Introduction: Aquaponic BIO-REACTOR - Part of a Balcony Unit Design
aquaponic BIO-REACTOR - Balcony Unit
aquaponic BIO-REACTOR is a component of a lager aquaponic Balcony Unit System ( see in pictures above). This instructable is to document the build of the BIO-REACTOR and is referenced in the assembly directions for putting together the Balcony Unit. This provides a comprehensive guide to parts and materials used in the construction of the BIO-REACTOR. You can find individual items of the build at www.rik94566.wordpress.com if you do not want to spend the time to gather all the parts on your own or have extra materials left over from the build.
WHAT DOES IT DO?
DIY BIO-REACTOR - converts toxic fish waste to non-toxic plant fertilizer using moving bed media (big system component not found in any small systems).
WHY IS IT NEEDED:
Three basic rules in aquaponics are as follows:
1:1 RELATIONSHIP -- between fish tank volume and grow bed volume.
NUMBER OF FISH (stocking density) -- The general rule of thumb for a home, media-based aquaponics system is one pound (500g) of fish for every five to ten gallons (20 to 40 liters) of fish tank water.
FEEDING FISH - only feed fish the amount of food they can eat in 5 minutes.
The BIO-REACTOR is needed because most if not all small systems and owners of these systems break all three of these rules. Breaking these rules causes systems to fail or never reach a balance. The BIO-REACTOR builds a buffer into the system so when the above rules are not followed the Balcony Unit can still work without major system issues that new auqapons (people new to aquaponics) are unaware of or know how to correct.
Step 1: PARTS -- for BIO-REACTOR Build
A -- 6-in Dia PVC Coupling Fitting -- 1 quantity
http://www.lowes.com/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&stor...
B -- 6-3/4-in Dia PVC Sewer Drain Cap -- 2 quantity
http://www.lowes.com/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&stor...
C -- 6-in x 20-ft Solid PVC Sewer Drain Pipe -- 15 cm - 2 quantity
http://www.lowes.com/ProductDisplay?partNumber=608...
D -- 4-in Dia PVC Adapter Fitting -- 1 quantity
http://www.lowes.com/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&stor...
E -- AMERICAN VALVE 1-in PVC Sch 40 Socket In-Line Ball Valve
http://www.lowes.com/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&stor...
F -- 1-in Dia 90-Degree PVC Sch 40 Slip Elbow
http://www.lowes.com/pd_23870-1815-406010RMC___?pr...
G -- 4-in Dia PVC Cleanout Plug Fitting
http://www.lowes.com/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&stor...
H -- K3 Bio media
http://www.wholesalekoifarm.com/Bio-Media-K1K3/K3-...
I -- Construction Items that are part of the build
1'' UNISEAL Flexible Tank Adapter (bulkhead) -- 2 quantity
http://www.amazon.com/UNISEAL-Flexible-Tank-Adapte...
Lexel, 5.0-Ounce, Clear
http://www.amazon.com/Sashco-13013-2-Lexel-5-0-Oun...
SUGRU Moldable Silicone Rubber Eight 5G Packs 4 Black/4 White
http://www.amazon.com/Sugru-Moldable-Silicone-Rubb...
Rubberizeit!™ Dura-Rubber -- 2oz White -- Fish and People SAFE - FOOD SAFE material
http://www.rubberizeit.com/Product.aspx?ProductID=...
PVC Regular Clear Cement
http://www.oatey.com/products/plastic-pipe-cements..
1-3/4-Inch or 44mm Hole Saw
http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/131424120634?lpid=82&...
3/8-in Cordless Drill
http://www.lowes.com/pd_83529-70-DCD710S2_1z0wcj4_...
1-in Forstner Bit
http://www.lowes.com/pd_306158-70-PC1011___?produ...
Tape Measure for Sewing Product
http://www.amazon.com/Dritz-Tape-Measure-Sewing-Pr...
12-in Combo Square
http://www.lowes.com/pd_119897-1099-TC132_1z0wcmi_...
5/32-in Twist Drill Bit
http://www.lowes.com/pd_306158-70-PC1011___?produ...
Vermont American 21670 Size 1/2 x 13 NC Tap 27/64-inch Drill Bit Combo
http://www.amazon.com/Vermont-American-21670-64-in...
#8-32 x 3/4-in Pan-Head Stainless Steel Spanner-Drive Standard (SAE) Machine Screws
http://www.lowes.com/pd_162075-37672-3576___?produ...
3/8-in Cobalt Twist Drill Bit
http://www.lowes.com/pd_71206-70-DW1224++G___?Ntt=...
1-in PVC Cutter
http://www.lowes.com/pd_71206-70-DW1224++G___?Ntt=...
J -- Items to finish off the build
PG7 Waterproof Connector Gland Black for 4-7mm Diameter Cable -- 3 quantity
http://www.amazon.com/Waterproof-Connector-Gland-B...
Raindrip 1/4-in Polypropylene Drip Irrigation Elbows -- 3 quantity
http://www.lowes.com/pd_160752-13598-314050B___?pr...
Mister Landscaper 1/4-in Vinyl Drip Irrigation Distribution Tubing -- 2 inches quantity
http://www.lowes.com/pd_44215-1029-MLT-B30_1z0wg7g...
1-in Dia PVC Sch 40 Cap
http://www.lowes.com/pd_23897-1815-447010RMC___?pr...
1-in Dia 90-Degree PVC Sch 40 Slip Elbow -- 4 quantity
http://www.lowes.com/pd_23870-1815-406010RMC___?p...
1-in Schedule 40 PVC Pipe - 3 feet
http://www.lowes.com/pd_23870-1815-406010RMC___?p...
1/4-in Polyethylene Tubing -- 24 inch quantity
http://www.lowes.com/pd_443061-104-LSPEB25___?prod...
1/4-in PVC Clear Vinyl Tubing -- 12 inches quantity
http://www.lowes.com/pd_443063-104-SVEB20___?produ...
EcoPlus 728405 Round Air Stone, small
http://hydroponics.seedsetc.com/cgi/display.cgi?it...
Tetra Whisper Air Pump or any one the you have that will drive the air stone listed above.
Step 2: TOP ASSEMBLY - of the BIO-REACTOR
Top part of the BIO-REATOR ismade up of a number of the parts of the parts list.
Here are the parts that will be use in this part of the build.
B -- 6-3/4-in Dia PVC Sewer Drain Cap -- 1 quantity
http://www.lowes.com/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&sto...
C -- 6-in x 20-ft Solid PVC Sewer Drain Pipe -- 15 cm - 1 quantity
http://www.lowes.com/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&sto...
D -- 6-in Dia PVC Adapter Fitting -- 1 quantity
http://www.lowes.com/ProductDisplay?partNumber=448...
PVC Regular Clear Cement
http://www.oatey.com/products/plastic-pipe-cement...
#8-32 x 3/4-in Pan-Head Stainless Steel Machine Screw
http://www.lowes.com/pd_162075-37672-3576___?produ...
TOOLS NEEDED IN THIS PART OF THE BUILD:
Mechanical pencil
1-in Forstner Bit
http://www.lowes.com/pd_306158-70-PC1011___?produ...
3/8-in Cordless Drill
http://www.lowes.com/pd_83529-70-DCD710S2_1z0wcj4_...
Keyless T Shank Variable Speed Corded Jigsaw
http://www.lowes.com/pd_44507-70-DW331K___?product...
5/32-in Twist Drill Bit
http://www.lowes.com/pd_78060-70-DW1110++G___?prod...
BUILD TOP ASSEMBLY:
ACTION - 1
Pull the parts together as shown in picture 1 above.
ACTION - 2
Place adapter on top of CAP - make sure to center it. Mark around the outside of the adapter with pencil. As shown in picture action - 2 above.
ACTION - 3
Mark around the outside of the adapter with pencil. As shown in picture action - 3 above
ACTION - 4
Drill hole inside pencil outline of the adapter. As shown in picture action - 4 above.
ACTION - 5
Make the cut with Jigsaw. As shown in picture action - 5 above.
ACTION - 6
Glue adapter into CAP hole. As shown in picture action - 6 above.
ACTION - 7
After glue is dry - lay down a bead of sealant around the adapter where it is glued to the CAP. As shown in picture action - 7 above.
ACTION - 8
Use mixture of soapy water.
Wet finger in mixture and smooth bead of sealant.
Let dry 24 hours
As shown in picture action - 8 above.
ACTION - 9
Get ready to allow for air escape from BIO-REACTOR - if needed by some You will know if you need to use it. It prevents air locks with in the BIO-REACTOR. As shown in picture action - 9 above.
ACTION - 10
Drill the hole for the Pan Head Screw in the center of the square top. As shown in picture action - 10 above.
ACTION - 11
Insert Screw - tighten as needed or close all the way. As shown in picture action - 11 above.
Step 3: BASE ASSEMBLY - of the BIO-REACOR
Base part of the BIO-REATOR is made up of a number of the parts from the parts list.
Here are the parts that will be use in this part of the build.
A -- 6-in Dia PVC Coupling Fitting -- 1 quantity
http://www.lowes.com/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&sto...
B -- 6-3/4-in Dia PVC Sewer Drain Cap -- 1 quantity
http://www.lowes.com/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&sto...
C -- 6-in x 20-ft Solid PVC Sewer Drain Pipe -- 15 cm - 1 quantity
http://www.lowes.com/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&sto...
PVC Regular Clear Cement
http://www.lowes.com/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&sto...
BUILD BASE ASSEMBLY:
ACTION - 1
Pull the parts together as shown in picture 1 above.
ACTION - 2
Glue 15cm solid PVC sewer drain pipe into CAP. As shown in picture action - 2 above.
ACTION - 3
Glue Cupling onto PVC sewer drain pipe into CAP assembly. As shown in picture action - 3 above
Step 4: UNI-SEAL INSTALLATION - of the BIO-REACTOR
------- START WITH BASE ASSEMBLY ---------
From Step 3
Outlet Side of the Base Build of the BIO-REACTOR is made up of a number of the parts of the parts list.
Here are the parts that will be use in this part of the build.
1'' UNISEAL Flexible Tank Adapter (bulkhead) -- 2 quantity
http://www.amazon.com/UNISEAL-Flexible-Tank-Adapte...
TOOLS NEEDED IN THIS PART OF THE BUILD:
Mechanical pencil
3/8-in Cordless Drill
http://www.lowes.com/pd_306158-70-PC1011___?produ...
1-3/4-Inch or 44mm Hole Saw
http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/131424120634?lpid=82&...
Tape Measure for Sewing Product
http://www.amazon.com/Dritz-Tape-Measure-Sewing-Pr...
12-in Combo Square
http://www.lowes.com/pd_119897-1099-TC132_1z0wcmi_...
UNI-SEAL INSTALLATION ACTIONS:
ACTION - 1
Pull the tools together as shown in action 1 picture above.
ACTION - 2
Determine inches of Base Assembly -- 21 inches. As shown in picture action - 2 above.
ACTION - 3
Mark top of Coupling a the 0 inch mark as shown in picture. As shown in picture action - 3 above
ACTION - 4
Move around Coupling at top 10.5 inches -- make another mark as shown. As shown in picture action - 4 above.
ACTION - 5
Using the Combo Square draw a line from mark at top to bottom of Base Assembly
Do the same action at the mark on the other side of the Base Assembly.
As shown in picture action - 5 above.
ACTION - 6
Make a line 2.25 inches up from bottom of the Base Assembly and crosses the vertical line from action 5
Move to the other side of the Base Assembly and repeated the action above.
As shown in picture action - 6 above.
ACTION - 7
Using the 1.75 inch hole saw at the point the lines cross make the hole cut
Repeat the action on the other side of the Base Assembly.
As shown in picture action - 7 above.
ACTION - 8
Insert 1 inch UNI-SEAL into holes on both sides of the Base Assembly
As shown in picture action - 8 above.
FINISHED UNI-SEAL INSTALLATION:
View out side picture and inside picture of to see what the UNI-SEAL ASSEMBLY should look like if done correctly
Step 5: OUTLET SIDE OF THE BASE BUILD - of the BIO-REACTOR
------- START WITH UNI-SEAL ASSEMBLY ---------
From Step 4
Outlet Side of the Base Build of the BIO-REACTOR is made up of a number of the parts of the parts list.
Here are the parts that will be use in this part of the build.
1-in Dia PVC Sch 40 Cap
http://www.lowes.com/pd_23897-1815-447010RMC___?pr...
1-in Dia 90-Degree PVC Sch 40 Slip Elbow
http://www.lowes.com/pd_23870-1815-406010RMC___?pr...
1-in Schedule 40 PVC Pipe - 12 inches
http://www.lowes.com/pd_23976-1814-PVC+04010++0600...
PVC Regular Clear Cement
http://www.lowes.com/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&sto....
TOOL NEEDED IN THIS PART OF THE BUILD:
3/8-in Cordless Drill
http://www.lowes.com/pd_306158-70-PC1011___?produ...
3/8-in Cobalt Twist Drill Bit
http://www.lowes.com/pd_71206-70-DW1224++G___?Ntt=...
1-in PVC Cutter
http://www.lowes.com/pd_331921-943-37100.UPP6___?p...
OUTLET ASSEMBLY:
ACTION - 1
Pull the parts together as shown in picture 1 above.
ACTION - 2
Using the 3/8 drill bit -- drill out the 1" CAP. As shown in picture action - 2 above.
ACTION - 3
Round off one end of the 1" inch pvc pipe. As shown in picture action - 3 above
ACTION - 4
Rub Windex all over the UNI-SEAL and the rounded end of the 1 inch pipe
Insert the pipe into the UNI-SEAL.
As shown in picture action - 4 above.
ACTION - 5
Action completed will look like shown in picture action - 5 above.
ACTION - 6
Make sure enough pipe is inside the UNI-SEAL Base Assembly to hold the drilled CAP with a hand press on.
As shown in picture action - 6 above.
ACTION - 7
Measure out 2.7cm make cut mark. As shown in picture action - 7 above.
ACTION - 8
Make the cut. As shown in picture action - 8 above.
ACTION - 9
Glue 1" Elbow on to 2.7 pvc stub that extends out of the UNI-SEAL.
Make sure the Elbow faces right as you look at it for the outlet pipe.
Glue 1" pipe into the Elbow opening away from UNI-SEAL.
Cut off 2.7cm from Elbow end.
As shown in picture action - 9 above.
Step 6: INTLET SIDE OF THE BASE ASSEMBLY - of the BIO-REACTOR
------- START WITH OUTLET ASSEMBLY ---------
From Step 5
Inlet Side of the Base Assembly of the BIO-REACTOR is made up of a number of the parts of the parts list.
Here are the parts that will be use in this part of the build.
1-in Dia PVC Sch 40 Cap
http://www.lowes.com/pd_23897-1815-447010RMC___?pr...
1-in Dia 90-Degree PVC Sch 40 Slip Elbow
http://www.lowes.com/pd_23870-1815-406010RMC___?p...
#8-32 x 1-in Pan-Head Stainless Steel Spanner-Drive Standard (SAE) Machine Screws
http://www.lowes.com/pd_404339-37672-126940___?pro...
1-in Schedule 40 PVC Pipe - 12 inches
http://www.lowes.com/pd_23870-1815-406010RMC___?p...
PVC Regular Clear Cement
http://www.lowes.com/pd_23870-1815-406010RMC___?p...
TOOL NEEDED IN THIS PART OF THE BUILD:
1-in PVC Cutter
http://www.lowes.com/pd_306158-70-PC1011___?produ...
3/8-in Cordless Drill
http://www.lowes.com/pd_83529-70-DCD710S2_1z0wcj4_...
5/32-in Twist Drill Bit
http://www.lowes.com/pd_78060-70-DW1110++G___?pro...
OUTLET ASSEMBLY:
ACTION - 1
Pull the parts together as shown in picture 1 above.
ACTION - 2
Drill 5/23 hole at one end of the 1 inch pvc pipe - Screw in the #8/32 pan head screw
Remove screw before inserting the pipe into the UNI-SEAL or you will not be able to complete this action.
As shown in picture action - 2 above.
ACTION - 3
Round off one end of the 1" inch pvc pipe. As shown in picture action - 3 above
ACTION - 4
Rub Windex all over the UNI-SEAL and the rounded end of the 1 inch pipe Insert the pipe into the UNI-SEAL.
As shown in picture action - 4 above.
ACTION - 5
Action completed will look like shown in picture action - 5 above.
ACTION - 6
Place the screw into the pre-drilled hole once it clears the UNI-SEAL.
Having the screw in the inlet pipe keeps the K-3 media from be sucked into the pipe if flow stops.
As shown in picture action - 6 above.
ACTION - 7
Measure out 2.7cm make cut mark. As shown in picture action - 7 above.
ACTION - 8
Make the cut. As shown in picture action - 8 above.
ACTION - 9
Glue 1" Elbow on to 2.7 pvc stub that extends out of the UNI-SEAL.
Make sure the Elbow faces right as you look at it for the intlet pipe.
Glue 1" pipe into the Elbow opening away from UNI-SEAL.
Cut off 2.7cm from Elbow end. As shown in picture action - 9 above.
Step 7: VALVE INSTALLATION - for the BIO-REACTOR
------- START WITH INTLET ASSEMBLY ---------
From Step 6
VALVE INSTALLATION of the BIO-REACTOR is made up of a number of the parts from the parts list.
Here are the parts that will be use in this part of the build.
E -- AMERICAN VALVE 1-in PVC Sch 40 Socket In-Line Ball Valve
http://www.lowes.com/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&stor...
PVC Regular Clear Cement
http://www.lowes.com/pd_23870-1815-406010RMC___?p....
VALVE INSTALLATION:
ACTION - 1
Pull the parts together as shown in picture 1 above.
ACTION - 2
Glue-up the Valve on the outlet side of the Base Assembly. As shown in picture action - 2 above.
ACTION - 3
Glue-up the Valve on the inlet side of the Base Assembly. As shown in picture action - 3 above.
Step 8: TOP ASSEMBLY ADDED - to the BIO-REACTOR
------- START WITH INLET ASSEMBLY ---------
From Step 7
TOP ASSEMBLY ADDED to the assembled base of the BIO-REACTOR is made up of a number of the parts from the parts list.
Here are the parts that will be use in this part of the build.
TOP ASSEMBLY - from STEP 2
PVC Regular Clear Cement
http://www.lowes.com/pd_23870-1815-406010RMC___?p....
C -- 6-in x 20-ft Solid PVC Sewer Drain Pipe -- 15 cm - 1 quantity
http://www.lowes.com/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&sto....
COMPLETED BASE ASSEMBLY
VALVE INSTALLATION:
ACTION - 1
Pull the parts together as shown in picture 1 above.
ACTION - 2
Glue Base Assembly and pipe 15cm pipe section together. As shown in picture action - 2 above.
ACTION - 3
Glue Top Assembly from STEP:2 and Completed Base Assembly from STEP:7 together. As shown in picture action - 3 above.
ACTION - 3
Add the PVC Adapter Fitting to complete BIO-REACTOR ASSEMBLY. As shown in picture action - 4 above.
Step 9: WATER LEVEL GAUGE BUILD - of the BIO-REACTOR
Why is this needed:
Having this type of gauge allows you to know the water level inside the BIO-REACTOR at all times. If your pump is pulling to much water through the BIO-REACTOR adjustments can be made to the outlet side valve to cut flow to the pump until the water level stabilizes to a workable flow for the system.
START WITH FULLY ASSEMBLED BIO-REACTOR
Here are the parts that will be use in this part of the build.
FULLY ASSEMBLED BIO-REACTOR
PG7 Waterproof Connector Gland Black for 4-7mm Diameter Cable -- 3 quantity
http://www.amazon.com/Waterproof-Connector-Gland-B...
Raindrip 1/4-in Polypropylene Drip Irrigation Elbows -- 3 quantity
http://www.lowes.com/pd_160752-13598-314050B___?p...
Mister Landscaper 1/4-in Vinyl Drip Irrigation Distribution Tubing -- 2 inches quantity http://www.lowes.com/pd_160752-13598-314050B___?p...
1/4-in Polyethylene Tubing -- 3 inch quantity
http://www.lowes.com/pd_443061-104-LSPEB25___?pro...
Lexel, 5.0-Ounce, Clear
http://www.amazon.com/Sashco-13013-2-Lexel-5-0-Oun...
TOOL NEEDED IN THIS PART OF THE BUILD:
3/8-in Cordless Drill
http://www.lowes.com/pd_306158-70-PC1011___?produ....
3/8-in Cobalt Twist Drill Bit
http://www.lowes.com/pd_71206-70-DW1224++G___?Ntt...
Vermont American 21670 Size 1/2 x 13 NC Tap 27/64-inch Drill Bit Combo
http://www.amazon.com/Vermont-American-21670-64-in...
WATER LEVEL GAUGE BUILD:
ACTION - 1
Pull the parts together as shown in picture 1 above.
ACTION - 2
.Draw straight line a little bit over to the left of the UNI-SEAL Outlet.
Make sure line runs the length of the BIO-REACTOR body
As shown in picture action - 2 above.
ACTION - 3
1.5 inches up from bottom of BIO-REACTOR make mark for center drill hole for bottom cable gland
As shown in picture action - 3 above.
ACTION - 4
From the bottom mark move up the vertical line 10 inches and make a center dirll hole mark. As shown in picture action - 4 above.
ACTION - 5
Using the 27/64-inch Drill Bit -- drill the holes in the Base Assembly. Action completed will look like shown in picture action - 5 above.
ACTION - 6
Tap the holes on both ends with the 1/2 x 13 NC Tap. As shown in picture action - 6 above.
ACTION - 7
Using Lexel sealant apply to drilled hole and Cable Gland then install into TAPPED hole then let set over night. As shown in picture action - 7 above.
ACTION - 8
Install Cable Glands at each end of the BIO-REACTOR. As shown in picture action - 8 above.
ACTION - 9
Prep the 1/4 inch Barbed fittings with the 1/4-in Polyethylene Tubing about 1.5 inches long. As shown in picture action - 9 above.
ACTION - 10
Insert the elbow barbed fittings completed in action 10 into the cable glands on end of the BIO-REACTOR assembly. As shown in picture action - 10 above.
ACTION - 11
Add the clear PVC tubing that serves as the visual gauge . As shown in picture action - 11 above.
Step 10: AIR STONE INSTALL - for BIO-REACTOR
------- START WITH BIO-REACTOR ASSEMBLY ---------
From Step 9
Here are the parts that will be use in this part of the build.
BIO-REACTOR ASSEMBLY - from STEP 9
Here are the parts that will be use in this part of the build.
PG7 Waterproof Connector Gland Black for 4-7mm Diameter Cable -- 1 quantity
http://www.amazon.com/Waterproof-Connector-Gland-B...
Raindrip 1/4-in Polypropylene Drip Irrigation Elbows -- 1 quantity
http://www.amazon.com/Waterproof-Connector-Gland-B...
Lexel, 5.0-Ounce, Clear
http://www.amazon.com/Sashco-13013-2-Lexel-5-0-Oun...
EcoPlus 728405 Round Air Stone, small
http://hydroponics.seedsetc.com/cgi/display.cgi?it...
TOOL NEEDED IN THIS PART OF THE BUILD:
3/8-in Cordless Drill
http://www.lowes.com/pd_306158-70-PC1011___?produ...
Vermont American 21670 Size 1/2 x 13 NC Tap 27/64-inch Drill Bit Combo
http://www.amazon.com/Vermont-American-21670-64-in...
AIR STONE INSTALL:
ACTION - 1
Pull the parts together as shown in picture 1 above.
ACTION - 2
Mark spot to drill cable gland for air hose supply for air stone in unit -- place mark on top CAP directly over the inlet Elbow. As shown in picture action - 3 above.
ACTION - 3
Drill the 27/64 hole. As shown in picture action - 3 above.
ACTION - 4
Tap the hole with the 1/2 x 13 NC Tap. As shown in picture action - 4 above.
ACTION - 5
Using Lexel sealant apply to drilled hole and Cable Gland then install into TAPPED hole then let set over night. As shown in picture action - 5 above.
ACTION - 6
Insert tubing into cable gland and run to bottom of inside. As shown in picture action - 6 above.
ACTION - 7
Connect air stone to end of tubing now located on inside of tank. As shown in picture action - 7 above.
Step 11: ADDITION OF BIO-MEDIA -- to the BIO-REACTOR
------- START WITH BIO-REACTOR ASSEMBLY WITH AIR STONE ASSEMBLY COMPLETED ---------
From Step 10
Here are the parts that will be use in this part of the build.
BIO-REACTOR ASSEMBLY - from STEP 10
H -- K3 Bio media
http://www.wholesalekoifarm.com/Bio-Media-K1K3/K3-...
Tetra Whisper Air Pump or any one the you have that will drive the air stone listed above.
http://hydroponics.seedsetc.com/cgi/display.cgi?it...
ADDITION OF BIO-MEDIA ACTIONS:
ACTION - 1
Locate the K-3 BIO-MEDIA - The amount required is about 200 individual pieces. If you can purchase them already BIO-ACTIVATED it will be much better and save a lot of system cycling time. As shown in picture 1 above.
ACTION - 2
Dump K-3 BIO-MEDIA into the now completed BIO-REACTOR ASSEMBLY. As shown in picture action - 2 above.
ACTION - 3
Add water. It is best to use water that has already been cycled from an aquaponics system. If that is not possible only use water that has had all the harmful elements removed. You can accomplish this by running city or well water through a Carbon Activated filler and then let the water sit out for 3 to 5 days with an air stone running in the water to drive off any unwanted chemicals that were not removed from the carbon filter.
K-3 BIO-MEDIA will float to the top of the water. As it has a positive float factor. Watch the videos in the resource STEP to gain an understanding of what this means and how the K-3 BIO-MEDIA works in aquaponic systems.
Once the bacteria colonies have been established the K-3 BIO-MEDIA will become coated and will be-able to sink inside the BIO-REACTOR.
ACTION - 4
Connect the air pump to the BIO-REACTOR ASSEMBLY and plug in . As shown in picture action - 4 above.
ACTION - 5
The K-3 BIO-MEDIA will circulate inside the BIO-REACTOR now.
Step 12: SEALING OF UNIT OPTION -- for the BIO-REACTOR
SEALING THE BIO-REACTOR LID --
In some situations people building and using the BIO-REACTOR will want the unit to be totally sealed. The fittings as purchased will not seal no matter how tight a person tightens them. Sealing can be accomplish using SUGRU a silicon material placed on the inside of the adapter fittings or (purchase a silicon food safe seal from under the AGponics.com go to "AGponics Store" tab). Once dry and installed correctly the lid of the BIO-REACTOR will seal. If you are only working with fish and not eating the fish or plants from the system the SUGRU will be fine as it has been use successfully with out affecting fish health. But if you are planning to eat the fish and the plants in the system SUGRU is not approved for food production systems. So food safe steps need to be taken to insure no health issues are encountered. To protect the system the SUGRU will need to be coated with Rubberize-IT. Once SUGRU is coated with Rubberize-IT the system is protected and fish and plants can be eaten without any issues to be concerned about. You can obtain an MSDS data sheet from the Rubberized-IT ( http://www.rubberizeit.com/Aquaponics.aspx ) website as well as a full explanation as to the safety of the material in food production systems.
------- START WITH COMPLETED TOP ASSEMBLY ---------
Here are the parts that will be use in this part of the build.
TOP ASSEMBLY FROM STEP 2
SUGRU Moldable Silicone Rubber Eight 5G Packs 4 Black/4 White
http://www.amazon.com/Sugru-Moldable-Silicone-Rubb...
Rubberizeit!™ Dura-Rubber -- 4oz White -- Fish and People SAFE - FOOD SAFE material
http://www.rubberizeit.com/Product.aspx?ProductID=...
100% Food Grade Seal from AGponics -- go to "AGponics Store" tab
TOOL NEEDED IN THIS PART OF THE BUILD:
Straight Scissors
http://www.amazon.com/Fiskars-Recycled-Inch-Straig...
SEALING OF UNIT OPTION:
ACTION - 1
Pull the parts together as shown in picture 1 above.
ACTION - 2
Determine where the SUGRU will be placed. As shown in picture action - 2 above.
ACTION - 3
Place material on top of the lip. As shown in picture action - 4 above.
ACTION - 4
Screw in threaded TOP
-- leave about 3/8 inch area
-- Smooth out the SUGRU to fill the gap
Inside view of the assembly.
As shown in picture action - 4 above.
ACTION - 5
Finished result will look like picture
-- with SUGRU between lip and threads of the adapter to form the seal.
Action completed will look like shown in picture action - 5 above.
Step 13: VALVE SUPPORT OPTION -- for the BIO-REACTOR
Should you chose to support the valves of the BIO-REACTOR this step will give you the actions that will help you with this effort. Support is not needed but a good idea as the valves are elevated above ground level. Support will insure the weight of the valve is supported correctly once water is running through the system.
------- START WITH BIO-REACTOR ASSEMBLY ---------
From Step 9
Here are the parts that will be use in this part of the build.
BIO-REACTOR ASSEMBLY - from STEP 9
#8-32 x 2-in Pan-Head Stainless Steel Spanner-Drive Standard (SAE) Machine Screws
http://www.lowes.com/pd_336621-37672-126947___?pro...
TOOL NEEDED IN THIS PART OF THE BUILD:
3/8-in Cordless Drill
http://www.amazon.com/Waterproof-Connector-Gland-...
5/32-in Twist Drill Bit
http://www.lowes.com/pd_306158-70-PC1011___?produ....
VALVE SUPPORT OPTION ACTIONS:
ACTION - 1
Pull the parts together as shown in picture 1 above.
ACTION - 2
With 5/32 drill bit -- drill into holes on valve base.
-- be very careful to drill into the valve only about 3/8 inches.
As shown in picture action - 2 above.
ACTION - 3
Place Pan Head Screws into new drilled holes. As shown in picture action - 4 above.
ACTION - 4
Adjust the screws as needed to support the valve. As shown in picture action - 4 above.
ACTION - 5
Make sure to follow the same actions to complete the process for the other valve that has not been done as yet in this STEP.
Step 14: CONNECT BIO-REACTOR -- Into Balcony Unit
Time to connect the BIO-REACTOR to the Balcony Unit.
Build the connector piping as needed.
OUTLET SIDE -- connects to the Fish Tank pump intake connection.
INLET SIDE -- connects to the outlet side of the SOLIDS FILTER.
See the detail in the Balcony Unit to understand how it is worked into the design.
Step 15: RESOURCES - Aquaponics
Aquaponic Gardening:
A Step-By-Step Guide to Raising Vegetables and Fish Together Paperback – October 11, 2011
by Sylvia Bernstein
http://www.amazon.com/Aquaponic-Gardening-Step-By-...
ASC Magazine
Monthly Online Magazine and Trade Publication
http://aquaponicssurvivalcommunities.com/
The Aquaponics Gardening Community
A community site with forums, blogs, photos, videos and more for both new and experienced aquaponic gardeners. Let's learn together!
http://community.theaquaponicsource.com/
RobBobs Backyard Farming
https://www.youtube.com/user/bnbob01/featured
Paul Van Der Werf - Earthan Group
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0g02KwHrG3cmC2HX...
Rubberizeit!™
Rubberizeit!™ Liquid Rubber products has solutions for your - roofing, deck, basement waterproofing, garage floor paint, showers, gutters, HVAC, container gardening, landscape design, pond liner, swimming pools, aquarium, fish tank, hydroponics, gardening, cistern, horse stalls, horse trailer, fence posts, general repairs around the house and many other applications.
AQUAPONICS USE with Rubberize IT:
http://www.rubberizeit.com/Aquaponics.aspx
Aquaponic DIY Automation Blog - by rik kretzinger
Find out more about aquaponics and automation of aquaponic systems here.
https://rik94566.wordpress.com/
Should you not want to source all the parts for this build check out the "THINGS FOR SALE" tab. Small quantities of many of the materials are available there and kits of all the parts can be purchased and shipped FOB to your location. Parts of builds and KITS can change and/or be different than talked about in this Instructable and subject to availability. Check it out at the link listed here:
