Flame thrower

**luv2cmwork** · 10-24-2008,06:43 AM

Went to an outdoor haunt last weekend and they had a site that utilized flames and fire.

They shot flames into the air a good 10-15 feet, perhaps more on demand. In other words, bursts of flame, much like a Hot Air balloon burner kicks out flames.

I was able to see the equipment up close and it appeared to me, they simply had two 1/2" pipes connected to "T" fitting and a large LP tank. Actually, a hose went from the LP tank, into a "T" fitting and from there, split into to pipes that were about 3 inches apart and about 48 inches high. So it basically formed a tight "U" with the LP hose feeding a "T" at the bottom. They lit the flames with another torch of some sort.

Has anyone ever messed around with anything like this? I'm wondering if there is any info on how to do this. I've seen it done on some other haunt videos, flames shooting out of dragons or even from the chimney of an outhouse. But I'm not sure how to do it.

I'm keenly aware of the safety factor....and that's why I haven't "tried" anything myself. I'm just fishing for ideas.

Thanks in advance.

**Wolfbeard** · 10-24-2008,06:47 AM

I would not mess around trying to build one of these, but what you describe sounds like a "weed burner." You can pick these up fairly inexpensively at garden centers.

You can get handheld units that use the small propane cylinders for character mobility. Obviously, you need to be careful when using open flames, but you knew that already. If you hold the flame nozzle upward and cover the venturi intakes, the flame will yellow and surge upward. Do not do this for prolonged periods though, it is fine for quick bursts.

Eric
________
medical marijuana card

**Texan78** · 10-24-2008,07:02 AM

I have been working on something like this for a few years. I was talking to Mark about this a couple of weeks ago about it and he actually knows of something that is SFX you can buy to do this and for dirt cheap that will do just this.

**BallstonManor** · 10-24-2008,07:06 AM

I'd also check with your local town/county/state and see what, if any, permits you might need to use this in a public setting, and also call your homeowners insurance carrier and see how much your rates will go up in the unexpected happens.

**luv2cmwork** · 10-24-2008,07:09 AM

I'd be interested Texan78, if you have any information.

I have a fair amount of experience with plumbing and plumbing gas line. I used to do it for a living. But my experience is with residential and commercial business installation. Not creating SFX.

So I need a little guidance if it's something I would consider attempting.

**Diabolik** · 10-24-2008,07:12 AM

A fellow haunter here in PA uses a propane cannon. I believe you can buy them as they are an actual theatrical type prop. He did not make his, it was professionally made. makes a decent sized fireball as you are describing.

Personally, the thought of using anything with a real flames in or around my haunt kind of scares me. Esp. paired up to a propane tank. about 4 or 5 years ago I had a tot fall onto a pumpkin that had a real candle in it. Was no big deal and nothing happened, but that did it for me.... I haven't even used a real candle since.....

**Texan78** · 10-24-2008,07:14 AM

Well I have as much as the pilot light rigging done but I haven't figured out how to spray it yet. If you shot mark a msg he can probably tell you the link to the item you can buy. I think he said he was made by chauvet.

**luv2cmwork** · 10-24-2008,07:16 AM

BallstonManor - I appreciate your concern and understand what you are saying. My haunt is in the woods. The only thing that might burn is a few leaves (barring some type of explosion). The flames would be a large distance from spectators.

I want to restate, that I am keenly aware of the safety factor of an SFX such as this. Just as I am keenly aware of the risks of pneumatics using door closures and tire pumps.

I've seen it done, so it must be possible. And must be able to be executed safely.