The SuperBead requires a pre-filtering system, such as the SuperSieve (except in case of an inside basin). The SuperBead is easy to install anywhere, below as well as above water level. In addition, the SuperBead can easily be installed further away from the basin, provided that due consideration is given to the pipe diameters (see text box). Because it is a closed filter, its placement inside does not cause any moisture, odour or insect problems. Since the SuperBead does not have any electric components, such as a blower, it is also easy to install it outside. If the waste water sewer is located far away, the pump can also be connected such that the waste water is directly pumped to the sewer. An additional set is available for this purpose.
Automating a SuperBead:
Automating the SuperBead’s rinsing process is one of the best ways of ensuring high water quality. The filter in that case is fully automatically rinsed; for example every day. This means that any dirt is automatically removed each day. The automatic set (90 mm) comes with a 2x 220V plug. The system pump is connected such that the pump stops during rinsing. If desired, a waste water pump can be connected that is activated during the rinsing process and suctions the water from the SuperBead and pumps it to the sewer.
Background on ponds - contamination and growth
One of the most underestimated factors in a pond/koi pond is contamination, measured as the quantity of Suspended Solids. These are small contaminants, such as feed remnants, excreta, algae, etc that cause the pond to become contaminated. A high level of Suspended Solids disturbs the ability of fish to absorb oxygen. The easier it is for a fish to breathe, the healthier it is. This not only positively affects health, it also promotes the growth of the fish. This solid contamination that is biologically converted represents a major attack on the availability of oxygen (O2) in the water. By quickly removing the dirt particles before they dissolve, the water quality remains optimal. The SuperBead is the perfect filter for this purpose.
The SuperBead removes the following dirt particles from the water passing through it:
100% of particles greater than 50 microns (1 micron = 0.001 mm);
60% of particles between 20 and 50 microns;
50% of particles between 5 and 20 microns;
The right pump capacity
Pump capacity is the volume of water that a pump can supply per hour at a given pressure (pump lift). Pump lift is normally expressed in metres or bar (1 metre pump lift is equal to 0.1 bar). A Beadfilter’s filter bed has a resistance of approximately 0.01 to 0.05 bar (0.1 to 0.5 metre pump lift). The filter’s resistance increases, especially when it becomes dirty.
The resistance therefore also depends on the level of the pond’s contamination. The installation of a pressure gauge on the pump is therefore strongly recommended in any situation: this makes it possible to properly monitor (any changes to) resistance.
Resistance in pipelines
The table overview identifies the recommended pump capacities in terms of maximum through flow. Keep in mind that a pump with low pump lift is unsuitable for an extended piping network or one with greater resistance within the overall system. Keep all pipelines as short as possible.
50 mm maximum9 m3 per hour
63 mm maximum 15 m3 per hour
75 mm maximum 20 m3 per hour
90 mm maximum 30 m3 per hour
110 mm maximum 40 m3 per hour