calcium reactor fittings

framerguy · 07-10-2008, 10:25 PM

I am building a dual upflow calcium reactor. In most models of calcium reactors the outflow fitting is in the top for some reason. Is there a mechanical or chemical reason it can't be in the side near the top?
Here is a photo...

The fittings pictured are what I am asking about. The arrows show where I am thinking. Why can't it go in the side near the top so it's not in the way when I refill it? What's your vote? TIA.

framerguy · 07-10-2008, 10:48 PM

Well, I have figured it out. If they are in the side there will be a pocket of CO2 that accumulates in the top.

Hop · 07-10-2008, 11:37 PM

I was just about to post about that

Loverotties · 07-11-2008, 07:19 AM

Yes ,build up of it at the top.

crvz · 07-11-2008, 07:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by framerguy

Well, I have figured it out. If they are in the side there will be a pocket of CO2 that accumulates in the top.

Mm hmm. You'd have to get creative if you didnt stick it on the top.

Cove Beach · 07-16-2008, 03:40 PM

That's the reason i went with the design i did. My effluent comes out the side near the bottom just before the recirc. inlet. Mine is a dual chamber in one vessel. It is very efficient and and trouble free.

The left side is upflow and the right is down flow. The line out of the top of the unit runs to the venturi that pulls off any CO2 and re shreds it in the pump. The unit has been up and running for almost 2 yrs now on my 75 reef. I built it in advance for my 430 gal system.

Cove Beach · 07-16-2008, 03:43 PM

That is nearly 30lbs of media in there just for an idea of media volume!