ATB Conical Shape Skimmer Club

[Lumamae]

Well, it seems that every other skimmer brand under the sun has its own "club" thread, so why not one for the new ATB conical shape protein skimmers.

Basic information:
ATB website in Austria:
http://www.aquariumtechnik.at/kegelabschaeumer.html

ATB website in USA:
http://atbskimmers.com

Website Specifications:
ATB Nano Cone Skimmer
Length 11"
Width 8"
Height 20.5"
Approx diameter 6"
Pump: Eheim 1250 Threadwheel
Air Draw: 650lph - 700lph
http://atbskimmers.com/product.php?id=55
http://www.meerwasserinfo.at/phpBB2/files/atb_nanocone_549.jpg

ATB Small Cone Skimmer
Length 15"
Width 10"
Height 22.5"
Approx diameter 9"
Pump: Eheim 1260 Needlewheel
Air Draw: 750lph - 800 lph
http://atbskimmers.com/product.php?id=56
http://www.meerwasserinfo.at/phpBB2/files/white_german_208.jpg

So far, as I understand, only 2 models have been imported into the USA, the Nano Size Conical and Small Size Conical. Below is a video of the Nano Size. Air draw on this unit is 700lph, almost seems to strong for this tiny body size. In the collection cup is the first 5 days (during the break in period) worth of skimmate. Although the video is much faster than actual, what impresses me about this conical shape model with the bubbleplate is how the bubbles seem to just float up to the top of the collection cup with minimal turbulence. The Ehem 1250 threadwheel pump is dead silent. As you can hear in the video, the exhaust water sound is louder than the pump.
http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc67/Lumamae/th_ATBNanoVideo.jpg (http://s212.photobucket.com/albums/cc67/Lumamae/?action=view&current=ATBNanoVideo.flv)
http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc67/Lumamae/ATBNano001.jpg

ATB owners, please chime right in with your new skimmers. There's been 2 shipments that came into the USA and they're sold out, so there's got to be a few owners on RC.

[hahnmeister]

Yes, the eheim 1250 that anton mods has seen a very dramatic performance increase on 60hz. In the EU, its a 400lph of air pump. Here, its 660-750 (depends on sump depth), and it needs the water level to be kept rather low to prevent microbubbles.

I suggested putting some kind of restriction on the outlet of the pump to Victor, and he sent me a video last night of it working (cut it all the way down to 480lph). At first, the idea was to remove some of the enkamat, but I didnt think that would do much under such a low pressure application (the smaller the impeller thick/dia just means less pressure handling), and since these cone shape skimmers allow the back pressure on the pump to be almost nothing, it didnt seem like it would do much. Well... Victor tried it, and no, it didnt work, but a small reducer on the outlet of the pump cut the air and water ouptut down to a more managable level. This is only for those who are concerned about the nano pump being too much really (microbubbles), or wanting to run the skimmer in deeper water. The skimmer works fine as long as its in a low water level (6"), and as it is, I hear its a real mud pig.

The other option would be to use an needlewheel rather than the threadwheel... lowering the output a little bit. This would be nice since there are people who might prefer a needlewheel over threadwheel for lower upkeep. Eheim should be releasing their 1255 impeller in spring in 60hz.

Back over to you Lumamae, what do you think? Looks like it skimmed coffee out of your tank.

[rishma]

My one hesitation about the nano is the threadwheel. I do not like the inherent variability that comes with enkamat, thought the performance is always impressive.

It would be great if Anton offered both a needlewheel and a meshwheel for the nano.

[Ewan]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11203448#post11203448 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by rishma
My one hesitation about the nano is the threadwheel. I do not like the inherent variability that comes with enkamat, thought the performance is always impressive.

It would be great if Anton offered both a needlewheel and a meshwheel for the nano.

I agree, this would interest me as well.

[victor90]

So are you guys saying you would rather have a needlwheel than a threadwheel.

[lecher]

If the needle wheel provided almost as good results, I would rather have the needle wheel. Mesh wears out quicker, needs to be cleaned more and like rishma stated sometimes can be inconsistent, when it comes time to replace.

[rishma]

as lecher said, provided we can get enough air flow (say 500-600 lph) I would prefer a needlewheel.

[rishma]

just to be clear, I think I would pay for both mesh and needlewheel impellers so I could determine which worked best for my set-up. This would be ideal.

[uhuru]

I think that would be great to have a needlewheel, what's the use of having a meshwheel if it's too much for the skimmer anyways?

[CruzinKim]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11204105#post11204105 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by lecher
If the needle wheel provided almost as good results, I would rather have the needle wheel. Mesh wears out quicker, needs to be cleaned more and like rishma stated sometimes can be inconsistent, when it comes time to replace. It's a myth that needs to be cleaned more often. I own a Bubblemaster that uses a threadwheel and there's many BM owners that purchased their units a year ago and still haven't had to clean their threadwheels yet. I know that's not true for everyone. Bubblemaster owners check every 3 or 4 months and it's still clean. I think it really depends on your individual setup, if things will get caught in a threadwheel, it certainly will do the same on the needlewheel. As for the mesh wearing out quicker, that's probably true. I don't think the needlewheel will wear out for years, maybe never. But the threadwheel isn't as fragile as everyone may think as it is a pretty sturdy material that is used. I don't think any 1 year owners have had to replace their mesh yet, unless it accidentally came off the wheel and got streaded. Have to check with those running for over a year with a threadwheel and see if they think it will go another year. So, it's $5 every other year, that's not so bad, is it? I think the concern about mesh on a threadwheel is over exaggerated at times.
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11204201#post11204201 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by uhuru
I think that would be great to have a needlewheel, what's the use of having a meshwheel if it's too much for the skimmer anyways? If if were my choice, I would prefer that they increase the body diameter or height to match the more powerful 1250 meshwheel and take full advantage of this powerful pump that they just discovered. Maybe an inch increase in the body diameter and the neck will do it. Nice to have 700lph instead of 480lph and still have full control over it. In looking at lumamae's video, the skimmer does not look turbulent and if the video is running fast, the foaming must really just float up to the top of the skimmer. Why not rebalance the skimmer body to the pump for the USA market, that seems to make more sense to me, and produce a more powerful performing skimmer. In Europe, they can have their 480lph smaller Nano and in USA, we have it's bigger brother. That's my 2 cents.
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11200199#post11200199 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Lumamae
ATB owners, please chime right in with your new skimmers. There's been 2 shipments that came into the USA and they're sold out, so there's got to be a few owners on RC. Isn't this thread for ATB owners to share their experience?http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc108/cruzinkim/backtotopic.gif

[rishma]

CruzinKim -

I modded my aquabee with mesh and the performance was great compared to the stock needlewheel, but I did have to clean it quite a bit. i guess a lot of solids get sucked into my skimmer.

I do not have a huge amount of heartburn about mesh wheels, but I do not like the variablility. The mesh 1250 ehiem is probably too much for the nano, so i would rather have a needlwheel move less air and water running wide open than try and restrict the meshwheel to calm things down.

make sense?

[rishma]

Isn't this thread for ATB owners to share their experience?


ooops, you are right. sorry.

Where are the owners anyway?

[lecher]

I run a mesh modded QO 3000 on a DIY 8" skimmer and the mesh can be touchy. Cutting mesh the same diameter does not guarantee the same results. I tested different meshes(of the same diameters) multiple times and got varying results until I found a cut I liked. That is why I feel the mesh can be inconsistent at times.

And I do feel this is on topic b/c ATB USA asked the question... "So are you guys saying you would rather have a needlwheel than a threadwheel."

[victor90]

Hi
Yes I do agree with you usually meshmod is very inconsistent but on the ATB cone skimmer, I took off a layer and the air intake did not change at all. Thats why I restricted the outlet on the nano instead. The needlewheel impeller should be no problem in the EU eheim has already released there eheim 1255 which comes with a needle wheel impeller. I will inform atb austria that I would like to get a couple of those impellers to test

We are making the nano bigger for the us but to a certain point the reason for this is we are trying to do it without having to raise the cost and still keep the nano size so that it will fit in most sumps for tanks 150 gallons and under. When the skimmer is running at 750L/hr of air it wet skims very well about 1/3 of a cup every two to 3 days of some nasty stuff. But it has a lot of microbubbles for customers with baffles this will be no problem I am just worried for the customers that have a sump with no baffles. Some of the microbubbles might get in the display tank. I appreciate your feedback and from your feedback we will make our products better.

thank you

[victor90]

I meant for customers with no baffles the microbubbles will be a problem

[victor90]

Nano impeller
<img src="http://i230.photobucket.com/albums/ee95/atbusa/cameraupc011.jpg">

[sjm817]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11204718#post11204718 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ATB USA
I meant for customers with no baffles the microbubbles will be a problem
Baffles often do not stop very small skimmer microbubbles. These bubbles tend to have "neutral buoyancy" and will ride right through the typical baffle/bubble trap design. Smaller sumps and higher sump flow rates make it very difficult to control. It is preferable that the skimmer does not output microbubbles.

[Maximus]

How many layers of mesh are you using on the eheim 1250? When I had the BM 250, all I did was use less layers of mesh and the air draw would be lessened. Can't you just use less mesh if the skimmer has too much air going through it? Btw, it's refreshing to see a vendor being honest about his products. Kudos to you ATB USA!

[uhuru]

He already tried reducing the mesh - it didn't help.

[Maximus]

Hmm, seems strange. I bet if you put a different type of mesh on it, it would reduce the air.

[victor90]

It has three layers of flat back mesh i took 1 layer off. So now it has two layers. The air was still constant at 750L/hr. I reduced the outlet and brought the air down to 480-500L/hr.
Uhuru did you try yours yet?

[mavgi]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11205641#post11205641 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ATB USA
It has three layers of flat back mesh i took 1 layer off. So now it has two layers. The air was still constant at 750L/hr. I reduced the outlet and brought the air down to 480-500L/hr.
Uhuru did you try yours yet?

the flat back mesh work different then the PF4 (7010) change the mesh to it and you will get better result .

[rishma]

this thread has been totally hijacked, but a good discussion. Still waiting for those owners to show some pics!!!

the flat back mesh work different then the PF4 (7010) change the mesh to it and you will get better result .

Mavgi - you are right but they dont need better results, I think it would blow the top off the nano skimmer.

Victor, I sent you a PM.

[victor90]

Can't hurt to try
thanks Victor

[mavgi]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11205748#post11205748 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by rishma
this thread has been totally hijacked, but a good discussion. Still waiting for those owners to show some pics!!!



Mavgi - you are right but they dont need better results, I think it would blow the top off the nano skimmer.

Victor, I sent you a PM.


i try all the type of mesh that exist .....

the flat bottom mesh make more air hard to control and increase the pump watt.....

if you want to reduce the air and to get more steady foam also to control on the air easier then use the PF4 .

[rishma]

the flat bottom mesh make more air hard to control and increase the pump watt.....

got it! I misunderstood your first post. Thanks mavgi.

[mavgi]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11205810#post11205810 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by rishma
got it! I misunderstood your first post. Thanks mavgi.

if you will try 2 layer of PF4 it will perform good and if you want to reduce the air more you can trim the mesh even less then the wheel diameter size .

it's always better then pin wheel impeller the reason very simple you can't change pin impeller with the mesh you can play and do what ever you want to get less/more air and to find the right way to tune the skimmer the way you want.... take some time but when you find the right way it will perform the same always.

[victor90]

Mavgi
Ok I did the two layers of pf4 trimmed to the same size as the disc. The air intake is bumping between 8L/min and 10L/min but no micro bubbles in 7 inches of sump water.

Thank you

[rishma]

IME, the bumping will deminish after several days and air intake will settle out at the higher end of the range.

[mavgi]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11205888#post11205888 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ATB USA
Mavgi
Ok I did the two layers of pf4 trimmed to the same size as the disc. The air intake is bumping between 8L/min and 10L/min but no micro bubbles in 7 inches of sump water.

Thank you


Victor

if you see it's pull to much you can reduce the diameter of the mesh ...... i don't suggest to work with the flat bottom mesh at all (hard to control on it) the PF4 will perform more steady after 2-3 days .you can also trim ittle bit from the top of the mesh to make it more equal and to get the air runing more steady

[hahnmeister]

Removing the mesh on the wheels (unless you remove it all...lol) does very little to reduce the output of the pump if the pump is dealing with minimal back-pressure. Think about it... the rpm is the same, so the centrifugal force is the same, and so will be the angular acceleration.

On a single pass skimmer where the pump is under several inches of water (your typical cylinder shape), this places back pressure on the pump (which reduces its output). The impeller diameter makes an impact then because the water is trying to resist the pump more.

On these ATB's, esp the nano, the water level that the cone is in is so low, so back pressure on the air intake is minimal. Thanks to the cone shape, the waterline inside the body can be kept much lower inside the skimmer as well, so the back-pressure on the pump is minimal. So as long as there is a bare minimum of mesh on the wheel... putting more on doesnt do much.

If this was an ATI bubblemaster, Euroreef, etc... something where the water level in the skimmer was resisting the pump more, then yes, removing some mesh might make a difference. But with these cone skimmers... I figured it wouldnt work, and when Victor tried it, sure enough... no difference. The best way to cut back the pump is by placing a restriction on the output of the pump (since placing more restriction on the intake of the pump can lead to problems if you dont know exactly what you are doing). And sure enough, it worked.

Sometimes, reducing the mesh/impeller size in the volute can actually lead to more air intake since you just made more room in the pump to handle it.

The upside of the method Victor used to restrict the pump is that the pump is still able to process the air and water, and if anything, 'mix' it for a longer time than previous. It may not be noticable to the naked eye, but the bubbles coming out of the pump, even though they are lower in volume, are more than likely smaller in diameter... so its almost an even trade: the air output might be restricted by 32%, but I bet those bubbles are a good deal smaller as well, which increases performance because the net surface area of the air in the skimmer is boosted. Remember, two bubbles with the volume of one larger one have something like 50% more surface area between them (cant remember if thats the exact number or not... something like that... its late so I dont feel like doing the math).

Sometimes when an asperating pump has its throughput increased too much, the air doesnt spend enough time in the pump to get blended as well as it could be... we have seen this on other pumps like the ReefFlo Dart in the past where the water flow is so high compared to the air throughput, and the consequence is that the air spends much less time in the pump getting 'blended'. Sometimes a little less flow can make for a better mix.

[Lumamae]

wow! heavy duty discussions on just the pump. just to let everyone know, there's a ATB sponsor forum that just open up and some of these discussions would go great there.
http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?s=&forumid=531

where are the other ATB owners? isn't any of them on RC?

[victor90]

From your feedback ATB has made a needlewheel impeller for the nano
http://i230.photobucket.com/albums/ee95/atbusa/impeller3.jpg

[victor90]

http://i230.photobucket.com/albums/ee95/atbusa/impeller1.jpg

[Al G Blenny]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2121/1738880681_0da90a1102.jpg

[Lumamae]

wow, that was fast. how can they turn out an impeller in 24 hours. awesome! will the current ATB owners be able to get this replacement needlewheel impeller? is there a choice of needlewheel or threadwheel in the future or everything switching to needlewheel? last question, how much air draw with the needlewheel used in the eheim 1250?

[victor90]

Well Anton (ATB Austria) has his own cnc machines so its not to hard for him to make us impellers. I guess eheim does not sell only the needlewheel impeller in the EU. Both impellers are the same size the way ATB does the impeller it wouldn't be that much to get a disc for mesh mod. The magnet is what is costly. Yes I am going to replace all the Nanos with needlewheel impellers I think this will solve our microbubbles. The air we are hoping to be at 500-550 tests are still being performed.
Thank you

[hiepatitis]

What happened to the sponsor forum? There's nothing on there anymore.

[victor90]

There was a misunderstanding they thought I cancelled my account. I have emailed Ryan and hope it will be solved soon.

Thank you

[hiepatitis]

Any ATB owners out there?

[rishma]

they are too busy drooling over their foam...

[Al G Blenny]

Not many people have them yet. ATB USA just started bringing them in to the country. I picked up two of them. One for myself and one for a customer of mine. I think there are only like a dozen in all of the US right now. I just happen to be lucky and I live near them. Give them some time. There is a lot more demand than supply. I can't wait to see others post their comparisons with other skimmers they were running before getting one.

[hiepatitis]

How do these compare to the H&S?

[hahnmeister]

The club will be expanding soon... The specs on the Laguna 1500 based pump are all settled and ready to go. The body will have about a 13.8" base, and a 6" neck. 1500lph of air (needlewheel), 25.6" high.

This will be a 'final' design if you will... designed for 60hz. So no microbubble or sump waterline concerns. Its good to go.

Next will be the XL, maybe an XXL even (a 3000-4000lph Laguna 2400 based pump). Demand will dictate the possibility of that model with Anton/ATB. If there was demand at all, I know that the Laguna 4200 would make for a nice 6000-8000lph pump as well... a body for that would have to be close to 4' tall, 24" base diameter, and a 12"+ diameter neck. Super-commercial grade you could call it... made with 1/2" thick acrylic most likely. Anyone have a 3000+ gallon tank that needs a skimmer? The cool thing is that it would only be about 120 watts.

[dphins]

It's a shame that an American company doesn't make a cone shaped skimmer. The Euro just keeps getting higher. I guess I have to work more overtime.:(

[xinumaster]

Can ATB sell the skimmer with out the pump?

[CruzinKim]

I'm sure that they will only deduct, like around $100 if they did. The local dealer in SF already tested the ATB Small with the Sicce pump, drawing over 1,000lph and it overwhelmed the skimmer, so the ATB Small is too small to handle the Sicce. I'm going to take a look at the ATB Nano they're testing when I get back from the holidays. I heard the collection cup is filling every 5 days on a 180g light bioload fish only tank.

[victor90]

At this time ATB USA will not be selling any skimmer bodies without the pumps the reason for this is we have matched each body with the correct pump. We would like each customer to get the highest performance expected from our products.
Thanks
Victor

[Maximus]

Victor, is ATB reworking the pumps on the Small model (more airflow)? Or, will the next shipment have the same pumps?

[hahnmeister]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11221494#post11221494 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by CruzinKim
I'm sure that they will only deduct, like around $100 if they did. The local dealer in SF already tested the ATB Small with the Sicce pump, drawing over 1,000lph and it overwhelmed the skimmer, so the ATB Small is too small to handle the Sicce. I'm going to take a look at the ATB Nano they're testing when I get back from the holidays. I heard the collection cup is filling every 5 days on a 180g light bioload fish only tank.

Thats odd, I tried the same thing, and the skimmer worked fine... had it up at over 1100lph. The skimmer didnt perform any better though. Anton has said this before, that more air in these bodies wont improve the performance so much as just make the skimmate lighter. So to get more performance, you need a larger neck.

[victor90]

The final small will be 10.5 inch base 5in neck air intake should be 850-900L/hr of air

[Reef Sponger]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11222406#post11222406 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by hahnmeister
Thats odd, I tried the same thing, and the skimmer worked fine... had it up at over 1100lph. The skimmer didnt perform any better though. Anton has said this before, that more air in these bodies wont improve the performance so much as just make the skimmate lighter. So to get more performance, you need a larger neck. The Sicce pump used was a ATi modified Sicce that came off of a BM250, the foaming was outrageously turbulent. I'm just assuming the air draw was somewhere between 1,000lph to 1,250lph as previously tested by the dealer on the ATi Sicce. I know the same skimmer dealer and have talked to him about his testing he did last month. Yes, a wider diameter neck and/or taller needs to happen to compensate for the ATi Sicce modified pump, that's for sure.

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11222461#post11222461 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ATB USA
The final small will be 10.5 inch base 5in neck air intake should be 850-900L/hr of air This is a great change, more air draw and increase the body side to match the stronger pump. Hopefully, the same will happen with the Nano.

[rishma]

This is a great change, more air draw and increase the body side to match the stronger pump. Hopefully, the same will happen with the Nano.

The same thing is happening to the nano. the new nano will be 7.5" at the base and 4" diameter neck. should kick some serious protiens

[Reef Sponger]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11222799#post11222799 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by rishma
The same thing is happening to the nano. the new nano will be 7.5" at the base and 4" diameter neck. should kick some serious protiens :thumbsup: great!

[hahnmeister]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11222461#post11222461 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ATB USA
The final small will be 10.5 inch base 5in neck air intake should be 850-900L/hr of air

Yeah, if I pull my eheim off the skimmer, it gets 900-960lph now. The back pressure from the higher water level in the skimmer cuts it down to 850lph. With the larger diameter body on the new ones, the skimmer will be able to be mounted in deeper sumps w/o microbubbles, so the air intake should go back up. If Anton does everything to the 1260 that he does to the 1250, this pump could do 1600lph no doubt. Enlarging the volute like H&S would do even more. But just boring out the outlet to 1-1/8", adding a face bonded outlet, and contouring the insides might do alot as well... but isnt really needed. 850lph is alot for my Small... it doesnt really produce more skimmate with the extra air... just wetter. With the 5" neck and a 10.5" base, this skimmer will be perfect.

Victor has an extra 1250 pump w/ threadwheel (cracked in shipping) that I was hoping to get. I will most likely run my Small with this pump, so I can see how this skimmer was like with its original design.

Lol, my brand new skimmer is 'dated'... well, I suppose, thats what it was supposed to be: a test sample to get everything just right for the US. I cant complain, and I dont think anyone else with a Small can either. Sure, there will be a newer one soon, but its not like this one doesnt skim the living daylights out of my tank!

With all the increases in size, it has come up that ATB might be neglecting the smaller tanks.

So there are two ideas: A HOB, from the design I have, it would be about 10" wide, 3" thick, and about 16" tall, and run off of a Aquaclear 70 powerhead (pump in the skimmer compartment, not in the tank). As some of you remember from the 'pimp my pump 801' thread, I got it up to 400lph easily with just a threadwheel impeller and a custom volute. These things would be easy for Anton to make. Aimed squarely at other HOB's in the $200-250 range, but this one would produce more air, have a bubble plate, and a variation on the pyramid/cone shape.

The other idea is merely a 'pico' model... similar to the current ones, same Aquaclear 70 pump as the HOB, but with about a 4.5"-5" base, 3" neck, about 16" tall. It could be made cheaper because at that size, 3/16" or even 1/8" acrylic could be used for the cone. It would get 300-350lph of air, and use about a 4.5"-5" diameter collection cup. This would be aimed at the 75g and under crowd (based on the ATB ratings, a 100g tank is possible... if lightly stocked IMO).

[uhuru]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11219724#post11219724 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Al G Blenny
I can't wait to see others post their comparisons with other skimmers they were running before getting one.

soon!:p

[Lumamae]

ATB Nano collection cup has been emptied and cleaned twice already, every 5 days. Photos is 48 hours after the 2nd collection cup cleaning. You can see how much is starting to collect at the top part of the riser within the collection cup. We are experiencing microbubbles entering the sump, but then this skimmer is running at 650lph-700lph consistently. In my opinion, I would rather have the skimmer running at this rate, rather than 500lph.
http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc67/Lumamae/ATBNano2Days.jpg

[sjm817]

I hope the microbubble problem is corrected before the final product is released.

It looks like you use the Kent reef additive. The skimate is emerald green.

[uhuru]

Lumamae, so this is with the original mesh and NOT the enkamat correct? Also no restriction on the output? How high is the water level in the sump? That skimmate is so green - is the tank having an algae bloom or something? ;)

[victor90]

The micro bubbles has been corrected on the final version.
We have switched the nano to a needlewheel which will reduce the output to 500-550l/hr of air
The new nano body is 7.5 base with a 4" neck.
Uhuru if you use the restrictor you will have no microbubbles

[uhuru]

Ok thanks for sending me the parts Victor I will have mine setup this week just to test the microbubbles

[Lumamae]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11245282#post11245282 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by sjm817
I hope the microbubble problem is corrected before the final product is released.

It looks like you use the Kent reef additive. The skimate is emerald green. The microbubble problem has already been corrected. I just prefer to run the skimmer at 650lph-700lph, instead of 500lph-550lph as Victor mentioned. But the sump that the ATB Nano is in doesn't return any microbubbles to the tank because it's in a 3 section sump with baffles, carbon chamber and sponges before it hits the return pump section.

No, I don't dose with with anything other than regular water changes. I feed my tank with live phytoplankton, Rod's food, Spectrum & Spirulina mini pellets. The green is most likely coming from phytoplankton and spirulina pellets.

[Lumamae]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11245302#post11245302 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by uhuru
Lumamae, so this is with the original mesh and NOT the enkamat correct? Also no restriction on the output? How high is the water level in the sump? That skimmate is so green - is the tank having an algae bloom or something? ;) Yes, everything is original, nothing changed. Skimmer sitting in about 6" sump water height. Earlier video I had, the skimmate was lighter green and as the skimmer breaks in, the skimmate is getting darker. Doesn't matter what the color of the liquid is, the chunks of crap that is collecting on the neck and inside the collection cup is still brown, as you can see. No, no algae bloom, it's probably from the food that I feed the tank is what I assume since I don't dose with any additives.

[victor90]

Nano skimmate
http://i230.photobucket.com/albums/ee95/atbusa/skimmate002.jpg

[victor90]

The nano running at 700-750 will perform better than the picture above. But the draw back is you will have microbubbles in your sump. The picture above is the nano at 550 for 3 days.
Lumamae I will send you the needlewheel disc so you can try it out in a couple of weeks.

[sjm817]

You need to change the model names. That is far from what people think of as a nano skimmer!

[victor90]

I understand I am thinking small medium large and Xl

[Lumamae]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11245602#post11245602 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by sjm817
You need to change the model names. That is far from what people think of as a nano skimmer! I 2nd that. Maybe if enough members bring this up, they will. I brought this up before the 1st shipment of ATB Nanos arrived to the USA. Of course, after seeing the ATB Nano perform, it's capacity is more like 150g-200g range, at least the model with the meshwheel impeller. So, please change the ratings to be more accurate when you guys rename the models.
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11137655#post11137655 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Lumamae
Just a suggestion, can someone rename these?

Victor & HahnM,
Can you guys rename these for USA market, instead of Nano, Small, Normal and XL? The Nano isn't for nano tanks, it's capacity is probably around 100g - 150g range, probably 200g is optimistic. Maybe call it by the diameter x height?

[Lumamae]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11245584#post11245584 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ATB USA
Lumamae I will send you the needlewheel disc so you can try it out in a couple of weeks. Just send it out to Ed at KMA is fine as I can pickup from him when it comes in. Do you have replacement O-Ring for the ATB Nano? This seems to have a very slight leaking around where the collection cup seats into the body. Thanks! Also, wanted to let you know that I've been really impressed with the quick response of ATB Austria in supporting you as the new master dealer for the USA. At least we know that we shouldn't have any customer service issues in the future.

[victor90]

Thats the first thing I thought about is the o rings I actually have about 20 feet of it. I have to ask Anton how he turns it into a circle though. I know people are worried about replacement parts. I have order all repalcement parts cups, air silencers, wedgepipes, etc for each skimmer. Thank you for the comments

[GSMguy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11245621#post11245621 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ATB USA
I understand I am thinking small medium large and Xl

what about the pico i keep bugging you about??? lol

i need a pico version. :lol: :lol:

[victor90]

we are actually working on a hang on skimmer

[hahnmeister]

So which do you think is better for a HOB... something long and narrow to fit behind the tank... like 3" thick by10 wide"? Or something more square, like 4.5"x4.5"?

[victor90]

Hi Jon
I prefer the long and narrow but lets see what Anton decides

[hahnmeister]

Well, I figured... ask the people what they want.

[Lumamae]

On HOB, when I see it, I'll believe it. Haven't come across any that doesn't have it challenges with performance. I would prefer that will fit a standard filter slot on acrylic tanks because we know glass tanks won't have any restrictions.

[hahnmeister]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11280149#post11280149 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Lumamae
On HOB, when I see it, I'll believe it. Haven't come across any that doesn't have it challenges with performance. I would prefer that will fit a standard filter slot on acrylic tanks because we know glass tanks won't have any restrictions.

Thats where I saw room for improvement... there isnt any really good competition out there. The only good models are the Bermuda, which is w/o pump, $300, and a venturi driven, and then the Deltecs... perhaps only 'good' because its made by a good company, although the MCE's are not like the rest. I think they are popular because no other high-end company makes HOB's.

No BK, no H&S, no ATI, no nothing... so to make a performance based HOB would really be filling a demand that has never been met.

Your note on acrylic tanks is noted. As it turns out with this design, a slight pipe modification on the inlet/outlet would allow for parimeter braced tanks like acrylics and Euro-braced ones.

Anton does want to make it though. When I sent him a diagram of how to do it... I got a response right away.

It really comes down to seeing if people would prefer a 4.5" deep skimmer that is square, or one that is narrower (like 3-3.5") and wider.

The way I designed the skimmer though, the entire guts of the skimmer can be removed... pump, cone, cup, bubble plate... without having to drain or remove the HOB chamber. Everything lifts out w/o water. When I think back to HOB's I have used, that was always the biggest chore when cleaning, and the biggest mess... having to lift the whole thing off, spilling water everywhere, dumping its contents, and then having to refill it when hooking it back up.

[Lumamae]

In a joking way, I prefer one that really performs and gives the in sump skimmers a good even race. To me, it doesn't matter how thick as long as it works and can be hidden behind the tank, so probably not too tall. There's already been some pretty bad looking HOB out there that don't work well either.

[CruzinKim]

I was over at KMA Int'l in SF yesterday to pickup some things I needed and I got a chance to see the ATB Nano on their 180g display tank. Very nice!!! I have a Bubblemaster 160 that performs like a best on my 90g, but the ATB foaming action looks so different, much softer. It's a winner in my opinion.

He says that his tester demo will be available for sale and there maybe a couple of inquiries on it already. Who's going to be the lucky local guy? :lmao:

[victor90]

CruzinKim

What did you think of the sound level of the skimmer?

[CruzinKim]

Dead silent! It's definitely more quiet than my Bubblemaster and my BM160 is quiet. I know that Ed is so excited by the potential of the Eheim 1250 pump used as a skimmer pump just by the way he talks about it. And there's no noise at all from the skimmer, his return pump made more noise than anything else on his tank. I just wished I had a chance to see the ATB Small when he was testing that, just for comparison.

Also, the ATB HOB sounds like a real exciting addition. Maybe, we will finally have a HOB skimmer that really works well. I haven't seen one HOB that truly skims similar to a good in sump skimmer, not even Deltec, which everyone claims is the best currently. Make sure it has a big skimmer cup or something to handle all the skimmate its going to grab.

[victor90]

CruzinKim
As of right now the design has a 4 inch cup. We are expecting 400l/hr of air with a bubbleplate diffuser. The small is dead quiet also but just bigger. There is a dealer in milpitas that has it up and running.

[kdblove_99]

holy cow what is with alot of the people in this thread getting banned

[Maximus]

Woa, what happened?

[victor90]

Who got banned?

[kdblove_99]

Lumamae
CruzinKim
reef Sponger

all below there names it says moved. which in RC language means banned

[victor90]

oh ok I see now

[hahnmeister]

Wow... thats quite the group ban. I wonder what that was all about.

[sjm817]

I dont know for sure, but I would guess it is for violation of #2, 2.1 of the user agreement (http://reefcentral.com/agreement.php).

[DgenR8]

Specualtion on your part won't help, you don't have nearly the full story here in this thread. I am not at liberty to discuss anyone's account with others, so I can't give you the full story. Please let it be.

[GSMguy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11265355#post11265355 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ATB USA
we are actually working on a hang on skimmer

I cant wait to order it, i will give it a full review against my current German HOB.

[victor90]

GSMguy
I actually got prototype hangon pictures yesterday. It should be really soon!!

[GSMguy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11349040#post11349040 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ATB USA
GSMguy
I actually got prototype hangon pictures yesterday. It should be really soon!!

can you send them to me i promise not to post them on any forums??

this is awesome news

[hahnmeister]

Don't get too excited, I saw the photos, and they really dont show much of anything at this point... just the cone and body, but no actual mechanicals/plumbing in place. The dimensions dont quite mesh up with what I was thinking in the original design, but this is more of a 'testbed' design anyways.

All I know for sure is that Anton has said he is very interested in a product for this 'niche', as it seems to be a high volume one that would really increase exposure to ATB in general.

The main ideas behind the design are:
-Easy to clean/break down w/o having to remove the entire HOB body or any water... the cone, cup, pump, and bubble plate can be removed completely w/o removing anything else.
-Small efficient pump... heck, Ill spill it... its based on the 'pimp my pump aquaclear 802' mod. An aquaclear 70 that is modded up to 400lph for 10-12 watts. It is possible that this may not be the final pump... although it was the original idea.
-Uses the ATB cone/pyramid shape body so it is part of the cone skimmer line.
-Uses a removable bubble plate.
-Pump is in the skimmer, not hanging in the tank.
-water level/outlet is controlled by an adjustable standpipe, not a valve system of some sort. I figured out a way to make a telescoping standpipe that is rather simple and should work just fine. I have never been a fan of valve controlled outlets/height adjustment with external skimmers. With a standpipe system, the water has a 'backup' opening to prevent overflows.
-Simplicity of design, for durability, ease of construction, and cleaning. For those who know of the 'wetworx nano skimmers' over at nano-reef.com, you know what Im talking about.

The weird thing is, based off this design, ATB could make a very simple external cone line as well... just rather than HOB, it would be a box/cylinder you can stand next to your sump.

[Ewan]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11349283#post11349283 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by hahnmeister

.....
-Easy to clean/break down w/o having to remove the entire HOB body or any water... the cone, cup, pump, and bubble plate can be removed completely w/o removing anything else.


IMHO, this is one of the best features of the ATB conicals. I love the fact that they can be completely torn down and cleaned, inside-out.

Those points look good. I'm interested to see ATB's solution for a HOB.

[victor90]

Heres some pics of new nano skimmer
http://i230.photobucket.com/albums/ee95/atbusa/DSCN5311.jpg

[hahnmeister]

For those who know... these things look like 'Temples of Nod', but rather 'Temples of NOG!' with the red and grey.

[glassbox-design]

much better dimensions on the nano.

[victor90]

From what i remember 7.8 inch base 3.92 inch neck 20.5 inches tall my email is down right now double check asap

[hansmatt]

oooo, I like! Can't wait to see the final specs, ratings, etc.
I might have to review this one...or maybe I can drive cross- state to see Hahn's larger one in person (skimmer that is)

[hahnmeister]

Heck, mine isnt even that much larger at this point... the nano's new dimensions make it equal to the EU 'Small' at least.

[glassbox-design]

victor will the price be the same on this new model? my rimless will be delivered soon and i think this would be a great fit. if you need anyone to test it out i'm always available :p

on a more serious note, will it not be made in white?

[rishma]

I love the new colors on the nano. very nice

[victor90]

ok i double checked my email the measurements are correct. We will keep the pricing the same for now.
rishma actually all the skimmers will be available in this color scheme.
We will change the names to small medium large and xtra-large. There will also be a xxl model for commercial apps

[victor90]

The medium large and x large will be available in red and white. I can not find a 32mm t for the new small or we would make it in white and red also. The name changes will occur in about two weeks when i get them in stock.

[woz9683]

Well, I finally have some pics of my ATB Small running. I've had the skimmer and pump sitting in the sump running, but not really adjusted for the last couple of weeks. I've been in and out of town, so I didn't want to try and set it while I wasn't able to watch it regularly. At least getting it running for a couple weeks gave the pump a good chance to get broken in properly. I've got a pretty light bioload so I think my water level in the skimmer is a little higher than most. I should have some good skimmate pics over the next couple of days too.

Here are the first few shots with a nice little pillow of foam just starting to form and an initial air intake reading off the flowmeter:

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb223/woz9683/New%20ATB%20Small%20Skimmer/PC100007.jpg

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb223/woz9683/New%20ATB%20Small%20Skimmer/PC100013.jpg

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb223/woz9683/New%20ATB%20Small%20Skimmer/PC100017.jpg

[Jim_S]

I want one!!!!! Hurry up with the externals Victor!!!!!

[victor90]

Jim
I think you should get an internal for now and set up another tank for the external in a few months. Isn't that a great idea!!

[Jim_S]

:lol:

I wish!

[kdblove_99]

That is sooo sweet! I would love to have one of this bad boys

[GSMguy]

I will be joining the Club soon, with the New ATB Hang on Back cone skimmer that is coming out soon, i cant wait for my cone skimmer.

[luke33]

Any specs on the hot yet?

[GSMguy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11375529#post11375529 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by luke33
Any specs on the hot yet?

only thing i've heard is they are trying for 300-400lpm, cone body, and pump is in the skimmer instead of out of the tank.

[luke33]

300-400lpm!! Holy smokes, that'll skim a lake! ; ) Should be interesting.

[GSMguy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11375858#post11375858 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by luke33
300-400lpm!! Holy smokes, that'll skim a lake! ; ) Should be interesting.

Im trying to find where hahn said that, i cant now, but the Aquaclear pimp my pump mod was a nice lil pump iirc, and they are taking cues from that mod thread.

[hahnmeister]

He's poking fun because its 300-400lph... not lpm.

[GSMguy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11377156#post11377156 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by hahnmeister
He's poking fun because its 300-400lph... not lpm.
HahaHahn, yea that would skim a lake LOL

[Canarygirl]

Huh...my post didn't make it onto this thread.

Wanted to say I'm joining the club as I just bought the nano that Ed was testing on his 180....

[woz9683]

I've been lazy the last couple weeks with the holidays and everything. I've finally taken some skimmate pics.
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb223/woz9683/New%20ATB%20Small%20Skimmer/PC270042.jpg
I went to visit the family Christmas eve and got back late on the 26th and this is what greeted me. That's just two days worth of skimmate, and I turned the water level in the skimmer down a little more than normal before I left because I expected to be gone longer and I didn't want to come back to an overflowing skimmer. I'll have to take a picture with the skimmate backlit just to show you how thick and dark it is. I let the skimmer keep running like this today, so I'll take another couple pics tonight.

Overall, I'm very impressed with ATB so far. Victor's been great to work with and the skimmer is doing very well

[victor90]

Wow Michael
Thats some really impressive skimmate can you tell us what your bioload is like.
Thanks for the kind words, the same goes for you. Your a Great customer!
Victor

[woz9683]

Yeah, the skimmer has been impressing me more and more. My bioload is actually pretty light; 2 tangs (4" and 6"), a maroon clown (4"), and a mandarin fish (3"). I do try to feed twice a day, but never more than the fish can quickly consume. The tank is well developed, so their's a pretty substantial amount of micro fauna and flora as well. Unfortunately, I lost most of my sps in a move from another tank earlier this year (a cucumber hidden in a rock in the same bucket as a lot of coral did not move well) so my coral load is almost nonexistent, but the ones I still have are looking better by the day. They are coloring up very nicely as the skimmer pulls more gunk out of the water. It's definitely making me look forward to repopulating my corals!

I took more pics and I'll get them posted sometime this evening.

[scotmc]

Is the nano cone overkill for a 90 with a 30 sump?

[victor90]

Hi scotmc
The max rating for the nano cone is 198 gallons. It would work really well on a tank with 120 gallons total. The shipment should arrive next week.

[Canarygirl]

Hello ATBUSA,

Will there be regular documentation accompanying these skimmers in the future? I was a bit surprised not to receive anything with my nano.

Thanks...

[uhuru]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11471154#post11471154 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ATB USA
The shipment should arrive next week.

Very exciting news Victor!

[flipteg]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11349381#post11349381 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ATB USA
Heres some pics of new nano skimmer
http://i230.photobucket.com/albums/ee95/atbusa/DSCN5311.jpg

how come the T for the output are so low on these skimmers...? does this mean that the water level is only as high as the rim of the inner tube where the bubble plate diffuser is attached to, and it's just foam all the way to the top...?

[hahnmeister]

The standpipe sitting in the top of the 'T' twists which changes the opening size in the 'T'... a valve. Very similar to Bubbleking mini's.

[USC-fan]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11471154#post11471154 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ATB USA
Hi scotmc
The max rating for the nano cone is 198 gallons. It would work really well on a tank with 120 gallons total. How do you come up with these ratings?

[uhuru]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11473426#post11473426 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by hahnmeister
The standpipe sitting in the top of the 'T' twists which changes the opening size in the 'T'... a valve. Very similar to Bubbleking mini's.

the water level is definitely way lower though on the ATB at least with the original nano body

[Canarygirl]

the water level is definitely way lower though on the ATB at least with the original nano body

I've got mine sitting in 7.5" water in my sump. I have the original nano, too. Seems to be working fine and no microbubbles are getting into the sump, either. My only wish is that it would be easier to do small adjustments of the internal water level but the wedge pipe is not as easy to do that with as for example, a gate valve.

[flyingphish]

can i plumb off of the 'T' and route it via pvc into a filter bag?

a la elos sump?

thanks

[woz9683]

As promised, I left the skimmer set the same for a third full day. Here are a couple of pictures from the end of third day.

1. Three days worth of pretty dry skimming
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb223/woz9683/New%20ATB%20Small%20Skimmer/PC280046.jpg

2. Backlit to show how dark the skimmate is (no flash)
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb223/woz9683/New%20ATB%20Small%20Skimmer/PC280047.jpg

3. Again backlit, this time with a flash
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb223/woz9683/New%20ATB%20Small%20Skimmer/PC280048.jpg

I think I found my setting :D

[victor90]

These ratings come from Anton's recommendation and also from a few dealers that are testing the product.
Thanks

[victor90]

Plumbing off the T should be fine as long as the water flows freely so make sure the bag is not clogged. Also please remember its all metric.

[mr294]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11473756#post11473756 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by flyingphish
can i plumb off of the 'T' and route it via pvc into a filter bag?

a la elos sump?

thanks

I'm planning on switching the sump setup around so the drain line drops into the filter sock and the skimmer just sits in the main sump compartment so that I don't have to extend the plumbing from the skimmer. I also figure I will get more flow through the media chambers this way.

[uhuru]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11473726#post11473726 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Canarygirl
I've got mine sitting in 7.5" water in my sump. I have the original nano, too. Seems to be working fine and no microbubbles are getting into the sump, either. My only wish is that it would be easier to do small adjustments of the internal water level but the wedge pipe is not as easy to do that with as for example, a gate valve.

I meant the water level in the skimmer body not the sump

[chadfarmer]

woz9683

great pics

can you tell me what skimmer did you have before?

how many fish?

what and how often you you feed?

i am just trying to get an idea of your tank for the skimmate pics

[victor90]

Chadfarmer
Heres his post earlier
Yeah, the skimmer has been impressing me more and more. My bioload is actually pretty light; 2 tangs (4" and 6"), a maroon clown (4"), and a mandarin fish (3"). I do try to feed twice a day, but never more than the fish can quickly consume. The tank is well developed, so their's a pretty substantial amount of micro fauna and flora as well. Unfortunately, I lost most of my sps in a move from another tank earlier this year (a cucumber hidden in a rock in the same bucket as a lot of coral did not move well) so my coral load is almost nonexistent, but the ones I still have are looking better by the day. They are coloring up very nicely as the skimmer pulls more gunk out of the water. It's definitely making me look forward to repopulating my corals!

I took more pics and I'll get them posted sometime this evening.

[victor90]

Canarygirl
Yes
I am having a manual done for the US version. I will send you one when its done if you like.

[Canarygirl]

That would be awesome. Ed Lum has my name and address as he is going to forward to me a needlewheel impeller to try and a replacement O ring as well (I bought his demo model). :)

[woz9683]

chadfarmer,

I think the post Victor quoted answered most of your questions, but I'll try to elaborate on a couple.

1) My previous skimmer was an external DIY recirc. 8" ID cylinder with a 3" neck. It pulled a very similar volume of air (25-27scfh) and the pump's impeller was mesh-modded and the volute opened up as much as possible. It did a pretty good job of skimming my tank (although nothing like the ATB), I'd say it could pull a similar volume of skimmate in about twice the time.

2) 4 fish (see description in previous post)

3) 2x a day, just a cube of frozen food each time. I also try to keep a sheet of nori available in the tank as much as possible for the tangs to graze.

Frankly, I'm surprised at the skimmate I'm seeing from the ATB. Obviously my bioload is relatively light, but I'm getting more skimmate and the skimmate has an oily consistency to it that I hadn't seen before. I've always skimmed dry, so skimmate was generally dark, just not like it is now with the ATB.

For my tank, standard reef parameters are all in line. Very low nitrates, if any. I run carbon and GFO. I've dosed vodka in the past, but not for months now.

I can't really think of any other parameters of interest. I'll try to get a FTS in the next couple days. It's pretty boring due to my lack of corals at the moment, but at least I can show that it's well kept.

[flyingphish]

sounds like a good idea...been thinking about trying that myself.

wouldnt you think itd keep the sump box cleaner anyway?

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11475559#post11475559 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mr294
I'm planning on switching the sump setup around so the drain line drops into the filter sock and the skimmer just sits in the main sump compartment so that I don't have to extend the plumbing from the skimmer. I also figure I will get more flow through the media chambers this way.

[mr294]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11480960#post11480960 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by flyingphish

wouldnt you think itd keep the sump box cleaner anyway?

I hope so. Only real downside I'm seeing at this point is that I will likely have to start cleaning/replacing the filter socks a lot more frequently. I'm probably going to make the change sometime this week, so I can just drop the new skimmer in when it arrives. I'll let you know how things go.

[hahnmeister]

Okay, I lost you on that one... why would you be replacing a filter sock more often with the ATB?

I notice the skimmer removes more particles if anything.

[Canarygirl]

Is anyone using a Deltec airvalve on their ATB skimmer? I'm wondering if it might help me dial in the water level so that I can get wetter skimmate without overflowing the skimmer cup.

[mr294]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11481232#post11481232 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by hahnmeister
Okay, I lost you on that one... why would you be replacing a filter sock more often with the ATB?

I notice the skimmer removes more particles if anything.

I wasn't saying I would be replacing it more often because of the skimmer. Flyingphish and I were talking about changing the plumbing on the Elos sump to accommodate the ATB skimmer. Currently the drain just drops into the main sump compartment and the skimmer drains into a filter sock that then feeds the media chambers in the sump. Since the drain on the ATB is so low, I'm planning on rerouting the plumbing on the sump so that the main drain goes into the filter sock and the skimmer simply drains into the main sump compartment. Kind of reversing the setup used by Elos. In that sort of arrangement, I see the filter sock needing to be replaced more frequently.

[flyingphish]

i got lazy and decided to just throw the skimmer in the sump and continue to let the tank just drain into the sump bypassing the sock. i do have my chiller return dumping into the sock, but its not picking up much debris.

do we even need a sock? thats another debate i know.

either way, ive noticed no difference. no micro bubbles either so no need to baffle the skimmer effluent...

[flyingphish]

woz...

where do you keep the level inside the skimmer? thats nuts.

[victor90]

Heres some new pics of the us models
small
http://i230.photobucket.com/albums/ee95/atbusa/0091.jpg

[victor90]

Medium
http://i230.photobucket.com/albums/ee95/atbusa/0006.jpg

[victor90]

US medium taken apart
http://i230.photobucket.com/albums/ee95/atbusa/0081.jpg

[victor90]

US Large
http://i230.photobucket.com/albums/ee95/atbusa/0029.jpg

[mr294]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11524990#post11524990 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by flyingphish
i got lazy and decided to just throw the skimmer in the sump and continue to let the tank just drain into the sump bypassing the sock. i do have my chiller return dumping into the sock, but its not picking up much debris.

do we even need a sock? thats another debate i know.

either way, ive noticed no difference. no micro bubbles either so no need to baffle the skimmer effluent...

Good to know on the micro bubbles. If the sock clogs too quickly running the drain through it, I'm probably just going to remove it. The media chambers should prevent any micro bubbles from making it back to the return, and I'm really too lazy to change the filter sock on a daily basis :o

[hahnmeister]

Here... you all will dig this...lol:
Okay, so I started dosing some KENT additives (essential elements and Coral Vite) because they contain potassium, iron, strontium, molybdenum... all the things that some EU companies sell for 4x more.

Anyways... my skimmate changed... So I was cleaning the 'baby pooh' and it was more like black oil. I suppose you can 'overskim'...lol. Whatever was in the Kent stuff ended up in my cup later on.

Here is my finger about 1/4-3/8" away from the side of the wall (Yeah, I was brave and took one for the team that day...lol):
http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k278/wetworx101/ATBcup1.jpg
Here I move my finger back about another 1/4-3/8":
http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k278/wetworx101/ATBcup2.jpg
When I emptied it, it looked like crude in the bottom of my cup:
http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k278/wetworx101/ATBcup3.jpg

[victor90]

Looks like you can sell it as crude oil by the barrel its up to a 100 bucks

[GSMguy]

hahn has the darkest skimmate i have ever seen, those kent additives must be made from Crude.
that must smell Great.

[mr294]

The new US models look great! My only suggestion for Anton is to find a classier sticker for the collection cup :D

[xinumaster]

I ordered a red skimmer. Is that medium skimmer for me, Victor? What pump is on that skimmer?

[victor90]

Perry you actually order the large skimmer
air star 1500

[xinumaster]

I don't think the large is going to fit in my sump. Is the "normal" means large? What is the foot print for the large? I can only fit a 20x23 in my sump.

[xinumaster]

I see. I checked your website you actually already changed the model name for the conical skimmers.

[GuySmilie]

For anyone interested in the layout mechanics of this type of skimmer, which is technically called the frustum of a cone, here is a simple free layout program (http://*******.com/2oqkyq) that will create a cut pattern for the acrylic body. You can dial in any dimensions you like.

[hahnmeister]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11528347#post11528347 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by xinumaster
I see. I checked your website you actually already changed the model name for the conical skimmers.

Ill admit, the more I think about it, and the more I see people confusing the old and new naming, perhaps it would just be better to have them called 'Model 1' through 'Model 5' or something... that way people dont confuse the old Small (now medium) for the new Small (was nano mk.2). The www.aquariumtechnik.at site calls calls them by their old names even, so the 'nano' still exists, its just a 'B' model rather than the new 'Small'.

Or, perhaps, to eliminate confusion, since the base diameters of all these cones seem to be rather unique (not your usual 200 and 250 mm diameters), perhaps having them called by their base diameter isnt so bad... a 'cone 260' would mean just one body (new medium), 'cone 200' (new nano), or 'cone 330' would be the new large. This way, nobody could confuse them... not even with old models, because their base diameters would be 'cone 240 (mine)' , 'cone 160' (original nano) and maybe 'cone 600' for an xxl industrial model.

[hahnmeister]

dp

[reef / aholic]

hahnmeister - Good idea because I was about to post last night the same thing about being confused on what each one is being called now and in the past. Can we get current information on the ATB Conical Shape Skimmers and post this over on Sponsor Forums > ATBskimmers.com.

. name or model number
. specifications - length, width, height and neck
. color – white, black, grey or red
. pump – Eheim or Air-Star
. aquarium rating

[victor90]

reef/ aholic
All the info you requested can be found on atbskimmers.com except the neck size and color info. All skimmers can be made in red and grey, grey, or red and white but the small will have a grey tee though. Currently we are only stocking red and grey.
Thaanks

[hahnmeister]

Can I get UV purple body with mirrored lid and clear piping?

Actually... we were talking about that Victor... I think it might be a good idea to make the outlet pipe clear, perhaps as an option. It would sure make figuring out the actual waterline alot easier considering the bubble density makes it very hard to draw that line between the water and the air.

[GSMguy]

Any pics of the Air star in action?

[hahnmeister]

No, these skimmers are too pretty to actually run. We just put them on our dining room tables as center-pieces. The red color goes great with a rose bouquet.

[reef / aholic]

What about any other Air-Star pumps offered by ATB. The only information I can find on them is for Milking Systems.

What about which skimmer is rated for what aquarium?

hahnmeister or aton - could we also incorporate something like this?

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/139055disco_ball.jpg

[GSMguy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11534533#post11534533 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by reef / aholic
What about any other Air-Star pumps offered by ATB. The only information I can find on them is for Milking Systems.


http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/139055disco_ball.jpg



Rofl

The milking system and the Air star skimmer pump are not the same lol ;) I dont think anybody has seen the air star in action yet really.


Who has one?

[xinumaster]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11534314#post11534314 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by hahnmeister
Can I get UV purple body with mirrored lid and clear piping?

Actually... we were talking about that Victor... I think it might be a good idea to make the outlet pipe clear, perhaps as an option. It would sure make figuring out the actual waterline alot easier considering the bubble density makes it very hard to draw that line between the water and the air.

A clear pipe might not be a good idea. It can get easily encrusted with coralline which would be tough to clean.

[Canarygirl]

I second Hahnmeister's suggestion to incorporate the cone dimenions into the model names.


--owner of original 160 nano, now "small" skimmer (is that right?)

[hahnmeister]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11534611#post11534611 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by xinumaster
A clear pipe might not be a good idea. It can get easily encrusted with coralline which would be tough to clean.

Do you keep your skimmer in a place with that much light? The same argument could be made for the clear body as well... at least a standpipe is a cheap and easy thing to replace.

[victor90]

I'm sorry reef/aholic my web guy must of misunderstood me and took all that info off I will have it put up again
These are recommendations i have received for a moderately stocked tank

small up to 198 gallons
medium up to 396 gallons
large up to 660 gallons
xl up to 1450

[xinumaster]

I clear body can easily be cleaned cause your hand will fit inside. I might be wrong but I think ATB uses matric pipes. They might be cheap but it would be hard to find a clear metric pipe here in the US.

My sump got 3 dividers. The middle of the sump got chaeto and so it needs sufficient light to grow my chaeto. Another section of the sump is for the skimmer but light can still get to it and I see coralline growing there too.

I'll be picking up my large ATB skimmer tomorrow from Victor. Let see how this beast compares with my euroreef CS12-1 which has the sedra 9000 pumps.

[victor90]

Yes perry
We do use metric pipes.

[uhuru]

My ATB small should be here any minute now. It will be running in place of a BK mini 160.

[victor90]

So Mike are you next to the door literally waiting for UPS?

[jtarmitage]

I am sure he will be opening the box and checking everything as soon as possible after a previous skimmer purchase:eek1:

[woz9683]

I think it might be a good idea to make the outlet pipe clear, perhaps as an option. It would sure make figuring out the actual waterline alot easier considering the bubble density makes it very hard to draw that line between the water and the air.
I second this motion, somebody asked the water level question of me after I posted those skimmate pics, and I honestly haven't figured out the answer yet. The skimmer builds a head of foam so fast that it's not just a simple matter of where's the water level as soon as it's turned on.


On another note, personally, I like the named skimmers rather than just a string of digits. Maybe a date of introduction could be added to differentiate the models, but still incorporate the names. Then, for more detailed specs a list could be made available on www.atbskimmers.com
For example, my skimmer is one of the original European spec'd Smalls (let's assume it was introduced in 2005). It would be a Small '05. The new, resized for the US, Small would be a Small '07. The European Nano would be a Nano '05 which was not continued in the US nomenclature. And as long as specs are listed somewhere, anyone could easily go and find out that the Small '07 and the Nano '05 are actually very similar (Again, just an assumption for the sake of the argument).

[victor90]

The reason for the version 2 on each of the skimmers name was so i could tell which size skimmer each customer has. If they say they have a nanov1 I would know that it is a euro nano etc. I was worried about the date thing because people might think its outdated.
Thanks for all your ideas and they are considered.

[uhuru]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11542698#post11542698 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jtarmitage
I am sure he will be opening the box and checking everything as soon as possible after a previous skimmer purchase:eek1:

LOL, this is true.

Everything arrived intact! I LOVE the new dimensions on this. The new neck design with the O-ring is also a welcome improvement. Fine craftsmanship as well, deserving of "top of the line" skimmer status. Anyways pics to come...

[victor90]

Mike
I'm very glad you liked it. I too was very impressed when I opened this shipment

[GuySmilie]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11545637#post11545637 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by uhuru
.....The new neck design with the O-ring is also a welcome improvement.

So based on the disassembled pix above, it looks like the neck assembly is just a press-fit into the skimmer body. That's the way Via Aqua does theirs.

On the ATB it looks like a flat PVC ring has been glued to the outer circumference of the clear acrylic neck tube. Then it looks like there is some sort of relief groove machined into this PVC ring that accepts a silicone o-ring. Then the whole neck assembly is just press-fitted into a bigger PCV ring that's glued to the acrylic cone. No twist-loks, unions, or fancy water pressure seal?

Is that how it works?

[victor90]

Yes you are right

[uhuru]

Victor I sent you an email. I lost the blue connection hose for the pump to the skimmer. I can't set up the skimmer yet :(

[victor90]

I will get you a new one 3 day express

[xinumaster]

Picked up my large skimmer yesterday, but I got a problem on how to sneak the skimmer into the house then to the sump without the wife knowing. :D

[victor90]

I was wondering how you were going too do that

[uhuru]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11547941#post11547941 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ATB USA
I will get you a new one 3 day express

Thanks!

[DT's_Reef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11549865#post11549865 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by xinumaster
Picked up my large skimmer yesterday, but I got a problem on how to sneak the skimmer into the house then to the sump without the wife knowing. :D

Take it apart??? :D

[xinumaster]

Okay. I was able to sneaked it in my garage and hide next to my bikes late last night while everyone else were sleeping.
http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r83/xinumaster/reef-equipments/DSCN1614.jpg

http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r83/xinumaster/reef-equipments/DSCN1615.jpg

[GSMguy]

Perry are you the first customer with an air star.

LOL i love how well your hiding that giant box LMAO

[xinumaster]

My sump where this skimmer is going to has a water height of 12.5". Will that be too deep for this skimmer?

[DT's_Reef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11558424#post11558424 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by xinumaster
Okay. I was able to sneaked it in my garage and hide next to my bikes late last night while everyone else were sleeping.
http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r83/xinumaster/reef-equipments/DSCN1614.jpg

http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r83/xinumaster/reef-equipments/DSCN1615.jpg

What size skimmer did you get? I thought they came with Eheim pumps.

[Jim_S]

DT, The larger models come with new Airstar model pumps!!

Perry, the skimmer looks sweet! I'll bet it'll look better when its in your stand sucking the crud out of your tank :D

[Canarygirl]

I think the wrong strategy is being used here. I recommend getting the wife emotionally invested in something she really wants (something equally expensive), then fenagle a "trade" where she gets that thing if you get the skimmer your tank needs. Once she agrees, you can "Voila!" magically produce it. :D

[xinumaster]

Canary,
I got her a new $40k odyssey and $5k ring last year. I think that should be enough for her for now. I don't really understand it. Women gets mad when their husband spend money, but is okay for them when they're the one spending eg. bags, shoes, make up kits... I only got a couple pair of shoes but she got hundreds.

DT,
I got the Large Model.

Do you think that water height of 12.5" in the sump would be too deep for this Large model ATB skimmer?

[Canarygirl]

I got her a new $40k odyssey and $5k ring last year. I think that should be enough for her for now.

Damn, man! Haul that puppy out of the garage and set it up!

As for the water level height, I don't know but I think it should still perform. There may be increased risk of getting microbubbles released to your sump which may or may not be a problem for you. Can you just try it out and see how it goes? Plan B is to raise the skimmer up by putting it on a pvc platform or something like that.

[DT's_Reef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11558949#post11558949 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jimdogg187
DT, The larger models come with new Airstar model pumps!!

Perry, the skimmer looks sweet! I'll bet it'll look better when its in your stand sucking the crud out of your tank :D

Do you know if the "larger" models include the "medium" size? Thanks.

[DT's_Reef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11559291#post11559291 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by DT's_Reef
Do you know if the "larger" models include the "medium" size? Thanks.

Nevermind, I have my answer as I just received the medium skimmer via UPS :D

I have to run back to work so I set it up adjusted on the "low" side, anticipating that the column will rise significantly by the time I get home.

[JCTewks]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11560455#post11560455 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by DT's_Reef
Nevermind, I have my answer as I just received the medium skimmer via UPS :D

I have to run back to work so I set it up adjusted on the "low" side, anticipating that the column will rise significantly by the time I get home.

So, what's the answer? :lol:

[DT's_Reef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11564083#post11564083 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by JCTewks
So, what's the answer? :lol:

The answer is "no". The small and medium use an Eheim, and the large and extra large use a newer pump. It's my understanding that the newer pump requires a larger body to work well.

[victor90]

The airstar pumps put out too much air for the medium body
the airstar 1500 is doing 1500L/hr of air with a needlewheel
the airstar 2000 is doing 2700L/hr of air with a threadwheel
Also i liked the quietness of the eheim pumps
Once you fire up your skimmer you will see it produces a lot of foam these skimmers do not need that much air

[DT's_Reef]

Yes, the Eheim 1260 is *extremely* quiet....like nonexistent. I like it a lot.

[hahnmeister]

And just imagine, Laguna pumps are better than eheims even, and with the custom volute's very thick walls, these pumps will perform better than eheims.

[JCTewks]

which lagunas are being used? the 1500 and 2400?

[xinumaster]

The sticker on the pump on my Large skimmer model says MAX FLOW 1500.

[JCTewks]

i'm guessing that it will be the maxflo 2400 on the XL

[Waxxiemann]

Hey guys, I asked this in the ATB forum but it's kinda a ghost town. Maybe you can help me out.

Would the "small" or "medium" skimmer be better for a heavily stocked 130 (200 gallon total)?

Thanks a million!
Waxx

[victor90]

Waxxiemann
Actually I've tried to pm you back a few times since you pmed me but its always full
You are right on the max side rating of the small and in the middle of the Medium Of course the small would work but the medium would be better and it gives you room to upgrade your tank later.
Thanks

[Waxxiemann]

Sorry ATB!! I didn't realize my PM box was full. Thanks for the quick response.

[xinumaster]

Got the skimmer installed last night. The skimmer seats on an elevated eggcrate stand that I built so the skimmer is now seating 10" below water instead of the 12.5" with out the stand.

Here is a picture of the skimmer before it when in my sump.
http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r83/xinumaster/reef-equipments/DSCN1618-1.jpg

Here is the skimmer after I feed my tank with cyclop-eez last night. By the way, the skimmer didn't get a vinegar bath. It went straight to my sump.
http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r83/xinumaster/reef-equipments/DSCN1619.jpg
http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r83/xinumaster/reef-equipments/DSCN1620.jpg

And this is what it look this morning when I woke up.
http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r83/xinumaster/reef-equipments/DSCN1623.jpg

[xinumaster]

This is my old skimmer CS12-1 with 2sedra pumps (sedra 9000 and sedra 500). This is what skimmate I get 3 to 5 days after. I still like the build on this skimmer, though. The materials used are ticker, solid build and really feel heavy when you hold it.

http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r83/xinumaster/reef-equipments/DSCN2106.jpg

[DT's_Reef]

Is there an optimum sump water level for the medium skimmer?

My sump usually has 6" or 7".

I installed my skimmer yesterday afternoon and had a thin layer of dark skimmate this morning.

[Canarygirl]

ATB, I am using the original nano w/eheim 1250 meshweel on my heavily stocked SPS reeftank (net gallons 145). Ed also sent me the needlewheel. Is there any advantage to swapping out the meshwheel for the needlewheel now, or should I keep it as backup incase I have a problem with the meshwheel down the road? I would imagine that the meshwheel pulls more air so I should use that instead (?)

[victor90]

DT's on the medium 7 to 8 inches is fine

[victor90]

Canarygirl
The only thing that the needlewheel did on the 1250 pump was reduce the microbubbles. If you are ok with the microbubbles I would just leave it. The mesh on the ATB pumps are easy to change out you just untwist the arbor in the middle and put on new mesh and trim to size. I have not forgotten about the manual the company is still doing the CAD design for it. I hope to send them out soon.
Thanks

[Canarygirl]

Thanks. For some reason I don't understand, the output stopped putting out microbubbles after about the first day I used this skimmer. I don't think it could be a break-in issue because Ed used the skimmer a month before I had it. But now when I look at the outflow, there are zero bubbles coming out. Ed said that he used to get a ton of micro bubbles...go figure. :confused: Not that I'm complaining. This skimmer is sitting in 7.5" of water, BTW.

[mr294]

A package arrived, what could it be?

http://www.buddypants.reacura.com/images5/atb1.jpg

It's my membership card :D

http://www.buddypants.reacura.com/images5/atb5.jpg

http://www.buddypants.reacura.com/images5/atb8.jpg

[uhuru]

I got the connector today so I can hook up the pump to the skimmer. Victor your customer service is second to none!

I think I will try to get it set up tonight then I'll take some pics.

[GuySmilie]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11570373#post11570373 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mr294
A package arrived, what could it be?

http://www.buddypants.reacura.com/images5/atb1.jpg
I don't know but that pooch is so excited (s)he needs a drink! :D

[GuySmilie]

^

[uhuru]

the larger body and needlewheel in place of the meshwheel has completely eliminated any microbubbles! I'm also tempted to put the meshwheel back on to see if I can get away with it . . . maybe I'll try it this weekend :) With the meshwheel on the original nano body I couldn't even see the water line. Still can't get over how completely silent this is.

[uhuru]

Victor, is this where the water level should be?

http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb171/icientyouth/DSCN2514.jpg

Here's some other pictures I took before/right after setup:

this is next to a BK mini 160 - you can see how compact the "small" still is:
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb171/icientyouth/DSCN2508.jpg

no microbubbles:
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb171/icientyouth/DSCN2517.jpg

same thickness in acrylic is the BK, but the BK has more finished edges:
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb171/icientyouth/DSCN2510.jpg

[victor90]

Uhuru
I would give it a few hours first. I think I still see the bubbles sticking to the acrylic. when the skimmer first starts I usually adjust it so that the bubbles are just over the neck flange.

[hiepatitis]

Welcome me to the club. Victor actually stopped by my place and hand delivered this Small Cone. As mentioned before, outstanding customer service. Fast replies and even called to check up on me after I got it running.

First assembled
http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i131/hiepatitis/IMG_1568.jpg

In my sump
http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i131/hiepatitis/IMG_1590.jpg

I am pretty pleased with the performance. The skimmer took about a day or two to break in. This is what it pulled out in about a day. Keep in mind I only have five fish and and I only feed once a day if even.
http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i131/hiepatitis/IMG_1575-1.jpg

The bubbles are very fine and there is very little turbulence which allows for chunks of crap to float up making a nice foam.
http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i131/hiepatitis/IMG_1576.jpg
http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i131/hiepatitis/IMG_1578.jpg
http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i131/hiepatitis/IMG_1571.jpg

This is what the Eheim 1250 was pulling in at first. After breaking in the air draw has increased from 420lph to over 500lph. Victor is going to get me the meshwheel because I'm not concerned about microbubbles and I want to see this thing with the 720lph. The pump is super quiet.
http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i131/hiepatitis/IMG_1581.jpg

This is with the standpipe fully open. That's fluffy ain't it.
http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i131/hiepatitis/IMG_1618.jpg

[uhuru]

Hiep how deep do you have it submerged in your sump?

[hiepatitis]

I have it in 7" of water in my sump. The last pic there it was sitting in my prop tank while I was working on the sump which is about 9" of water.

[Lunchbucket]

Dang just found this thread.

I WANT ONE!!

Look very very nice!

Lunchbucket

[uhuru]

Well so much for waiting until this weekend - I went ahead and switched out the needlewheel for the meshwheel. So far no microbubbles. I'm going to leave it running with the output wide open over night.

[neyugn0w01]

Got a chance to meet Victor this past Saturday. He's knows his stuff and the skimmer are looking good base on these new pics.

[xinumaster]

Meshwheel or needlewheel no microbubbles on the exhaust on mine. By the way, I love how easy it is to swap between mesh to needle wheel and vis versa. And thanks to Victor for including both mesh and needlewheel in the package.

By the way, I got home from work and found the cup full, so I drained the cup. Sorry, I forgot to take a picture, But no worry I expect to see a full cup again tomorrow.

[victor90]

Perry
I am sorry but I did not get a chance to test the large skimmer. Am I correct you are using the meshwheel on the large and no microbubbles. If this is true then its pulling 2280L/hr of air.

[GSMguy]

Pictures Perry Please ;)




of the Nog i mean, is it black like hahns?

[xinumaster]

Victor
First night I used the needlewheel then yesterday I tried to used the meshwheel. Both didn't show microbubbles. At first I thought there were bubbles coming out of the exit pipe, but found out that the bubbles actually were coming from my main tank drain pipes.

GSM
The skimmate was brown and wet, so last night I opened the exhaust pipe gate to make the skimmate darker. I'll take some pictures tonight when I get home.

[Canarygirl]

last night I opened the exhaust pipe gate to make the skimmate darker

Huh? Do you mean the verticle pipe that the sound deadening chamber is attached to? That's the only pipe I thought was adjustable, and if I want to make the skimmate darker I need to close this further...if I open it wider the skimmate gets wetter.

[DT's_Reef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11575077#post11575077 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Canarygirl
Huh? Do you mean the verticle pipe that the sound deadening chamber is attached to? That's the only pipe I thought was adjustable, and if I want to make the skimmate darker I need to close this further...if I open it wider the skimmate gets wetter.

If you restrict the flow from the "exhaust pipe" it should increase the height of the water column and result in a wetter, lighter skimmate. If you "open it up" (turn the adjustment pipe counter clockwise), it should increase the exhaust flow and lower the water column inside the skimmer, resulting in a darker, more dry skimmate.

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11572113#post11572113 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by uhuru
Victor, is this where the water level should be?

http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb171/icientyouth/DSCN2514.jpg

Here's some other pictures I took before/right after setup:

this is next to a BK mini 160 - you can see how compact the "small" still is:
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb171/icientyouth/DSCN2508.jpg

no microbubbles:
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb171/icientyouth/DSCN2517.jpg

same thickness in acrylic is the BK, but the BK has more finished edges:
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb171/icientyouth/DSCN2510.jpg

Man it must be nice to be able to have/own two of the most sought after skimmer. Which one do you like better at this point?

Keep us posted.

[Canarygirl]

If you restrict the flow from the "exhaust pipe" it should increase the height of the water column and result in a wetter, lighter skimmate. If you "open it up" (turn the adjustment pipe counter clockwise), it should increase the exhaust flow and lower the water column inside the skimmer, resulting in a darker, more dry skimmate.

Of course....going to get more coffee now...:p

[uhuru]

JRaquatics - both skimmers are beasts I can tell you that. The meshwheel on the eheim 1250 is the way to go instead of the needlewheel IMO. I looked at the skimmer this morning and it is still breaking in, still has big bubbles stuck to the body, no foam head yet. But, wow, you can't even see the water line anymore, the whole cone is just filled with tiny condensed bubbles, way more than even the BK - and still no microbubbles!

[uhuru]

Keeping the thread alive! LOL. Just got home and it looks like its starting to break in...

http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb171/icientyouth/DSCN2523.jpg

[GSMguy]

Reef chili or coral frenzy always get my skimmers foaming...

[GSMguy]

Reef chili or coral frenzy always get my skimmers foaming...

[Lunchbucket]

Yeah must be crazy to have two of the most sought after skimmers ever

Lunchbucket

[xinumaster]

Okay, this is what the cup look like when I got home today, this is about 12hrs.

http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r83/xinumaster/reef-equipments/DSCN1628.jpg

[gcarroll]

Not bad, I would be happy with that. I myself, don't mind skimming wet.

[GSMguy]

I cant wait for the HOB ATB to come out i might have to get that one and sell one of my MCE

[uhuru]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11579099#post11579099 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Lunchbucket
Yeah must be crazy to have two of the most sought after skimmers ever

Lunchbucket

What do you mean? The BK is readily available at several online vendors and the ATB you can just talk to Victor . . . unless you're just being sarcastic. Also I didn't get both skimmers for the same tank the BK is going on a different setup, unless I'm so blown away by the ATB that I sell the BK and get another one :) One huge advantage is how cheap (relatively) the replacement pumps would be on the small and medium models.

I was a bit concerned yesterday because I was getting large bubbles and turbulence in the neck of the skimmer but this morning it appears that has gone away completely. I got my first bit of skimmate but it's fairly wet. Of course I only have 5 fish right now.