How to Make an Algae Test Photo Bioreactor...Part Three

Bio Light Array Assembly

This multipart instructable gives a step-by-step instructions on making an algae test photo bioreactor. This can be used in any application that calls for testing and/or growing algae, to determine maximum growth rates, best nutrients, etc., such as...

Making algae biodiesel,
Animal feed,
Organic fertilizer,
Cosmetics,
Health food supplements and many more.

Because this is more involved than can be explained clearly in a single instructable, I'll have to include multiple parts.

You can download a complete free eBook here:

http://www.making-biodiesel-books.com/bioreactor.html

It includes a complete parts list, color diagrams, step-by-step instructions, and full color photos.

Materials needed:

Left over 2x4 stud
(2) steels braces
(2) Aquarium Grow lights
Wood screws and washers

Tools Needed:

Power drill
Miter saw
Carpenters Square
Marker
Vice

1.) Unscrew the top castle from the last assembly.

2.) Cut the remaining length of 2x4 at 27 5/16th. inches

(Never mind the photo...I screwed it up the first time...Yeah, I know, measure twice, cut once :+)

Use the miter saw and get a straight, square, cut.

Center the 2x4 on the plant caddy.

You have already made quarters pieces and a center dot, so this is easy.

Put your steel braces against each side and make a dot where the holes will be and pre-drill.

Mark also the bottom holes as well.

Pre-drill holes in the plant caddy.

Attach the steel braces to the plant caddy and screw down.

Pre-drill the holes in the 2x4.

Dry fit the 2x4 into the braces.

DO NOT screw the 2x4 in place.

Check to make sure height is correct.

Take the 2x4 out of the braces and lay it on your work bench.

Get the Aquarium Grow light and lay the back side against the 2x4 .

Mark where the holes on the back of the light will go.

Make sure both switches are at the top.

Mark the holes, and fit with screws. Do both sides of the 2x4.

Fit both lights to the 2x4

Dry fit the light array into the plant caddy. It should fit snug and tight.

If all looks good, take the lights off, and screw the 2x4 into the plant caddy.

Replace the top castle and make sure there is a tight fit.

Mark where the cord plug receptacles are, and drill 1 inch holes on each side of the center hole to accommodate the power cords.

Use a jigsaw to even out the cuts.

Pre-drill two holes to either side of the large hole on the centerline to secure the 2x4

Set the top castle in place and screw down.

Line up Aquarium lights, and screw down top castle assembly.

Hook up power cords to top of castle, switch on lights, and dry test to make sure all work correctly.

You have finished the Bio Light Array.