DIY skimmer theoretical discussion

[hydroman]

I've spend quite a bit of time thinking of ways to improve my skimmer. My latest focus has been trying to maximize microbubbles in the skimmer and minimize macrobubbles. My fluid dynamics is pretty rusty so you'll have to forgive me, and tell me, if I make an error in my assumptions.

In my thinking, laminar flow will support a much higher quantity of microbubbles than turbulent flow. In order to decrease turbulent flow, would it make sense to increase the pipe sizing to the next size after the venturi and use wide-sweep 90's instead of regular 90's? If I'm right, this would provide a smoother transport for the microbubbles that the organics attach to and minimize the turbulence that causes microbubbles to coalesce.

Anyone have any thoughts?

[RobinsonFam1]

most of the more efficient skimmers use 45* instead of sweeps and 90's. im not sure if this would really make a noticeable impact vs the sweep but woth a shot. skimmers are not pressured lines so if you use one then you could always swap for another to compare. each time you swap i would wait a week or 2 to see if there is a difference.

[Geoff]

your thinking is correct. this is where dwell time comes into play.

G~

[hydroman]

Dwell time is important, but if there is too much turbulence in the input line, won't that create too many macrobubbles that will decrease the efficiency of the skimmer? For taller skimmers, macrobubbles aren't as big a problem as short skimmers where maximum efficiency is needed. From what I've seen, even a few macrobubbles can really disrupt foam production in a small skimmer so I've been trying to figure out a way to minimize macrobubbles before they reach the main chamber. I've considered adding something to capture the macrobubbles before they reach the main chamber.

[RobinsonFam1]

what skimmer do you have?
this may help us figure out what will work best.
Are you constained to a maximum height?
if yes: how much higher can you go?
what pump are you running?
do you have a venturi?
if yes: what brand or is it factory?