I like this concept. I do it probably even less scientific. I’m not saying my way is correct by any means, nor would I recommend anyone else perform it like this. But my process basically was
set up reactor to circulate and run effluent through, no co2
Effluent set to minimum 10 rpm on the masterflex pump
Turn on co2 at an extremely low bubble count.
test display alk upon setup and 48 hours later
Turn up gas a hair
Test 24 hours later
Repeat until display alk stopped falling
Left it.
i never tested My effluent alkalinity. And over the years as it has been necessary I have turned up the gas, and eventually the effluent as well as demand has increased.
at this point my acros are growing very well but I feel like the reactor almost has dictated the pace of growth because I have not had to adjust my effluent or co2 in well over a year. When I have had to refill the media it tends to bump up the alk set point a Bit but it still holds stable. I just leave the settings alone. Probably not correct but it is absolutely hands off and the solenoid never cycles.
my question Is this. I know you and many others advocate just using a standard feed pump with needle valve. I heard so many horror stories of effluent valves clogging with precipitate and needing almost daily opening and retuning to clear the clogs. How do you manage to never have effluent valve clogs? In the future I’d love to not have to use a masterflex but so many people have insisted it is the only way to keep the effluent from fluctuating from clogs. I like the stability of a masterflex but mine is super old and won’t last forever. i can’t even get tubing for my model anymore. So I would like an alternative solution for the future.
