Reef Crystals vs. Instant ocean

[007]

Does any one have convenient access to the calcium and alkalinity levels of freshly mixed instant ocean as well as reef crystals?

 

[bang guy]

If you mix IO at 35ppt then the Ca level is normally about 400 & the ALK is about 2.5 Meq/L.
I've never tested reef crystals.

 

[007]

Thanks! One down . . . one to go . . .

 

[007]

Anyone?

 

[squidd]

I run Reef Crystals, but I haven't tested cal and alk yet...
I'll mix up a batch tonight @ 35ppt and post results tomorrow.
I've been meaning to do this anyway...

 

[cincyreefer]

Sorry I can't help you much.... But when is your next movie coming out Mr. Bond? I really liked your last one.

 

[007]

Originally posted by Squidd
I run Reef Crystals, but I haven't tested cal and alk yet...
I'll mix up a batch tonight @ 35ppt and post results tomorrow.
I've been meaning to do this anyway...

Great thanks!

 

[joemack]

Word on the street is that Reef C. is at about 500. People say its a little on the high side but lets see the actuall results.

 

[squidd]

Test results are in...Reef Crystals @ 35ppt ( double checked calabration on refractometer) temp 78deg...
Calcium ---440
Alkalinity---3.7meq/l
Did both tests twice to confirm readings La Mott for alk and Red Sea Calcium pro for calcium
Note for acurate comparison IO and -- should have been checked with same test kit/tester...I don't have access to IO at present.
I do think those numbers are worth the extra $5.00 a bucket though.

 

[bang guy]

Really? For $5.00 I can get 40 pounds of Hydrated Lime

 

[squidd]

Kalks good for maintainence...But how many Gallons of B-Ionic or Shovel fulls (I mean scoops)of Turbo calc. will it take to raise a 900 gal Lagoon to those levels?

 

[007]

Originally posted by Squidd
Test results are in...Reef Crystals @ 35ppt ( double checked calabration on refractometer) temp 78deg...
Calcium ---440
Alkalinity---3.7meq/l
I do think those numbers are worth the extra $5.00 a bucket though.
Awesome, thanks for the readings! I have to agree that the hydrated lime is a more cost effective way to go . . . however in a 20 gallon tank, I dont think that the cost is really going to be an issue for me. I think that I am going to make the switch. At least try it out. Cause if those numbers are correct (which i am sure they are) then I should be able to keep my levels where I want them without the use of additives (or at least very minimal)
Thanks!

 

[joemack]

I hear when switching from IO to -- there are some nasty problems when they are mixed. Bleached corals and what not. I have been on -- from the begining so I really dont know. I could also be misteken

 

[rangermonroe]

I just switched from IO to -- and am happy so far. It seems to dissolve better and more quickly. It also seems to be more concentrated (1/2 cup/gallon instead of 3/4 c/g) But it does cost more

 

[bang guy]

Originally posted by rangermonroe
It also seems to be more concentrated (1/2 cup/gallon instead of 3/4 c/g)
Really? That's odd. They are both Instant Ocean. Reef Crystals has extra Sodium Bicarbonate and Calcium chloride added.

 

[007]

I am about to mix some tonight. I'll see what happens

 

[koolaid]

IO aerated for 48 hours using ro/di water, at 35ppt & 78deg: cal 350 and dkh 9 alk 3.2, mag 1200. This is the average for me. I have been using IO for 6months. I have tested every batch. The cal seems to always be at 350. The dkh and mag fluctuate a little more. These tests are with salifert and a refractometer.

 

[bang guy]

koolaid - How did you actually mix the salt with the water? Those first seconds during the water & salt contact are critical. I only mention this because I want you to get every penny's worth out of your salt.

 

[007]

Originally posted by Bang Guy
Those first seconds during the water & salt contact are critical.
Could you elaborate please? Thanks

 

[bang guy]

There are three mistakes hobbiests often make when mixing salt. Both of them end up with some Calcium carbonate precipitation.
1 - Pour the desired quantity of salt in a container & add water.
2 - Just pour the salt into the water.
3 - Use warm or hot water.
Manufactured salt mixes need to be added slowly to cool water that is being stirred vigerously.