112663 Aquaponics System I

43 Pages·2015·3.43 MB·English

112663
Aquaponics System I
*
A balance between hydroponic vegetable production and
fish rearing, GS Series I Aquaponics Systems allow you
to produce high-quality produce and fish through the
process of combining a hydroponic-growing system with a
fish-producing aquaculture tank.
112663 AQUAPONICS SYSTEM I
©2015 FarmTek® *Actual system may differ from what is shown.
All Rights Reserved. Reproduction
is prohibited without permission.
Revision date: 12.23.15 1
Important Information
READ THIS DOCUMENT BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Thank you for purchasing the 112663 aquaponic system. When properly assembled and maintained, this system will provide years of reliable service. These
instructions include helpful hints and important information needed to safely assemble and properly maintain the system. Please read and understand these
instructions before you begin. If you have any questions during the assembly, contact customer service.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ASSEMBLY PROCEDURE WARNING: Enlist the services of an
experienced electrician when connecting
• Wear eye protection. Following the instructions as presented will help
power to the pump and other electrical
ensure the proper assembly of your aquaponic
• Wear gloves when handling metal pipes. devices.
system. The steps outlining the assembly process
• Use a portable GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit are as follows:
All wiring to be completed according to
Interrupter) when working with power tools and
1. Verify that all parts are included in the established codes and practices.
cords.
shipment. Notify customer service for
questions or concerns. See below. DROWNING HAZARD: Never allow
REQUIRED TOOLS
children or others within the boundary of
2. Read and understand these instructions and
The following list identifies the main tools needed to the tanks, float bed, and pump station at
the information included with the shipment
assemble the aquaponic system. Additional tools any time.
before you begin.
may be needed.
3. Gather the tools and assistants. Always have an assistant present during
• Tape measure and marker
tank cleaning and system maintenance to
4. Assemble the system.
• Variable speed drill (cordless with extra prevent accidents.
batteries works best) 5. Read the maintenance and additional
information provided near the back of this
• Small hammer and gloves
guide.
ABOUT THIS MANUAL
• Level (4'– recommended) and line level
UNPACK AND IDENTIFY PARTS This manual describes how to set up your
• Utility knife or scissors
aquaponic system and check for proper
The following steps will ensure that you have all
operation. Additional information is presented
• Tool to cut pvc tubing the necessary parts before you begin assembly.
regarding the basic maintenance of the
• Assorted hand tools common to construction, 1. Unpack the contents of the shipment and system. This manual does not however
plumbing, and electrical work place where you can easily inventory the describe how to grow various types of fish
parts. Refer to the Bill of Materials/Spec and plants. Since the specifics of such an
• Drill bit set with assorted bits
Sheets. undertaking would fill many books—and they
• Large adjustable pliers (3"-4" jaw) have—it is best to determine beforehand
2. Verify that all parts listed on the Bill of
exactly how you want to use this system.
Materials/Spec Sheets are present. If anything
Water quality, location, growing environment,
is missing or you have questions, consult
available resources, personal knowledge
the Pictorial Parts Guide and all diagrams for
and experience among other things all
clarification, or contact Customer Service.
must be considered before populating your
system with fish. Consult with your sales
NOTE: At this time, you do not need to open
representative for additional resources and
the plastic bags containing smaller parts
information to ensure a successful start.
such as fasteners or washers (if equipped).
2 Revision date: 12.23.15
Important Information
PICTORIAL GUIDE
The following graphics and photos will help identify the different parts of the aquaponic system. (Some parts
may not be shown.) Keep all fittings in the shipping bags until they are needed.
FA4472B 102921B 100442 FALB34B 111906 112817 112366 111153
2" Check Valve
112285 WF1380 & WF1384 WF1982 WF3511 WF2198 (1-1/2) WF1574 (1-1/2") WF6684 WF6671
WF2199
112710 (1") 112365 WF1576 (2") 111045 109260 WR1095 Tape WF6990
112367 (1-1/2") PVC Cement
UniSeals
WF1570 (1") MH1123 (1-1/2") 112965 (1-1/2") FAPA12
109259 Pump 111148 Pump
WF2995 (1") WF8585 (2")
Revision date: 12.23.15 3
Getting Started
ASSEMBLY PROCEDURES BASIC CARE AND MAINTENANCE
Below are the main steps to assemble your aquaponic system. Procedures Daily
can occur simultaneously when assistants are available, or each procedure
1. Check all fittings, tubes, and pipes for leaks.
can be completed before moving onto the next. In most instances, the site and
available space drive which procedures can be completed first before moving 2. Check all pumps to ensure they are working properly.
onto the next. Review this entire guide before beginning to ensure that you
understand how to position and connect the different components. 3. Check water level in each tank. Verify that no water is flowing through the
overflow pipes. Adjust flow as needed and monitor the results.
1. Review this guide and all site layout diagrams and prepare the site. 4. Inspect all electrical connections and wires to the pumps for damage or
corrosion.
2. Determine the positions of the tanks, float bed, and related plumbing. Allow
space all around the system components for maintenance and harvest 5. Clean solids from the primary filter over the biofiltration tank.
activities. View the layout diagram for a typical layout.
6. Check all water parameters.

ATTENTION: If you determine that the typical layout is not right for your 7. Keep the area around the float bed and tanks clean and picked up. Do not
aquaponic needs, be aware that changes in this layout may require the allow miscellaneous tools or maintenance and harvest equipment to stack
purchase of additional pvc tubing. Tubing can be purchased locally, or up against the tanks or float bed.
contact your sales representative for additional details.
Weekly
3. Construct the float bed as shown in the diagrams. Float bed requires a
flat, level surface free of debris and obstructions. Install and assemble 1. Clean all the air stones and check for a strong, even airflow through each
the frame according to instructions. Install the float bed liner. stone. Replace defective or damaged stones immediately.
4. Position the tanks and assemble and install the system plumbing. 2. Flush the in-tank standpipes. See procedure near the back of this guide.

3. Clean the secondary filter that sits atop the netting inside the biofiltration
NOTE: Tanks when filled are heavy. Position tanks on a solid, level
tank. Remove, hose off, and set back into the tank.
surface. If a concrete floor is not present, use concrete blocks or similar
pavers to create a solid, level surface for each of the holding tanks.
Monthly
5. Install the main water pump and connect pump to the tank plumbing.
1. Test water hardness.
Consult the services of a certified and competent electrician when
connecting the pump to power. Customer is responsible for supplying a 2. Inspect all pump mounting bolts and mounts. Tighten and repair as
solid, stable mounting surface for the water pump. needed.
6. Install the air pump, connect air stones, and place stones in tanks and
float bed. Install air pump above the water level in the holding tanks to
prevent siphoning in the event that the air pump shuts down. Customer is
responsible for supplying a solid, stable mounting surface for the air pump.
7. Fill system with water and check for leaks.
8. Prepare the biofiltration tank.
9. Read and follow the care and maintenance information.
4 Revision date: 12.23.15
Aquaponic System Site Plan—Sample
1
The diagram below shows the basic layout of the 112663 aquaponic system. Use this diagram when planning where to position your system.
Review all diagrams and photos in this guide before you begin.
ATTENTION: Diagram below shows the recommended system layout. Increasing the
distance between tanks or between the tanks and float bed may require the purchase of
additional pvc tubing and/or fittings.
112371X 4' x 8'
55A Lettuce
Raft e)
ed
12"-18" 12"- msi
aut
12"-18" 18" Fro
112732X 112732X " o-
24" 15A 15B FLOAT BED 1/2e-t
-d
100utsi
o
4' x 8' (
Lettuce
112371X Raft
55A
56-1/2" Frame
(outside-to-outside)
BASIC REQUIREMENTS:
1. Assemble float bed on a flat, level surface free of debris and objects that could damage the liner. Surface must be capable of supporting the weight of
the float bed when filled with water.
2. Position all tanks on a solid, level surface. Surface must support the weight of all tanks when filled with water. (For reference only: A gallon of fresh water
weighs approximately 8.3 pounds.)
Revision date: 12.23.15 5
Frame Dimension Diagrams
2
100-1/2"
Outside-to-Outside
Evenly
97"
Spaced
Inside-to-Inside
56-1/2"
Sidewall Outside-to-Outside
53"
Inside-to-Inside S15P016 Tube (16") 104779 Tube (96")
End Wall All Corners
Evenly
Spaced 112375 Tube (15-3/4")
Vertical Supports
End Wall S 1 5 P 0 5 2 T u b e (5 2")
w all
Sid e
Install vertical tube
110611
tight against the
3-Way Insert
3-way corner insert.
All Corners
Sample End Wall
16”
104779 Tube
66 Revision date: 12.23.15
Assemble the Float Bed Frame
2
ATTENTION: Do not install any FA4472B Tek screw
Use the photos below and the diagrams on the previous
along the top edge of the float bed frame. This surface
page to assemble the frame.
is reserved for the installation of the float bed liner.
Required parts:
• 110611 3-Way Corner Insert (8) • 112375 Square Tube @ 15-3/4" w/45° Cuts (22)
• S15P016 Square Tube @ 16" (4) • FA4472B Tek Screws
• 104779 Square Tube @ 96" (4) • 100442 Magnetic Nut Setter
• S15P052 Square Tube @ 52" (4)
1. Install all 16" (S15P016) tubes flush with 2. Install all FA4472B Tek screws into NOTE: Do not install any Tek screws in
the open end of each 110611 3-way the sides of the fittings. Do not install a location that will touch the liner once it
corner connector. along the top frame rail. is installed.
3. Install the first and last vertical support 4. Install all vertical supports for side and 5. Use the diagrams on the previous pages
for each end or side wall tight against end frame flush with the horizontal to evenly space the vertical supports
the 3-way corner connectors. tubes. along the sides.
Revision date: 12.23.15 7
Assemble the Float Bed Frame–continued
2
Square the Assembled Float Bed Frame*
After assembly, check all connections to verify that Tek screws are properly installed. Next, measure corner-to-corner diagonally as shown. When dimensions
are the same, frame is square. Finally, level the frame. Prepare the site inside frame if not on a solid surface such as wood or concrete.
*Actual frame may differ from
what is shown.
88 Revision date: 12.23.15
Insulate Float Bed Frame
3
Insulate the Float Bed Frame
Once the frame is level, use the rigid board insulation to insulate the sides of the frame and the
surface that supports the bed liner. The frame shown in the example below may differ from the actual
frame. Steps to insulate are similar. Use the photos as guides to insulate your float bed frame.
1. Measure and cut the insulation to the 2. Working from inside the frame, install 3. Continue this pattern until the ends and
required size. the insulation panels. all sides of the frame are insulated.
4. Next, insulate the floor of the float 5. Begin at one end and work toward the 6. Before installing the liner material,
bed frame by placing the rigid board other. Level the surface if needed to inspect the bed surface and remove any
insulation into position. create an even base for the liner. Cut debris that could damage the liner.
panels to the needed dimensions.
Revision date: 12.23.15 9
Install Tek Foil Liner
4
Install Tek Foil Inside Frame
After installing the rigid board insulation, add the Tek foil. Use the supplied duct tape to hold the foil in place during installation. Overlap the seams as needed
to ensure proper coverage. Neatly fold foil at the corners to allow for an easier installation of the bed liner.
1100 Revision date: 12.23.15