ZAF Plus Pumps Valve
We control the distribution of the food mixture using 12V water solenoid valves upstream of each tank to deliver a precise amount of food into each tank. The software allows the user to control the individual valve upstream of a specific tank during the food distribution, therefore controlling food quantity.
The feeding procedure is as follows: a user specified amount of food proportional to the numbers of fish per tank is dropped, then the valve upstream for a given tank is opened, and finally the associated pump is turned on flowing a mix of water and food into the tank.
Importantly, in this version of ZAF+, each tank requires its own 12V water solenoid valves. In our case we wanted to provide food for 30 tanks, therefore we needed 30 water solenoid valves (food grade). We also decided to upgrade the pumps (compared to ZAF design), with diaphragm self priming pump with a flow up to 4.5L/mn. One pump is needed to bring the water to the system and another pump for food delivery. To avoid water flowing in reverse, we added check valves upstream and downstream of the pumps.
- Schematic representation of the pumps and valves assembly in the food preparation and valves and tubing frames respectively.
- A&B. Mounting of the pumps on the frame
- C. Valves mounted in series of 5 on rows
- D. Fixation of an individual valve on a drilled Makerbeam 200mm
Note: Readers who would like replicate ZAF might have hard time finding the exactly same brand and model pumps and valves we've used. Readers can use different brand/model pumps and valves with same technical specifications with what we've have used. We've chosen to use pretty generic pumps and valves, hence, it should be easy to find replacements if needed.