PVC.denitrate filter leaking solutions needed

[jaws7777]

This thing has been giving problems since days 1. I am pretty sure the leak is coming from the fitting on the last (left most) tower. Each tower is connected with barbed fitting and 3/4 inch hose. Towers are 4 inch pvc pipe. Used silicone to "leak proof" each connection. Fixed the original leak with more silicone obviously didnt last long.

Can i used bulkheads ? Would they give a good seal around the 4 inch pvc towers ?

 

[Yulli]

you may want to look into UNISEAL bulkheads, they are used a lot when people make DIY 5g bucket canister filters, which is a rounded surface like yours. Does the system you are using work like a canister except with 3 chambers? you didn't really mention how water flows which will change a lot when people are going to make suggestions.

 

[Grinch]

Tap the hole and screw in the fitting. If you tap it a little big, use teflon tape to get a good seal.

This is boring, but will help if you don't know how to do this:

 

[millerkid519]

That is not how you tap an npt fitting

 

[ragin_cajun]

If you're trying to get a good seal on the outside of a pipe like that, with the curved surface, you'll need to use a "special" bulkhead fitting--possilby like the "unusual" Yulli mentioned above.

A regular bulkhead needs a flat surface and won't seal right on a curved surface.

 

[robham777]

J jaws7777 is that the 4" thin walled sewer pipe or sch 40? What size is the fitting?

 

[jaws7777]

you may want to look into UNISEAL bulkheads, they are used a lot when people make DIY 5g bucket canister filters, which is a rounded surface like yours. Does the system you are using work like a canister except with 3 chambers? you didn't really mention how water flows which will change a lot when people are going to make suggestions.

Thx any idea where i can get the uniseals ? Are they sold at HD and lowes ?

Water flow into the 1st chamber from the small pump located in the sump. Then to the second and third chamber where its returned to the sump. 3/inch tubing



The return is on the last chamber in the second pic.

 

[jaws7777]

J jaws7777 is that the 4" thin walled sewer pipe or sch 40? What size is the fitting?

Sch 40

 

[robham777]

The thin walled would probably not be thick enough to get much thread if you tried tapping it, but sch 40 should be. You would be more likely to find uniseals at a hydroponic supply place than a hardware store, I checked around my area and ended up having to order them online. I found marinedepot.com to be competitive price wise and they have free shipping on all orders(no minimum). Also I have gotten my orders from them in 2 days. Your could also try using clear rtv silicone gasket maker from the automotive shop, since it should have much better adhesion to plastic.

 

[jaws7777]

Thx rob im gonna check them out