orlando

You just leave it in there as an on spot indicator..

Iceterran

Sorry this is repetitive, but just to clear things up, I can permanently leave the drop checker submerged in my tank and simply refer to it at any given time? (without ever changing the solution?)

hoppycalif

The solution contains a dye - the bromothymol blue dye that is the pH indicator reagent. Dyes do fade over time. Also, the drop checker will gradually accumulate biofilm and need to be cleaned thoroughly. Most people seem to be replacing the fluid and cleaning it about every two weeks.

It is intended to be left in the tank full time. If you remove it, the solution in it will start evaporating and that will make it inaccurate.

devocole

Okay so i made the very original rectangular drop checker out of acrylic and silicone sealant. The acrylic was from a clear picture frame. I worked out great. I think this one will just be a model because i would like to do a better job with the silicone. All i did to cut the acrylic was score it, and i snapped perfectly along the line.
Devon

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hoppycalif

Silicone isn't the best way to glue acrylic, but if it works, it works. Let us know how this works in the aquarium. Are you going to attach a suction cup to hold it in the aquarium?

devocole

what would you recommend for acrylic?

hoppycalif

Acrylic cement is just a solvent that softens the acrylic, so it welds to another piece of acrylic. The high viscosity type cement has pieces of acrylic dissolved in the solvent, so it can also fill gaps or make filets at the corners. I use the high viscosity type. I buy it at the "Tap Plastic" store near me.

curt_914

I use Weldon 3 acrylic cement I get from my local distributer, you should be able to order from them online here;
http://www.plasticareinc.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc

You may have to e-mail them for priceing and avaliability. Also here is the info on it;
http://www.ipscorp.com/industrial/acrylics.html

Curt

devocole

You guys were right, the silicone leaked. I tore it apart, and used acrylic epoxy and here it is. I'm going travelling so i won't try it out for 4 months, but i'll post something when i do. Thanks

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sebas

here my DIY drop checker

Material:
Silicone
funnel
test tube
white enamel
suction pad