Show Tec FX Blaster XL V1 User manual

FX Blaster XL V1
Highlite International B.V. –Vestastraat 2 –6468 EX –Kerkrade –the Netherlands
Ordercode: 61031
MANUAL
ENGLISH

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Ordercode: 61031
FX Blaster XL
Table of contents
Warning ...............................................................................................................................................................................2
Unpacking Instructions.................................................................................................................................................2
Safety Instructions .........................................................................................................................................................3
CO2Use...........................................................................................................................................................................5
Indoor Use.......................................................................................................................................................................5
Noise Level .....................................................................................................................................................................5
Operating Determinations ..........................................................................................................................................5
Rigging ............................................................................................................................................................................6
Return Procedure..........................................................................................................................................................7
Claims..............................................................................................................................................................................7
Description of the device.................................................................................................................................................8
Overview ........................................................................................................................................................................8
Optional accessories....................................................................................................................................................9
Installation.........................................................................................................................................................................10
CO2bottle installation................................................................................................................................................11
Set Up and Operation .....................................................................................................................................................12
Fill with confetti and blast..........................................................................................................................................19
Replace a CO2cylinder ............................................................................................................................................21
Disassembling + Storing the FX Blaster XL ...............................................................................................................24
Declaration of Conformity .............................................................................................................................................28
Maintenance....................................................................................................................................................................29
Troubleshooting ...............................................................................................................................................................29
The FX Blaster XL is leaking.........................................................................................................................................29
Only a small smoke plume is visible when the CO2gas exits the FX Blaster XL...............................................29
No white smoke plume visible when the CO2gas exits the FX Blaster XL........................................................29
Troubleshooting does not provide the solution ....................................................................................................29
Product Specification .....................................................................................................................................................30
Dimensions........................................................................................................................................................................31
Notes ..................................................................................................................................................................................32

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Ordercode: 61031
FX Blaster XL
Warning
Unpacking Instructions
Immediately upon receiving this product, carefully unpack the carton and check the contents to ensure
that all parts are present, and have been received in good condition. Notify the dealer immediately and
retain packing material for inspection if any parts appear damaged from shipping or the carton itself
shows signs of mishandling. Save the carton and all packing materials. In the event that a fixture must be
returned to the factory, it is important that the fixture be returned in the original factory box and packing.
Your shipment includes:
●Showtec FX Blaster XL in flight case
●Woofer
●2x woofer pin
●2x woofer safety split pin
●CO₂bottle-to-hose connector
●3/8 manual CO₂valve
●CO₂high pressure hose 3/8 Male –Female (3 m)
●Adjustable wrench
●User manual

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FX Blaster XL
Safety Instructions
Every person involved with the installation, operation and maintenance of this device has to:
●be authorized
●follow the instructions of this manual
●We also insist that all new users (operators, installers, maintenance workers and cleaners) receive a
training course during which they become thoroughly familiarized with this user manual.
Before your initial start-up, please make sure that there is no damage caused by transportation. Should
there be any, consult your dealer and do not use the device.
To maintain perfect condition and to ensure a safe operation, it is absolutely necessary for the user to
follow the safety instructions and warning notes written in this manual.
Please consider that damages caused by manual modifications to the device are not subject to
warranty.
This device contains no user-serviceable parts. Refer servicing to qualified technicians only.
IMPORTANT:
The manufacturer will not accept liability for any resulting damages caused by the non-observance of
this manual or any unauthorized modification to the device.
●Never let the power cord come into contact with other cables! Handle the power cord and all
connections with the mains with particular caution!
●Never remove warning or informative labels from the unit and, on regular basis, make sure that they
remain clearly visible and legible.
●Never place any material over the woofer.
●Never use the device during thunderstorms, unplug the device immediately.
●Never look directly into the cannon tube.
●Never leave any cables lying around.
●Never replace parts by yourself.
●Do not open the device and do not modify the device.
●Do not insert objects into air vents.
●Do not expose the device to any source of vibration.
●Do not insert objects into the woofer.
●Do not switch the device on and off in short intervals, as this would reduce the device’s life.
●Do not touch the device’s housing bare-handed during its operation.
●Do not remove or disable the safety devices.
●Do not shake the device. Avoid brute force when installing or operating the device.
●Use the device ONLY if there ARE NOT ANY people, animals or other objects in the direction of the
output within the output range. The shooting direction is the direction in which the output pipe on
the FX Blaster XL is pointed. The output distance depends on the air humidity! The higher the
humidity, the longer the output distance.
●Only use the device indoors, avoid contact with water or other liquids.
●Only operate the fixture after having checked that the housing is firmly closed and all screws are
tightly fastened.
●Only use the FX Blaster XL according to the instructions in this manual.
●Only operate the device after having familiarized with its functions.
●Avoid flames and do not put close to flammable liquids or gases.

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FX Blaster XL
●Always keep case closed while operating.
●Always allow free air space of at least 50 cm around the unit for ventilation.
●Always disconnect device from the CO2cylinder and the hose, when device is not used or before
cleaning! Only handle the CO2hose with care. Never pull out the CO2hose by tugging.
●Make sure that the device is not exposed to extreme heat, moisture or dust.
●Make sure that all the required safety devices are in good condition and function properly.
●Make sure that the CO2hose is never crimped or damaged. Check the device and the CO2hose
from time to time.
●If text and/or icons are missing, damaged or illegible on the FX Blaster XL, they should be replaced.
●If the woofer is obviously damaged, it needs to be replaced, so that its functions are not impaired.
●If the device is dropped or struck, disconnect CO2 hose and cylinder immediately. Have a qualified
engineer inspect for safety before operating.
●If the device has been exposed to drastic temperature fluctuation (e.g. after transportation), do not
switch it on immediately. The arising condensation water might damage your device. Leave the
device switched off until it has reached room temperature.
●If your Showtec device fails to work properly, discontinue use immediately. Pack the unit securely
(preferably in the original packing material), and return it to your Showtec dealer for service.
●For adult use only. Device must be installed out of the reach of children and unauthorized persons.
Never leave the unit running unattended.
●Provide sufficient lighting of the surroundings.
●The user is responsible for correct positioning and operating of the FX Blaster XL. The manufacturer will
not accept liability for unsafe situations, accidents, damages caused by:
- The misuse or incorrect installation of this device.
- Ignoring warnings or instructions as shown in this manual.
- Using the FX Blaster XL for purposes or conditions other than specified in this manual.
- Changes to the FX Blaster XL. This includes the use of other than original spare parts.
- Inadequate maintenance.
- The unauthorized removal of safety symbols, safety covers and / or guards.
- The improper use of the FX Blaster XL.
●Repairs, servicing and electric connection must be carried out by a qualified technician.
●WARRANTY: Till one year after date of purchase.

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FX Blaster XL
CO2Use
The FX Blaster XL uses liquid or gaseous CO₂as input. The application of CO₂involves serious risks.
Make sure that you are well informed on these risks before installation and/or operation.
Always use approved CO₂cylinders, hoses and connections.
Always consult your CO₂supplier for regulations and instructions on safe installation and use.
Showtec is not liable for unsafe situations, accidents and damages that are the result of incorrect working
with CO₂gas and CO₂cylinders.
Inadequate installation and/or operation of a CO₂powered machine and CO₂cylinders can lead
to death or serious injury. Always follow the instructions from this manual, from your CO₂supplier and from
local authorities.
Indoor Use
The FX Blaster XL is designed for outdoor use and use in well-ventilated indoor spaces. When used indoors,
make sure you take the necessary preparations. These preparations could include, but are not limited to:
●Consulting your CO₂supplier.
●Calculating the reduction of oxygen for the indoor space.
●Checking the location for spots where CO₂could accumulate and taking preventive actions.
●Installing CO₂monitoring devices that will warn for hazardous CO₂levels.
Do not use the FX Blaster XL in poorly ventilated confined spaces. Exposure to high levels of CO₂gas
can cause symptoms like headache, nausea, loss of consciousness or even death.
Noise Level
The environmental noise level as measured at the ear is 97 dB(A). This level of noise is only reached during
the short instances that the CO₂output is active. Therefore hearing protection is not necessary.
However we recommend you to wear ear protection at all times. Daily operating the FX Blaster with its
CO₂output noise can damage your ears in the long run.
Do not operate the FX Blaster XL close to yourself or to others for a long period of time. If you
experience any hearing loss or ringing in the ears, you should immediately stop using the unit.
Operating Determinations
●This device is not designed for permanent operation. Consistent operation breaks will ensure that the
device will serve you for a long time without defects.
●The maximum ambient temperature ta = 30 °C must never be exceeded.
●Do not expose this device to relative humidity degree higher than 75 %.
●Do not expose this device to any source of vibration.
●Operate the device in a reasonably stable temperature between -20 ºC and 30 ºC.
●If this device is operated in any other way, than the one described in this manual, the product may
suffer damages and the warranty becomes void.
●If any unauthorized alterations or repairs are performed on the device, the warranty becomes void.
●Any operation different to the ones described in this manual may lead to dangers like frostbite,
burns, shock, crash etc.

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FX Blaster XL
Rigging
Please follow the European and national guidelines concerning rigging, trussing and all
other safety issues.
Do not attempt the installation yourself !
Always let the installation be carried out by an authorized dealer !
Procedure:
●If the FX Blaster XL is lowered from the ceiling or high joists, professional trussing systems have to be
used.
●Use a clamp to mount the FX Blaster XL, with the mounting-bracket, to the trussing system.
●The FX Blaster XL must never be fixed swinging freely in the room.
●The installation must always be secured with a safety attachment, e.g. an appropriate safety net or
safety-cable.
●When rigging, derigging or servicing the FX Blaster XL, always make sure, that the area below the
installation place is blocked and staying in the area is forbidden.
We presume that you, your employees and others who come into contact with the FX
Blaster XL are familiar with how the machine must be dealt with. This includes the correct
use, maintenance and repair of the FX Blaster XL as described in this user manual. The
employees should be familiar with the use of machines through training and/or
experience.
Improper installation can cause serious damage to people and property !
Showtec excludes liability for unsafe situations, accidents and damage that are the result of:
●Disregard for the warnings or regulations as set out on the FX Blaster XL or in this manual.
●Use for other purposes or under other circumstances than those set out in this documentation.
●Alterations to the FX Blaster XL. This also includes the use of replacement parts other than the original
ones.
●Insufficient maintenance.
●Unauthorised removal of safety caps and/or safeguards.
●Incompetent operation of the machine.
Showtec is not liable for any consequential loss in the event of an FX Blaster XL breakdown.
This user manual has been drawn up with the utmost care. Showtec cannot be held responsible for any
mistakes made in this publication or for any consequences thereof.
Improper installation can cause serious damage to people and property!

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FX Blaster XL
Return Procedure
Returned merchandise must be sent prepaid and in the original packing, call tags will not be issued.
Package must be clearly labeled with a Return Authorization Number (RMA number). Products returned
without an RMA number will be refused. Highlite will not accept the returned goods or any responsibility.
Call Highlite 0031-455667723 or mail [e-mail] and request an RMA prior to shipping the
fixture. Be prepared to provide the model number, serial number and a brief description of the cause for
the return. Be sure to properly pack fixture, any shipping damage resulting from inadequate packaging is
the customer’s responsibility. Highlite reserves the right to use its own discretion to repair or replace
product(s). As a suggestion, proper UPS packing or double-boxing is always a safe method to use.
Note: If you are given an RMA number, please include the following information on a piece of paper
inside the box:
01) Your name
02) Your address
03) Your phone number
04) A brief description of the symptoms
Claims
The client has the obligation to check the delivered goods immediately upon delivery for any short-
comings and/or visible defects, or perform this check after our announcement that the goods are at their
disposal. Damage incurred in shipping is the responsibility of the shipper; therefore the damage must be
reported to the carrier upon receipt of merchandise.
It is the customer's responsibility to notify and submit claims with the shipper in the event that a fixture is
damaged due to shipping. Transportation damage has to be reported to us within one day after receipt
of the delivery.
Any return shipment has to be made post-paid at all times. Return shipments must be accompanied with
a letter defining the reason for return shipment. Non-prepaid return shipments will be refused, unless
otherwise agreed in writing.
Complaints against us must be made known in writing or by fax within 10 working days after receipt of the
invoice. After this period complaints will not be handled anymore.
Complaints will only then be considered if the client has so far complied with all parts of the agreement,
regardless of the agreement of which the obligation is resulting.

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FX Blaster XL
Description of the device
For big concerts, stadiums and festivals you need special FX equipment that performs in a big way. The
Showtec FX Blaster is the designated tool for the job. With an awesome combined output of 25 m with
CO₂and confetti, a capacity of 15 kg of confetti per minute or even 20 kg per 90 seconds, the FX Blaster
is a magnificent eye-catcher that cannot be overlooked. Easy to handle, can be placed anywhere
because no additional power is required to control it. With 4 different output angles you can direct the
massive output where the action is.
Features
●Power: Liquid or gaseous CO2gas
●Propellant connector: 0,5 L/sec.
●Control: Manual
●Consumption: Confetti
●Max. distance: 25 m
●Capacity: 10–15 kg of confetti p/min.
●Standard in flight case, 4 swivel wheels with brakes
●Confetti and cryogenic effect
●4 different output angles (0°, 16°, 32°, 48°)
●Set includes: 3/8 manual valve for FX Blaster
CO₂high pressure hose 3/8 Male –Female (3m)
CO₂bottle-to-hose connector (CO₂Bottle to 3/8 Q-Lock adapter)
●Dimensions: 660 x 380 x 1350 mm (LxWxH)
●Weight: 56 kg
Overview
Fig. 01
01) Flight case
02) Hopper
03) Woofer
04) CO2input
05) Manual CO2valve

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FX Blaster XL
Optional accessories
61013 - CO23/8 Q-Lock Hose 2,5 m
61014 - CO23/8 Q-Lock Hose 5 m
61015 - CO23/8 Q-Lock Hose 10 m
61016 - CO23/8 Q-Lock Hose 15 m
61020 - CO₂Bottle to 3/8 Q-Lock adapter
61021 –CO₂90° 3/8 Q-Lock connector
61023 –CO₂3/8 Q-Lock 2-way combiner
The FX Blaster XL can be set in 4 different angles between 42° and 90°.
The output height and output distance depend on the type of confetti and the set angle.
The maximum load per blast also depends on the type of confetti.
Wind and other weather circumstances will influence the output height and output distance of the
confetti. The given values are estimated.

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Please check the following table.
Confetti types and related loads and output
Type of confetti
Max. load per blast
Output distance
Metallic confetti
20 kg
25 m
Paper confetti
10 kg
25 m
Snow or Powder confetti
5 kg
25 m
Installation
Remove all packing materials from the FX Blaster XL. Check if all foam and plastic padding is removed.
Connect all cables.
Do not supply power before the whole system is set up and connected properly.
Always disconnect from electric mains power supply before cleaning or servicing.
Damages caused by non-observance are not subject to warranty.
Always follow the instructions from this manual, from your CO₂supplier and from local authorities.

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FX Blaster XL
Precautions for operation
Using a damaged or an improperly installed machine can lead to death, serious injury or
property damage. Always inspect the machine thoroughly before operation.
Missing or obscured safety symbols on the machine can cause unawareness, which in turn can
lead to death, serious injury or property damage. Make sure all safety symbols are correctly in
place and visible. See front side of the device.
A missing or loosely-fitted woofer can lead to injury. Make sure that the woofer is correctly in
place and secured.
Make sure there are no objects near the output that can be damaged or overthrown by the FX
Blaster XL.
Always create a safety zone with a distance of 3 m around the FX Blaster XL.
CO2bottle installation
In order to carry out a proper and safe installation, act according to the following steps:
01) Place the CO2bottle on a stable and even surface and secure it by means of an approved strap or
bottle clamp.
02) Place the bottle in such a position that the valve opening does not point in the direction of the
public.
03) Place the CO2bottle preferably outdoors or in a properly ventilated space with a CO2detection
system.
04) The maximum temperature in the surrounding area should not exceed 30 ºC!
05) Consult your gas supplier for full instructions with regard to CO2gas use.

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FX Blaster XL
Set Up and Operation
Follow the directions below, as they pertain to your preferred operation mode.
Before plugging the unit in, always make sure that the power supply matches the product specification
voltage. Do not attempt to operate a 120V specification product on 230V power, or vice versa.
The Showtec FX Blaster XL is designed to blow confetti with the help of CO2gas.
As soon as the CO₂leaves the cylinder through the secured high-pressure hoses, it converts into gas.
This formation of gas is accompanied by a strong hissing sound, as well as a solid stream of smoke.
The released smoke stream depends strictly on current air humidity.
The higher the humidity, the longer the smoke stream will be.
CO2gas has a temperature of -70 ºC !!
The proper use of the FX Blaster XL requires utmost safety and alertness!
01) Position the cased FX Blaster XL in the desired location.
02) Unlock and remove the top cover.

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FX Blaster XL
03) Take all parts out of the case:
A. Woofer
B. 2x Woofer safety split pin
C. 2x Woofer pin
D. CO₂bottle-to-hose connector
E. 3/8 Manual CO₂valve
F. CO₂high pressure hose 3/8 Male –Female (3 m)
G. Adjustable wrench
04) Place and hold the woofer in the case and insert a pin through the front pinholes. Make sure that the
CO₂input of the woofer is positioned at the front.

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FX Blaster XL
05) Secure the pin with a safety split pin.
06) Set the angle of the woofer by aligning the back pinhole with one of the four predefined holes in the
case.

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FX Blaster XL
07) Insert the second pin through the back pinholes to secure the position of the woofer.
08) Secure the pin with a safety split pin.

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FX Blaster XL
09) Position the machine and set the brakes on all 4 wheels.
10) Make sure you have taken all the necessary safety precautions, see pages 10–11.
11) Connect the CO2valve to the CO2input of the woofer and tighten the nut with the adjustable
wrench.

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FX Blaster XL
12) Connect the CO2hose to the CO2valve.
13) Make sure that the CO2valve is in the CLOSED position.

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FX Blaster XL
14) Connect the CO₂bottle-to-hose connector to a CO2cylinder.
15) Connect the CO2hose to the CO₂ bottle-to-hose connector on the CO2cylinder.
Turning it by hand should suffice! Use the wrench only if the coupling continues to leak.
16) Open the CO2cylinder and check for leaks. If the gas hose is not properly connected, gas can
escape. If this is the case, turn the couplings tighter until gas is no longer escaping.

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Fill with confetti and blast
01) Make sure that the prescribed safety zone of 3 m is free from people and objects.
The environmental noise level as measured at the ear is 97 dB(A). This level of noise is only reached
during the short instances that the CO₂output is active. Therefore hearing protection is not
necessary.
However we recommend you to wear ear protection at all times. Daily operating the FX Blaster with
its CO₂output noise can damage your ears in the long run.
02) When it is time to blast, move the manual CO2valve to the OPEN position.
03) Keep filling the hopper with confetti by hand.