PVC help for Wet/Dry propeller...

[nickoz]

I am trying to make a water powered propeller to deliever water to my wet/dry. See photos below. Once I turn on the water it does not start spinning by itself, once I start the spin it continues for several mintues but then stops and needs a jump start again. I have tested at different GPH, 802 powerhead, a MAG7, and both combined. Same result.
PVC to heavy, to big, too many holes, not enough holes.....
I am willing to toss out what I have if other pieces are needed.
Any help for the PVC DIY gods would be appreciated.
Thanks,
-nick

 

[dreeves]

Probably not enough pressure to continue the spin. Also, is there alot of resistance at the spindle? How about balance...are the two ends of equal length and construction?

 

[prater]

what about a lawn sprinkler that rotates already. Maybe you could buy one and take it apart for just the spinning head.

 

[newfishliny]

your idea is a good one , i think if you reduce the hole unit to maybe 3/4 pvc or 1/2 you will just do fine , so maybe you will restrict some water flow from your bulk heads or over flow boxes , so what . your design looks really good.
good luck
new fish
don

 

[broomer5]

Interesting alternative to using a drip plate - although I don't actually see the advantage ??
Might be a very quiet way to spread the water flow over your bioballs ?
Pretty cool concept though
Trial & error will probably get you to the right combination of pipe size, hole placement and reducing the mechanical friction/bearing surfaces.
Good luck with it

 

[azeritis]

I am using one myself and by looking at your design compared to mine (not diy) the pipe looks short. However your space looks confined too.
How does it feel when there is no water lowing though the pipe? It should not feel restricte at all...