Ultratec's Dry-Icer and G3000 Fog Machines: Special Effects for Different Needs
Ultratec's Fog Creation Devices
Ultratec, a renowned specialist in the field of special effects, offers two versatile devices for creating atmospheric effects: the Dry-Icer and the G3000 Fog Effects Generator. These machines, while sharing a common goal, have distinct features and operate differently to cater to various special effects needs.
The Ultratec Dry-Icer: A Low-Lying Fog Machine
The Dry-Icer is a dry ice fog machine, designed to generate a dense, low-lying fog that hugs the ground. It operates by reacting solid carbon dioxide (dry ice) with hot water, creating a cold, spooky, misty floor effect without airborne fog. This makes it an ideal choice for theatrical performances, haunted houses, and film sets where a low-lying fog effect is desired.
With a simpler design, the Dry-Icer is often more portable and quieter, as it doesn't use heated fluids. However, it requires a supply of dry ice and needs water to activate the fog. There are no heating elements inside the machine.
The Ultratec G3000 Fog Effects Generator: A Versatile Fog Machine
The G3000 Fog Effects Generator, on the other hand, is a heated fog machine. It heats a glycol or glycerin-based fog fluid to produce a thick, visible fog that rises and disperses in the air. This versatile cloud of fog is suitable for general atmospheric use, filling the space and used for general haze, background ambiance, or effects that don't require low-lying fog.
The G3000 typically includes adjustable output, variable fluid control, and sometimes advanced controls for duration and density. It's a popular choice for theater, concerts, clubs, TV and film production where bulk fog coverage or airborne fog is required.
Key Differences
| Feature | Dry-Icer | G3000 Fog Effects Generator | |--------------------------|-------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------| | Fog Type | Dry ice fog (CO2 + water reaction) | Heated glycol/glycerin-based fog | | Fog Behavior | Low-lying, hugs surfaces | Airborne, fills volume | | Equipment Needs | Dry ice supply + water | Fog fluid + electrical heating | | Typical Use Cases | Low ground fog effects | General fog/haze for ambient atmosphere | | Portability & Setup | Simple, quieter, more portable | Requires power and fluid refill, more complex | | Maintenance | Dry ice supply | Fluid refill + heater maintenance |
In summary, Ultratec’s Dry-Icer is specialized for low-lying fog effects using dry ice and water, while the G3000 is a versatile heated fog generator producing airborne fog using fluid. Your choice depends on whether you need fog that stays close to the floor or a volumetric fog effect.
Ultratec has been represented at Prolight + Sound for 10 years, showcasing their innovative fog machines, including the Dry-Icer. The Dry-Icer fog machine is equipped with a stainless steel housing and basket for dry ice, and can produce low-lying fog for up to five minutes. It's a cost-efficient system for fog production and can hold up to 20 lbs of dry ice.
The G3000 Fog Effects Generator from Ultratec has a recognition system for low fluid levels, a 2000w dual core rapid change Block, and can be controlled via DMX. It offers continuous temperature controls and operates with various fog fluids from Ultratec. It's LSG compatible and can be expanded with hoses and various attachments, offering flexibility for various events.
Marnie Styles, presumably an employee of Ultratec, notes that customers value the flexibility of the Dry-Icer fog machine. In 2018, Ultratec brought several innovations to Prolight + Sound. The company specializes in producing special effects, particularly fog machines.
The Dry-Icer, a Ultratec creation, is an ideal addition to a home-and-garden setup, as it generates a spooky, low-lying fog effect perfect for Halloween decorations or small theatrical performances at home. On the other hand, the G3000 Fog Effects Generator is a valuable gadget for technology enthusiasts and hobbyists in the field of special effects, offering versatility for creating general fog effects in various events and settings.
