Canreef Aquatics Bulletin Board

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- - Biopellet reactor (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=104987)

Kien has videos on YouTube?!

So I picked up the Vertex and it works great, however one small problem is I am using the sponge filter at the top end which eventually plugs and needs to be cleaned. What is this mesh screen from Michaels you refer to?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Reef Pilot (Post 881117)

I also use a Vertex, the older UF20 model. Only have to touch it when topping up bio pellets, never for cleaning. Since my nitrates have been consistently at zero for such a long time, my bio pellet consumption has almost stopped. Last time I had mine open (to add pellets) was in Nov/2012, which is well over a year ago.

I used to fill it almost to the top, which is a complete 1000 ml bag. Now there is only about 1/2 cup on the bottom left, and just keep a gentle tumble going with that. I use a mesh screen filter from Michael's to keep the pellets from exiting the reactor. You can also get a Vertex screen designed for this reactor to do the same.

I don't use a separate pump. The input line is T'ed off my return pump and flow and tumble is controlled by the reactor's ball valve on the input side.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Treebeard (Post 886428)

i dont use the sponges in a bio pellet reactor and its not needed , basically the tumble shouldnt be near the top anyways:) since the output is directed to your skimmer the skimmer takes the mulm out:)

the mesh is for the bottom to keep the balls from clogging the outtake:) i guess yuou can use one for the top too but i never seen the need:)

the mesh is plastic crochet mesh grid i believe is what hes taking about?

I don't use the sponges either. However, I do use knitting mesh at the bottom. Doesn't clog as easily and allows for better flow. Just go to the knitting dept at Michael's and you'll see mesh/perforated sheets that people use to make knitting patterns. Or just ask a sales rep. That's what I did as I had no idea what knitting screen was.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Treebeard (Post 886428)

No, you can't use the sponges for bio pellets. Unfortunately can't remember what they are called at Michaels. But they are round plastic mesh screens that you cut to size. I used them for both the top and bottoms.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Reef Pilot (Post 886434)

It's at the knitting section.

It's called "Cross-stitching plastic canvas". It's a couple of bucks on ebay, or available at any sewing-cross-stitching supplies store. They come in different sizes and mesh sizes. You cut them to size.