CO2 for 2ft

[Aeon]

Hi, I've decided to go from DIY to a pressurized system but is kinda blur on what to use.

Where can I get more information on the kind of tanks, regulators, etc... What is a solenoid, different types of reactors, diffusers, etc.

I'm sure this has been discussed millions of times but the search function isn't working for me.

Like everyone else I'm on tight budget and planning to get 2nd hand tank but I want to be sure the parts I buy are compatible to avoid the beginner's mistakes.

[tawauboy]

you can search the web. there are tons of information out there.

briefly, you need a tank. this can be made from steel or aluminium alloy (which is more expensive, lighter and doesn’t rust). bigger tanks last longer between refills. check the buy/sell/trade forum for some deals.

a regulator is required to reduce the tank pressure (~1000psi) to working pressure (>~40psi). a proper regulator will have either fixed regulated output pressure or adjustable regulated output pressure. normally, these regulators comes with twin gauges. beware of so called ‘manual regulators’, which are a lot cheaper. these doesn’t regulate but more akin to a open/close valve.

needle valve is used to control flow rate (co2 bubbling rate). get one and you’ll not regret it.

solenoid is an electrical controlled open/close valve. normally used with a timer to turn off co2 supply during light off period. optional, but is required if you want to run a high co2 concentration tank.

reactors and diffusers are used to diffuse co2 into the water. reactors, where co2 and water are mixed in a chamber, are more efficient. diffusers, normally referred to ceramic plate type, have a porous ceramic plate which will break co2 into tiny bubbles before release.

a Co2 system is independent of types and sizes of aquarium tanks.

[juggler]

Check this http://www.csd.net/~cgadd/aqua/diy_co2rig.htm
With diagrams/pics.

[Aeon]

Thanks guys! that's very helpful!!

[Aeon]

Hmmm, looking at juggler's link. It says normal tubing should not be used, as the CO2 will diffuse thru. Is the loss significant? or just negligible? if I have to get specialised tubing, what type and where?

[tawauboy]

normal silicone tubing will work fine. loss is negligible, < 5%. specialized tubing are made of polyurethane, which is very stiff. can source such tubes from shop selling pneumatic products.