Vapes come in all shapes and sizes, with varying degrees of metal and plastic components, but many will set off a detector when you pass through it. If the cartridge contains hard plastic or zirconia ceramic, there's a chance it'll get through, but there's no guarantee because of what's beneath the surface.

Yes, walk-through metal detectors at airports and high-security venues will almost always detect vapes because of their metal components. Vaping devices contain several key metal parts that trigger the electromagnetic field of a detector, including the lithium-ion battery casing, the heating coil (atomizer), and the metal threads or chassis of the device. Even disposable vapes, which might have plastic exteriors, still contain enough internal metal to set off a sensitive alarm. TSA and security protocols require you to remove large metal objects from your pockets before walking through; therefore, you should place your vape in your carry-on bag or a bin to go through the X-ray machine instead. In fact, FAA and TSA regulations require vapes and e-cigarettes to be in carry-on luggage only; they are strictly prohibited in checked bags due to the fire risk from the batteries. If you attempt to walk through a detector with a vape in your pocket, the alarm will sound, leading to a manual "pat-down" search. While a vape is not an illegal item to carry, trying to "sneak" it through a metal detector often leads to unnecessary delays and secondary screening.