Another update everybody.
After a lot of research I've decided on a design for my DIY up flow algae scrubber and I've begun the build.
Here is the list of equipment that I've received so far followed by a list of equipment still on order that I should receive in a couple of days
2) three gallon Rubbermaid totes
1) 0-10v dimmable Nano Driver with a Potentiometer
2) 4 solderless red LED's in the 660 nanometer range
3) 2 solderless blue LED's in the 440 nanometer range
6) 3in solderless wires to connect all the LED's in a loop
1) 20in solderless wire to connect the LED's to the driver
1) roll of aluminum reflective tape
1) Gorilla Glue 2 part epoxy to mount the LED's to the scrubber
Here's what I'm still waiting on to be delivered:
8) thermometer suction cups to attach the scrubber to the sump
4) airline suction cups to secure the airline
1) 3/16"x10' airline
1) 3/16x3' rigid airline to make the bubbler in the scrubber
1) AP30 air pump
1) check valve to control air flow
1) 24/7 digital timer power strip so I can keep the scrubber on a 8hr time schedule
The first thing I did was to cut off about 3in off the bottom of this 3 gallon tub. I discarded the top portion since I only needed the bottom ($5 for the tub at Home Depot).
Then I lined the inside with reflective aluminum tape which will not only intensify the brightness of the LED's but also act as a heat sink.
Next I drilled five holes in the end that will act as the top edge of the scrubber to allow more heat to escape.
After assembling the wiring and the LED's I used the Gorilla Glue two part epoxy to glue the LED assembly to the taped surface of the scrubber. Two red LED's on the bottom, two blue LED's in the middle and two red LED's on top. I completely forgot to order a closed loop to finish the circuit so I had to improvise and used a piece of solderless wire and a wire nut to make my own closed loop. Next time I order anything from Rapid LED I'll have to remember to order one.
Here's another view of the finished wiring.
Here's the finished LED side of the scrubber with the driver and potentiometer. I really need to get a soldering kit and some shrink tubing so I can finish off the connection between the driver and the wiring loop.
