Solutions to keep Ca reactor from clogging?

[Capt_Cully]

I had the feeling Ca Reactors had fallen out of favor so I posted here:

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2333950

I'm firing mine up again with a new build, using a Carbondoser.



I always had a problem with my effluent clogging from Ca buildup on the micro ball valve. CO2 would continue to bubble in, media would turn to mush.

Any clever solutions for keeping this from happening? (Aside from controllers, I'll be running mine in an Apex, looking to avoid clogs altogether)

Thanks!

 

[Realposition]

Some people recommend those masterflex continuous duty pumps, you can set the flow rate you want and never have to worry about clogs but they can be pricey.

 

[myaerica]

I run mine different, I let the water pour out and set the bubble count a lot higher. Never clogs up that way and you don't have to spend all the money on A pump. The only downfall is you go through more co2.

 

[Capt_Cully]

I run mine different, I let the water pour out and set the bubble count a lot higher. Never clogs up that way and you don't have to spend all the money on A pump. The only downfall is you go through more co2.

How fast are you ripping through CO2?

 

[myaerica]

I have the bigger co2 tank but, it lasts like 5 months.

 

[Capt_Cully]

10 pound? Bigger?

 

[rtbm]

One of a couple tricks I have employed over the years to is to put the valve on the input and you could go as far as to put a small mechanical filter before the valve for good measure. That way the effluent flows from the reactor completely unrestricted.

 

[myaerica]

20 lb

 

[ridetheducati]

Set the effluent at 60-80ml/min.

 

[jfuka78]

I set the the effluent on the higher drip side but have a bigger spread on the ph. Spread is .35 if I want to increase alk I lower the top end number. I use to fight clogged effluent, but no more.

 

[Capt_Cully]

I set the the effluent on the higher drip side but have a bigger spread on the ph. Spread is .35 if I want to increase alk I lower the top end number. I use to fight clogged effluent, but no more.

So you're 6.6-6.95? Or something similar?

Has anyone tried running a larger bore john guest fitting valve? I'm not sure it wouldn't just clog as well if running at lower flow rates.

 

[scottwhitson]

It would clog the same as you are still restricting it down to such a small drip rate. I am dealing with this issue as well and haven't got it figured out yet. I do know you will LOVE your carbon doser.

 

[Capt_Cully]

Yeah, thanks. I'm pretty psyched.

Looking like I'll just set the drip rate higher and have a backup CO2 bottle on hand.

 

[rtbm]

I wouldn't do that. No need to run your reactor that way. Try one of these.



Problem solved.

 

[dahenley]

i run a larger calcium reactor and because of that, i can run at a higher PH then most. (6.9 usually)
because of this, i can run a faster drip rate, (if needed) but also, the concentration of the water is less concentrated and i have never had a clogged line.

(i ran a MRC CR-6 dual on my 240 gal reef. the reactor is rated for over 650gal)
also, your new CO2 valve will be an improvement so it won't continue to feed CO2 when you don't need it.

 

[Capt_Cully]

I wouldn't do that. No need to run your reactor that way. Try one of these.



Problem solved.

What exactly is that?

Thanks.

 

[jfuka78]

Yes, basically 6.6-6.95 I I stay nice and steady and have not clogged in a month since I did this. Before was every other day.

 

[rtbm]

What exactly is that?



Thanks.

It's a small inline mechanical filter.
It traps anything that could clog up you valve. I clean it once a year at most and it works extremely well

 

[Panta rhei]

It's a small inline mechanical filter.
It traps anything that could clog up you valve. I clean it once a year at most and it works extremely well

Interestimg, where do you buy them?

 

[Capt_Cully]

Is that a small 1/4" fuel filter? Great concept if it works.