Anyone Use Eductors??

[Scott07]

Does anyone use eductors like the ones you can buy on BRS and MD? I saw them explained on a youtube video, and the concept seems really neat, but the tank they were being used on was something huge, 1000 plus gallons.

Always trying to tinker and improve, ive been thinking about replacing the 'snap loc' return line, that came with my AGA 65, with true loc line and an eductor. I would be concerned about too much concentrated flow in such a small tank blowing sand around and such, but due to my durso drain setup, the return flow is already pretty low. My mag 7 return pump is dialed back about half way, and id guess im getting somewhere around 300 gph return flow back at the tank.

Does anyone use these, and does my 65 gallon application seem appropriate? Are the ones available too big, where id really be better off getting another powerhead instead? Or is the flow increase negligible enough that its just not worth it? Theres got to be a reason that EVERYONE isnt using these right?

 

[Synden]

I think its a bit of a misnomer that they 'increase flow', as they dont make your pump push any more gph though it. They do however increase pressure on the flow you are pushing through, which in turns makes the water flow faster out of the nozzle. I know some people do swear by them, but for me they just turn your flow into little water lazors.
The purpose of your return pump is not to provide all your flow but feed the equipment underneath. I would say you are better off investing in a flow pump instead

 

[ca1ore]

I don't use them on the output of my return pump, but I do use them on my closed loop. The idea, in theory, is that they create a venturi effect. The central nozzle is restricted, speeding up flow and sucking additional water in through the surround 'bell' via the venturi effect. So you lose some flow based on friction, but gain flow based on the venturi. How this nets out I cannot say. I would probably remove mine, except they've become completely encrusted by SPS growth (which likely further reduces the flow.

 

[mcgyvr]

Dyson proved it with the bladeless fan
That clever guy..

 

[Wazzel]

I have used them. With a pump that can handle the pressure they work well. Unless I have a big tank I will not use them again. Even the small ones are kind of long.

 

[Scott07]

Some good info, thanks for the replies! I think I'm leaning against trying it now. Sounds like for my tank size it could be a bit of an eyesore for little benefit. I'll probably eventually go the more expensive route and upgrade powerheads.