How much Kalk Mix?

[rwillden]

I just finished my KalkReactor, and I was wondering how much Kalk to put in it, and how often? Also, is it better to use Reef-Grade Kalkwasser, or Pickling Lime?

I have an 80 gallon tank (120 capacity with the refugium) and just didn't know how often/much to add the kalk to the reactor, and the best way to monitor it.

Any suggestions are appreciated.
Thanks, Ryan

 

[mgk65]

Cool, do you have a picture?

To answer your question on how much and how often, will depend on how much you will be dosing every day. Start by putting 1/2 cup of reef-grade kalkwasser in it. I like the ESV brand, it is cheap, about $18 for 4 lbs. I've used pounds of Mrs. Wages, but did not like it compared to ESV. A good starting point is to stir it for 5-10 minutes 4 times per day. Measure the pH, sometime before the beginning of a stir cycle. The pH of saturated limewater/kalkwasser is 12.4. pH of 12.1 is 1/2 the strength of 12.4 pH. If the pH has dropped appreciably, you will need to increase the stir frequency. This will also tell you when the reactor is exhausted, if you measure a low pH after stirring. The exhausted kalk also can take on a murky appearance rather than white, if you can see it.

Here's my latest reactor:

mgk

 

[rwillden]

That's a great place to start. Thanks!

BTW, here's my reactor... Nielsen style. Nothing original, except that I'm using a drip system 1/2 GPH regulator to dose the Kalk solution back into the tank. (Actuated by a Float switch in the sump)

Note: Pic is of the Reactor on my counter after it was built to pressure test it.