Volcano modifications/repair

Smoker's Lounge
1

Hi everyone,

I recently left my S&B Volcano out in the weather and damaged it. I managed to repair it and wanted to post the relevant links/info here as well as foster some discussion around the vaporiser and any modifications/repairs people have made to it.

Here’s a guide in case your Volcano isn’t heating up properly (but the lights come on etc)… T8 Torx security screwdriver needed to open the case. Basically involves using sandpaper on the element in case corrosion has built up.

Alternatively, to increase the heat past what the dial allows:

Please read this whole comment carefully and do this at your own risk. You may break your vape, start a fire, or shock yourself if you make a mistake.

1.⁠ ⁠Unplug and take off the lid

2.⁠ ⁠Turn the temperature knob all the way clockwise, then remove the set screw for the plastic temperature knob.

3.⁠ ⁠remove temperature knob
4.⁠ ⁠look inside of the shaft that the temperature knob is on. There is a little tiny screw you can adjust with a 1mm Allen key. Turn it 45 degrees counterclockwise.

5.⁠ ⁠carefully power on the unit, let it get to temperature, flip on the air and verify an acceptable temperature of the airstream using an instant read thermometer. I got vapor around 325 farenheight

6.⁠ ⁠If it’s still too cold, turn the thermostat adjustment screw another 45 degrees counter clockwise.

  1. Once you have it set at a hot enough temperature, let it cool down, put back on the plastic knob and set screw, and put the lid back on.

Warning:
If you turn the adjustment screw too much the thermal fuse will blow and you will have to send the whole volcano in for a repair. Also, don’t touch ANYTHING except the switches if you have it plugged in. Seriously, you can shock or burn yourself or ruin your vaporized if you contact the wrong part. Just dont be dumb and if you have never took anything apart then be extra careful not to touch anything inside when it’s plugged in.

Take that warning seriously, I blew the thermal fuse… :frowning: I ended up increasing the heat slightly (by about 45 degrees). It works well!

Does the community have any tips or tricks etc for Volcanos or vaporisers in general?

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2

The temperatures that Storz & Bickel post run higher than the 370F from the adjustment you made. Your volcano may need more help.

Volcano Classic:

  • Temperature Range: 130°C - 230°C (266°F - 446°F).
  • Temperature Control: Dial regulator with 9 temperature levels.
  • Temperature Chart (Approximate):
    | Dial Number | Temperature (°F) |
    |—|—|
    | 1 | 266 |
    | 2 | 288 |
    | 3 | 309 |
    | 4 | 331 |
    | 5 | 356 |
    | 6 | 374 |
    | 7 | 396 |
    | 8 | 419 | (Implied based on linear progression up to 230°C/446°F)
    | 9 | 446 | (Implied based on linear progression up to 230°C/446°F)

Volcano Hybrid:

  • Temperature Range: 40°C - 230°C (104°F - 446°F).
  • Temperature Control: Precise digital touch display and Web App control.
  • Suggested Settings for Dry Herb:
    • Maximizing Flavor: 360°F
    • More Potent Effects/Thicker Clouds: 370°F
  • Suggested Settings for Concentrates:
    • Best Flavor: 365°F
    • Big Clouds/Potent Effects: 390°F
  • Suggested Settings for Other Herbs:
    • Chamomile, Thyme, Sage: 374°F
    • Hops Cones: 309°F
    • Lemon Balm: 288°F
    • Lavender: 266°F

General Considerations:

  • Lower temperatures (e.g., 320–350°F / 160–177°C) emphasize flavor and may result in a lighter, more clear-headed experience.
  • Medium temperatures (e.g., 350–390°F / 177–199°C) provide a balance between flavor and vapor production.
  • Higher temperatures (e.g., 390–430°F / 199–221°C) can lead to heavier, more sedative effects and potentially more potent hits.
  • Avoid combustion by staying below 445°F (229°C), as this can release harmful substances.
  • Experimentation is key to finding your preferred temperature settings based on the material, desired effects, and personal preferences.

Important Notes:

  • Temperature accuracy: The Hybrid’s electronic thermostat is more precise (within 2.7°F / 1.5°C) compared to the Classic’s bimetallic thermostat (within 9°F / 5°C).
  • Starting low: If you’re new to vaping or using new material, begin with a lower temperature and gradually increase it to find your preferred level.
  • Concentrates: Require higher temperatures to vaporize properly, so adjust your settings accordingly.
  • Temp Stepping: You can start at lower temperatures for flavor and finish at higher temperatures to extract the remaining compounds, maximizing efficiency.
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