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Ultra Sonic Algae Control |
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Algae control using
Ultrasound Waves |
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How the Ultra Sonic Algae System
works
In most basic terms, the algae cells get shaken
to bits! In little more detailed terms, the control box of the
Ultrasound system has a micro chip that digitally generates a range
of ultrasound frequencies. The transducer (under the water) then
emits these frequencies as a series of pulses five times per second.
As these pulses strike the algae cells they start to oscillate. The
cells reach a point where they burst, much like an opera singer
smashing a wine glass on the right note!
What happens when
algae die and start to dismantle?
The fastest
visible results happen with floating algae: These are no longer
green when dying but turn to brown instead. Through the internal
methane gas they rise to the water’s surface. You may have the
impression of having more algae than ever, this is not the case, it
is the dead algae cells on the water’s surface.
It happens the
same with filamentous algae, although the dismantling process will
proceed much slower. The filamentous algae release from the ground
and the pond’s side walls and rise to the surface.
The ultrasonic
device provides even more: Additionally the bio-film that adheres to
the walls and to the ground (the slimy bacterial layer) is removed
in a way that the nutrient medium for fungus, pathogenic germs and
bacteria is gone.
The Bottle Test
As long as the
water is in motion, already dismantled algae may reside in the pond.
This happens when fountains or pumps are operating. When ultrasonic
devices are used, the floating algae should tear off within seven
days. In stagnant water the dismantled algae cells will sink to the
bottom.
Before starting
the ultrasonic system take a sample of your pond’s water in a clear
bottle. The living algae are going to turn the water green within
ten days.
Take a sample of
the ultrasonic treated water and let it rest for about 48 hours. You
may observe the dead algae sunk to the bottom.
Hint: Use a
plastic bottle for this test instead of glass, the dead algae will
adhere to the sidewalls of a glass bottle.
Installation
The control unit
can be installed outdoors. The housing consists of resistant ABS
with an IP-67 reading. While mounting the control unit, the
connector side must always point down. The unit should be placed at
least 1½ feet above the ground and should be protected from
splashing water. Rising water levels due to heavy rains should never
reach the position of the control unit.
Prior to mounting
the control unit, make sure main power supply is unplugged.
Mounting the box with screws:
Open the box with a screwdriver. Mount
the box solidly and tightly to desired location. Then position the
top cover back into place. Be sure that the gasket seal is not
broken or damaged! If the gasket is damaged do not mount outdoors.
Be sure that there is no dirt between the gasket and cover.
Correct positioning of
the transducer
Decide the right
position of the transducer by finding out which position can treat
the largest surface area of the pond/lake. Rely on a beam angle of
180° on the front surface of the transducer. The range for each
model is listed below. The relation of length (R1) and width (R2) is
+/- 2/1 calculated from the transducer’s forefront (Fig. 6).
The size of
coverage area will depend on several factors including the type of
algae being controlled. Simple algae forms like floating algae
will be controlled over an area up to the sizes listed above, harder
forms of algae will be controlled over a smaller area due to their
resistant nature. Other factors such as pond shape, presence
of fountains/aerators, water clarity, weed growth, etc will also
affect coverage size and area. In larger ponds having complex
shapes more than one device may have to be used. Do not place
the transducer near a turbulent place like a waterfall, a fountain,
near a pump or near the intake/outlet of a filter.
Be sure that the
transducer’s front side is always free of obstacles like: Plants,
buds, shoots, stones, mud ... a “shadow zone” can be created when
the ultrasonic waves get hindered by an obstacle. This may result in
partial or total loss of effectiveness. Underwater plants can also
reduce the devices ability to reach the proper surface area.
Positioning depth
depends on wall structure. When the wall is vertical without plant
growth along the bank the transducer may be placed on the ground.
When the bank is sloped, the transducer is placed 4" to 8" below the
water’s surface (Fig. 12).
Placement of
transducer
Always place the
transducer horizontally. Place the transducer in a way that it
remains in position after the installation. If the transducer is
equipped with a float, placement may be done with a thin cord,
allowing adequate tolerances due to fluctuating water levels.
Never roll up
surplus power cable, lay excess cable along pond bottom in a zigzag
pattern. Do not coil excess cable.
Place the supply
cable at a place that is safe from mowing machines, hedge trimmers,
etc. Never bury the cable without the proper protective insulation.
If the supply cable has to be buried underground, follow local
electrical codes when installing. Insulate the supply cable by using
a conduit for this purpose. Be sure to mark the location the cable
was buried and keep a drawing plan of the location with this manual.
Put the plug into
the power supply socket. You will notice a gentle “clicking” sound
this is the control sound for the transducer. On the control unit
there are two indicator lights checking the operation.
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Ultra
Sonic Algae Control |
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Item No.
SC-SAC05
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Description
Up to 16' x 32' coverage, 10 watts |
Price
$829.99
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Item No.
SC-SAC10
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Description
Up to 32' x 64' coverage, 15 watts |
Price
$1379.99
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Item No.
SC-SAC20
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Description
Up to 1/4 acre coverage, 20 watts |
Price
$2489.99
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Item No.
SC-SAC30
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Description
Up to 3 acres coverage, 40 watts |
Price
$3599.99
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Item No.
SC-SACEX
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Description
30' Extension Cord |
Price
$84.99
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Item No.
SC-SACF
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Description
Float |
Price
$99.99
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