Skimmer effluent measuring device

Check on the apex forums about integrating an arduino with an Apex controller. I'm sure someone's done it, or at least tried.

I like Jamie's idea, but I'd be worried that the skimmate would gunk it up as well.

I'm not positive, but I believe the temperature probes that Apex uses are actually a tiny integrated circuit that uses a digital protocol to communicate. If so, using the port for something else would be difficult.

Just saw this page at Buckeye Field Supply - they have a ⅜" solenoid valve with mur-lock connections as well as a 1" solenoid valve.
 
peristaltic pumps have high pressure/suction rates with low volume. Thick skimmate is no problem for a decent one. I used a BRS 50ml min pump for years on a past 350 gallon tank to empty the skimmer with no issues. And running them dry causes no harm to the pump if the cup runs empty.
 
Jamie. I think that's a great way to automate the safety of the skimmer export without stopping normal skimmer operation! It's also simple and gives me a warning for action.

I need to get a level sensor for the cup and raise the safety overflow level but it's all doable with existing technology.

Brilliant!
 
Actually, I decided on a second stage effluent reservoir.
The cup stays the same but the effluent flows into the reservoir where the float valve, pump connection and overflow are connected. This should make it easier to clean/control and I can build it/install it/remove it independent of the skimmer operation.

Also, I can always add level sensing/flow rate measurement at this stage.
 
jamie1981 said:
peristaltic pumps have high pressure/suction rates with low volume. Thick skimmate is no problem for a decent one. I used a BRS 50ml min pump for years on a past 350 gallon tank to empty the skimmer with no issues. And running them dry causes no harm to the pump if the cup runs empty.
Click to expand...

Good to know. I can see the pump having no problem squishing goo out. I was more concerned with it being sticky enough that the elastic hose on the peristaltic part wouldn't re-expand, or that something would clog the inlet.

I have a ⅜" silicone hose running off the skimmer cup in my system and that's never gotten clogged, so that's probably a good indication that it would do OK.

What pump are you using? Most of the dosing pumps only pump about 1 ml/minute. I've read that some aren't rated for continuous use and it would take 15 hours to pump 1 quart, meaning Karim would have to have his/her on continuously to handle his flow. I think I've seen some 10 ml/min pumps which would probably be a better solution for him/her.

karimwassef said:
Actually, I decided on a second stage effluent reservoir.
The cup stays the same but the effluent flows into the reservoir where the float valve, pump connection and overflow are connected. This should make it easier to clean/control and I can build it/install it/remove it independent of the skimmer operation.

Also, I can always add level sensing/flow rate measurement at this stage.
Click to expand...

Do you mean run a hose directly from the skimmer cup to a separate bucket/reservoir? I though you were doing that already, or am I misunderstanding your setup? Regardless that's the way to go if you can arrange it logistically.
 
I have a collection bucket (2 quarts).

I'm talking about a stage before that that's maybe 3-5 gals with straight sides to install the overflow, float sensor in a protected compartment, and pump intake connection. That should also make it easier to install the level sensor.

I'll show some pics.
 
I have a cheap Doser but it has 4 channels with more than 2quarts per day capability. That may mean that I need to replace the tubing more often though...
 
I think your over thinking it, a float witch with a snail guard would also protect it from skimmer gunk so that it would function properly. You could pump directrly from the skimmer cup to a drain a controled amount with the float switch also mounted in there as the safety.
 
The separate stage allows me to continue to skim automatically but with a warning signal vs. shutting down. More control.
 
could use one of these in the skimmer cup with a long snail guard as well, first switch sends you a warning 2nd shuts skimmer down :-) You can get them in differnt lengths.

$_57.JPG
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar threads

F
How to measure water level?
Replies
2
Views
831
FishTri
F
S
Overskimming on New Protein Skimmer
Replies
2
Views
146
wvned
wvned
G
Back after 20 years - cycling advice
Replies
4
Views
157
Guygettnby
Guygettnby
E
Neptune DDR diy question for AWC
Replies
3
Views
769
Reefing102
Reefing102
R
How is my chemistry looking?
Replies
2
Views
222
ReefKG
ReefKG
Back
Top