DIY Skimmer

[McQ]

Ok...I've decided to build me a Beckett skimmer. I bought the Beckett 1408 foam head and I had the machinest at work make a teflon holder for it.

What I would like from you all is your input in how to proceed from here. I've seen most of the plans on the net but I would like to hear from this group as to what works and what doesn't. I also need dimensions from Beckett type skimmers you may be running:D

Some things I need to know are: what diameter pipe to use from the Beckett to the sump, the design and size of the sump, the length of the Beckett to sump pipe, how tall to make the thing, etc.

All suggestions/comment welcome;)

TIA
Mike

[ScottM]

Hi Mike

I've built a few Beckett skimmers in the last few years and have tried 2 different styles: One much like the PM Bullet series and one like the Aerofoamer. Both are capable of great performance. At present i'm using one modelled after the PM Bullet and it's been working very well. A friend of mine is using one much like the Aerofoamer and it seems to pull some pretty nasty stuff out too!

Sizing is really subjective and depends on the pump you're driving the Beckett with and where your skimmer will be located. I've used both 3/4" dia and 1" dia pipe from the Beckett to the base of the skimmer - once again, it depends on the pump you're using and the size of the skimmer.

I'd suggest you take a look at some sites to see some examples of DIY and have a look at some manufacturers as well - you can incorporate different ideas from all these sources and come up with your own "new" skimmer...

HTH's

Scott

[johnfish]

Here is a really cool Beckett design. It incorporates some really great ideas.

http://reefcentral.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?s=&threadid=131865

Cheers :)
John

[McQ]

Thanks Scott and John.:thumbsup: