For those of you using RUST

[P.Kelly]

Since the search feature here is virtually non-existent, can you point me a a thread, or provide guidance here on using rust in my phosphate reactor? should I run carbon in the same reactor? Guidance on rinsing the media? How long before I should change the media? Which test kits are specific down to .02ppm Phosphate?

 

[Trevor S]

pete - You can use google to search Reefcentral, in search bar at google do site:reefcentral.com "Search terms you want"

 

[RasBobre]

http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-11/rhf/index.php

At the bottom of this link there is some information on using the product.

And another.

http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/a9/Granular-Ferric-Oxide-(GFO)-Instructions/article_info.html

 

[bored4long]

Hey, Peter. Generally, people run carbon at a higher flow rate than GFO, so would suggest you run them on separate pumps, or carbon first with a tee before the GFO to allow adjusting the flow to the GFO and excess to sump.

Change the GFO when NO3 can be measured from its output.

 

[Jim_S]

Also, when you run carbon and GFO together, the carbon is often exhausted quicker, so it needs to be changed more frequently.

Jim

 

[robertloop]

I run carbon and GFO in the same reactor. I know the carbon runs out faster but I dont care. When the gfo is still working the water still seems clear. Oh well. Dont want to spend the money on a separate reactor.

Edit..... BTW. I'm not saying the posts above are wrong.

 

[MrMikeB]

Pete, I run 2 chambers in sequence using the same pump, connecting the output of the carbon as the input of the GFO. For my smaller systems, I use the TLF 150 reactor chambers, one chock full of carbon, the other about 1/3 full of GFO. Given the GFO tends to break up if agitated too much, I restrict the flow to accommodate the lowest common denominator. I have had great success with this method in terms of keeping PO4 low, and staying efficient. The key is to minimize water channeling so you get the most of your media.

I just picked up a few large reactor chambers (26" tall, 8" base) that I will run in the same type configuration on a maxi jet input (for my larger systems). You are more than welcome to come see the simple layout and how to use valves to control flow, and what has worked optimally for me. I have an 'opportunity' to study the effects on PO4 on hair algae as my QT is infested with the stuff at the moment. Good times!

 

[P.Kelly]

Mike, give me a ring sometime... Tried getting you this weekend after the debacle but just got your voicemail.

 

[MrMikeB]

Sorry Pete - after dealing with the incompetencies with 2 major airlines and one trip broker and thier complete unwillingness to actually think or speak to each other, I left town and left the cell phone behind.

I will give you a call later today to go over the finer details - and to keep the thread on track, can set up a time for you see the sequenced reactors. Hell, I might be persuaded to post some pics/movies of how it all works for the beneift of the group and to get feedback on how to make it a better model.

 

[P.Kelly]

Cool, I'd love to bring some SW up and try out your phospate tester too...