XP3 Cannister as CO2 Diffuser... Tips/Help

[Dopey]

Hi.

I'm considering replacing my BER CO2 Diffuser by using my recently purchased Filstar XP3 to diffuse. I'm doing a dry run at the moment, with the CO2 tube just tucked in the intake strainer. The problem is, each bubble makes a loud "tick" which sounds like its coming from the top of the intake pipe near the fill cap ( but may actually be resonating up the tubing from the impeller, but don't think so.)

If I actually pierced the tubing down near the filter and input the CO2 tube there:
-would this eliminate the "ticking"?
-Is there a safe way to do this without creating leaks in my tubing?
-What sort of bubble counter would I then have to install to replace my curret viewl of the actual in-flowing bubbles?
-Has anyone ever used an XP3 in this way?

Thanks!!

[NJ Devils Fan]

I don't think it is a good idea. People had said that the bubbles are not good for the filter impeller. I would build your own diffuser (http://members.tripod.com/njdevilsfan130/do_it_yourself.htm).

[Dopey]

I don't need to build one. I have what is probably the top of the line with Tom Barr's diffusor.

But I'm trying to get as much stuff under the tank, as opposed to in the tank, as feasible.

Now see, I've heard that putting the CO2 into the cannister does NOT harm the impeller. I was more worried about how to add my CO2 line to the filter tubing without leaking.

Anyone else with an opinion on this?:confused:

[cbster]

could you please explain what Tom Barr's diffuser consist of thank you Greg

[Dopey]

I have lost that link... can anyone chime in with Tom's website... if he's still selling his diffusor, that is.

It is a sealed plexi cylinder with bioballs in it and a small powerhead attached. Water + bubbles enter the top, water exits the bottom and returns to the tank. It works great, but it's H.O.T., and I'm trying to get away from as much of this as feasible.

[NJ Devils Fan]

Air in the impeller will ruin it over time. What you can do is try to hide the diffuser, it doesn't have to be long or anything. Mine is about 6 or 7 inches. I have it hidden in the corner behind some plants.

[Dennis Dietz]

use an inline reactor/diffuser in the infeed line fron the filter to the tank. There are planty of DIY plans out there for this.
Dennis DIetz

[Dopey]

Interesting... I've never heard of this. So it would be in the return tubing? Could you explain more please, or provide a link?

Thanks.

[beviking]

I'm with you Dopey. Hate to have all that stuff in the tank and I have a XP3. Maybe this would go over better in the DIY forum? If I find any answers, I'll post them. In line reactor/diffuser...hmmmm.

[beviking]

Well, here is one...
http://www.aquaticscape.com/articles/co2reactor.htm

If you search DIY forum for "CO2", there's enough reading to keep you busy for a while. The above link was copied out of one of those threads. What a GREAT resource Aquaria Central is!!!:D

[odessa]

here's a link to pretty good one. I inject mine into a magnum 350 cannister it has the impeller on the bottom of the unit so air never gets to it, it is quiet also.

http://aquabotanicwetthumb.infopop.cc/6/ubb.x?a=tpc&s=4006090712&f=8006023812&m=6096099912