What A Protein Skimmer Does
The protein skimmer was originally designed to stabilize water purity. This is accomplished by using water and air to generate foam. The surface area of each bubble collects undesirable organic compounds, which are then deposited into the collection cup at the top of the protein skimmer. There are three different methods to generate foam in protein skimmers:
- The Counter Current method uses a stream of water falling against a column of rising air that is created by a wooden air stone within the reaction chamber. It has been dubbed the Counter Current Protein Skimmer because of the nature of the opposing forces that create the effervescence.
- Venturi - The Venturi method accellerates the airflow coming into the skimmer with an acrylic funnel called a venturi air block. This speeds up the air colliding into the water in the agitation chamber creating the lathering effect. This method is typically used in larger skimmers.
- Agitation -The Agitation method uses a spinning wheel to stir the water. This process is called cavitation, which forms the froth that rises to the top of that type of skimmer.
It is important to note that protein skimmers are not a replacement for proper biological filtration such as Wet Dry Filters, but they are to to be used in conjunction with them.
Here is a good example of what a well made protein skimmer will extract.
Venturi Protein Skimmers
VT-2560 Protein Skimmer
Free standing uses a 3-1/2" Diameter reaction chamber with a 7"x 4" foot print. This model comes complete as a free standing unit but can quickly convert into a "Sump Mount" model or a "Hang-On" model with mounting kits that are sold separately. Using the Hang-On conversion allows the protein skimmer to be operated either inside or outside of the aquarium or a sump. Influent and Effluent fittings capable of rotating 360º to allow multiple set-up variations
The Hang On Bracket for the 12" Protein Skimmer. This allows the skimmer to be mounted to a sump or aquarium.
This package includes the skimmer, the hang on bracket, and the required plumbing
(Wet Dry Filter not Included)
VT-2570 Protein Skimmer
Free standing Unit uses a 3-1/2" Diameter reaction chamber with a 9"x 4-1/2" foot print. This model comes complete as a free standing unit but can quickly convert into a "Sump Mount" model or a "Hang-On" model with mounting kits that are sold separately. Using the Hang-On conversion allows the option for the protein skimmer to be operated either inside or outside of the aquarium or a sump. Influent and Effluent fittings capable of rotating 360º to allow multiple set-up variations.
The Hang On Kit for the 24" Protein Skimmer. This allows the skimmer to be mounted to a sump or aquarium.
(Pump not included)
The Sump Mount Kit for The 2570 Protein Skimmer allows the skimmer to be mounted in the middle of the sump section in the 2000 Series AquaLinkADP Wet Dry Filters.
VT-2580 Protein Skimmer
6" Diameter clear reaction chamber with a small 10"x 7" foot print. 2.8 Gallons in size, allows high output capable of treating 400 gallons per hour Includes a flow reduction feature that promotes longer air/water contact time making the skimmer more efficient than any other brand. Influent and Effluent fittings capable of rotating 360º to allow multiple set-up variations.
VT-2590 Protein Skimmer
Free standing uses a 6" Diameter reaction chamber with a 12"x 12" footprint. This model comes complete as a free standing unit. It features our "Free Flow" adjustable water exhaust assembly design. It also includes a flow reduction feature that promotes longer air/water contact time making the skimmer extra efficient. Influent and Effluent fittings capable of rotating 360º to allow multiple set-up variations.
Copyright © Aqua-Link Acrylic Design Products
Counter Current Protein Skimmers
Free Standing Counter Curent Protein Skimmer
(FS) Skimmers are designed with a permanently attached bottom base so they can be operated set up under or beside an aquarium stand.
Comes In Five Sizes:
-24"
-28"
-36"
-48"
-64" (Currently Unavailable
Hang-On Counter Current Protein Skimmer
(HO) Skimmers are designed with a permanently attached mounting bracket so they can be operated by hanging it on the rim of standard aquariums when a wet dry or sump is not being utilized.
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