Closed Loop -- Best practice

H

hightech

I am ordering a new 105 tomorrow with dual returns (one in each rear corner)

I am considering a closed loop system to maximize flow.
Are there any other benefits since I already have 2 returns?

If I go closed loop where would I place the extra holes for the maximum benefit?
Would it be more beneficial for 1 out and 2 returns or 2 out and 2 returns?

Dimensions are 48 x 18 1/2 x 29
It is going in a wall..

Many thanks,
Jeff
 
The benifits would be having a lot more flow going through the tank. Your return should not be that large, 700-900gph on that size tank, and you can run a much larger closed loop pump.

Where to put the holes to maximize flow really depends on your rock works set-up. You should design your rock work in your head and then drill for the closed loop to provide mazimum flow through that design.
 
I am going with a closed loop on my 90 gallon. If you are going to go with a closed loop I would suggest going with an www.oceansmotions.com 4 way setup over a SQWD or just T's in the pvc pipe. It will be much better in the long run.
 
Would it be tied in to all 4 returns
(two from the overflows and two from the closed loop)
pulse/switch to each retur.. correct?
 
It would not be tied to your exsiting returns at all. Your pump from your sump will be tied to your exsiting returns. You would just plumb in the 4 outputs from it to where ever you want them in your tank. TCUReefer has put one on his tank so you can see how he plumbed his in. http://www.dfwmas.org/Forums/viewtopic.php?t=13879&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=120
 
You can never have to many returns, as long as they do not become an eye sore. What pump are you thinking about running on the closed loop?

What are you planning to keep in there?
 
I have not decided on a pump yet...
Want to make a decision on the number of returns first so I can size the pump correctly.

Mixed reep but mainly SPS
 
If you are going mostly SPS, I would look into the dart by sequence. It is a great pump with good flow, 3600gph and is relatively cheap to by. I would go with 4 1" outlets from that personally. With 1 1/2" or 2" intake. I think I would do two outlets on the back wall and two on the side wall.
 
I've got four 1" returns, 2" intake powered by a Dart. All in all, I'm pretty satisfied.

I have two returns on the back and one on each side, just as Jason mentioned.
 
Looked through your 215 build tread and I am really impressed.

Should I reduce returns to 3/4" since my tank is half the size of yours?
Or go ahead with 1" and step down the flow if needed?

Thanks,
Jeff
 
If you are going to run the dart I would run 1" and put ball valves on there. That way you can have max flow if you need it or you can turn each one down with the valves. Also allows you to periodically change the flow in the tank by closing one or two ball valves more than the others
 
Good point.. well then I guess this one is resolved. I am calling Frank and have him place the order...

Thanks for all the info.. very much appreciated

Now all I have to do is patiently wait
 
@JasonJones wrote:
If you are going to run the dart I would run 1" and put ball valves on there. That way you can have max flow if you need it or you can turn each one down with the valves. Also allows you to periodically change the flow in the tank by closing one or two ball valves more than the others said:
Jason has a good point. I would stick with 1" returns.

My OM 4 way rotates as such: 30 seconds for the two returns on the back and 30 seconds for each return on each side.

If I want a "surge" effect, I will close a ball valve on one side and have all the output coming from one end of the tank, kind of creating a wave effect.

On my next tank, I'd like to experiment with 2 or 3 returns on one side of the tank to get a good wave action.
Click to expand...
 
OK.. I called and ordered it and am already anxious to get started.
I will finish tearing out the bookcase this weekend and put together my “parts list”

Steve, if possible I would like to take a look at your set up before my tank comes in. I seen some great ideas in the pics you posted.

Thanks,
Jeff
 
@hightech wrote:
OK.. I called and ordered it and am already anxious to get started. I will finish tearing out the bookcase this weekend and put together my “parts list” Steve said:
Weekends are great for me anytime you want to swing by.

I also ordered my tank from Frank. I thought having Oceanic drill all the holes for me, I would be out a fortune but Frank really took care of me. Great guy to work with.
Click to expand...
 
Great.. and yes Frank has taken good care of me..
Real easy to work with..

Can't beat my timing...he is selling all tanks at his cost right now..
I was able to custom order Oceanic with black sides and rear, dual overflows, 5 returns and the drain for $50 less than DNA was asking with a single overflow...

I will try and break away this weekend as the next two are booked out of town. Will drop you a email on Saturday and let you know.

Thanks again..
Jeff
 
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