Bulk Head Question

[scar_11]

I am getting my tank drilled to put a Bulk head in. I found a bulkhead a TSC store and it is 1 1/4 hole, I was wondering if that is to small should I go with a larger hole. I am only planing on putting one in as a drain. It is drailing from a 90 to a 40 gallon sump.
What size does everyone suggest ?

[intarsiabox]

I assume that 1 1/4" is the ID of the bulkhead? The main purpose of a drain going from the display tank to a sump is just to transport water to a skimmer, refugium, etc., it is not used primarily for tank circulation. I believe the flow rate for 1 1/4" ID pipe is around 750gph and 1" ID pipe is about 600gph. So if you are using a skimmer in the sump you need to ensure that there is adequate flow to feed the skimmer with extra to divert to a refugium or what ever other items you plan on having in the sump. So one drain may be enough. Also remember to size your return pump accordingly, a little bigger is better IMO as you can always throttle the pump discharge down with a valve. Never valve off the intake of a pump.

[sphelps]

Go bigger, it's always better as you can reduce the pipe size with bushings if you want. Also use sch80 bulkheads which require bigger holes. I'd go with a 1.5" bulkhead which needs a 3" hole. If you'd prefer a 1.25" bulkhead then you'll need a 2.5" hole.

[fishytime]

Punch two holes for 1 1/2" bulkheads and do a "herbie"....you'll be glad you did.

[plutoniumJoe]

Originally Posted by fishytime

Punch two holes for 1 1/2" bulkheads and do a "herbie"....you'll be glad you did.

+1 on the extra hole. The second hole can be for a 1" or even 3/4" pipe that catches the overflow once your dial in the Herbie. Your serenity will thank you.

[mark]

go Herbie! (really)