Fog machine
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A fog machine (also called a smoke machine) is a device which emits a dense vapor that appears similar to fog or smoke. This generated "smoke" is perfectly safe to breathe, although individuals with breathing complications such as asthma may experience some irritation. Most fog machines create the fog by vaporizing a water and glycol-based or glycerine-based fluid. The fluid is injected into a heated block, and evaporates quickly. The resulting pressure forces the vapor out of the exit. Upon coming into contact with cool outside air the vapor forms a fog.
Fog machines are used to create spooky effects in plays such as Dracula, A Christmas Carol, and Macbeth. Fog machines are also frequently used in Halloween displays such as haunted houses or forests. Because of recent (2003-2005) price changes and availability, fog machines can be seen on the doorsteps of everyday houses during the season of halloween.
Fog machines are also useful for industrial purposes, such as visualising the flow of air or testing filters in air conditioning. Fire fighters also use fog machines in their training.
Because of the reflective and refractive qualities of the smoke created by fog machines, they are often used in nightclubs to enhance the effects of lighting and laser arrangements (see also light beam).
Haze machines, or haze generators, are taking over the job of fog generators for highlighting lighting or laser effects. Haze machines are often seen with bands and bigger venues when a lighting effect may need to be visible in the air.
Maintenance Fog/Smoke/Haze machines that operate on a fluid (rather than dry ice) must be cleaned periodically to prevent buildup within the thin tubing. This is best accomplished by draining any remaining fog juice, and replacing it with a solution of 20% white vinegar and 80% distilled water. Operating the machine for a period using this solution until it emits nearly invisible steam.
See also
- Dry ice, also used for creating theatrical “smoke”.
External links
- [Uk Sound And Lighting Community - Cleaning A Smoke Machine]
- [Rosco]
- [Pea Soup Smoke Machine Info] - Information, advice and FAQs on smoke machines
- [ESTA Fog & Smoke Working Group] - Standards for smoke and fog use in the entertainment industry
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