Water mixing for DUMMIES

[karenvas2]

So, I have followed several threads that show off these elaborate mixing stations. The problem is, no one actually gives a step by step guide for setting them up. So this is what I have: two 50 gallons food grade barrels. I had the tops cut off as they weren't removable. Now this is where the guide would come in.
1) how to drill holes? Distance from top and bottom? Size drill or what to use? Can the items be found at Home Depot?
2) where to find fittings/ uniseals?
3) connections inside the barrels.
Come on folks, this is your chance to write your version of the DUMMY GUIDE.

 

[Whiterabbitrage]

Following!

 

[dukduk]

Measure twice, cut once; mark your pipe with a sharpie but know that the cleaner or glue will smudge it. Think about how much space you have for the system (may dictate vertical vs side by side), what you want your system to do then design it: do you want gravity drains from each tank for filling buckets AND jugs? Route your pump to be able to feed from both containers with the manipulation of valves. Do you want to pump a distance or just mix and haul buckets/jugs?

You get the uniseals at a good LFS or online. I'm all over the place but those were some things that came across my mind even after looking at others' pics/design. I stole a little ideas from a few different systems. The pictures are inspiring.

 

[cidbozek]

Read this

Read this

This should give you enough to figure it all out, not step by step however.

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1711626

 

[woodnaquanut]

A step by step would be very difficult because there are so many variables. Similar to the filtration system of a tank, you need to customize and innovate depending on your unique situation.

Generally you need two containers. One for RO/DI, one for salt mixing and storage. How big those containers are really depend on space available, aquarium(s) supported by this system (5 g. tank vs. 300+ ), budget and level of automation (or coolness )

You'll need a pump to stir the mix container.

There are lots of 'you might need' items. Perhaps a heater, float valves, spigots, oh my!

cidbozek posted the go to link. Take a look, find a good example or two of what you want to do and ask questions if you don't understand the details.

 

[Angry Andy]

Im about to buy a couple 50 gallon barrels also but instead of cutting the top completely off, I will install a 'deckplate', which is a removable plug in either 4" or 6". Once installed I can drop a pump inside then plug the top back up keeping out the light, running the cord and hose thru the existing 2" threaded holes.

 

[markfortkamp]

Im about to buy a couple 50 gallon barrels also.........

where do you buy the ffood grade barrels?

Mark

 

[Son512]

where do you buy the ffood grade barrels?



Mark

Rubbermaid Brute trash cans. Home Depot or lowes. Or you can try to find restaurant suppliers and they will sell you the same trash cans but you may get more color choices and pay a bit more $$

 

[billdogg]

where do you buy the ffood grade barrels?

Mark

craigslist in my area has them all the time

 

[woodnaquanut]

where do you buy the ffood grade barrels?

Mark

In my area there is a guy that sells all sorts of items that are 'trash'. Amazing supply of all containers plastic. I like the smell of the ones that have been used for orange juice concentrate the best!

 

[Rybren]

I can get brand new 55G food-grade barrels at my local wine making supplier. They're about 1/2 the price of the 44G brutes

 

[sleepydoc]

John is right; everyone's needs are a bit different, so it's hard to make a generic guide.

Bulkheads and unseals can be found at Bulk Reef Supply or your local fish store.

For containers, your options are wide open. Think about how much you need to mix at a time - it's rather silly to mix 50 gallons of salt water if you have a 10 gallon nano tank. I found these at Lowes.

 

[skeeter_ca]

Here is my diagram for my mixing station that I am building soon. I have collected up almost everything I need.

skeeter