The Lotus Vaporizer

[pigfoot]

This thread goes from before the Lotus was released, all the way to today. Over the course of time several components have changed as well as instructions for use. Here is an example post made around changes...

The Lotus Vaporizer

If one follows early instructions its possible they could damage their LOTUS, let alone combust in error...

OK, good point. However, I never combusted, and I wasn't getting much vapor, so I don't think the heat was that high. The abv wasn't evenly browned, but it was light brown at most.

 

[artist]

:-) hi all (-:

just to let you be informed, i mailed a foto from my broken plate number 2, to 'verdampftnochmal' to avoid sending the plate back again directly, they are very nice and answerd that this is ok and that they will forward my picture to the manufacturer to see what to do, hopefully they replace it like that, so i don't have to post the plate back because i'm afraid this will happen again with the next plate and in the end i will have paid more in shippment for replacement parts then a new lotus would cost....?!?!?

(-: have a nice vapin'day :-)

edit...here is a foto of my plate number 2...(hopefully it worked..first time foto post here...)

https://www.dropbox.com/s/35qebxdfr2swrri/Foto 14.05.14 16 56 14 (HDR).jpg

 

[HugieLewis]

For the record I'm not even on the fence about the lotus....I'm sold! Unfortunately other life expenses are adding up right now so it will probably be 2-3 months before I can pull the trigger. Maybe by then this issue will be sorted out. Even if it isn't I am still on board though. I don't want to take my SSV to my lake house but the lotus would be perfect!

 

[green13]

I'm not very familiar with the lotus but the more I read about it here, the more I'm intrigued. It seems that it may be the easiest, quickest and most convenient vape to use with a water pipe that is close to the traditional combustion method in action. I'm just wondering how strong the hits are and how many you usually get from one bowl when used with a water pipe or is it best used as a pipe.

 

[jambandphan03]

I'm not very familiar with the lotus but the more I read about it here, the more I'm intrigued. It seems that it may be the easiest, quickest and most convenient vape to use with a water pipe that is close to the traditional combustion method in action. I'm just wondering how strong the hits are and how many you usually get from one bowl when used with a water pipe or is it best used as a pipe.

Personally, I find the Lotus to be the quickest, most effective vape I use, it can give hits at near combustion temps and gives me huge, potent hits, or you can go easy and get light low temp hits. Hit count may vary depending on herb quality, load size, etc... I can get a few hits from a fairly small load, less than half full, but I tend to milk my glass up pretty thick.

 

[Delta3DStudios]

I'm not very familiar with the lotus but the more I read about it here, the more I'm intrigued. It seems that it may be the easiest, quickest and most convenient vape to use with a water pipe that is close to the traditional combustion method in action. I'm just wondering how strong the hits are and how many you usually get from one bowl when used with a water pipe or is it best used as a pipe.

The WPA is a bit on the small side, I typically use one scoop per load (need a more precise scale to measure the weight - does anyone know the average weight per scoop?) I average 3 or 4 hits per load, unless I want to milk my glass for several seconds non-stop, then I can finish the load in 1 or 2 hits.

I can handle the Lotus, usually packing several loads until I'm WELLL medicated. But my combusting friends really only need 1 load themselves to get fully medicated by their standards. The process is very much reminiscent of combusting. This was a big reason why many of my friends will also be buying a Lotus to pair with their glass.

I have been using reclaim soaked cotton for the past few days (not enough funds to restock my stash). Several times I've had to STOP because I simply couldn't handle any more vapor!

I prefer using my Lotus through a water pipe (It has inspired me to start collecting glass, two more pieces on their way from China already!). I really haven't used too much with the J-hook I purchased, I love milking a bubbler!

That said, it should be noted it's best to not pack the WPA full of herb. Instead I've found it's best to pack a small load, finish it, empty, repack, continue session.

It's almost annoying how fast the Lotus works. I'd almost wish I could slow down my Lotus so I could get more small hits from a single load! But the speed is also a great thing - I often swing by the house for a 3 minute session while running out to grab lunch during work!

 

[green13]

Sounds really great. I love using a water pipe but all the vape options are cumbersome attachments and plug ins. Plus I'm not a heavy hitter which is why I love the launch box. It's easy to hit it once or twice whenever you want with very little set up and warm up. I'd like the same thing for a water pipe and the lotus seems to fit the bill and at the same time accommodate those that are use to combusting.

Thanks for the feedback. This might be my next vape

 

[David and Michael]

I got same problem as someone posted here : my lotus hot-plate-kit came with a bent plate (and not slightly). I've took it out of the plastic bag really carefully cause I've seen this issue addressed from someone here.
I order it from Verdampftnochmal and the plate was exactly in same packaging as Mendocino Therapeutics does. I would also think the tiny plate would be better protected between some hard-cardboard instead of this softy material.
Now I definitely don't want to use that bent plate... Who is in fault ? The Berlin shop, MT, ... ? Well, I just hope I won't have to consider myself "screwed"... I will post a picture if needed, I don't have time right now.
@Max Jitter : Anything to say ? Message received. We will use cardboard for the hot plates in addition to bubble wrap from now on.

Anyhow I took of the plate. My wooden ring is all blackened, I was expecting it...
Any input on how to take of the last plates/ring ? I would like to clean under it... And I'm afraid to bent it or to break something.
Also there is no discolouration under the hotplate. But there is definitely discolouration on the plate under it : around the tiny holes : blueish kind of colour. I will picture all of this later !

If you are talking about removing the diffuser, with the holes in it, please don't. It isn't meant to be removed and you'll have trouble putting it back on. We use a special tool to install it.
The diffuser should be blue as its heated during processing, before assembly.

 

[Vapodudule]

About plate change and scortched zone below.

see images on the post :

http://fuckcombustion.com/threads/the-lotus-vaporizer.2595/page-80#post-523418

 

[VapeNStone]

Sounds really great. I love using a water pipe but all the vape options are cumbersome attachments and plug ins. Plus I'm not a heavy hitter which is why I love the launch box. It's easy to hit it once or twice whenever you want with very little set up and warm up. I'd like the same thing for a water pipe and the lotus seems to fit the bill and at the same time accommodate those that are use to combusting.

Thanks for the feedback. This might be my next vape

You do know the MFLB has an adapter for the bong right?

 

[Bvapst]

Hi,
@Vapodudule : I remember your post well. Thanks for remembering it to me.

Mine is even more black than your first one ! All black all around : my early days with Lotus are probably the cause, and also using it outside under sun and to tests with friends. The wood is still sturdy where it's black and it won't get more, so let's say the bad is done ! I got partly combustion only 3 times maybe, and I tried to avoid glowing point when I understood it wasn't the right way (this was at the start). So I don't consider overheating is the real cause. My use was pretty on the average. So I'll advise peoples to not get the plate glowing and to adjust the flame for the best distance : outer flame tip lightly touching the plate.
However I can't see the discolouration to the diffuser on yours ???

So @Max Jitter :
Why my diffuser is discoloured in a non-perfect-circle form (blueish) while the pictures by Vapodudule clearly show his both Lotus aren't discoloured at all ? If it is a process before assembly, shouldn't they all be ? I'm lost here..can you clear that point ?
I understand the wooden scorched circle is caused by the metal in contact. The discolouration worries me more cause it is on the air/vapor way...
Please find a solution for the spare plate kit. It is really deceiving to receive a new item in such poor condition. A hard cardboard or memory card box would be safe. It's thin and you know better than anybody else how it can get bended easily.

I still love Lotus and those small issues and wonder simply tell me the new plate will be worth it ! I would like it to be protecting the wood to avoid scorching, a bit fatter around the place where it should get hot. And maybe if the center (where we should hit it with flame) would be more prominent (like a dot) it would be easier to point the flame correctly in every situation.

I'll be cleaning it like before so (blowing and brushing). It is easier when the plate is took off but not really worth it. My mistake, I thought we could disassembly it all and thus clean between the wood and the diffuser plate

 

[chrislangley4253]

So, I was getting all hype on ordering an ash catcher and a whip for the lotus when I decided to take a closer look at my plate.. I took a good look and saw nothing. But, I was not satisfied so I took the plate off and held it up to a light. Sure enough I have a few small holes at the typical spots we are seeing, must be why my bowls always scorched dark brown on one side. I was a little bummed, but decided to install the new plate I just ordered.

My plate replacement kit was also bent (only a little) and only included two screws.. I'm not really happy with the performance I'm getting out of it now and I'm seriously questioning the durability of the plates. If max successfully redesigns the plates, I'll be interested in giving it another shot. I think I'm gonna focus on my HI and get some accessories for it and see if it can't take over as my daily driver.

Sorry to add more bad news to the thread, I was so hyped about the lotus, I'm bummed to learn that I've been sucking in butane for quite a while now. No more lighters for me for a while.

 

[cybrguy]

I suppose current instructions from Max might be useful. For example, should the inner flame point or the outer flame point kiss the surface of the plate center when heating/drawing through the LOTUS? How much preheating? Stuff like that for we (us?) new users with current versions of the LOTUS.

 

[FlyingLow]

One thing is for sure, Max is on it. He might not be checking back to answer every single question right away- but it is because it was only recently discovered this could be a wider spread issue and he is working towards a solution. I am sure he will be back with more info once he has some relevant and useful information for us.

FYI~ over a non-perfectly symmetrical discoloration pattern, that is the nature of heat dispersion and it is rarely any of those patterns are perfectly symmetrical. I have found heat patterns to be pretty irregular from what I have seen working around hot as fuck turbine engines.

 

[VapeNStone]

I suppose current instructions from Max might be useful. For example, should the inner flame point or the outer flame point kiss the surface of the plate center when heating/drawing through the LOTUS? How much preheating? Stuff like that for we (us?) new users with current versions of the LOTUS.

Honestly I would think that would be very difficult for him to do. He doesn't know your technique(how hard or soft you suck) which lighter you chose(the honest that he recommends or some other one). So in reality what he provides is probably the best he can do otherwise he could advise one person and they could have the greatest experience and another could think it's terrible. In the end it all comes down to the individual user.

 

[Bvapst]

@ Chris I don't understand why would you be inhaling butane ? Try to figure out the way from the air intake (holes on the downside of the wood) and the fact that your flame is simply touching a plate : so they doesn't meet at all !

I just cleaned the hot top plate with alcohol. I'll tell it again : when I'm asking max about "diffuser plate" discolouration i'm talking about that plate (picture from vapodudule) :

Around those holes, mine has a silver color for 2-3 mm, then a blueish ring, than around that ring it is all brown/oily color till the outer plate with slots and holes. This is to describe and to get explanation why a used Lotus like on that picture doesn't have anything ? And mine does... Especially that max said something which imply they should all be like mine.


Edit :
So I just put back the plate. Trying to not break the hex wrench and the screw. Of course one of the screw didn't make the way all along. So I can't take it off or finish to screw it in. :/ Now...I'm screwed. I wanna vape ! Hopefully I'll be able to take of (tear) that screw with pliers.
New advice for new plate project : better screw quality ! And a all disassemble possibility for thorough cleaning !

 

[pigfoot]

I wish the tips from this thread were kind of together in a mini faq on how to use this unit.

 

[Abysmal Vapor]

I wish the tips from this thread were kind of together in a mini faq on how to use this unit.

They might be added to our beloved VAPORPEDIA . Good idea !

 

[chrislangley4253]

@ Chris I don't understand why would you be inhaling butane ? Try to figure out the way from the air intake (holes on the downside of the wood) and the fact that your flame is simply touching a plate : so they doesn't meet at all !

There were holes in my top plate that I did not know about.. for a long while. Maybe I wasn't "inhaling butane" but definitely some super hot, less than clean air straight off of the flame.

When you have holes in your top plate, the whole "clean-air" thing kinda goes out the window, at least.. that is what I'm thinking. I'm not comfortable using a plate with holes in it.

 

[Delta3DStudios]

I know exactly what smell your talking about, I couldn't us my D020 with the Lotus early on bc it was so close and the smell was unpleasant to me. I don't know if it had to do with my torch being too powerful or improper flame technique. However once I got my Madelaine Fury I haven't had a problem bc the circumference of the flame is top notch for Lotus use and the flame adjustment is sooo easy! What pieces are you using with your Lotus cap? What lighter/s do you use?

I contacted Mike (Oregon Glass Blowers) several times - I order custom 18mm to 14mm angled adapters for my D020 - But most angled adapters are 45degrees - I request 10 or 15 degrees - It gives the lotus a slight angle away from my face, and a perfect angle to use my torch upright. His prices are fair, should be around $20 for one shipped (though I usually order several pieces from him at a time)

Hi,
@Vapodudule : I remember your post well. Thanks for remembering it to me.

Mine is even more black than your first one ! All black all around : my early days with Lotus are probably the cause, and also using it outside under sun and to tests with friends. The wood is still sturdy where it's black and it won't get more, so let's say the bad is done ! I got partly combustion only 3 times maybe, and I tried to avoid glowing point when I understood it wasn't the right way (this was at the start). So I don't consider overheating is the real cause. My use was pretty on the average. So I'll advise peoples to not get the plate glowing and to adjust the flame for the best distance : outer flame tip lightly touching the plate.
However I can't see the discolouration to the diffuser on yours ???

So @Max Jitter :
Why my diffuser is discoloured in a non-perfect-circle form (blueish) while the pictures by Vapodudule clearly show his both Lotus aren't discoloured at all ? If it is a process before assembly, shouldn't they all be ? I'm lost here..can you clear that point ?
I understand the wooden scorched circle is caused by the metal in contact. The discolouration worries me more cause it is on the air/vapor way...
Please find a solution for the spare plate kit. It is really deceiving to receive a new item in such poor condition. A hard cardboard or memory card box would be safe. It's thin and you know better than anybody else how it can get bended easily.

I still love Lotus and those small issues and wonder simply tell me the new plate will be worth it ! I would like it to be protecting the wood to avoid scorching, a bit fatter around the place where it should get hot. And maybe if the center (where we should hit it with flame) would be more prominent (like a dot) it would be easier to point the flame correctly in every situation.

I'll be cleaning it like before so (blowing and brushing). It is easier when the plate is took off but not really worth it. My mistake, I thought we could disassembly it all and thus clean between the wood and the diffuser plate

Dude, you're jumping to conclusions about the color of the diffuser based on looking at one picture from one Lotus by one user. I haven't posted pictures of my diffuser on this thread (intentionally out of consideration for MT's patents). Mine is completely blue. I can pm you a picture if you really must see what the inside of my Lotus looks like - took them with my Canon Rebel DSLR.

I don't know why his is not blue, but mine most certainly was treated as part of the manufacturing process.

Also whats this about cleaning your plate with alcohol? I haven't seen that mentioned anywhere on this site. I personally wouldn't think of using any liquid on my nickle plate unless specified by MT

Edit :
So I just put back the plate. Trying to not break the hex wrench and the screw. Of course one of the screw didn't make the way all along. So I can't take it off or finish to screw it in. :/ Now...I'm screwed. I wanna vape ! Hopefully I'll be able to take of (tear) that screw with pliers.
New advice for new plate project : better screw quality ! And a all disassemble possibility for thorough cleaning !

Ahem.... if you read this thread at all, you'll see I specifically suggested to NOT remove the screws only 6 hours ago! I believe they are stainless steel like much of the Lotus, this was an intentional choice (thermally less conductive than other materials). Unfortunately SS is a rather soft metal which does strip easily. It's a double edged sword.

I should note, as mentioned elsewhere, the 3 screws holding the plates to the Lotus strip easily. Additionally the screws are simply threaded into the wood. I would advise to NOT remove those screws unless you intend to replace the plate (and replace those screws with fresh ones included in the kit - though my replacement kit only had 2 screws, not 3!)

 

[FlyingLow]

It befuddles me how someone can feel as if they are being screwed with a bad product.

These issues are only now coming to light as a problem that effected many customers; it might take a little time, but they will make it right for everyone

 

[Bvapst]

Dude, you're jumping to conclusions about the color of the diffuser based on looking at one picture from one Lotus by one user. I haven't posted pictures of my diffuser on this thread (intentionally out of consideration for MT's patents). Mine is completely blue. I can pm you a picture if you really must see what the inside of my Lotus looks like - took them with my Canon Rebel DSLR.

I don't know why his is not blue, but mine most certainly was treated as part of the manufacturing process.

Also whats this about cleaning your plate with alcohol? I haven't seen that mentioned anywhere on this site. I personally wouldn't think of using any liquid on my nickle plate unless specified by MT



Ahem.... if you read this thread at all, you'll see I specifically suggested to NOT remove the screws only 6 hours ago! I believe they are stainless steel like much of the Lotus, this was an intentional choice (thermally less conductive than other materials). Unfortunately SS is a rather soft metal which does strip easily. It's a double edged sword.

Sorry If I may "sound" too direct, I'm using English the best I can (not my mother tongue).
That picture was on this thread and I'm asking questions based on pictures (not only one)...so not really claiming conclusions but things which seems to be facts for my eyes. There are plenty pictures of opened vape on FC and I don't see it as a problem but mainly as a good thing ! I already took picture of my diffuser before to put back my good old plate.

Yes I would like a picture of yours it will be greatly appreciated ! BTW I admit the picture from vapodudule maybe don't show the "real" colour and light. I can see something on another picture from him, but nothing to do in size with mine. Again maybe it is wrong photo setting.

About cleaning the plate and removing screw : Yes some people did it and told about this on this thread. One of the reason I order the spare plate kit was in this intent : "to clean" (from a misunderstanding I've read long time ago on this thread I thought everything was getting easy access.). Then : I wanted to see..it still can ? Lotus was meant for it...and I think this is a plus ! A good hex wrench may have been more practical.

PS to "someone" : I don't feel screwed with a bad product ! Lotus is my current daily driver since months (waiting founds for my Hi : soon !) and I said and I'm saying plenty of good things about it... Don't judge with words and sentence, the tone can be much different in reality. Screwed in this case was a bit of humour...with the word screw..never mind. I don't consider this whole thing as a "problem".. I'm using my lotus right now.
The holes and cracks are fairly new..yeah ! I just don't exactly recall about the questions I asked.. That's all!

Peace and good night !

 

[Delta3DStudios]

Sorry If I may "sound" too direct, I'm using English the best I can (not my mother tongue).
That picture was on this thread and I'm asking questions based on pictures (not only one)...so not really claiming conclusions but things which seems to be facts for my eyes. There are plenty pictures of opened vape on FC and I don't see it as a problem but mainly as a good thing ! I already took picture of my diffuser before to put back my good old plate.

Yes I would like a picture of yours it will be greatly appreciated ! BTW I admit the picture from vapodudule maybe don't show the "real" colour and light. I can see something on another picture from him, but nothing to do in size with mine. Again maybe it is wrong photo setting.

About cleaning the plate and removing screw : Yes some people did it and told about this on this thread. One of the reason I order the spare plate kit was in this intent : "to clean" (from a misunderstanding I've read long time ago on this thread I thought everything was getting easy access.). Then : I wanted to see..it still can ? Lotus was meant for it...and I think this is a plus ! A good hex wrench may have been more practical.

PS to "someone" : I don't feel screwed with a bad product ! Lotus is my current daily driver since months (waiting founds for my Hi : soon !) and I said and I'm saying plenty of good things about it... Don't judge with words and sentence, the tone can be much different in reality. Screwed in this case was a bit of humour...with the word screw..never mind. I don't consider this whole thing as a "problem".. I'm using my lotus right now.
The holes and cracks are fairly new..yeah ! I just don't exactly recall about the questions I asked.. That's all!

Peace and good night !

Ah, ESL as my wife says (She is Eastern European Native). No worries, I will send you a PM with a picture of my diffuser. Mine is in MUCH worse shape than @Vapodudule - thankfully my wood is black, you can't see any charred marks on the outside of the plate!

 

[VapeNStone]

Mendo just sent me an email saying they are sending me a replacement plate. I'll update once I get it.

 

[Unisonruss]

Video should work now

It's that easy, folks. Get a lotus with the WPA if you haven't! Best vape ever, swear by this little engine that could

I choose the lotus over the following (in no particular order, and yes I've tried/owned them all)

The Volcano Digit
Magic-Flight
VaporGenie (Sherlock & Bat)
Arizer Solo & Extreme Q
Hammer
EzVape
DaVinci
Pax by Ploom