Professional Confetti Cannons: The Ultimate FAQs
This page is your central resource for answers to the most common questions about our professional-grade confetti cannons. Find everything you need to know about our Continuous Flow, Electric, Reusable Stage, and T-Shirt Cannons.
Table of Contents
Continuous Flow Confetti Cannon FAQs
A continuous confetti cannon is a device that uses a sustained stream of compressed air to release confetti for an extended period. This section answers your most common questions about how they work, how to use them, and what to expect.
General Information
- Q: What is a continuous confetti cannon?
- A: A continuous confetti cannon is a device that uses a sustained stream of compressed CO2 to release confetti for an extended period, creating an immersive, long-lasting effect. Unlike traditional confetti cannons that produce a single burst, these systems can run for up to 90 seconds or more from a single 50 lb CO2 tank.
- Q: What makes continuous confetti cannons different from regular ones?
- A: The key difference is the duration of the effect. Traditional confetti cannons, like electric or handheld models, release a single, brief burst of confetti. A continuous confetti cannon uses a steady flow of CO2 to create a dynamic, sustained stream that can be controlled and adjusted over a longer time.
- Q: How does a continuous confetti cannon work?
- A: These confetti cannons use compressed CO2 gas to generate a constant airflow. This constant propulsion draws confetti from a holding hopper and launches it into the air, allowing for a much longer-lasting and more immersive display than a single-shot confetti cannon.
Operation & Flow
- Q: What kind of CO2 tank do I need?
- A: You will need a 50 lb liquid CO2 siphon tank (sometimes called a "dip tube" tank). These are different from standard CO2 tanks and are available for rent from gas and welding supply stores.
- Q: How long will a 50 lb CO2 tank last?
- A: A full 50 lb tank provides approximately 60-90 seconds of continuous flow. While this may sound short, it's actually a very long time for a confetti effect.
- Q: How do I operate a continuous confetti cannon?
- A: First, secure your 50 lb liquid CO2 siphon tank. Connect the provided hose from the confetti cannon to the tank. Then, fill the confetti hopper and use the adjustable ball valve to control the flow of confetti.
- Q: How can I get the best confetti flow?
- A: For optimal results, do not pack the confetti tightly into the hopper. Load it in loosely, and you can even gently fluff the confetti with your hand while the unit is on to help maintain a steady flow.
- Q: How do I control the confetti output?
- A: Our continuous confetti cannons are equipped with adjustable ball valves that give you precision control. You can fine-tune the confetti stream for either a powerful burst or a subtle trickle and adjust the effect on the fly during your event.
Confetti Effects & Customization
- Q: How far and high does the confetti shoot?
- A: The confetti can blast over 80 feet high from the horn and spread 40-50 feet wide. The exact height and spread can be affected by the type of confetti used and the venue's indoor airflow conditions or, if used outdoors, the wind speed and direction.
- Q: Can I customize the confetti effect, like creating a light shower versus a heavy burst?
- A: Yes! The ball valve allows you to adjust the flow to create a wide range of effects, from a delicate, lingering shower to a powerful, high-volume burst.
- Q: What type of confetti is used?
- A: Our confetti cannons are compatible with a variety of confetti types, including tissue paper confetti, metallic confetti, and even die-cut shaped confetti.
- Q: How much confetti do I need?
- A: The confetti cannons shoot approximately 1 pound of confetti per second, and the hopper holds between 5-10 lbs. You can add more confetti as needed while the unit is on.
- Q: Can I choose the colors of the confetti?
- A: Absolutely. You can select from a wide palette of tissue and metallic confetti colors to match your event's theme.
Safety & Suitability
- Q: Are continuous confetti cannons safe for indoor use?
- A: Yes, they are designed with safety in mind. However, when using them indoors, you must ensure you have at least 15 ft high ceilings. Always consider venue regulations and have a cleanup plan in place.
- Q: Can these confetti cannons be aimed at people?
- A: For the safety of everyone, you should never aim the confetti cannon at people or any objects. Children should not have access to these devices.
- Q: Can continuous confetti cannons be used outdoors?
- A: Yes, they can create impressive outdoor effects. Just be mindful of wind conditions, which can carry the confetti, and be sure to check local regulations and have a cleanup plan.
Applications & Durability
- Q: What are continuous confetti cannons typically used for?
- A: These confetti cannons are ideal for creating long-lasting, immersive celebratory effects at a variety of events, including concerts, theatrical performances, sporting events, weddings, parties, and corporate events.
- Q: Are continuous confetti cannons suitable for stage performances and dance floors?
- A: Yes, they are perfect for both. The continuous visual element enhances the drama and flair of stage performances, and the constant flurry of confetti keeps the energy high on a dance floor.
- Q: Are these confetti cannons durable and reliable for multiple events?
- A: Yes, our systems are engineered for durability and reliability, built to withstand the demands of various events and provide consistent, dependable operation.
Back to the Main Table of Contents
Electric Confetti Cannon FAQs
An electric confetti cannon is a single-shot device that uses a small electric charge to launch confetti or streamers in a powerful burst. This section answers your most common questions about these devices, how they work, and what to expect.
General Information
- Q: What is an electric confetti cannon?
- A: An electric confetti cannon is a device that uses a single-use CO2 cartridge to create a powerful, one-time burst of confetti or streamers. It's an easy-to-use solution for adding a dynamic effect to an event.
- Q: How is an electric confetti cannon different from a continuous confetti cannon?
- A: The key difference is the duration and type of effect. An electric confetti cannon produces a single, instant burst, while a continuous confetti cannon uses a sustained flow of CO2 to create a longer, more adjustable effect. Electric confetti cannons are perfect for quick, dramatic moments.
- Q: How does an electric confetti cannon work?
- A: An electric confetti cannon is a simple yet powerful device that uses a small amount of electricity to trigger a pressurized burst of air.
The process happens in three main steps:
- Pressure Source: The confetti cannon is loaded with a CO2 cartridge.
- Electronic Trigger: The confetti cannon is connected to a power source. When the power is turned on, an electronic component called a solenoid instantly receives a signal.
- The Launch: The solenoid is normally closed and acts like an electronic valve. When it's powered, it instantly opens and releases the high-pressure CO2 into the barrel. This creates a powerful force that immediately propels the confetti or streamers into the air.
This process allows for instant, on-demand firing with a simple press of a button.
Operation & Setup
- Q: What do I need to operate an electric confetti cannon?
- A: To operate the confetti cannon, you'll need two sets of components: the core equipment and the single-use supplies.
Core Equipment:
- The electric confetti cannon unit
- A controllable 110v power source
Consumables (for each launch):
- A CO2 cartridge
- A confetti or streamer sleeve
- A compression cap
- Compression tape
- Q: How do I set up and fire my electric confetti cannon?
Step 1: Prepare the Barrel
- Load the barrel with a confetti or streamer sleeve.
- Place a compression cap onto the end of the barrel.
- Use compression tape to secure the cap.
- Rub the compression tape with your thumb to create a firm seal.
Step 2: Load and Attach the CO2 Cartridge
- Screw the CO2 cartridge into the piercing unit.
- Attach the piercing unit to the confetti cannon using the quick-disconnect fittings.
- Open the valve on the piercing unit to pressurize the system.
Step 3: Attach Barrel and Position Confetti Cannon
- Attach the filled barrel to the confetti cannon using the quick-disconnect fittings.
- Adjust the angle of the barrel and attach the safety cable for added security.
- Position the confetti cannon on a flat, level surface.
- Confirm that the trajectory area is completely clear of all people and obstructions.
Step 4: Connect Power and Fire
- Ensure your power source is off, then plug the confetti cannon into your 110v outlet.
- Turn the power on to instantly fire the confetti cannon. Be sure to leave the power on for 4-5 seconds to ensure a complete and powerful burst.
- Q: Can I reuse the CO2 cartridges?
- A: No, the CO2 cartridges are designed for a single use. You will need a new cartridge for each separate shot you want to create.
Confetti & Effects
- Q: What type of confetti is used?
- A:
- Electric confetti cannons are compatible with a variety of confetti types, allowing you to create the perfect effect for any event. The most common types are:
- Tissue Confetti: This is the most popular choice for indoor events. It's lightweight and floats in the air for a longer-lasting, elegant effect.
- Metallic Confetti: Known for its brilliant shine, metallic confetti creates a spectacular, high-impact shimmering effect that catches the light beautifully.
- Water-Soluble Confetti: A great option for outdoor events or venues where cleanup is a concern. This eco-friendly confetti dissolves on contact with water.
- Q: How far and high does the confetti shoot?
- A: The confetti can shoot approximately 35 feet high. Streamers can travel over 65 feet.
- Q: Can I choose the colors of the confetti?
- A: Yes, you can choose from a wide selection of colors to match your event's theme.
Safety
- Q: Are electric confetti cannons safe for indoor use?
- A: Yes, they are designed for both indoor and outdoor use. However, you must always ensure you have adequate clearance and check with your venue for specific regulations. Never fire the confetti cannon into low-hanging obstacles like ceiling fans, lights, or chandeliers.
- Q: Can I aim the confetti cannon at people?
- A: For the safety of everyone, you should never aim the confetti cannon at people or animals. The force of the initial burst can cause injury.
Back to the Main Table of Contents
Stage Confetti Cannon FAQs
A reusable stage confetti cannon is a portable, single-shot device that uses a burst of compressed CO2 to launch confetti or streamers. This section answers your most common questions about these devices, how they work, and what to expect.
General Information
- Q: What is a reusable stage confetti cannon?
- A: A reusable stage confetti cannon is a portable device that uses a compressed CO2 burst to launch confetti or streamers. Unlike single-use confetti cannons, you can reload and fire it multiple times, making it a sustainable and cost-effective option for events.
- Q: How is it different from other confetti cannons?
- A: The main difference is that this confetti cannon is designed for maximum portability and convenience. Unlike larger confetti cannons that require bulky external power sources, this one is a small, self-contained, handheld unit.
The key differences are:
- Portability: It's a single, handheld unit, making it easy to carry and use anywhere.
- Power Source: It uses a small, 12g CO2 cartridge, eliminating the need for large, heavy tanks or power cords.
- Reusability: It's designed to be easily reloaded and fired again.
This design makes it a flexible and highly portable option for single-shot confetti effects.
- Q: How does a reusable stage confetti cannon work?
- A: A reusable stage confetti cannon is a simple yet powerful handheld device. It uses a small, internal CO2 cartridge to create a single, powerful burst, allowing for quick, on-demand effects.
The process happens in two main steps:
- Pressurizing the Unit: The user screws a small CO2 cartridge into the unit's handle or base. The internal mechanism holds this cartridge in place until the user is ready to fire.
- The Launch: When the user pulls the trigger, a built-in piercing pin instantly punctures the CO2 cartridge. This releases the highly compressed gas, which rapidly expands and propels the confetti or streamers out of the barrel with a loud "POP!"
This design makes it a completely self-contained and highly portable option for single-shot confetti effects.
Operation & Setup
- Q: What do I need to operate a reusable stage confetti cannon?
- A: To operate the confetti cannon, you'll need two sets of components: the core equipment and the single-use supplies.
Core Equipment:
- The stage confetti cannon unit
Consumables (for each launch):
- A CO2 cartridge
- A confetti or streamer sleeve
- A compression cap
- Compression tape
- Q: How do I load and fire the stage confetti cannon?
- A: Follow these steps for a safe and successful confetti launch.
Step 1: Prepare the Confetti Barrel
- Load the barrel with a confetti or streamer sleeve.
- Place a compression cap onto the end of the barrel.
- Use compression tape to secure the cap to the barrel.
- Rub the compression tape with your thumb to create a firm seal.
Step 2: Load the CO2 Cartridge
- Screw the CO2 cartridge completely into the trigger assembly.
Step 3: Aim and Fire
- Hold the confetti cannon with a firm grip in one hand.
- Aim the barrel upwards at 45°. Ensure the trajectory is free and clear of all objects and people.
- Pull the ring trigger quickly and firmly in one motion.
- Q: How many times can I use it?
- A: As the name suggests, the confetti cannon can be used as many times as you like. You simply need to reload it with confetti and a CO2 cartridge after each shot.
Confetti & Effects
- Q: What type of confetti can I use?
- A: Our stage confetti cannons are compatible with a variety of confetti and streamers. The best type for your event depends on the effect you want to create:
- Tissue Confetti and Streamers: These are very lightweight and float in the air for a longer duration, creating a beautiful, elegant shower effect. They're perfect for indoor events.
- Metallic Confetti and Streamers: Made from a reflective material, this type of confetti and streamers creates a high-impact, shimmering effect that catches the light beautifully on stage.
- Water-Soluble Confetti: A great option for outdoor events, this eco-friendly confetti is designed to dissolve when it comes into contact with water.
- Q: How far and high does the confetti shoot?
- A: The confetti confetti can shoot approximately 35 feet high.
Safety
- Q: Is it safe to use this confetti cannon indoors?
- A: Yes, it is designed for both indoor and outdoor use. Always ensure you have adequate clearance from lights, fans, and ceilings before firing.
- Q: Can I aim the confetti cannon at people?
- A: No. For the safety of everyone, you should never aim the confetti cannon at people or animals. The force of the CO2 can cause injury.
Back to the Main Table of Contents
T-Shirt Cannon FAQs
A t-shirt cannon is a device that uses a burst of CO2 to launch t-shirts and other promotional items into a crowd. This section answers your most common questions about how they work, how to use them, and what to expect.
General Information
- Q: What is a t-shirt cannon?
- A: A t-shirt cannon is a portable device that uses CO2 to launch rolled-up t-shirts, towels, or other soft promotional items to a crowd. They are a popular tool for engaging fans at sporting events, concerts, and other large gatherings.
- Q: How does a t-shirt cannon work?
- A: A t-shirt cannon works by using a powerful burst of CO2 to launch a t-shirt at a high velocity.
The process happens in two main steps:
- The Pressure Source: The t-shirt cannon is connected to a pre-filled tank of compressed CO2. This tank holds a large volume of CO2 under high pressure, which provides the force needed to launch items.
- The Launch: When the trigger is pulled, a specialized valve inside the t-shirt cannon instantly opens. This valve releases a powerful burst of the high-pressure CO2 directly into the barrel. This sudden release of air propels the rolled-up t-shirt out of the barrel and into the crowd.
- Q: How far can it shoot a t-shirt?
- A: The t-shirt cannon can launch items approximately 100 feet. The actual distance can vary significantly depending on a few key factors that you can control.
Factors Affecting Launch Distance:
- T-Shirt Roll: The tighter you roll the t-shirt, the greater the pressure and the farther it will fly. A loose roll will result in a shorter, less powerful shot.
- Trigger Pull: The speed and force with which you pull the trigger directly impact the launch. A fast, firm pull will release the full burst of CO2, propelling the t-shirt to maximum distance.
Operation & Setup
- Q: What kind of fuel does a t-shirt cannon use?
- A: Our t-shirt cannons operate on a tank of compressed CO2. These tanks are typically reusable and can be refilled or exchanged at local gas or welding supply stores.
- Q: How do I load and fire a t-shirt cannon?
- A:
- Safety First: Ensure the t-shirt cannon is disarmed and pointed in a safe direction.
- Load the T-shirt: Roll the t-shirt tightly and insert it into the barrel.
- Pressurize the T-Shirt Cannon: Connect the CO2 tank and slowly open the valve to pressurize the system to the desired level.
- Aim and Fire: With a firm grip, aim the t-shirt cannon into a clear area of the crowd and pull the trigger.
- Q: What items can I launch besides t-shirts?
- A: You can launch a variety of soft, lightweight items, including towels, bandanas, hats, and small plush toys. Always ensure the item fits securely in the barrel and does not have any sharp edges.
Safety & Suitability
- Q: Can a t-shirt cannon be used indoors?
- A: Yes, t-shirt cannons are safe for indoor use, but you must always be mindful of the ceiling height and the surrounding area. Never fire the t-shirt cannon at lights, fans, or other low-hanging objects.
- Q: Are t-shirt cannons safe for a crowd?
- A: When used responsibly, they are safe. Never aim the t-shirt cannon directly at a person or an object at close range. The goal is to launch the t-shirt to a high point so it can fall into the crowd safely.
- Q: Can children operate a t-shirt cannon?
- A: No. A t-shirt cannon should only be operated by trained adults. Due to the high pressure and recoil, it is not a toy and should not be handled by children.
Back to the Main Table of Contents