ATI/Triton ICP head to head

[forestsofkelp]

I am uploading this for general interest,advice, and methodology input.

I run a no-water change tank. I ICP test it monthly (or almost monthly). For a while, I was using ATI. I kept getting *high* heavy metals in my water, spent a year chasing it, sent off ICPs to other vendors, decided the heavy metals were an error on ATIs end. You'll notice some of the levels fluctuate even thought I dont do water changes or change my equipments (none of which use cheap magnets) . I now dose B ionic and use Captiv8 supplements after a 100% water change which solved the issue.

I got a chance to see a ICP result for someone whose reef i KNOW is perfect. So I think ATI is trustworthy to compare to. For the next few months I will be sending off an ATI test AND a Triton test then and compare them. Below is my last few months of ATI and my 1st triton test result. I'll upload at the end as well (in 3-4 months).

If anyone can think of a where/why my Aluminum level comes from I will be very happy.

So far they look about even.

 

[Pistondog]

LInk broken
Edit got it nevermind

 

[forestsofkelp]

LInk broken
Edit got it nevermind

I updated and improved the spreadsheet
My "problem elements" are highlighted

 

[rtparty]

How do you KNOW the persons tank is perfect?

None of the ICP companies are perfect so how could one KNOW something is perfect?

 

[forestsofkelp]

That was a poor choice of words. I should say I know his water quality is excellent.

He runs a home coral farm. At least 1k gallons in raceways. All the colonies have excellent coloration and growth. He is good friends with my reef mentors so I know they aren’t full of hot air.

I don’t think he’s getting unreliable results as he’s makes decisions off the ICP.

I’m well aware of the limitations of testing and the philosophy of how can anyone know anything.