DIY Alternating Surge Currents

[bubo]

While I was looking for information on how overflows operate (not how to make one, but the way that they function), I came across a webpage that describes an alternating surge current system. I'd like to know what the experienced DIYers think about it.

http://avdil.gtri.gatech.edu/RCM/RCM...ionSystem.html

[fishfreek]

The link you provided seems to be a kind of complex system. I have seen other surge devices that are much simpler and have very few moving parts.

http://www.breeders-registry.gen.[acronym:9846e6b10c="Calcium"]ca[/acronym:9846e6b10c].us/Reprints/SeaScope/v13_sumr/surge.htm

The above is an article written by the Director of the Waikiki Aquarium in HI. They have a huge surge device on one of their outside aquariums. A simple diagram is included in the article.

http://www.petsforum.com/personal/tr...ge_device.html

The above link shows you a much smaller version of the same surge device design.

http://www.breeders-registry.gen.[acronym:9846e6b10c="Calcium"]ca[/acronym:9846e6b10c].us/Reprints/MFM/v11_aug96/simple_surge.htm

http://www.aquatouch.com/surge_b.htm

This is a great way to reproduce natural currents in your tank. If you have been snorkling or diving in a reef you know that the currents while they are strong do not always come from 1 single direction. A surge device will send a predticable surge of water/energy thru the system. The net result is high flow with random direction.