Smoke Output Measurements??

[LordAJ]

Hi

 

Im looking into buy a laser and a smoke machine. Would you say to make a laser look good you need a smoke machine? And "Smoke volume per minute 75m³" How much smoke is that?

[Jivemaster]

Unless you have smoke or haze the laser will draw patterns on the opposite wall, and be lost. Some people want to write with a laser some people want the in-air effects.

 

First the old "smoke machine" is now a "fog machine". they still set off alarm sensors they still put particles in the air to show the beam effects. How much fog you will need depends on the room size and the ventilation, and the laser, - a weak laser cannot cut through much fog!

 

How much fog you can have depends on the venue licence its alarm system, and the management.

[LordAJ]

ok, so your suggesting a "fogger" and an expensive laser? I just want to fill the stage with smoke.

[Jivemaster]

From a fogger you can get degrees of "atmosphere" from a slight beam enhancement to total vision obscuration. Some Lasers need more or less "atmosphere" to do them justice.

 

Design the effect then borrow or hire some kit and TRY it. Once you have found what you want then you can buy things.

 

The really flash, inspiring laser shows, come from systems run to their best advantage and within strict sefety guidlines.

[niclights]

For constant coverage a hazer rather than traditional machine would probably be better. Mineral oil based machines give the best effect and will hang longer in the air but are more expensive. All types and machines have been discussed at great length here. Have a search.

 

Otherwise, as said, it is impossible to say how much you need. This totally depends on room size, ventilation and personal preference.