How do smoke machines work?

What is a smoke machine?

Before proceeding, it is essential to be clear about the concept of a smoke machine. Introduced since the mid-1970s, this term refers to a device used to generate a smoke effect in the entertainment industry.

Main components of smoke machines

The operation of the vast majority of smoke machines is based on the following key elements:

• liquid tank;
• liquid for smoke machine;
• heat exchanger or boiler;
• diaphragm pump;
• a thermostat and a button for activating the jet.

Functioning of smoke machines

Smoke machines use a relatively simple system to create the desired effect.

At the heart of this system is the liquid tank, an element designed to house the fluid specially formulated for the process. This fluid is the key to creating the dense, enveloping smoke that characterizes the atmosphere of stages, movie sets, and other entertainment venues.

The diaphragm pump is the initial element that comes into play, playing the crucial role of pushing the liquid from the tank to the next piece in the process: the heat exchanger.

Here, the liquid is gradually raised to a high temperature through contact with the heat generated by the appropriate device. This increase in temperature causes a rapid transition from the liquid phase to the vapor phase. It is at this instant that the transformation takes place, initiating the production of smoke.

When the liquid undergoes this process, the result is a sudden expansion of the resulting vapor. This expansion generates considerable pressure within the system, pushing the vapor through the machine nozzle.

When hot, pressurized vapor meets cooler surrounding air, it gives rise to the striking visual effect we call smoke. The opaque aerosol instantly materializes, enveloping the surrounding space and transporting the audience into a dimension of enigmatic and evocative atmosphere.

The precision and regulation of this entire process is meticulously managed through a dedicated thermostat and jet activation button or by remote control. These controls allow operators to modulate the intensity and frequency of smoke production, ensuring that the effect is perfectly aligned with the desired atmosphere for the event.

Operation of smoke machines: the latest developments in the field

In recent years, thanks to the demands of light designers, the evolution of set design on various stages, photographic or television sets has allowed the classic smoke effect to evolve into new and different forms of special effects.

These new effects turn out to be very similar to those of smoking, but thanks to the variation of certain components and the composition of the liquid there is the possibility of obtaining:

• Fog effect: leaves a light veil of opacity that allows the best view of spot or moving head projector beams coming from the stage set, without occluding the view of the entire show;
• CO2 simulation or geyser: allows for that "flash" effect of a few seconds with an immediate dispersion into the environment without any trace of it remaining, which happens with smoke or fog. This jet effect is achieved by using liquid CO2 cylinders and a dedicated plant, with special attention to maintenance and prevention towards spectators.

Conclusions and the role of the Amlux company

In conclusion, we have looked in detail at the components and operation of smoke machines. If you are intent on purchasing these products to enhance your theatrical productions, special events or film productions, Amlux is the right partner for you.

Our catalog of special effects products has a wide selection of smoke machines and replacement liquids. Among the many products on sale, we can not fail to mention the VF1600 model. This smoke machine has a 2.3 L tank and is able to emit 565 m3 per minute of smoke. Perfect for shows and events, it has a remote control and a wireless remote control.

As specified in this news, recently our catalog also offers portable smoke machines, ideal for fire drills. The FT-20X has a 600W generator and can deliver up to 11 minutes of non-stop fog. Browse our catalogue now or contact us for more information!