The Titanium Stem Adapter 8mm ø for the Simrell Engine needs an update.
It feels rushed, not refined (maybe not tested enough), creating new user interface issues.
And by that push in silence for consumerism to the new Vortex Sleeve stem.
The Adapter can unscrew when inserting the Engine to a Stem, with the wrong twisting motion (clockwise), or worse case, when screwing the Heat Exchanger.
If the S Engine is hot, not fun when it happens.
It isn't a "no thermal lock" feature, Engine is made of Titanium and with the temp it reaches for its usage, no issue.
It's more an "dumb user proof" feature, who could overtighten any threaded parts he touches.
The O-ring sandwiched between the two titanium parts (removable, works without it, no air leak), is too close to the hotter vapor path.
This O-ring (FKM/Viton) will over dry quickly with extended use, without conditioning it.
For obvious reasons, I suggest other users who want to moisturise this O-ring to use Vegetable Glycerin for e-cig.
Or at least food grade stuff, no wax or any wood conditioner.
Without the O-ring installed (my choice), the Adapter and Bowl can become tight enough and the need for some force/pliers to unscrew it (reverse threading).
However, it solves most of my issues with this Adapter...except one.
When the Adapter is installed (O-ring or not), there is a small gap left inside the Extraction Chamber inner path.
Consequence of that small gap, the Stem Adapter HAS to be disassembled for a flawless cleaning.
If not, be prepared to have an awful IPA mix with reclaim hit for the next heat cycle...
Reclaim, IPA, soap, any liquid form will find its way and get trapped there.
No space left between the Adapter and Extraction Chamber titanium parts could solve the cleaning issue.
Or better, a dedicated Extraction Chamber version for 8mm ø stem connection, the best adapter is the one not needed.
One word about the new proprietary threaded stem connection for the Simrell vaporizer/Vortex Sleeve stem.
I'm sure it could please newcomers, but as an old customer, this proprietary connection marks my stopping point for any similar stems purchase.
I won't leave the Dynaverse compatibility behind for that, just for the no "O-rings" feature.
A threaded stem connection will bring other issues, not worth it for me.
IMO, it feels similar to the Dynavap Unidyn integrated tip + stem choice, not useful FOR the customers.
For me, it's just a manufacturer design choice, who only benefits production.
To each their one.
FKM O-rings are wearing parts, sure.
Any user who applies the best practices to them, they can easily last more than a decade.
In the end, O-rings issues usually come from poor manufacturing tolerance/design OR proper user care.
Anyway, I'm sure Austyn will address those stem Adapter issues.
Then my feedback will be outdated.
