Being familiar with dabbing accessories is one of the basic things you need to learn if you want to get involved with dabbing. And carb caps are one of the essential items you need to know about. In this article, get to know more about the use, purpose, and benefits of carb caps in dabbing.
What are carb caps?
Carb caps are an instrument used for dabbing setup. It is an indispensable part that completes the dab rig and the banger nail. Taskrok is the one who invented the carb cap. He is also the founder of Highly Educated, a dabbing accessories company in 2013. The term carb cap was derived from the word carburetor.
The role of the carb cap is to constrict the airflow, create the convection, and trap the heat to provide a lower temperature when dabbing. Usually, the concentrates used, such as terpenes, have a high temperature. Since it affects the flavor, it is better to have it at a lower temperature. And the carb cap does its job to make that happen.
The design of the carb cap is to provide a directional airflow in the dab rig and make it easier for you to control the air stream. It also traps the heat by capping the nail, or the part of the rig where you place the concentrate after it is preheated, so you can have a longer session and will not need to heat the concentrate inside again.
Different types of carb caps
Similar to other dabbing accessories, the carb cap also comes in different types or varieties. Each of them has unique usage, but has a standard size of 25mm on the outer diameter.
Here are the different types of carb caps:
Bubble
As its name suggests, bubble caps look like a bubble with its spherical shape. Its shape and design allow you to move the cap properly and give more freedom to the airflow compared to the directional style carb cap. While its hollow stems extend from the top and bottom of the cap.
It works well with a flat-top quartz carb cap. The round shape helps seal the flat top and lets the concentrate inside vaporize faster.
Bullet
It has a similar function to the bubble type. Its shape is perfect for all flat top bangers as well.
Directional
Those who love the terpene flavor should opt for the directional carb cap as it allows you to control your dab with ease by swirling the air inside. It also allows the airflow to other areas of the bucket, so you can be sure that all parts of your dab are vaporized. This type of carb cap works perfectly well with a slanted flat-top banger.
Flat Channel
Just like its name, the flat channel carb cap type has a flat disc shape with a patterned cup that lets swirling direct airflow into the banger, good for spinning terp pearls.
Pearl Spinning
Its name was derived from the spherical pearl spinning around inside this carb cap. With its unique style, it adds more fun and excitement while you are having your dab session.
Vortex
This carb cap creates a vortex of cool air, which also looks like a cyclone. Hence the reason why it is also called a cyclone carb cap type. You can also use this for spinning terp pearls inside the bucket.
Common materials used for carb caps
The type of material used in a carb cap can also affect the flavor of the concentrates. That is why choosing the carb cap you will use should be based on the material you think will suit your style and taste. Here are the common materials used in a carb cap:
Ceramic
Carb caps made from ceramics are said to have served the most flavorful concentrate since it is made from neutral materials. Thus, it can preserve the pure and original flavor of the concentrate and enjoy it in your session.
Aside from the flavorful delivery, ceramic carb caps are also durable and can last longer as long as you handle them with care.
Glass or quartz
Carb caps made from glass or quartz are the best if you prefer a clean delivery of the concentrate. However, it is fragile and lacks durability among all the available materials.
Titanium
Speaking of durability, nothing beats carb caps made from titanium. You can use this to partner the nails if it is also made from the same material as they fit well together. The only downside of the titanium carb caps is it adds a slightly metallic tinge to the flavor of the concentrate. Depending on your taste, you may still like the outcome.
Should you have carb caps as one of your dabbing accessories?
Definitely, yes. A newbie dabber might not fully understand the importance of having a carb cap, but for enthusiasts, it is a must-have. You can never dab without having one.
A carb cap is essential as it modifies the airflow in your rig, so you can have a better dabbing experience. It also offers a great advantage since it can lower the temperature dabs. The lower the temperature, the more it is possible for you to preserve terpenes, which are responsible for the flavor.
How to use carb caps?
If you are still trying to find out how to use a carb cap, all you need to do first is to apply the dab to the banger surface or the heated nail. Then, use the carb cap to cover the banger or nail.
For those using a bubble carb cap, make sure to rotate it gently so that the airflow can push around the chamber and the concentrate can spread across the nail surface.
Once everything is set and you are ready, you can remove the carb cap and clear the rig.
Benefits of using a carb cap
The main benefit of using a carb cap is it controls the temperature of the concentrate. Using a carb cap will help you vaporize the concentrate at a lower temperature. Temperature matters when dabbing. When heating, the temperature may reach up to 538 degrees Celsius (1,000 degrees Fahrenheit). Such temperature can damage the potency and taste of the dab and result in an ineffective vapor.
With the use of a carb cap, the temperature may lower to 149 to 204 degrees Celsius (300 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit). In this range, the concentrate will have its full flavor and taste and maintain the terpenes. You can enjoy a more therapeutic concentrate during your dabbing session if you manage to mainta
