Sprinkler solenoids?

Water switching device (sprinkler solenoids)

Anybody ever tried to make an oceanmotion replica with something like this


Its just a 4 way manifold with 4 sprinkler solenoids. The solenoids parts are made with stainless steel, so I dont see a problem there. The only problem I see is the noise factor. The solenoids make a clicking sound when there switched on.

I might try making one for my tank since I can get the plumbing parts cheap (solenoids the most expensive part). I have to see if I can hear the clicking from the solenoid inside my hood.

Those oceanmotions are just way too expensive (There small and I heard they work good, but if I can save money and have the satisfaction of doing something myself then that's a win win situation)

 

I don't think i could afford them, so I be keeping it simple. but if by somehow you ever do let me know...lol Perhaps will a good little project to get into

 

Well' you penny'...LOL , I'm thinking though those solenoids are made to for the use of "FRESH WATER" only.

Hence the salt water will just gum up the valve/s and/or make those soft little O'rings in there go bad.

 

You can get a unit like the one above for 130 with all the solenoids and plumbing made, you would still need something to control it. I wont obviously buy the unit above because its not cost effective but I can probably make everything for less than 100 buck compared to an oceanmotion 4-way $390.00.

 

Im thinking for the controller something like this would work. A small motor (1 rpm or less) would spin the disk in the middle which in turn would toggle the micro switches on and off which in turn controls the solenoids. I also made sure there is one solenoid open while the next solenoid is opening.

Very basic drawing

 

I looked at the seal and it looks fine too me, Its not really an o ring. The seal is built into the diaphragm.

 

I'd check into the stainless steel. I've seen SS heaters that were advertized as freshwater only.

 

The solenoids are advertised as freshwater only but I think thats more because of warranty etc. But if its stainless steel it should technically be able to work in saltwater.

 

Oh Geek im sure it would work, i wont deny that but with a rubber diaphram ? that will likely get real hard/brittle in a short time.
I'd like to see the inside of one , my thinking though they wouldint last long in our salt tanks.

That salt's some corrosive stuff !.

But you have a great idea there i think.

 

Yeah I got to see how the rubber holds up in saltwater. Ill try and take a picture.