My latest gadget...

I am currently running a Reef Octopus DNWB-100 Skimmer which I run externally that is hooked up to a MRC skimate locker that is modded with a float switch.
I will admit, I tend to slack when it comes to cleaning my collection cup which causes a major decrease in performance of the skimmer.  Being I run biopellets it's important for the skimmer to be operating at peak performance at all times.  The solution...an automatic neck cleaner!
I'm not sure too many people know about these things so I decided to share mine.  I have it set to clean for 15 minutes every 6 hours and is controlled via Apex.  Now instead of cleaning my collection cup a couple times a week I can let it go much longer without having to go through a "break in" period after every cleaning.
Here's a quick shot.

 

Looking good man. You'll have to let us know how it performs

 

This is off topic but while I was installing the new neck cleaner I noticed my bio-pellets weren't tumbling and were completely clumped up. I am running them in a TLF150 reactor with mesh screens. I tried taking the reactor out and shaking it up but that didn't get them completely separated so I ended up tearing the whole thing apart, rinsing the pellets in tank water and putting it back together. The pellets seem really sticky and don't seem to be tumbling very well. I think it's only a mater of time before they completely clump again.

I like the idea of using bio pellets but not if they are going to require me to shake the reactor on a daily basis to keep them from clumping.

If this continues I may switch to dosing Vodka or Vinegar via dosing pump.

 

do you have enough flow through the reactor? do you use filter socks? i used to have problems with my smr1 prior to getting filter socks installed in the bubble tower. the problem was that the holes got plugged in the plenum assembly. I haven't had to touch mine for a couple of months.

 

I use the Cadlights Bio Reactor and havent had ANY issues whatsoever. I had same problems with other reactors until I purchased this one.http://www.cadlights.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=51&products_id=213.


 

 

Pretty sure there is enough flow, it's powered by a Maxi Jet 1100 Utility Pump that pushes 294 gph.
Yes, I run filter socks.
The problem with the pellets is they seem to be getting very sticky and are just sticking to themselves.

 

Back to the neck cleaner....Is that the Avast DIY neck cleaner?

I have been on the fence for this device for some time. I have asked a couple people in the club there experiences and I would say they are mixed. It seems you need to find a zen point where the blade makes contact, but not too much contact that it stutters or binds the motor. I have not seen many reviews out there I appreciate your review and hope you come back with updates.

I would buy two of them in a heartbeat if I thought I would never have to tweak or worry about them all the time.

 

Nope. It's a CoralVue/Reef Octopus OCT-CL110.
http://coralvue.com/octopus-automat...k-cleaner/
It's too early to comment on it's performance but seems like it should work pretty well.

 

Wow that looks nice with the double blade. Have not seen that before.

 

What brand of pellets do you use?  I am using BRS...