Bioload 75 - Reef Aquarium

[bioload]

I tried thermoforming the top of the skimmer body to provide a transition between the body and the collection cup, but it didn't turn out too well so I won't go through all the steps. Here a few shots that outline the basic process (which still needs some work).

I made a box that would fit over the skimmer to heat the top using a heat gun. The temperature inside gets pretty hot during the initial tests! I believe the range for acrylic is around 300F.



I placed the box over the top of the skimmer and heated for approx 20min at 300F. Here is a pic with the lid off. I used the lid as a damper, leaving a gap, to regulate the temperature inside the box. A baffle was placed inside the box to prevent overheating the acrylic.



There was a mold on the inside of the skimmer which I made from foam to mold the shape. However, the acrylic would just not bend the way I would like it too. Eventually a gap started forming between the top of the chamber and the PVC union.



The top was cut off and a new one welded back to the skimmer. I will go with a flat top for now.

[bioload]

Almost complete today.

Cutting out the holes for the pump and the bulkheads on the top of the skimmer box



Coming together



Plumbing of the diffusion plate



All together



Getting ready to get wet....still need to complete the lid and the bottom of the box. I didn't want to weld the bottom of the box on before I gave it a try. I would have liked to have rounded over the box, but I accidentally welded the body on before I got a chance to get it on router table.

[bioload]

Got the skimmer into the sump . The first thing I noticed was the diffusion chamber. Since I plumbed the inlet of the skimmer directly to the plate I would need to ensure there is a pre-filter or grid to prevent debris from getting into the skimmer in this case macroalgae from the refuge. I'm glad I didn't glue the bottom onto the box yet. The next build I would probably add a keyhole flange to the bottom of the skimmer body to give access to the plate

[rstar]

You have amazing skills! I am curious as to how much a project like this costs? Is it really more cost effective to diy a skimmer?

[DCDN]

Wow that looks amazing

[SeaHorse_Fanatic]

Those are completely MAD DIY skills you got there. Amazing!!!!

[lastlight]

Ok I was going to post about how much I loved your aquascape. Seriously one of the sweetest I've seen I love the right side especially. I miss the sand but if you don't go nuts =)

Your diy skills are inspiring beyond belief! I so wish I could work with acrylic. I've never tried mind you but I don't have the toolshed you do nor the financial opportunity to experiment!

I also noticed your virtual plumbing warehouse is quite well stocked! Thanks for sharing in so much detail and good luck with the skimmer. I know looks/cleanliness must be important to you but could some sort of angled interior be fitted INSIDE the skimmer body to angle towards the neck?