Diy Swcd...

taekwondodo · #1 12/01/2007, 12:25 PM

I can't be the first to think of this...

Has anyone looked at using several of these:

http://www.sprinklerwarehouse.com/Ra...-p/100-jtv.htm

(or similar) hooked up to timers to manage flow?

I tried searching "sprinkler" and all I found were the sprinkler head mods...

GrandeGixxer · #2 12/01/2007, 02:34 PM

Pretty cool idea. Problem is, you have to buy a controller for them at about $100. I couldn't tell if the controllers would offer you switching at say every 15 seconds? Also, are these valves all plastic, or are there metal parts exposed to the flow? I do like the idea that there is really nothing that can get clogged like in a SCWD the foul up the workings.

taekwondodo · #3 12/01/2007, 02:37 PM

I was thinking about hooking it up to a coralife reef timer - one side on for 15 mins, then the other side, then the first side, then the other side... etc. That's pretty cheap ($30).

I'm sick of having to clean my SWCD, and the fact that it reduces the flow so much...

bhbell · #4 12/01/2007, 09:20 PM

They have exposed metal in them.

Kentanner11 · #5 12/01/2007, 10:59 PM

The controllers are NOT 100$ I picked up one for a reptile tank for 16$ that can control 6 valves. I dont think there is metal but will have to check! Good Idea.

JACOXVIII · #6 12/02/2007, 12:53 AM

will not work they need higher psi the most aquarium use
the psi of the water is what closes the valve
the small solenoid releases the psi on the back side of the valve
and lets it open

kgross · #7 12/02/2007, 03:08 AM

Jacoxviii is correct they do not work very well at our low pressures. Plus the organics that grow in our plumbing will stop them from working. Lots of people have tried and I do not know of any that have used them for more than a week or 2 before they give up. Same with geared sprinker heads to give a rotating outlet. Work great for a short time, but the create a lot of pressure/flow loss and gum up pretty quickly.

Kim

RandyStacyE · #8 12/02/2007, 11:45 PM

I have to say that the valve looked REAL impressive at first glance ... especially for the price. www.oceansmotions.com

Then when you think about it you'd probably want 3 or 4 to make yourself a 'sudo OM' ... this would already cost one approx $80.00 and you'd still need a controller.

I have to admit the OM guys have an excellent product and I've never owned one

After looking at their prices one takes a serious look at the SCWD.

I personally have not seen a good wave maker in the same price range. When I say good, I mean in simplicity and reliability. I haven't even seen a DIY OM that is cheap enough to compair.