Making a filter

mhancock · Aug 29, 2018

Hi,

I'm making a filter to replace the one in the hood of a tank I was given, which is very noisy.

First attempt worked well, but it is apparent that the over flow I'd used was too narrow for the flow rate of the pump.

I'm now going to redo it with 40mm waste pipe.

My question is: am I ok using regular silicone sealant in the filter to make the join water tight, or should I use special stuff?

Thanks,

Mark

fluttermoth · Aug 29, 2018

Most silicone sealants have additives that are toxic to fish. You MUST use one that's labelled as safe for aquariums.

mhancock · Aug 29, 2018

fluttermoth said:
Most silicone sealants have additives that are toxic to fish. You MUST use one that's labelled as safe for aquariums.

That's so helpful, thank you

AbbeysDad · Aug 29, 2018

Just like sealing a tank, GE Silicone I Window and Door is safe for aquariums. However, note that silicone may not adhere well to most plastics. (You might sand to create a rough surface and clean with alcohol, but iffy still). Also, ensure it is FULLY cured (48+ hours) before using.
I have also used an incredible German super glue (a cyanoacrylate adhesive) called Max 1 that when cured, is aquarium safe.

NickAu · Aug 29, 2018

I use super glue to attach plants to bits of wood so its fish safe. I prefer the gel type.

http://supergluecorp.com/blog/2015/11/09/how-to-use-super-glue-in-your-fish-and-coral-tank/

AbbeysDad · Aug 30, 2018

NickAu said:
I use super glue to attach plants to bits of wood so its fish safe. I prefer the gel type.

http://supergluecorp.com/blog/2015/11/09/how-to-use-super-glue-in-your-fish-and-coral-tank/

Yes and Loctite makes a SG gel that works for plants, but for DIY stuff, I like the Max 1.

DrRob · Aug 30, 2018

I've had a few cyanoacrylate projects give way after time and exposure to water. Now drinking water safe solvent weld, that stuff is great underwater.

mhancock · Sep 2, 2018

Thanks for the comments, is all superglue safe?

Mark

Ps will put some pics up when done

mhancock · Sep 22, 2018

NickAu said:
I use super glue to attach plants to bits of wood so its fish safe. I prefer the gel type.

http://supergluecorp.com/blog/2015/11/09/how-to-use-super-glue-in-your-fish-and-coral-tank/

Thank you!

mhancock · Sep 22, 2018

So here's the hopefully finished filter. It's a little noisier in place than it was in testing, but much quieter then the previous waterfall style design.

Having the heater here hidden in the hood makes the tank look nicer, and a benefit I was not expecting is the air being drawn down.

The higher black tube is for emergency overflow. It will probably never be needed but I didn't want to risk not having it!

Thanks for the advice with this,

Mark

DrRob · Sep 23, 2018

If you want a dual outlet to be quieter then you can put a 180 degree bend (with an open topped vent at the top of the bend) on the higher tube and then throttle down the lower tube so that a tiny amount goes through the higher. That way the lower tube basically runs with a slow by silent syphon and carries most of the flow, leaving a tiny flow to the higher tube. If the lower tube blocks then, as the level rises it covers the open top on the bend and the larger tube goes full syphon. The noise level goes up and you spot that there's a problem.

AbbeysDad · Sep 23, 2018

Looking at the photo, a couple of thoughts came to me about the design that I thought I'd share. It looks like water comes in piped to the bottom and you have filter floss secured with rocks and bio-balls floating around. Consider a top tray to contain the filter floss (easier to service) and then Seachem Matrix/De*Nitrate or Marinepure CerMedia in the lower chamber.

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Making a filter

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