatter, is placed on the nail using a dab tool. The heat causes the concentrate to quickly vaporize into a thick, flavorful vapor.
- Filtration and Cooling：The vapor then travels through the water chamber in the dab rig. The water helps to cool and filter the vapor, removing any remaining impurities and making the inhalation smoother. Finally, the user inhales the cooled and filtered vapor through the mouthpiece.
Advantages
- Intense Flavor：Since dabbing doesn’t involve combustion like smoking flower, it preserves the natural flavors and terpenes of the cannabis concentrate, providing a more intense and pure flavor experience.
- Efficient Consumption：Dab rigs allow for more efficient use of cannabis concentrates. The precise heating and vaporization process ensures that most of the concentrate is converted into vapor and consumed, minimizing waste.
- Potent Effects：Cannabis concentrates used with dab rigs typically have a much higher THC content compared to traditional cannabis flower, ranging from 70% to 99%. This means that users can achieve stronger and more immediate effects with smaller amounts of product.
Types
- Recycler Dab Rigs：These have a unique design with multiple chambers connected by tubes and a percolator. The water and vapor are recycled through the chambers, providing enhanced filtration and cooling. Recycler dab rigs are known for producing smooth and clean hits and are often favored by experienced users.
- Single Chamber Dab Rigs：The simplest type, consisting of a single water chamber and a basic design. They are usually more affordable and accessible for beginners. Despite their simplicity, they can still provide a good dabbing experience and are available in various sizes and styles.
- Percolator Dab Rigs：These incorporate different types of percolators, such as showerhead percs or tree percs, which help to break up and filter the vapor further. The percolators increase the surface area of contact between the vapor and water, resulting in cooler and smoother hits.