GFO flow rate question - flow rate vs tumbling rate

[lazarus]

Just installed my first GFO reactor today. You may have helped me with that purchase if you were posting on my question about algae.

Flow rate is supposed to be 20 gph but instructions say to tumble the media gently to avoid it being pulverized. I am using PhosBan granules.

Tumbling gently produces a flow rate of only 12 gph.

What is more important, tumbling gently or reaching 20 gph?

 

[lazarus]

i should point out the tank is only 29g...

 

[pegasus]

You only want it to tumble gently. Fast enough to keep it from clumping, and slow enough to keep it from grinding to dust. The trick to maximizing your media is to allow ample contact time. You should see the media moving ever-so-slightly close to the bottom, with no "flyers" at the top. A gentle roll at the surface is what you're looking for. 12 GPH should be plenty good for a 29 gallon tank.

 

[lazarus]

thanks. cannot see any activity at the bottom, but gentle rolling on top and can see movement about a quarter inch below the surface of the media.