How does one calculate skimmer volume

[KADLETZ]

I was wondering if any one could tell me how to calculate the size of a skimmer to tank volume, besides the rating they give you...

[KADLETZ]

still need help with this

[Andrew]

All skimmers vary. It also depends on the type of skimmer.

[KADLETZ]

so in other words you dont know.

[Andrew]

No.... Re-read what I said. There's a few differen't TPYPES of skimmers and they are not all the same. For example, a needlewheel skimmer is way differen't than a beckett skimmer.

[Mr James]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8407741#post8407741 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by KADLETZ
so in other words you dont know.

Way to make friends Chris!!

Andrew, I think he is looking to make a NW-type skimmer and was wondering how much volume to process through his skimmer. I thought I heard 1x - 2x turnover, but I am not sure what application that was for.

EDIT: I just saw you make skimmers Andrew. Could you PM me with more info please??

[KADLETZ]

a needlewheel skimmer is way differen't than a beckett skimmer.
ok a needlewheel skimmer with 63" height, 12" diameter,1 1/2inlet, outlet 2", drain 1" total volume 25 gallons, powered by a 3600 gph pump

[KADLETZ]

no james that is the pump, but when you look at the specs. on these things there all over the map, it just does not work out, is there a formula, maybe online calculater, not sure, i have been looking at skimmers two of the same type of skimmers with same specs exp. diameter, height, volume, with two different ratings by 150 gallons, so no harm its just a calculation issue thats all.

[Roland Jacques]

Their no one answer to your question. not even close to one answer. It a combination of a large number of factors that determines a skimmer capacity. and then after that tiers every one and their grandmas opinion.

if you have that skimmer you mentioned how much air does it pull...? do you have photos?

ratings buy some manufactures means nothing.

[KADLETZ]

I guess i would need to gauge the venturi air in take some how? skimmer volume is 25 gallons, the pump works at 3600 gallons an hour, i guess there is no real answer, It seems that there is no test or math to it, just opinion. I do hear alot of people say the flow to the skimmer should be 1.5 to 2 x tank volume. I just was hoping for some math to use towards the diffrent types of skimmers in regards to size and volume of them in reflection to ones take. thanks for the help thou..

[KADLETZ]

hmmmm

[KADLETZ]

hmmmm