Any one ever build a vortx tank(settling system) out of a 55 gal plastic tank?

[Heatheroaksfarm]

I am new to this and not the greatest on a computer so I apologize if I don't do this all correctly. I do learn real quick though! We are in the process of putting in a small aquaponic system growing tiliapia in one tank, stripped bass in another and want to also try some of the redclaws. Anyone have any good suggestions? Thanks

[GaryD]

Hi,

Welcome to APHQ.

Relax.....we're friendly here.

There are a variety of devices that will do what you want......including a sedimentation tank, a swirl tank, a clarifier (with a capacity of not less than 20 minutes of water flow)...... or an axial flow separator.

It all depends on your goal.....and the design of your system.

Tilapia are fine.....and Florida would be a good place to grow Redclaw (assuming they are legal). I know nothing about striped bass.

Feel free to describe what you have in mind.....in greater detail.....and we'll help out where possible.

Gary

[Pugo]

Be sure to do the research on this subject before you jump in. It isn't as easy as it looks. Not that it is hard, it isn't but the knowledge it a must to be successful.

Welcome to the group..

[jobney]

Commercial production in FL only with permit. That usually also means non commercial production is banned. The same goes with tilapia. For a small system it's not worth the permit procedure and cost. It would significantly raise your yearly break even point if you wanted to remain legal. Tilapia fingerling suppliers in FL are required to only sell to people with permits. They inspect the system before they allow you to stock it.

You can always raise Channel Catfish.

http://farmingcrawfish.com/crawfish_...uaculture.html

[Heatheroaksfarm]

Thanks for the links and I am doing as much research as I can possibly find!

[jobney]

I just calculated that my pump at its head height should be working at 120 - 140 gallons per 20 minutes through my system. I guess my 55 gallon swirl filter is doomed.

Hi,

Welcome to APHQ.

Relax.....we're friendly here.

There are a variety of devices that will do what you want......including a sedimentation tank, a swirl tank, a clarifier (with a capacity of not less than 20 minutes of water flow)...... or an axial flow separator.

It all depends on your goal.....and the design of your system.

Tilapia are fine.....and Florida would be a good place to grow Redclaw (assuming they are legal). I know nothing about striped bass.

Feel free to describe what you have in mind.....in greater detail.....and we'll help out where possible.

Gary

[GaryD]

Hi Jobney,

The retention time of 20 minutes only applies to clarifiers. That's the minimum amount of time that the water needs to be inside the clarifier for the sedimentary solids to settle out.

Swirl filters work in a different way......they separate out the solids by way of the 'hydrocyclone' effect where the heavier particles are forced out to the outer perimeter of the filter.....where they then settle to the bottom.

You should have no problem with the 55 gallon drum. For example, the white swirl tank that featured on my Three Mega Bin System was rated at 100 litres per min.....and it was less than half the size of your 55 gallon drum.

Gary