Booms cube-80

[Boomboy]

FRONT PAGE FTS.

CURRENT







Well, i thought i would start a build thread for this tank, because im a little stuck on a few things, and opinions would be great, any even. Well i ordered the tank a while ago, and i should be picking it up on tuesday,
the tank is 28x28x24, with external 1.5" herbie overflow,
the return back through the overflow with a manifold system on top.
Also have 2 drains on the bottom and 2 returns for the CL.
Im going with a 2" SSB because i love the look of sand and also plan on building up the rock work in order to get a unique look to it rather than just a big island in the middle of the whole thing.
I ordered a vertex 100 for the whole thing.

A few problems i have run into is, the skimmer take up about half the sump( which i will be using a 20H and putting baffles in myself) but i would really like a fuge in the system. but it doesn't leave to much open for that.

The CL system, i was planning on using a QO 4000HH with a SWCD and the return a QO 4000 at about 5' of head.

i was reading about the Algea Turf Scrubber and thought that might be a good idea too to add to the system, im sure i can DIY something up for that.

For lighting i have a 250W lumex max 3 reflector powered by an icecap ballast. i will add 2 24W actinics later on.

Not really sure what to do for the stand or canopy though, i want to keep the cost down as much as possible and keep it a clean look. i was thinking MDF board paint it black with magnets or hooks on all 3 sides and the same for the canopy.

Any one know what type of paint i use to paint the inside of the stand so that water doesnt rot it. ive seen a few members on here do it. its some kind of white paint.

Here is a pic of the stand. for anyone to get an idea about it. with the skimmer in place too.

As for livestock, i will keep what i have now, but im giving away a damsel to anyone who wants it, your to take, he will eat anything you put in the tank as long as he can get it in his mouth (edmonton). and i might venture into some sps for this tank, probably more the easier ones to keep. looking at getting alot of smaller fish for this tank instead of 3 or 4 big ones.





Here is what i thought about doing in order to make more room for a fuge, but then i would have a hard time getting to the pump when i need to do maintance. of course it would be supported.


Its final resting place, but just a little more over the the left where the current one is now.



The new skimmer, my first in-sump skimmer



I had a problem it was producing to much foam, i know it has to break in but i had everthing fully open so i couldnt turn it down any and it was still pumping it out. I think it was due to the water level being to high.



And of course me putting up the christmas tree for me and my wife. Our first Christmas together.



Isnt it purdy!!!!!