Multiple tanks from 1 air supply?

I need a bit of advice with regard to running multiple tanks off the same air supply, this would be to run sponge filters in my breeding and grow out tanks.

I currently have a 5W double outlet Daro pump, I've forked the 2 outlets into 1 though, which feeds a gangvalve with 3 outlets currently. This seems to be running fine, but what if I want to add more filters (Read as more tanks....) onto this setup, I'm obviously going to need a bigger air pump/ thicker tubing for supply etc. What are the pro's using, pond air pumps?

I cant seem to find a bigger or more powerful air pump than the one that I currently have.

Edit to add, this also needs to be a relatively quiet running pump, as my entire setup is run inside my house.

 

Have you looked into getting a mini air compressor? Noisy - yes . .but its super powerful.

 

Like an airbrush compressor? I suppose it would actually have to be a dental compressor or similar to avoid oil or any other contaminants in the airline.

 

The only way you will find this out is on a trial and error basis... i.e set up the extra tank and see if it works. An important aspect if you are running off a 3 outlet gang valve is that all 3 pipes need to be the same length. If one is longer, it results in creating a longer stretch, and the air will take the path of least resistance. This could be combated with a flow control valves on each length of tube as well.

If it doesn't work, just buy extra pumps. You can pick up good cheapies from most LPS for under R50.00 and they don't use that much electricity that you would worry about pushing the bill up too high. Just remember that the cheaper the pump, the noiser they are.

 

The only way you will find this out is on a trial and error basis... i.e set up the extra tank and see if it works. An important aspect if you are running off a 3 outlet gang valve is that all 3 pipes need to be the same length. If one is longer, it results in creating a longer stretch, and the air will take the path of least resistance. This could be combated with a flow control valves on each length of tube as well.

If it doesn't work, just buy extra pumps. You can pick up good cheapies from most LPS for under R50.00 and they don't use that much electricity that you would worry about pushing the bill up too high. Just remember that the cheaper the pump, the noiser they are.

 

Then get a Tyre inflation unit . . .it pushes about 250psi vs your STD pump which only gets up to 2psi

 

something like this?

 

Lol . .too big. . .

You can always use a leaf blower and use a reducer on the outlet?

 

Its not the electricity consumption but the clutter and extra plug space etc. I like a neat operation, and having worked with compressed air, I also realise that I will soon be limited by the single air line input at only 4mm diameter.

---------- Post added at 11:01 ---------- Previous post was at 11:01 ----------

• Ultra quiet (54db) - can be used unobtrusively in the home
• Maintenance free oil-less piston design with lightweight aluminium construction
• Built in carry handle - light and easy to transport
• 3.0 litre Receiver tank - ensures pulse free output, and use of up to two airbrushes simultaneously (adaptor required)
• Constant pressure and Zero pulsation
• Industrial type Pressure regulator with gauge, water trap and air filter
• Pressure relief safety valve
• Rubber feet
  

Specifications:
Motor Power 1/5HP Volt 220 - 240V 50Hz Air Flow 23 l/min Rated Speed 1450 rpm Max Pressure 6 Bar

The way I see it is that with a regulator, you set what pressure you want it to run at, and with a 3lt receiver you wont have the pesky vrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr going all the time

 

haha . .cool. . sounds like a plan

 

I would not suggest you joining both outlets into 1. This will damage your pump in the long run and you will also loose pressure. The outlets are not working at the same pressure so the stronger outlet will hamper the weaker ones performance. I suggest you use each outlet separately. I connect my pumps this way. Trial and error as Zoom suggested. Also keep water levels close to the same for even resistance.

 

how would you connect these outlets to the gang valve if separated though? through an open tap?