How to build a CO2 regulator for your calcium reactor.

Thanks for all your help Mike

No Problem. I enjoyed building my reg. It was a fun little project.
Also, the only reason why I went with a 2.5" CGA adapter was because of my larger gauges. a 2" would be sufficient.
Same with the SS-4-HLN-2.00, I have a funky valve on the bottom of my regulator and I needed the 2 inches to get around it. I think the SS-4-HLN-1.50 would be plenty of room. Maybe even the SS-4-HLN-1.00
 
My turn! I snagged a NIB Air Products e12-215D and a Swagelok SS-SM2-S2-A for about $110 on eStray this afternoon. After pulling the trigger, I can’t find much information on the regulator, so hope that its a decent buy. Its dual stage, and the pressure ranges seem to be right (even though it could probably use a gauge upgrade).






All told, with a Burkert 6011 SS and other bits, I’ve still spent less than the AP setup. Here’s hoping I bought a decent regulator and the right stuff! :beer:
 
Thanks! I just noticed that the regulator is nickel coated brass instead of SS, but certainly that won’t be an issue...will it?

If you keep inside the stand, eventually they'll start to oxidize because of the moisture in the stand (assuming your sump is in your stand) but it shouldn't affect performance of the reg.
 
If you keep inside the stand, eventually they'll start to oxidize because of the moisture in the stand (assuming your sump is in your stand) but it shouldn't affect performance of the reg.

Ah, no worries then. My sump is in-stand, but space is tight so the CO2 tank and regulator are going into a closet on the other side of the wall.

I’m trying to patiently wait for the valve (Swagelok SS-SM2-S2-A 1/8” NPT x 1/8” tube) to figure out what else I’m going to need to either install a bubble counter (if possible, kind of hope so since I won’t be able to see a counter on the reactor), or go straight 1/4 tubing to the reactor. Hoping I didn’t make a mistake here!
 
Ah, no worries then. My sump is in-stand, but space is tight so the CO2 tank and regulator are going into a closet on the other side of the wall.

I'm trying to patiently wait for the valve (Swagelok SS-SM2-S2-A 1/8" NPT x 1/8" tube) to figure out what else I'm going to need to either install a bubble counter (if possible, kind of hope so since I won't be able to see a counter on the reactor), or go straight 1/4 tubing to the reactor. Hoping I didn't make a mistake here!

If you want to save some money, go with brass fittings since the reg won't be exposed to moisture.
 
I am not a big fan of the integrated bubble counter as their check valves aren’t the most reliable. If anything, grab one of these Fluval bubble counters that keeps water away from your expensive needle valve and solenoid.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004...le+counter&dpPl=1&dpID=41G6r8NnaSL&ref=plSrch
Hmm, I’m not sure how I feel about building an amazing and durable regulator, then relying on a plastic bubble counter with (according to some reviews) potentially frail hose barbs and an awkward mounting system. I’ll take your advice on the integrated, and keep looking for a sturdier in-line counter. Thanks!

If you want to save some money, go with brass fittings since the reg won't be exposed to moisture.
Too late! :lol:
 
The only way I'd use an integrated bubble counter is if I put a quality check valve before the bubble counter. Since you have a 1/8" metering valve, this is what I'd use, a Swagelok SS-2C-1/3 poppet check valve.

https://www.swagelok.com/en/catalog/Product/Detail?part=SS-2C-1/3

The only issue is that they're hard to find on eBay for a reasonable price. That will attach to the metering valve with this tube connector SS-201-PC

https://www.swagelok.com/en/catalog/Product/Detail?part=SS-201-PC

Then the 1/8" female threaded bubble counter will connect to the check valve with this fitting, SS-2-TA-1-2

https://www.swagelok.com/en/search?Ntt=SS-2-TA-1-2&language=en
 
The only way I'd use an integrated bubble counter is if I put a quality check valve before the bubble counter. Since you have a 1/8" metering valve, this is what I'd use, a Swagelok SS-2C-1/3 poppet check valve.

https://www.swagelok.com/en/catalog/Product/Detail?part=SS-2C-1/3

The only issue is that they're hard to find on eBay for a reasonable price. That will attach to the metering valve with this tube connector SS-201-PC

https://www.swagelok.com/en/catalog/Product/Detail?part=SS-201-PC

Then the 1/8" female threaded bubble counter will connect to the check valve with this fitting, SS-2-TA-1-2

https://www.swagelok.com/en/search?Ntt=SS-2-TA-1-2&language=en
Tempting, but that Fluval keeps looking better the more I look! :lmao:

Wow, I just realized that I have everything being shipped except media for the reactor that arrives tomorrow, and any bits I may have mispurchased here. Guess I need to find a tank as well; I'm still searching for somplace close that refills before buying a new one. I know its in this thread someplace :idea:
 
Welders Supply, Fire Extinguisher Refills, & Soda Tanks Refills, can all be used for CO2.
I was told to avoid the Paint Ball places.

Yeah, unfortunately there isn't anyone within 10 miles that can help, and exchange is going to be my best bet if I want to keep that trip under 20. I'm now considering a 10lb tank instead.
 
I’m up to 3 pieces! I know this reg isn’t stainless, but it sure looks pretty! I didn’t grasp just how heavy duty and solid these things are!


 
Yeah, unfortunately there isn't anyone within 10 miles that can help, and exchange is going to be my best bet if I want to keep that trip under 20. I'm now considering a 10lb tank instead.

If you're still in Wylie, TX as noted beneath your user handle, a quick search shows an Airgas branch in Garland, TX.
 
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