Hypothetical reef tank

[danny zubot]

See, that's the thing that is dependant on many other variables. You need to decide how many output nozzles you will have first, as well as the diameter of each nozzle. If you used a Mak4 that puts out roughly 1200 GPH though a 1" return line, and you 6 nozzles should get 200 GPH per nozzle. If you reduce your nozzle diamter to 3/4" then you effectively have more force of water pressure coming out of each nozzle, but still maintain about 200 GPH out of each. This would change your flow style though, much like the difference between a maxi-jet and a koralia.

As with so many things in this hobby, I would buy a bigger pump than you might need. It saves you from having to upgrade later.

[michika]

Originally Posted by danny zubot

You need to decide how many output nozzles you will have first, as well as the diameter of each nozzle...

...As with so many things in this hobby, I would buy a bigger pump than you might need. It saves you from having to upgrade later.

I should have elaborated, my bad!

Okay so I've figured that I will probably be doing 2 x 2" drains in a single overflow box. The overflow box will be mounted exterior to the tank itself, and will probably only be about 7"-8" if I can get away with it. I'm still researching this.

For returns on the calfo manifold I was thinking of doing 9 returns. I am still debating doing two additional returns in the center of the tank, directly through the back glass; one below the shallow overflow box, and possibly one within it. I am pretty sure I'll be doing the manifold with 1" pipe and loc-line.

I did choose the snapper because of its high flow rate, higher then I suspect I need. I figured I would need minimum 1000gph at 0 head. Since the snapper can be throttled back, as well as its low power draw, I think this is the pump for me.

Does that clarify where I'm trying to go with this? Anymore thoughts on my pump selection?

[Der_Iron_Chef]

Catherin, look here and tell me what you think (scroll down to pictures and read his explanation). Wonder if that's a good option?

[michika]

I'm assuming your taking about the guy's DIY coast to coast overflow? Well it looks pretty functional for starters. It seems to provide great surface agitation, and I would assume good internal flow as well.

Since it seems that it would work on a smaller system, and provide good flow, it probably would work. I would just have then focus on making it a little prettier.

Thanks!

[michika]

So um this tank isn't hypothetical anymore....the build is on!

I'll be starting a new thread now...

[christyf5]

Sweet!

[Quagmire]

Catherine,if you would like more reading on the subject,check out http://forum.marinedepot.com/Topic19836-13-1.aspx

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