Skimming with 2 PS

[jsoon]

Anyone has use 2 PS for skimming ?

If there is more bio-load, will having 2 PS to skim out more DOC better ?

[Achilles Tang]

One PS will always outperform the other. There are diminishing returns to use multiple PS in one system.

Better to use one superduper PS than 10 lousy ones, IMO.

[ah^siao]

bro seahorse using 2 on his 5 feet tank?

[ah^siao]

this is his tank

http://www.sgreefclub.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=8213

[KingFish]

A number of hobbyists have attempted using more than 1 protein skimmer, the verdict is exactly what AT has mentioned.

But I suppose it differs from tank to tank.

You can try and post the results.

If both skims well, excellent, otherwise it serves no more than being an aerator and adding more heat transfer to your water.

[jsoon]

Thanks.

Hmmm....this theory sounds similar to our AUDIO AMPIFIER. In electronics terms, if we cascade 2 amplifier together, the result is of negligible returns.

Maybe, if I got time, will perform some testing...

[sugi]

I do agree....

2 skimmer serve no purpose.

I was using a macro skimmer last time and it works well.

Later I added another weipro skimmer thinking that it would work better.

The results: The macro is not producing any skimmate.

All the jobs are left with the Weipro.

Conclusion: I sold both away and upgraded to a better one.

[ah^siao]

mayb if both of your skimmer are of the same?

the same model.. like bro seahorse case.. 2 x 2014.. and mayb the rate of the flowrate for the pump is the same?

i think the effect of both working will be there?

[Achilles Tang]

Even if you use the same make and model... subtle differences will affect both and make one perform a little better than the other.

Eg. slight differences in the workmanship or operations will affect how much foam is produced eg. needlewheel impeller damage (where applicable), the smoothness of the wall surfaces due to imperfections or even slime, coralline algae, microalgae buildup, how often you clean the collection cup, blockage of your venturi valve... etc.

In theory it sounds plausible... but in practice... it doesn't work that way.

[vincegoh]

Even if you use the same make and model... subtle differences will affect both and make one perform a little better than the other.

Eg. slight differences in the workmanship or operations will affect how much foam is produced eg. needlewheel impeller damage (where applicable), the smoothness of the wall surfaces due to imperfections or even slime, coralline algae, microalgae buildup, how often you clean the collection cup, blockage of your venturi valve... etc.

In theory it sounds plausible... but in practice... it doesn't work that way.

Sorry for bringing this old thread back. But I am considering 2 PS myself.

IN theory, if the PS are placed parellel to each other, i.e. side by side (with a buffer distance) where the water flow direction is, then the pumps will suck in water without affecting each other. With more flow into PS, it should pick up more skimmate.

How about if one PS in sump and the other in the main tank?