Discover
HYDRA-
TECH
Rain Special Effect
Digital Rain Curtain
HYDRA-TECH is a rain machine that produces custom graphics in water, as well as replicating natural rainfall. Supplied truss mounted and with on-board water tanks, the system can function for plug-and-play operation or be configured for permanent installations.
Need a rain effect without all the extras? Explore the HYDRA-STORM Rain Machine for simple, realistic rainfall.
Features
CUSTOM GRAPHICS
HYDRA-TECH provides the wow-factor by making it rain words and images. The touch screen controller gives SFX professionals the ability to build and fire cues manually or via DMX. The digital interface can be programmed to present various shapes, patterns and text, such as logos and images.
PRECISE CONTROL
The rain head valves are operated at up to 500hz, giving exceptional control of the outlets. Our system of valves and nozzles provide a truly non-drip experience. This aids in providing excellent control and crisp resolutions to keep the element of surprise for audiences.
MODULAR
The system is made to be expandable. Rain heads, tanking and pumps can be added and interchanged easily to achieve the desired length or width. The system can be configured into limitless shapes and sizes using straight, angled or curved sections.
PRE-RIGGED
Each system is supplied pre-rigged in light weight, Quick-Lock truss. With HYDRA-TECH, you can enjoy an efficient mounting process.
Ecosystem
Short Shows
HYDRA-TECH’s modular components allow for various system configurations, depending on the application and environment. The system can be set up easily for short durations. Simply fill the onboard water tanks and enjoy its plug-and-play capabilities.
Long-term Installation
A fully self-contained rain system can be created for continuous run times using our Water Catchment Tanks and full recirculation systems. Our modular water catchment tanks feature integrated splash matt and a griddled walkway.
MEDIA
SPECIFICATION
SIZE
1 metre linear section
45° curved section
90° curved section
90° corner section
*For ground supported structure, leg & base support sections can be supplied
CONSTRUCTION
Black, powder-coated aluminium and stainless steel
CONTROL
Manual, automatic or DMX driven cueing
CONNECTIONS
True1 power
CAT5 data
Stainless steel, quick-release coupler locking mechanism
APPROVALS
CE Marked
LVD (2014/35/EU) Low Voltage Directive
EMC (2014/30/EC) Electro Magnetic Compatibility
FAQ
Water System
How is the system filled with water?
There are three main system options:
- Direct water supply system
For shorter use durations, we recommend a direct water supply system. This is where the onboard water tanks are filled from the nearest water supply to the correct level for the show. Luminous can provide the correct hosing.
- Extended supply system
For longer performances that exceed the capacity of the on-board tanks Luminous can provide external water tanks with supply pumps to ensure the heads have enough supply for the performance .
- Recirculation system (closed loop)
For longer or fixed installations, Luminous provides a complete circulation system. This uses water tanks (typically IBC-based systems up to 1000L) and recycles water via catchment trays and pumps and a filtration system.
Does the system reuse water?
Yes, if configured as a recirculation system. Water is collected in catchment trays, filtered, and pumped back to the HYDRA-TECH heads.
Run Time & Performance
How long can HYDRA-TECH run for?
HYDRA-TECH can be configured to run for a limitless amount of time. Run time depends entirely on your chosen setup and rain intensity, as a good rule of thumb:
- 0-10 minutes of rain means no recirculation system is needed
- Long or continuous shows will require a recirculation or extended supply system
Get in touch with our team to see which would be best for your project.
2. Can it run continuously?
Yes, HYDRA-TECH can run continuously, but only with our one of our recirculation systems. Our sales team can help configure the correct system for your project with a few more details about the length of rain you would like, how high the heads will be positioned and the length of the installation.
Can it run continously?
Yes, HYDRA-TECH can run continuously, but only with our one of our recirculation systems. Our sales team can help configure the correct system for your project with a few more details about the length of rain you would like, how high the heads will be positioned and the length of the installation.
Installation
How is the system set up?
HYDRA-TECH is built from modular rain heads, all heads are supplied as standard at 1 metre long. If you’re looking for 12 metres of rain, then you would need 12 rain heads. These are connected via:
- Power (True1 connections)
- Data (CAT5 control network)
- Water (linked hose distribution or internal tanks
Is it easy to install?
HYDRA-TECH is a technical system requiring:
- Correct rigging (load-bearing truss)
- Electrical safety compliance
- Water management setup
- System configuration via control desk
- Training on control desk
Control System
How is the system controlled?
HYDRA-TECH is controlled with its very own control desk engineered by Luminous. Operators can:
- Build cues (rain, chase, image)
- Trigger manually or via DMX
- Program sequences and timing
- Control intensity, drop size, and patterns
How does the HYDRA-TECH actually create images?
When an image is uploaded to the HYDRA-TECH Control Desk, it is converted into black and white. This determines where water appears: droplets are produced in the black areas, while the white areas remain clear (or vice versa). This can be adjusted and refined on the desk. This is why high contrast images work best on the HYDRA-TECH!
What images can I upload to HYDRA-TECH?
HYDRA-TECH supports a wide range of file types, so you can use any image format. If you’re feeling creative, you can even design your own pattern using software like Illustrator, Photoshop, or Canva. You can use various graphics, patterns, logos and even photographs: you name it, HYDRA-TECH can turn it into water!
What is a cue?
A cue is a programmed effect such as:
- Rain intensity changes
- A chase sequence across nozzles
- A water-based image formed using droplet timing
Can it be triggered automatically?
Yes, via DMX firing mode, or manually. This makes it ideal for preprograming shows.
Applications
The HYDRA-TECH Digital Rain System makes a statement for any production. Using stage lighting on the curtain can achieve a huge range of effects to enhance productions.