Electric "T-Valve"

[wikitwch-UCS7RU3P-99CEYGWF-J7C4WMK5]

I want to replace my "T connector" between my Iwaki 100 pump and the
two bulkheads with a "T-Valve" that is connected to a power source
(110 AC, or DC if need be). I just want to alternate the flow of water
returning to the tank. I have looked at the Squid type (non powered)
units, but they are to small for my setup (1"tubing)and would restrict
the amount of water I can pass threw it. Any suggestions would be
greatly appreciated.
Thanks
james

[Steve Sells]

the last ones I saw were in Chicago, used in the J G Shedd Aquarium, cost is
too high. I think it was like 200 USD for a 3/4 inch??

Steve


"wikitwch-UCS7RU3P-99CEYGWF-J7C4WMK5" > wrote in
message ...
> I want to replace my "T connector" between my Iwaki 100 pump and the
> two bulkheads with a "T-Valve" that is connected to a power source
> (110 AC, or DC if need be). I just want to alternate the flow of water
> returning to the tank. I have looked at the Squid type (non powered)
> units, but they are to small for my setup (1"tubing)and would restrict
> the amount of water I can pass threw it. Any suggestions would be
> greatly appreciated.
> Thanks
> james

[Kevin M]

"wikitwch-UCS7RU3P-99CEYGWF-J7C4WMK5" > wrote in
message ...
| I want to replace my "T connector" between my Iwaki 100 pump and the
| two bulkheads with a "T-Valve" that is connected to a power source
| (110 AC, or DC if need be). I just want to alternate the flow of water
| returning to the tank. I have looked at the Squid type (non powered)
| units, but they are to small for my setup (1"tubing)and would restrict
| the amount of water I can pass threw it. Any suggestions would be
| greatly appreciated.


This is what you need. Be aware, though, it's not a cheap solution, but it
is THE way to go.
This is the link to the valve only, you'll have to browse around the site
and find the actuator. They also have a list of distributors so you can find
a retailer in your area.
http://www.haywardindustrial.com/html/prods/prod.asp?TLDID=2&ProdID=190

Kev

[Matthew A.]

Get in touch with your local pool service company. You can pick up an 11/2"
Diverter valve with 24 volt acutator for around 200-250 US dollars brandnew.
Just use reducer bushings to match your pipe size. One nice thing about
using an 11/2" valve is low friction loss. Pentair makes several units
without any brass or copper parts that might cause problems with inverts.
"wikitwch-UCS7RU3P-99CEYGWF-J7C4WMK5" > wrote in
message ...
> I want to replace my "T connector" between my Iwaki 100 pump and the
> two bulkheads with a "T-Valve" that is connected to a power source
> (110 AC, or DC if need be). I just want to alternate the flow of water
> returning to the tank. I have looked at the Squid type (non powered)
> units, but they are to small for my setup (1"tubing)and would restrict
> the amount of water I can pass threw it. Any suggestions would be
> greatly appreciated.
> Thanks
> james

[John]

I must disagree with the fellows who recommended 2 way (3 port) pool
valves for your application. The valves I have used that are of this
type have elastomeric (rubber) lip seals which are not designed for
continuous use. The seals will wear out, which will not affect the
valves usefullness in your application, but that material will go into
your water. Also, as noted, these valves are very expensive.

Perhaps you should consider running a washing machine Fill Valve
backwards, piping the inflow into the outlet, and using the hot and
cold water ports as the 2 outlets. The problem will be that the
outlet of this type of valve is generally small, restricting your
flow. You could probably get one for free on trash day. Here is some
info on these valves.
http://www.repairclinic.com/0088_11_3.asp#Level1_4
http://doityourselfparts.com/New/AllBrands/univWasherValve.htm

Another option would be to use Irrigation Valves. These are designed
for low pressure, high volume use, and start at less than $15 each.
Two of these would give you a good start.
http://www.yardsupply.com/star/prodpages/valves.htm

You will need some kind of controller, basically a DPDT relay, timer
and power supply.

But, I recommend that you consider using a surge bucket type device.
One of these will give higher instantaneous flow rates, and generate a
certain amount of randomness to the flow. There are some designs for
home-brewed surge devices here:
http://saltaquarium.about.com/cs/surgewavemakerdiy/

I'll be interested to hear how you proceed. I am considering a
similar design problem.

Good Luck, John


On Sun, 04 Jan 2004 21:49:01 -0800,
wikitwch-UCS7RU3P-99CEYGWF-J7C4WMK5 > wrote:

>I want to replace my "T connector" between my Iwaki 100 pump and the
>two bulkheads with a "T-Valve" that is connected to a power source
>(110 AC, or DC if need be). I just want to alternate the flow of water
>returning to the tank. I have looked at the Squid type (non powered)
>units, but they are to small for my setup (1"tubing)and would restrict
>the amount of water I can pass threw it. Any suggestions would be
>greatly appreciated.
>Thanks
>james