dosing pumps

[blueboy]

i have recently started using b-ionic to control alk/cal, and would like to automate this as much as possible. i was considering getting a dual dosing pump(aquamedic) for this purpose, but have a few ?'s. the manufacturer says it runs at a fixed rate, so, how do you control how much is added? do you have to run these on a timer, or do they have one built in? also, would it be optimal to dose in smaller amounts over the coarse of the day( or night), or to just add all at once? hopefully someone out there is using this doser, and can fill me in on the details. also if you see any flaws in this plan, please LMK. i am trying to get the tank automated before several upcoming trips. i would prefer to just have someone come by and feed every couple of days, and not have to mess with anything else.

[hammondegge]

i believe the b-ionic should be shaken (or strired) pretty vigorously each time it is added

[GaryP]

If this is what you are talking about, it has a digital controller for each pump head.

http://www.aqua-medic.de/seawater/en/13/reefdoser/

[blueboy]

that's the very one Gary. so, are you saying that it pumps at the stated rate, but the duration can be adjusted?

[GaryP]

If it is like other peristaltic pumps I have used, it will allow you to control both the rate and duration and which pump head is active. The rate you are seeing is probably the max dosing rate. I was going to suggest you give them a call and then realized they are in Germany. Try emailing them:

info@aqua-medic.de

Your other source of info would be one of the online distributors. Give one of them a call and see if you can get more info.

[blueboy]

thanks Gary, i'd looked at the specs on several of their vendors' sites, but they were not very clear, and i have no experience with dosing pumps, so i just want to be sure i understand what i'm getting.