What type of fuel is commonly used for flame effects?

Propane is commonly used for flame effects due to its clean-burning properties and the ability to produce a steady and controlled flame. This type of fuel is favored in performance settings because it can be easily regulated and provides a predictable flame, which is crucial for safety and visual effects in front of an audience. Propane's portability and relative ease of storage also make it a practical choice for different production environments.

In contrast, fuels like gasoline can be hazardous due to their volatility and the potential for uncontrolled combustion. Ethanol, while usable in some scenarios, often leads to higher emissions and can create a complex flame behavior that is less desirable for performance use. Wood pellets, though viable for solid fuel applications, are not typically utilized in flame effects due to the difficulty in controlling their combustion and the resultant byproducts. Thus, propane stands out as the most suitable and reliable fuel for creating safe and effective flame effects in live performances.