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SQUARE VORTEX FILTRATION SYSTEM

After a number of problems with the origonal cloverleaf filtration system mainly being that it was too small for the pond. It was then decided to fit a larger filter but on the same principle as the cloverleaf ie a Vortex settlement chamber followed by three biological chambers.However some other modifications were also necessary. It is now understood that with the conventional round chambers there is a reduction in the surface area for the same square hole which is to be excavated hence the introduction of the square vortex.It is also believed that the filter medium need only be a maximum of 10 inches deep.Anything deeper than this is a waste of space. Hence the square vortex covers both this criteria,being round on the bottom acting as a vortex and square on the top increasing the surface area.It was also found that the alfagrog which was fitted in the cloverleaf began to break up causing a build up of mulm in the last chamber which was not fitted with a drain. It was therfore decided to have matting in all of the chambers for easy maintenance without disturbing the biomass too much.. The origonal sand filter is still used before the water returns to the pond to give the water a final polish.

Photographs of Filtration System (Completed June99)

Click on these to view Larger photographs

There was a number of problems which were encountered during the excavation of the hole. The first problem encountered was due to the new vortex being deeper than the origonal cloverleaf filter. It was necessary to remove the concrete base which was over 9 inches thick in places. Unfortunately we were unable to acomplish this with the use of a still saw and more drastic measures were required.It can be seen from the above photographs that it was necessary to use a electric kango Hammer Some concern and aprehension was felt during the period this work was carried out due to what the effect this work would have on the Koi and also the possibilty of damage to the pond itself.Great care was taken and all worked out OK in the end.However one koi decided to take a look at what was going on and decided to leave the pond.Fortunately there was no damage to the koi and it appears to be no worse for wear.

Another problem was experienced which was due to experiencing heavy rainfall during construction.Even though we covered the hole over after we layed the concrete base the water which entered the hole from the surrounding area caused the sides to cave in and it was necessary to dig some more out the following morning and shore up the sides.

THE FINISHED JOB

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