Calc Reactors

[grazhopr]

Hi TRT,

Doing some research on Calcium sources for my system.
I started thinking about what to use and the question waved at me: Should I use a CO2 calcium reactor or a Nielsen Reactor ?

You, experienced fellas out there:
What do you prefer? One or the other, or both?
Does tank size have something to do when selecting?
Pros, Cons.... I'd appreciate your input!

Thanks

[mojoreef]

Well grazhopr I can tell you what I have used. I have had a calcium reactor on my reefs for about 5 years now. For me they have always been tune them in and forget about it until the media or gas runs out. As per setup cost the valve is the most expensive, the unit close next but it has been a godsend for me.

However now on another note I have been using a kalk product form Warner marine that I must admit has really impressed me. I believe it is called Kalk Plus as is made of analytical grade products (so none of the extra nasties). In three weeks of use I have dime sized corraline algae spots all over the tank and the rock has really really colored up. I have been so impressed that I now plan on running both the reactor and the kalk for supplimentation.


Mike

[grazhopr]

I know about those regulator valves...pricy
One other question: Do I necessarily have to buy specific brands of media for a calc reactor or can I use any type of crushed coral (of course, for aquarium use) ? I'm not sure a can find very specific products around here. Same applies to kalkwasser.

Thanks for your reply!

[Geoff]

i can only answer for a nielsen reactor. you can use any kalkwasser mix you want for them. it does not need to be brand specific. you can even use pickling lime it it is available, but will wear out the circ. pump faster. it is not as ground as normal kalkwasser is.

G~

[mojoreef]

AAh grazhopr I just caught your location, You can use CC for a media if thier is nothing else really around. You want to try to take out the snali shells (if possible) as they can add phosphates when they melt.

good luck


Mike

[grazhopr]

Originally posted by mojoreef
You want to try to take out the snali shells (if possible) as they can add phosphates when they melt.

Sounds like a difficult task. I mean, to get all of the snail shells...
If that can be done, I'm willing to do it.

As far as the Kalk goes, I'm glad to hear I can use any type.

I may go with a Nielsen first, and as I progress into adding some special type corals (---> sps) I can add the other reactor.

Geoff, one question, it may seem obvious but I need to ask.
When you operate a Nielsen, is the pump always stirring the mix or you start the pump for a period of time, shut it off and let the mixture settle for addition via top off? I have read about the traditional kalkwasser addition (stir-allow to settle-add to tank) but am not sure about the reactor operation.

Mojo, could recommend a good place to get a regulator that is not too expensive and reliable?.

Thanks to you both!

[Casey]

Do you guys know if anyone on here makes calcium reactors?

[grazhopr]

you mean DIYs ?

Geoff has a nicely documented DIY Nielsen in his website...

[PaintGuru]

There is a member on reefcentral named "coralhound" who I have got my last 2 reactors from. He now makes dual chamber reactors for about $130 which are VERY nice in my opinion. That is what I am using on my 180 right now. I also didnt get a solenoid or anything spiffy with my regulator so that only cost me $50. I think you can make reactors as expensive or as inexpensive as you want, depending how automated you make it etc.

Mojo: Just curious about your new found wonder kalk, why do you think you have seen such a dramatic improvement in your coralline growth, just because it is more pure? I'm just curious because my current supply of kalk is running low and if your stuff has more "bang for the buck", I may be interested in trying it out.

[mojoreef]

Hey Paint Guru. Ok you have to understand I am not a chemist so I will try in my humble way to explain what I think. The Kalk plus is made with Analytical Reagent Grade Calcium Oxide where as most are made with hydroxide. the oxide will allow more of the product to disolve in fresh water. thus it allows for a more concintrated solution with more calcium. Plus I am really tring to stay away from food grade products, the ammount of impurities are stagering.

grazhopr I friend just picked up a good unit for a cheap price I will call him today and try to find out where he got it for ya

MIke

[jg24]

Casey,
Check out the Reactor I just got. It was made by "geshields" The picture is missing the tubing. I just had not attached them yet. I just set the reactor up on Wed. Seems to be working great.

[MsReeReee]

MyReef Makes Ca Reactors

[gumhead]

yes Andy makes some great stuff!
http://www.myreefcreations.com/main.html
I have just ordered a CR-2 Dual Cal-reactor from my reef.
I own a skimmer and a waste collector from him.
Awesome quality! He is also a sponser of TRT!

[grazhopr]

Originally posted by jg24
It was made by "geshields".

Do they have a website?

[grazhopr]

Originally posted by MsReeReee
MyReef Makes Ca Reactors

Just checked the site. The prices look very good. I've seen other vendors with much higher prices...

Thanks for the link.