Reef Builders - The Source for Reef Keeping Information

I put mine on a stand with a "connector" for easy disconnect.

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Very nice work. Eventually I wanted to mount mine vertical to prevent channeling. Now we have a couple versions to work with when the DIY build comes around if people are interested. What did use in the ends for filter material to keep the carbon in?

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(' )< David >( ')

"The world is headed for mutiny when all we want is unity" Scott Stapp, Creed

I plan on using filter pads. I think I saw some down at AG that will work. Otherwise spun glass.

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When I was looking for pad material I tried to find something with large enough pores so it wouldnt trap detritus but small enough so the carbon wouldnt get through. I think the stuff I chose is pictured in my build thread. I got it at AG.

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(' )< David >( ')

"The world is headed for mutiny when all we want is unity" Scott Stapp, Creed

In looking at your thread I noticed another difference. I used 4" pipe.

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I plan on using the same basic design for a Neilsen Reactor. As soon as I can figure out the plumbing for the pump.

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As I was building mine it seemed small, but it took a pound of carbon so that should be enough. The filters I used are a bit large for the 3 inch pipe, but should fit perfectly in the 4 inch.

How did you attach your fittings to the pipe?

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(' )< David >( ')

"The world is headed for mutiny when all we want is unity" Scott Stapp, Creed

I attached to the pipe with 1/2" PVC elbows and then adaptors to threaded PVC. Here is a picture of the parts:

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Close ups of fittings

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On mounting the fittings to the 4" pipe. I "flattened" the 4" pipe with a rasp and file to make for a better bonding between the pipe and the fitting.

BTW, I hate this new purple PVC primer. It gets over everything.

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I threaded mine in too. Mine has a filter placed in both ends of the tube, but hopefully isnt actually doing any filtering, just keeping the carbon in. Depending upon the pump used some pumps come with a prefilter.

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(' )< David >( ')

"The world is headed for mutiny when all we want is unity" Scott Stapp, Creed

I have placed the plans for the carbon reactor on my site. Take a look at for the format and let me know what you think. I am still working on the final content.

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