Calcium Reactors vs. Nilsen Reactors

[pennrj430]

Hi everyone, what exactly is the difference between Calcium Reactors, and Nilsen Reactors? I believe that the Nilsen uses Kalk or Lime? Is this right? What is the difference, which is easier to use, which is less expensive in the long run (including media), what are the benefits of both? Is there a huge difference between using Lime vs. Calcium? If anyone can help me with this, it would be a real help. Thanks everyone.

[MCary]

A calcium reactor is a vessel that uses CO2 to lower the pH of the water in it enough to dissolve calcified media back into solution. It uses some form of crushed coral as a media. It takes in tank water.

Kalk won't dissolve in tank water (unless you also lowered its pH) so a neilsen reactor uses fresh water and is basically a stirrer. It keeps the new water coming in mixed with Kalk (which is just german for pickling lime). I believe the best delivery system is to have your topoff water run through your reactor.

Mike