Above: New Design For 2007

Above: Past Design Now Scrapped

Above: New Design For 2007

Above: Close Up Of Media

New For 2007. Cloverleaf have scrapped their past foam fractioner bucket style design (similar to "Febi Turbo Cleaner"), and have instead opted for a fresh radical design approach culminating in a unit with a small footprint based on the basic body of the M70 fluidised bed filter. Cloverleaf’s thinking process concluded that having a device which is rich in oxygen saturated water was a waste of resources if a substantial biological gain could not also be made, and the new Dual Function Foam Fractioner addresses such technical shortcomings by now incorporating a high performance beneficial biological media bed.

The new fractioner/protein skimmer will appeal to all those suffering foam on the pond surface (excess protein or dissolved organic compounds), or those pond keepers who are simply after obtaining the ultimate in water quality via an additional contribution in reducing nitrite levels.

Key assets of the new design are superb value for money, a visual awareness of the units internal behaviour, far more easier maintenance of the venturi, plus the great bonus of incorporating 4 litres of long life floating biological media which significantly enhances water quality and the pond environment.

The new floating plastic media is as used in Cloverleaf’s latest PSS (particle separation system) ADTEC range of Multi Bay Filter’s which following extensive research and development is believed to be technically superior to anything else available on the international market. The media was designed by Cloverleaf and is produced at the Essex factory.

The unit will cater for ponds up to 8,000 gallons (36,000 litres) and is approx 1000mm high (40") with a body diameter of 110mm (4"). Minimum pump requirement are 3,600 LPH (800 GPH) - ideal 4,500 LPH (1,000 GPH). Pipe inlet size 40mm (1.5”) – outlet 50mm (2”). Maintenance of the device is minimal.  

The basics of the devices operation is that pumped water (via a dedicated pump) passes under pressure through a venturi unit, where the input of air creates a large volume of oxygen rich water which passes down the transparent column through the biological media. Once the water reaches the base of the column its flow path is forced into an outer cavity formed by a short length of transparent inner pipe (the collection tube) . By the laws of physics any air bubbles which have attracted contaminants within the water then rise up into the capped inner pipe (the collection tube), where they also rise to thereafter discharge through gravity into the waste pipe outlet ready for collection via a bucket or bowl (not supplied). The remaining flow of water in the outer cavity continues its path to the main bottom outlet where it is returned to the pond. To cater for various pump flow rates and controlling variable waste extract levels a standard Cloverleaf side valve is provided on the pond return outlet. Its setting will automatically also influence the saturated oxygen output (LPH).

Many pond keepers believe that their current water quality is exemplary, and become amazed when they establish just how much dirty waste matter can be extracted from their ponds upon installing a Cloverleaf foam fractioner (protein skimmer) type device. Beyond general contaminants, colourants are also converted into waste, and as an end result water clarity and sparkle is visually improved with a more healthy environment being created.

With no two ponds being the same it is impossible to state how much waste can be extracted from any pond. Likewise there are no cast iron rules as to using a foam fractioner properly. Some pond keepers will find it necessary to have the device running 365 days a year, whilst other will obtain adequate success in only using the device for a few days each week after an initial dirty running in period.

The importance of having good oxygen saturation levels in Koi ponds is vital for the health of the fish, and of great importance to sustaining the beneficial biological bacteria which colonise within conventional filtration system mediums. This can be achieved by numerous techniques including airstones, or conventional venturi units, however not everyone wishes to having their ponds resemble a witches cauldron, and it is in this area where the “Cloverleaf Foam Fractioner” offers a great bonus by pumping oxygen into the water in a subtle fashion (within the device).

It should be stressed that the Cloverleaf Dual Function Foam Fractioner cannot be regarded as any form of saviour to an existing pond with a poor filtration system. This is not its purpose.

Usage Tips:

The control valve should be adjusted so that a slow drip pattern is seen going into the external waste bowl. Heavy rain, water changes and feeding the fish will have a temporary affect on reducing the drip flow rate (perhaps to nothing), however no further adjustment should be made, and the system should be left for normality to return.

Periodic cleaning of the Inner Perforated Transparent Collection Tube is advised, with access available via removal of the base plant.

For vertical stability of the Foam Fractioner device the circular base plate should be screw fixed down to a suitable medium (concrete paving etc), or alternatively fixed to a plank of timber decking.

To reduce surface agitation and noise the return pipe to the pond can if required discharge via a bend and short vertical drop with the bottom of the pipe drop set 30mm above  the pond surface. All pipework should be 50mm diameter.

In the event of using medications in the pond it is advisable to adjust the foam fractioner so that its extract abilities are terminated, however under such circumstances the device should ALWAYS be left running due to its production of oxygen, and its live biological bed.

No Need To Drain Down Ponds Or Tanks To Fix Leaks

Wonder Seal is only available in a large 300ml cartridge, and seals leaks in Butyl, GRP, PVC, plastic, concrete, vinyl, glass, etc. To apply load cartridge into a standard DIY mastic gun. Seal cap after use.

Where possible protect inpond repairs from fish attack for 12 hours, but allow 24 hours to fully cure. By example temporary protection can be achieved on horizontal or vertical surfaces using an upturned perforated plastic plant container - plus weights and string as required. Long joint repairs can be protected with a length of plastic guttering.

In all repair cases clean the local surfaces for sound adhesion prior to applying the sealant (using the course side of a typical nylon foam kitchen scourer, or nail brush). Any sign of algae must be 100% removed.

Wonder Seal will immediately stop a leak the moment it is applied, but this is not applicable to leaks in pipes or joints carrying water under pressure. Where patches are being applied to a leak or rip in a pond liner the patch should receive a dob of sealant, which should be spread out evenly (with a piece of cardboard or plastic) to give a 2mm veneer. The patch should then be placed making sure that no air pockets exist - and then very lightly smoothed down with the hand. Any excess sealant seeping from the edges should be wiped away with a piece of cotton cloth. As a guide a 50mm square patch would be ideal for a 15mm rip or hole.

Take Care: Keep out of reach of children. Irritating to eyes. Avoid contact with skin - wash off immediately (but not using the pond as a washing bowl). Use the product only in well ventilated areas.

Above: 10 litre model

Above: All 3 models

Above: 20 litre PF3-LV model

Cloverleaf "COMPLETE" fish food works great in theCloverleaf Autofeeder

With the transformer integrated into the computerised timer the auto fish feeders are a breakthrough in both sophistication and exceptional value for money, and will be appreciated by all pond keepers who either have frequent holidays, or by those who are away from their ponds during most of the day.

Models remain available in three sizes - the Small PF1-LV (5 litre pellets), Medium PF2-LV (10 litre) , and Large PF3-LV (20 litre) , with the largest model measuring approx 530mm high x 275 dia.

The timer can be set for “minutes & seconds” (with 1 second being the ultimate minimum), and as a consequence this makes the autofeeder suitable for the smallest of ponds. It is believed that this facility makes the Cloverleaf Auto Fish Feeder totally unique in the value for money stakes.

Feeding small amounts at frequent intervals is scientifically known to be the best of techniques for the benefit of both fish & filtration systems, and the computer controller with digital display allows just this. Up to 8 feeds a day over any given period are possible, with full control over the exact amount being fed. The quantity of pellets dispensed is approx half a cupful in 1 minute – which as a guide represents about 2 ounces of Tetra Koi Floating Sticks.

Although the  Fish Feeders are IP55 protected the computer programmer unit needs to be housed in a dry sheltered position. In instances where playful domestic pets or young children have access to the pond the auto feeder casing should ideally be fixed down to the adjacent decking/paving for stability and security.

The C82 which many individuals will likely regard as fabulous should ideally be located in a weatherproof air vented housing, and like all other pond related electrical devices be protected via an RCD unit.

With countless international questions asking “why have all my largest fish died overnight” – the wise hobbyist or pondkeeper will never become reliant upon a small waterfall, or the agitation from a filter return pipe being fully capable of providing quality (life saving) levels of saturated oxygen. Consequently additional man made mechanical devices are vitally important, especially during warm summer periods, and especially so for those with heavy planted ponds, or those unable to add airstones within their filter systems. (Alas, not everyone is fortunate enough to own a Cloverleaf multi-bay system).

Fish, and indeed the beneficial bacteria that colonise the mediums within  our filter systems demand good levels of oxygen saturation for survival and maximum development, and Cloverleaf duly offer a range of devices to enhance the health of all ponds. (Air pumps not supplied).

It is an impossible situation to visually examine fish and to conclude that oxygen saturation levels are sufficient. Cheap test kits (as produced by numerous companies) may not be highly accurate, but will however provide a good indicator in highlighting potential problems. (Readings should be taken at different times throughout the day).

Bottom Drain: This 100mm nominal (4”) bottom drain suitable for gravity fed filter systems incorporates a removable dome with a large integral surface mounted circular ring air diffuser – supplied complete with 10 metres of air tube.

For those hobbyists who are disturbed by too much visual agitation in the centre of the pond, then the air pump can easily be linked to a time switch where by example it is only operational from say 6pm in the evening around to 9pm the following day.

Venturi: Suitable only for a pressure pump input, and ideal for connecting to the outlet/return on gravity fed filter systems the venturi unit is a well establish and highly efficient device for improving oxygen saturation levels. The sound constructed Cloverleaf Venturi is engineered to offer the hobbyist the facility of swopping between the two different cones as supplied, and thus provide greater control over distribution.

(Where desired the Venturi can of course be run from a separate dedicated submersible pressure pump)

The importance of obtaining a good rotational spin in a vortex bay without disturbing particles or waste that has dropped out of suspension is a vital requirement, and this is why on pumped supplies to multi bay filters Cloverleaf have introduced the option of fitting a diffuser. This simple push fit device (with facility for incorporating a stepped hosetail pipe connector- up to 40mm/1.5”) has been specifically and carefully designed for the task at hand. Water entering the large bore horizontal inlet is diffused to the point of converting the flow into a series of horizontal and vertical jets within the inlet pipe, and this amalgamation diffuses the direct horizontal velocity flow when finally entering the vortex. The pump diffuser is available in 3" or 4" diameter sizes.

This device also makes a good birthday surprise present for the lady who has everything.

Kit

Motor

Vac Head

Vacuuming the pond floor can make a highly worthy contribution towards creating a healthy pond environment, whilst at the self same time creating a more efficient filtration system – further aided by reducing filter maintenance.

From the 2 systems available the “Pondvac Master Kit” (seen here) is the largest. With its 1/4hp self priming motor, and large leaf strainer basket it is supplied complete with a 4 metre (max) extending aluminum lightweight handle, complete with a top quality wide swimming pool style pivoting brush head. This unit with its 5 metre long flexible hose is more suited to the larger pond, and carries a full 2 year warranty.

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Motor

Large flanged tank or bulkhead connectors are available up to 110mm dia, with variants to suit flat or curved surfaces. Smaller tank connectors with gasket and nut compression are available up to 50mm diameter, and ideal for those constructing small DIY filters. Specialist fittings include straight connector couplings going from welded to push fit joints or visa versa.

How often do pond keepers suffer from metal hose clips that rust or seize up due to corrosion ? Now all such nuisances and dangers can be a thing of the past with the purchase of Cloverleaf’s sturdy clips constructed 100% from 316L stainless steel.
Remember for the best insist on clips manufactured from 100% stainless steel - 90% is not good enough.