Fogging Machine: What is It, Uses, & How it Works

 You might be wondering what a fog machine is. These cool gadgets are frequently used in theatrical productions and concerts. They create an eerie atmosphere by emitting thick white smoke that quickly fills the room.

There are various types of fog machines, but they all operate on nearly the same principles. You'll notice that the prices for these machines vary. While a low-cost fog machine is available, it is unlikely to be useful for industrial purposes.

Even more intriguing is the fact that some people use them for their own personal needs. I know what you're thinking: how the hell do these things work? So, friends, keep reading!

What Is the Big Deal About Fogging Machines?

An operator of a fog machine

A fogger machine, in case you haven't guessed, allows you to create thick artificial fog – the kind you see in horror movies. It's pretty cool stuff, but you should be wondering how a fog machine works by now.

The machine begins by heating a liquid. When the liquid turns to vapour, it is pumped out through an aerosol canister. When the vapour meets the cooler air outside, fog begins to form – it's science, folks.

Consider the theatre; fog is critical if you want to create an eerie scene. When combined with lights and lasers, performance simply goes up a notch. 

As an audience member, what you'll see on stage are crackling flashes that cleanse the room of light until all that's left is this thick white fog that appears out of nowhere!

Let's put this in context. Do you remember Michael Jackson's Thriller? What would that song be like if there was no fog? Consider the legendary WWE Champion, The Undertaker. What would his entrance be like if there wasn't a thick fog to make him look like a ghost?

You now understand what a fogger machine is and why it is so important. What do you like best about fog lights? What do you think they should be used for?

On a more practical level, ULV fogging is used in the pest control industry to control pests that live in and around buildings. What are the various kinds of fog machines? We're glad you inquired!

Fog Machine Types

There are two types of fogger machines: heated fogger machines and chilled fogger machines. Heated models employ a heat exchanger to vapourize the glycol and water solution contained within the machine. The vapour will be hot in this case. If you want to take a bath in this fog, make sure it's not too hot that you get sunburned.

Some fogger manufacturers include a fan that allows you to play with the fog. Isn't it cool to be able to create smoke rings or rolling fog patterns? But, when it comes to deciding whether to use a heated or chilled machine, we recommend the latter.

There's something else you should be aware of. Every fog machine does not produce the same amount of fog. The quality and characteristics of fog vary. Some machines produce fog that clings to the surface, while others produce fog that scatters.

Machines with Low vs. High Fog

The most common type of fog machine is a low fogger. They create a dense, low-lying fog that hangs close to the ground. It's ideal for Halloween parties or haunts, and the bright coloured lights shining through help to create an eerie atmosphere indoors.

High fog machines are mostly used outside because they produce a lot more fog. They can be used to create dramatic scenes or to add excitement to the atmosphere. With a more dispersed fog, you won't be able to see anyone standing on stage unless they have a spotlight on them.

The best thing about high fog machines is that they can also be used indoors! However, the same rules apply: if you want anything within arm's reach to be visible, add a light source such as lasers or spotlights to make the fog stand out.

Because low fog machines are the most common, we'll discuss their two subtypes: dry ice and fluid-based. Let's get started right away, shall we?

Dry Ice Fog Maker

Machine for fogging with dry ice

Dry ice fog machines function by cooling a canister of gas and then pumping it into the atmosphere. Your room will be filled with dense but ever-changing wispy clouds as soon as this liquid vapourises.

This machine, as the name implies, uses dry ice, or frozen carbon dioxide, and mixes it with warm water. The dry ice sublimates, forming a dense low-lying fog that fills the air.

Advantages

The fact that dry ice fog machines are safe to use is why they are so popular. Dry ice is completely safe. How do we know this? Try breathing inside your refrigerator. Unless you intend to sleep in there, it is completely safe.

Dry ice has a long shelf life and will be your low-maintenance companion. It can be stored for weeks without needing to be preserved in any way.

Disadvantages

Dry ice, despite its long shelf life, loses volume over time. This is why you'll need a lot of it to create a dense fog.

Dry ice must be stored at extremely low temperatures. Be prepared for painful frostbites if you aren't careful.

Fluid-Based Fog Generators

Machine for Fluid-Based Fogging

A liquid, such as liquid nitrogen or glycol, is typically used in a fluid-based fogger machine. It heats up the mixture, causing vapour to form. The vapour then escapes through the nozzle and condenses into a dense fog with cool air.

When compared to dry ice fog, this type of fog lasts longer. But because it's a little warmer, it won't stick to the surface. Expect it to rise gradually as convection currents work their magic.

Furthermore, the fog will appear thicker. As you walk by, you'll notice that it doesn't swirl around. Add dry ice pellets to make your fog even denser and more fun.

Advantages

A fluid-based fog machine is less expensive because the liquid does not degrade or shrink in volume like dry ice, so you won't need as much of it.

The majority of liquid-based fog machines are portable and produce more fog than dry ice. As a result, there is more fog per liquid volume.

Disadvantages

Many liquid fogger machines are more difficult to clean up after they have been used. The chemicals in the liquid may cause the fog to stick. It could even leave stains. Keep a large wallet on hand because maintaining a liquid fogger is not cheap.

Liquid vapour is not always risk-free. It is normally regarded as safe, but if you are allergic to it, a liquid-based fogger is not for you.

Uses of a Fog Machine

Fog machines are more common than you might think. Some industries, in fact, cannot function without fog machines. In terms of personal use, you'll see them at concerts, parties, and Halloween events. But first, let's look at the industrial applications of fog machines.

The Entertainment and Film Industries

In a film, there is a fog machine.

How many times have you seen a movie scene in which there is a climatic situation and a fine mist covers the scene? Isn't this something that adds to the suspense and thrill? A fogger machine creates the fog you see.

Because fog can affect audience perception, many filmmakers use various types of smoke and fog machines in their films. Consider watching a horror film without any fog effects. We doubt you'll get as many jumpscares as we did.

Industry of the Theatre

In a theatre, fog is used.
The most important aspect of the theatre is the stage. The stage is well-lit in this industry, and there's just enough fog that the audience can see what's going on without straining their eyes and necks.

Fog machines enhance visual effects and provide a much better theatrical experience, whether they are used in Shakespeare plays or Cirque du Soleil performances. You're starting to appreciate the little details that make a play or stage performance so amazing that you didn't even notice before.

Concerts in Person

Have you ever been to a concert? What is one thing that the performer must do to set the tone for their performance? That's right, they require fog.

A fog machine is almost certainly present at a concert or other live event. The guys in charge of the fog effects are experts in their field. It is their responsibility to ensure that the liquid concentration and fog density are just right for the audience.

Again, fog improves your experience. Fog, like in the theatre, aids in the creation of light effects that bring a performance to life in front of your eyes.

Exercises in Firefighting

Firefighters are incredible people, but did you know they train with foggers? When there's a fire, there's fog – and it's deadly. A fog machine allows these brave people to practise saving people in low-light situations.

When firefighters are exposed to this smoke in advance, they gain a better understanding of how a real-life situation might feel, allowing them to be better prepared for it when it occurs. 

As a result, fog machines used in firefighting training drills assist firefighters in putting things into perspective, allowing them to better respond to real-life situations.

Fumigation in the Pest Control Industry

Everyone is aware of how inconvenient pests can be. If you're tired of dealing with a pest infestation, fumigation machines can be your best friend. 

The good news is that the fog can suffocate those pesky pests by reaching into every nook and cranny. It greatly simplifies the task.

The majority of pest control fogging is ultra-low volume (ULV) fogging. There will be no thick, dense fog here. 

Who cares about appearances in this case? The ULV fogger, on the other hand, will produce low-density fog for a much longer period of time. There's no way they're aware of what's happened to them.

Disinfecting and sanitising

Sanitizing and disinfecting fogging machine

Everyone is on high alert following the COVID-19 debacle. People wear masks and gloves all the time, and there are hand sanitizers literally everywhere – inside and outside their homes.

However, liquid sanitisation is ineffective. It can't possibly purify the air you're breathing, can it? 

What is the most effective way to sanitise or disinfect your room or office? 

What do you think the majority of people would say in response to that question? 

Yes, you read that correctly: a fog machine.

No other piece of equipment outperforms a fogger when it comes to killing germs and bacteria. This is because hand sanitizer only protects your hands. A fogging machine can be your best friend against this virus if you want to sanitise an entire room or building.

FAQs

Is a Fog Machine Harmful to Your Health?

What you put in a fog machine determines whether it is harmful to your health. If you're using a fluid-based machine, make sure to use propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol, which is toxic.

Unless you already have throat irritation or respiratory issues, a water and glycol solution should not be harmful to your health. If this is the case, avoid going into any artificial fog. Dry ice fog is completely safe.

Can a Fog Machine Be Used in the Home?

Yes, a fog machine can be used inside the house. The fog, on the other hand, will cover everything in your home, and your carpet may trap some of it. As a result, there is a chance that the fogging machine will damage your carpet.

Also, if you have a fire alarm system installed in your home, check with the provider because some detectors will set off a fire alarm when exposed to fog.

Is there any training required to use a fogging machine?

To use a fog machine, you must first be trained. However, if you want to create fog without training, there are no global licencing bodies that can stop you from using one.

Before using a fogging machine, you should have either informal or formal training. What's more important is that you follow HSE regulations and stay up to date on the latest standards, especially if you're using a fog machine for industrial purposes.

Fog creation can endanger others, so training is essential. Before using the machine, ensure that you have received the necessary training. Don't tamper with it!

What is the Source of the Fog in a Fog Machine?

If you use a fluid-based fog machine, it heats up the water and glycol mixture you've added to it, producing vapour in the process. The vapour escapes from the machine's nozzle and condenses into fog when it comes into contact with the colder air outside.

If you have a dry ice fogging machine, the dry ice will turn into gas and condense the water vapour, forming a thick fog. The same results can be obtained with liquid nitrogen.

Can Sanitizer Be Used in a Fogging Machine?

Yes, you can use a sanitiser in a fogging machine, but we recommend that you leave it to a professional. Because each fogging machine is unique, the concentration of sanitizer will differ.

In addition, adding sanitizer to a fogging machine can be hazardous, especially if it is flammable or explosive. If it isn't, inhaling the incorrect concentration can harm your lungs.

Is it possible to use hydrogen peroxide in a fogger?

When used indoors, adding hydrogen peroxide to a fogger is completely safe and effective. But, once again, we recommend that you check the concentrations beforehand, or better yet, have a professional do it for you.

Typically, a 3 percent concentration is sufficient for disinfection. Take care because hydrogen peroxide is a strong oxidizer that can cause other substances to combust.