Sulfur Denitrator Flow Control
 

I recently built a denitrator for my 125 mixed reef. I got tired of measuring the flow by timing the filling of a graduated cylinder so I implemented an item we use at work to control flow on our semiconductor tools.
It is a Dwyer Rotameter. They have a model with an adjustment valve and a scale that reads 20cc(ml) to 200cc(ml) which is perfect for a tank approx the size of mine. It is also cheap. Like $20. And it works PERFECT! Just turn the knob and the little ball rises and falls accordingly giving you an accurate read out of your flow rate. It reads a little lower than nominal with salt water but it is plenty close enough.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/opbbxnvldngugfs/MMA.pdf?dl=0

Above is the cut sheet for it. I used Model MMA-37

It sure beats a watch and a beaker!.

One more thing. I got the best results running the delivery line to the reactor unrestricted. I put the Rotameter as the very last item on the output with the valve installed on the bottom port of the meter. The valve comes with the meter.

Jeff

Jeff,

This sounds really interesting to me. I would like one of these for both my Denitrator and Calcium Reactors. Do you feel the stainless steel component may not hold up under saltwater conditions? I also see on Dwyer's website you can get these with Bunta-N rather than nylon.

Do you have a good source for these?

Thanks,

Russ

You can buy them from www.Dwyer-inst.com
Model MMA-37 has a range of 20cc(ml) to 200cc(ml) which is perfect for a nitrate reactor unless you have a very large or small tank. It comes with a little valve assy so it replaces the needle valve you now have. And gives you a nice readout and adjustment method all in one for under $20 or right around there I can't recall exactly.

Jeff

THANKS!

I checked out their website and also found where these can come optional with Bunta-N seals. I would like to get that option as I'm considering using one of these on my Calcium Reactor as well. I just can't figure out how to order the option, but I'll continue to look.

Also, how can these be mounted? I DIY'd the dosing block for my sump as depicted in the picture. (Yellow and Blue tubes)

Thanks,

RB

They come with a cheesy little bracket that mounts them. They must be mounted vertical but other than that they are not too picky. Right now mine is propped up between the legs of my return pump manifold.

Jeff

The come std with a Buna Oring. The body is nylon. The float is black glass. They will be fine on a cal reactor or a nitrate reactor. I do not think any part of it will have an issue with salt water or co2.

Jeff