Frequently Asked Questions
Evaporative Snow® Fluids
Evaporative Snow® by Global Special Effects is a laboratory formulated foam based solution that makes the brightest looking Evaporative Snow® effect. It is a water-based formula mixed with a surfactant property. Surfactants are elastic chemicals that make the hollow flakes. This solution, used in our snow machines, creates a realistic looking snowfall. The solution is air aerated at 1/10,000. The water starts to evaporate within seconds making the flakes become smaller and lighter until they disappear. The surfactant chemical becomes microscopic particles. The surfactants used in our Evaporative Snow® formulation are of the highest cosmetic grade possible. They are non-allergenic, biodegradable, non-toxic and non-staining.
When the machines are used properly, they leave no moisture. For years we have been making it snow on millions of visitors in theme parks, and we have never received one compliant of staining. If the flakes are made very large, they can hold some moisture, which can remove the pigment of silk and lacquer surfaces like a baby grand. In these cases, the flake size has to be adjusted to a quick evaporative flake size.
The product, used with the right settings, can be run continually without causing any slippery surfaces. This can be achieved by setting the flake size to evaporate before it hits the ground.
We are the only snow provider that tests snow fluid for wetness – slippage on various floor surfaces, a coefficient of friction meter testing. We had several independent coefficients of friction measurement slip tests with major theme park clients and passed with flying colors. We also provide coefficients of friction measurement slip tests for our clients when requested.
A 0.50 COF or above has been recognized as providing non-hazardous walkway surfaces which is accepted industry standards as adopted by UL and the ASTM. OSHA sets many requirements of safe floors under 29 CFR-1910 referring to providing floors of anti-slip surfaces or maintaining surfaces in non-slip conditions in commercial building. It is generally considered in the industry that a walkway surface with a coefficient of friction higher than 0.50 is non-hazardous. In all cases, the coefficient of friction increased after the snow fell with Global Special Effects Evaporative Snow® fluid brand.
Our snow fluid test results found that floor surfaces are rated drier by 0.20+ after we ran snow for a long duration of cycles over time and tested the same surfaces when dry. No particle-accumulated weight on the surface either. That’s why you only see Evaporative Snow® machines and Evaporative Snow® fluid brand used in theme parks worldwide.
Many caters and event planners use this product as part of a display, entrance ways to a party or as a “wow” effect as guests sit to have a full course meal. It is also used for many weddings as the bride and groom cut the cake. It is even kosher.
No, it has no odor.
Yes. It is a water-based product, and will not set off a sprinkler system.
Evaporative Snow® has a guaranteed 3-year shelf life. Can often last even longer when stored in a climate-controlled environment and away from direct sunlight.
Evaporative Snow® Pre-Mix is a premium, ready-to-use snow fluid with no dilution required. Expertly crafted with high-quality ingredients, it delivers a consistent, beautiful snowfall right out of the bottle. Pre-Mix eliminates concerns about water quality or mixing ratios, making it the perfect hassle-free option for snow machines.
Evaporative Snow® Concentrate offers a cost-effective alternative for those looking to stretch their budget. This concentrated formula must be diluted with water at a ratio of 8 oz of Concentrate per 1 gallon of water. Once mixed, it delivers the lowest cost per ready-to-use gallon. Because you’re not paying to ship water, Concentrate significantly reduces shipping costs. This formula is designed with efficiency and savings in mind.
- 8 oz of concentrate = 1 gallon of ready-to-use snow fluid
- 1 gallon of concentrate = 16 gallons of ready-to-use snow fluid
- 5 gallons of concentrate = 80 gallons of ready-to-use snow fluid
- 55 gallons of concentrate = 880 gallons of ready-to-use snow fluid
De-ionized water is the base of all our pre-mixed formulations. This form of water has no minerals, hard properties, or chlorine. De-ionized water is the base ingredient in our formulation because it produces the best effects and leaves behind no water stains. It was originally designed for the movie industry so that if the snow landed on a camera lens it would not leave a water ring.
Yes. If your event does not require the use of a movie camera or will not land on glass, it can be used. However, keep in mind that certain tap waters contain high mineral contents that may effect the quality and output of snow. These minerals may not produce a bright white flake or allow for maximum output. Results will vary. So while Evaporative Snow® Concentrate is compatible with tap water, we always say, “The cleaner the water, the prettier the snow!”
If you add a dye to the snow, it can stain. The best way to achieve a colored-snow effect is by using colored LED lights along with your snow machine.
Evaporative Snow® Machines
Snow machines may remain outdoors as long as they are covered with one of our weatherproof snow machine covers or otherwise protected from the elements.
Yes, as long as you keep the solution warmer than 32 degrees. You can use a heating blanket, insulation, or a battery warmer.
Faux Snow
It is very easy to use by adding ordinary water to the powdery Faux Snow substance. Within a matter of seconds, the water is absorbed by the Faux Snow powder and turned into snowflakes. There are many applications for Faux Snow, sensory activities for kids, covering the yard, steps, window ledges, displays, tree branches, roof, automobiles, back deck…the possibilities are endless!
It is the most realistic fake snow available on the market. For the past few years, photographers and the movie industry have been using this product instead of shaved ice.
Faux snow can be shaped and mounded. Even snowmen and snowball fights are possible with this product. Footprints and snow angels show up really well in Faux Snow.
Yes, you can even ski in it.
Yes, but it is not recommended due to potential staining.
When Faux Snow is used indoors, it can be simply vacuumed up with a shopvac or shoveled into a garbage receptacle. It is extremely simple to clean up. When used outdoors, it can be raked into a pile and tossed into the garbage. You can even place a tarp underneath for easy clean up.
Nothing at all.
Since faux snow is a polymer based, expanding powder, it is always best to try to avoid direct contact with the eyes or mouth. If it does come in contact with your eyes or mouth, rinse thoroughly with water.
Faux snow can last for weeks or even months, as long as water is added regularly (use a spray bottle) and it is fluffed up.
Faux snow is designed to break down once it is exposed to direct sunlight. The breakdown process begins after twenty-four hours. It can be rejuvenated by adding more Faux Snow.
After use outside, faux snow should be raked up as best as possible. If a small amount is left on the ground, the grass should be fine.
Faux snow is easily cleaned up. Once removed, the area should be wiped down with a damp cloth or sprayed with a garden hose in case small granules were left behind.
It is a perfect illusion. People say it feels cold. In reality it is only a few degrees below room temperature.
Yes, since it is water based, it will freeze.
This is normally caused when the pump becomes disconnected from the solution line. Simply take the pump into your hand and check to see if the solution line is connected to the pump. If the solution line is disconnected, place the solution line into the pump.
Take the remote control and place it on its back. Remove the black tab and try the remote. That black tab connects the batteries to the remote. Do not replace the tab.
This is normally caused by foam building up in the pump and the solution line. This is simple to fix by two methods.
1. Just let the snowman sit off for 15 minutes and the foam will turn back to liquid.
2. Take the solution line out of the pump and blow air to remove the foam. Install the solution line back to the pump and try again.
You can buy it from Global Special Effects directly. Please call our sales office at (256) 229-5551.
Automatic Refill System
The Automatic Fluid Refill Station System maintains the fluid levels in small machine reservoirs by refilling them automatically from a bulk storage container. It is especially useful for extended machine operations or in installations that make reservoir refilling difficult.
The Auto Refill Station is designed for one machine to be refilled of fluid. If you need more than one machine refilled, use multiple Auto Refill Stations.
We have tested up to 200 feet, but could potentially do even more depending on logistics.
We have tested 75 feet, but could potentially do even more depending on logistics.
First, the warranty is voided. After 10 minutes on dry use, a thermal switch will actuate and shut down the auto refill station. It will require a cool down period of 20 minutes.
It is best that you set the pumping station and snow machine on the ground first to set up the unit and make sure the pump is primed. The pumping station needs a drop of fluid to prime. A dry pump will not move the fluid. You may need to blow fluid into the intake stem. This could be done with a bulb or syringe. You need to squirt fluid through the pump while the pump is turned on. If the pumping station is making a loud noise, the odds are that it needs this process done. Make sure the inlet hose at the receiving bottle is below the flotation device. Remember that if you disconnect the hose from the pump on top of the machine, the fluid in the house will run down the hose including some of the fluid in the bottle. Make sure the pumping station is a short distance from the bulk fluid. Make sure the hose is on the bottom at the bottom of the bulk fluid container. You should wire tie a bolt to the end as a good anchor.
No greater than 6 feet.
Fog, bubble fluid, water, haze and snow fluids. This unit is not intended for corrosive/explosive fluids.
DMX-512 is a standard protocol which allows lighting, controllers, and control desks to communicate with other lighting equipment. It was designed to allow equipment from different companies to be used together easily.
The first dimmers/fixture functions were actually controlled by levers on the dimmers/fixtures themselves. During a show, it could take several people to move these levers and someone else to coordinate them. This kind of control was quite cumbersome. Later, control wires were run from each dimmer/fixture function to a control console. If you had 300 dimmers/fixtures, you had to have 300 control wires!! To improve this, manufacturers started using digital signals sent down one control cable. At first each manufacturer used their own protocols, meaning that different manufacturer’s equipment could not be combined. Finally, DMX-512 was adopted as the standard lighting control protocol.
Standard DMX is based on 512 individual channels, which can be set to a level between 0 and 255. If a dimmer/function was addressed to be on channel 1, and the level of channel 1 was brought up to 255 (100%), the dimmer/function would be sending out at full power. Therefore, a color/gobo or other functions are assigned a number from 0 to 255.
Example:
| Channel 1 (GOBO) 0 = Blackout 10-20 = GOBO 1 20-30 = GOBO 2 30-40 = GOBO 3 This means anywhere Between level 10-20 GOBO 1 would be visible. |
DMX-512 – 512 represents the number of channels one DMX cable can carry. It requires only 3 pins. Older systems, known as 5-core DMX, may be seen (two pins will not be used and are reserved for a 2nd data link). The data is sent serially to 2 pins (the third is the ground pin) known as positive phase or hot and negative phase or cold. Pins 4 & 5 are reserved for a 2nd data signal or talkback. At the console end, the channels are fed into a multiplexer (MUX) which takes the individual channels data and encodes it into a format suitable for sending down the DMX line with all the other channels’ data. At the dimmer/fixture end, the data is fed into a demultiplexer (DEMUX) and split up again into the individual channels to be fed to their respective circuits. In practice, the MUX & DEMUX will be incorporated into the console and dimmers respectively, though standalone MUX & DEMUX units are available to convert analog systems into DMX.
DMX is advantageous because the DMX cable is less bulky, cheaper, and less cumbersome than a 48 conductor cable. If the cable were to run long distances, any repeaters/amplifiers would only have to amplify 2 signals instead of 48. DMX also allows control of many different pieces of DMX equipment, such as smoke machines, scanners, dimmers, etc. from a central location.
The DMX-512 standard (actually USITT DMX-512 – 1990) is published by the U.S.I.T.T. and is now maintained by ESTA. For more information on standards, go to ESTA.com
DMX-512 is RS485 serial at 250K baud, as such any installation must meet the requirements of EIA-485. In particular, use of suitable good quality cable is important (we would not recommend mic cable for a permanent install, although we have found a good quality mic cable is suitable for mobile use).
Pin Out (Go to DMX Index)
DMX-512 3 PIN:
Pin Function
1 ground
2 – DMX data
3 + DMX data
DMX-512 5 PIN:
Pin Function
1 ground
2 – data
3 + data
4 nc
5 nc
The DMX-512 standard (actually USITT DMX-512 – 1990) is published by the U.S.I.T.T. and is now maintained by ESTA. For more information on standards, go to ESTA.com
All DMX lines must be correctly terminated if reliable operation is to be obtained. If not, signal loss can occur. Some fixtures have a switchable line-terminating resistor built in. In these cases, make sure that only the last fixture in the chain has the terminating switch set to the on position. If the last item (farthest from the data source) does not have a terminating switch, then an external line-terminator is needed. To make one you will need the following parts:
1 Male 3 Pin XLR
1 110 ohm 0.5W Resistor
To make the line terminator, solder the resistor across pins 2 & 3 of the XLR. You may want to back fill the XLR with epoxy resin to provide protection. Line termination will not correct a bad cable or interference from running a DMX cable next to an electrical cable. High power electrical lines will cause interference.
Because the DMX protocol is so basic, each intelligent light’s range of controlling DMX channels must be set manually. Each light’s DMX address corresponds to the first of the light’s channels.
For Example:
You have two intelligent lights that use five channels each.
You set the DMX address of the first light to 1, and the DMX address of the second light to 6. The reason for this is because the first light is using channels 1,2,3,4 and 5 – so therefore the second light starts on channel 6. You may also have to set up your intelligent light console for the type of lights you have and their DMX address before you can control them.
You may want to do a little planning before you start addressing your lights. Put all of your lights in a logical order; it will help you figure out which light is which later. Next, find out how many DMX channels each light uses – the lights manual should tell you this. Now that you know what channel to start addressing your lights at, you can figure each light’s DMX address (except when your controller banks channels, see Controllers). Take the first light’s DMX address, add the number of channels it uses, and you have the second light’s DMX address. Then, take the second light’s DMX address, add the number of channels it uses, and you have the third light’s DMX address. Do this until you have all the DMX addresses for your lights written down.
Some controllers give you settings automatically and some controllers use banks of channels. Whether your fixture uses 4 DMX channels or 10 DMX channels, it will still require you to set up your fixtures based on it’s banks.
Example:
CX-5 banks all fixtures in 14 channel intervals so your first fixture will always start on channel 1, and your second fixture will always start on channel 15. DMX-40 banks all fixtures in 16 channel intervals so your first fixture will always start on channel 1 and fixture 2 will always start on channel 17. Show Xpress allows you to use all the channels.
Read your fixture’s manual to find out how to address your light. Many intelligent lights use binary dip switches, while other lights may use a small display and buttons to set the DMX address. There is always a minimum of 9 dipswitches if your fixture uses them (there may be 10, but the last one is used for a standalone/self-test/focus/invert/etc.) Each dip switch has a corresponding value.
If you have a light that needs a DMX address of 1, then your dip switches will be set with only 1 in the ‘on’ position. If you have a light that needs a DMX address of 40, then your dip switches will be set with 4 & 6 in the ‘on’ position. If you have a light that needs a DMX address of 393, then your dipswitches will be set with 1,4,8,9 in the ‘on’ position.
The exception to the above is if you have a controller which banks channels, if so, see the controller section above.
DMX Pin Settings
DMX pins for all snow machines are as follows:
| 1. | Screen | Interference screen, and ground reference |
| 2. | Black | DMX512 Data -ve |
| 3. | White | DMX512 Date +ve |
| 4. | Green | No Connection |
| 5. | Red | +25V DC |
Foam Machines & Fluid
It has the same viscosity as water. With proper dilution of foam fluid, It does not have slippery soap-like qualities.
Yes, it has water, and water will make your floor wet. Our solutions are the driest foam in the industry. If some say their foam is dry foam, it is untrue. You cannot have foam without water.
Participants may become damp over time while playing in the foam, depending on factors such as whether they are standing or sitting in it. However, as long as the foam solution is properly diluted, it should not leave anyone soaking wet.
It all depends on how many people play in the foam. As more people play in the foam, they break the bubbles. But usually, if foam is untouched, it can last for hours.
Once the foam dries, it turns into a light powder that can be easily swept away, or blown away using a leaf blower. For faster cleanup, you can also use our De-Foamer solution. When the foam is properly diluted, it won’t leave behind any sticky residue. Depending on how much water and foam is used, there may be some residual moisture on the ground, which can be quickly mopped up if needed.
The foam has hypoallergenic cosmetic grade chemicals that will not hurt your eyes or skin. Our foam solutions also have a moisturizer for the skin. It is important to note that, if the floors have been cleaned with bleach, it can react with the foam.
High Dilution Foam (HDF) produces a drier, denser foam with enhanced moisturizing properties, resulting in a higher-quality foam experience.
Value Foam generates a wetter foam, making it a budget-friendly choice for casual events or parties where cost efficiency is a priority.
Yes, we have many different scents such as bubble gum, Pina colada, cherry, and more. Foam can also be tinted blue, green, yellow, and pink. Keep in mind tinted foam may stain.
There are many ways to contain the foam: inflatable pits, barriers, construction of a containment area, using a dance floor, or just by using a suitable grassy area.
Foam can be used at church events, children’s parties, camps, night clubs, and even fundraisers. People of all ages love to play in foam!
All our foam solutions are biodegradable and do not harm people, pets, or plants!
We have been manufacturing foam for the decades, and we have not found a city ordnance that requires any kind of permit. However, if you have questions or concerns we advise checking with your local municipality.
Yes, our foam solutions are compatible with most foam machines.
Cryo – CO2 Blasters
You need one of two tanks:
1) A 50 pound pressure siphon tube tank. Make sure the tank has a liquid siphon tube with the pipe that drops to the bottom of the tank to get the liquid CO2.
2) A Dewar tank which is a low pressure refrigerated tank.
CO2 can be sourced from many local supply stores. One reliable option is Airgas, a nationwide supplier specializing in welding products and gases, including CO2.
High pressure has 1.5 minutes of effect. Dewar tank has 10 minutes of effect. The average blast is 2 seconds.
Yes, 25-40% when the effect is running.
Best at 20-30 foot hose. Not more than 50 feet long.
Yes. Global Special Effects can custom manufacture a hose to a specific size. Please contact us for more information.
They are effected by humidity. The more humidity, the better the white cloud of fog. Normally at least 20 feet to 30 feet.
Scent Machines & Fluids
We carry a variety of cartridge-based and liquid-based scent machines that features coverage areas of 2,500-10,000 sq ft!
Scent cartridges can last up to 3 months (360 hours) on average.
We have a unique variety of scent options in stock. We can also produce an unlimited number of signature scents, as well as custom scents.
Cruise lines, hotels & resorts, major theme parks, funeral homes, universities, theaters, restaurants, award ceremonies, corporate events, and more! We also sell our machines for use in numerous private homes all across the globe! Any business environment can enhance productivity, sales, and customer satisfaction with scent. The brain forges a link between scent and memory that can identify your product, service, or place of business.
Yes, scent samples are available. Please contact us at info@globalspecialeffects.com or (256) 229-5551.
Flogos™ Machines
Flogos™ are synthesized from proprietary surfactant (soap) based foam formulations and lighter-than-air gases such as helium.
Flogos™ are designed to fly high and remain visible for as long as atmospheric conditions allow. On average, each Flogo™ lasts between 30 to 40 minutes, flying into the sky before eventually dissipating. Factors such as wind speed and humidity can impact both flight path and longevity, but in ideal conditions, they float upward and travel as far as the eye can see.
Flogos™ machines can be strategically positioned based on your event’s location and desired visual impact. While Flogos™ follow the natural direction of wind currents, which may shift at higher altitudes, they remain highly visible as they ascend hundreds, even thousands, of feet into the sky. From there, they can travel for miles before dissipating.
Flogos™ can travel from 1 to 30 miles and float as high as 5,000 feet. They fly slowly, so they are visible for a long period of time. How far and how high they can travel also vary depending on atmospheric and weathering conditions.
Our Flogo™ Designers can create custom stencils tailored to your brand or event. In general, simpler designs produce stronger, longer-lasting Flogos™, especially in varying weather conditions. While more intricate designs are definitely possible and have been done many times in the past, keep in mind that more complex designs may be more susceptible to the foam breaking while in air if flying in less-than-ideal atmospheric conditions. Larger Flogo™ machines allow for greater design complexity. Our team is happy to review your ideas and help develop a stencil that best suits your vision while ensuring optimal performance.
Our in-house Flogo™ Designers can typically produce a mockup of your design within 24-hours.
Yes, Flogos™ are environmentally friendly and safe for people, pets, and plants.
Colored Flogos™ are possible, but keep in mind they have the potential to stain.
With each Flogo machine, on average, one Flogo will be produced every 15 to 50 seconds, depending on the machine size and desired thickness. If you have two machines alternating production, Flogos™ can fly approximately every 7 to 25 seconds, again, depending on the machine size and desired thickness.
The Baby Flogos™ Machine produces approximately 18″ Flogos™, while the Flogos™ Lite Machine produces approximately 36″ Flogos™.
Because of the negative space sometimes required to successfully fly the Flogo (to hold it together), its final shape may be smaller in some cases. However, Flogos™ are also dimensional (thick).
Due to the fact that Flogos™ have minimal mass and are made out of majority air, they do not fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA). It is a standard Flogo policy, however, that if a Flogo event is taking place within 5 miles of an airport, we notify the tower that we will be flying Flogos™ nearby.
We have performed hundreds of Flogo events for many big name clients. Flogos™ have been used in parades, festivals, grand openings, concerts, corporate events, sports, municipalities, theme parks, birthdays, and more! The sky is not the limit anymore!
Yes, Flogos™ can be used inside with very entertaining results. Generally, the higher the ceiling, the better the effect.
Flogos™ are protected by U.S. and international intellectual property rights, patent, copyright and trademark laws which vary by country. Mere usage of a trademark may be a violation if unauthorized. Federal law provides severe penalties for the unauthorized reproduction, distribution, exhibition, alteration, modification or other appropriation, in whole or in part, of copyrighted materials. Unauthorized violation of such rights will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
