Filter system. please help

[angmoh]

I have a filter system. the water flows into a small tank, with a several partition in it and is pumped back to the tank again .. What does this type of filter system called ?


Second, what would be the ideal substance to be placed in those partitions in sequence?

Water in ---------------------> water out
Sponges ---> carbon ----> bioballs ?

What's the use of bioballs ? to me , they just seem to be small rubber balls ...?

thanks

 

[RogerMcAllen]

Sounds like a sump to me. I am not really sure on what you want, but I am fairly sure that bioballs are a fairly antiquated notion by now. Their purpose is that they have a ton of surface area on them for nitrifying bacteria to live on. The only problem is that in the process, they produce a lot of nitrate which can build up quickly. Most people ditch the balls and put some reef rubble in there.

 

[StyleUK]

Sounds like a sump to me too, some people like them others don't. Have a look around and decide from different opinions, I like them myself and think they're one of the best types of filteration, so good luck!

As for the bioballs, i'm not sure, maybe a few more of our senior members will post and help!

HTH

 

[BrianNY]

The bioballs are an ideal place for colonization of nitrifying bacteria. The essential ingredient of a cycled tank. Moving water along the surface of the bioballs ensures enough O2 for a healthy colony.

 

[angmoh]

well, i believe there's a several partitions in the sump right ? a place to put your bioballs, to put your carbon , to put the sponges ...etc..

does the order of those arrangement important ? or do i have to follow a certain sequence ?

Water in ---------------------> water out

First Sponges , and then activated carbon and lastly bioballs ?

 

[mattrox]

First you want to filter out big stuff..... Sponges, ceramic rings, and floss can do that, then you want to grow bacteria..bio-balls, Bio-max (scinteres glass noodles), I have even seen people used smached up terracotta, ceramic tiles etc. i.e. porus material that allows bacteria to grow and created eddie currents to distribute oxygenated water to all surfaces.

I wouldn't worry about the carbon. More expence, maintanence and hassle than it is worth. You don't NEED it unless you are removing medication from the tank.