closed loop pump help for mixed reef

B

bobber3

I just got my hands on a 75 (36*24*24) tank that has already been drilled but was stricly an SPS tank with a decent amount of flow. The tank has 2 drans each measuring 1.5". I also have 4 inlets each at 1". I also have the inlets coming from the sump which also 1". The pump running the returns is a GenX 4...I am trying to figure out what to run for the closed loop. I will most likely start off with just softies and LPS but move my way up to a mixed reef. The previous owner was running a Sequence Barracuda which he said was just a TON of flow so he went to a Dart, which he was happy with. I think both will be too much for my purposes. I can adjust flow to all inlets and outlets on the loop...I just dont want to run a dart due to the amount of power it takes then not use it to its ability..sorry for the long post but want to get all out at first...

Thanks
 
Sounds like you have two drains and four returns. Here's your choices:

Two drains - two returns, plus a single Out ---> pump ---> In (closed loop)

One drain - two returns, plus a single Out (1.5") ---> pump ---> Two Ins (closed loop)

One drain - one return, plus a single Out (1.5") ---> pump ---> Three Ins (closed loop)


The pump size will dictate: 1) Heat added to the water; 2) flow; 3) electricity consumed very hour it is on

You'll want to decide upon a pump that will match the corals you plan to keep. A Mag or Eheim pump will probably do just fine for a softy tank. You could use an Ocean's Motions device to vary the flow in the closed loop lines if you like.
 
Would a Sequence Dart work properly if it was on timer?? To cut down on electric costs I was thinking about running the dart during the day then just running the Gen 4 at night. This would simulate night time flow and give me a break on the power situation....Will this hurt the Dart???
 
No, that shouldn't hurt it at all, having it turn off for a decent duration. If you were switching it on and off every hour, that would be different.

The Dart uses 160w and puts out 3600gph (at 0 head), so you're getting plenty of bang for your buck.
 
@Marc wrote:
The GenX is how many GPH? said:
Let me throw this past you to see what you think...
Origianl idea was this:
Gen x 4 return from sump..single overflow going to 2 returns...with head loss runing about 1060 gph total
Sequence Dart running closed loop..2 intakes running to 4 returns..with head loss about 2700 gph total.

This is 3760 gph in a 75 gallon tank...about 50 times flow...In my opinion too much flow for mixed reef (could be wrong on this)

New plan..
Use new pump (not sure on brand) to run return at about 800-900 gph after head loss
Use Gen x 4 for the closed loop running another 1060 after head loss..
This takes me to 1960 gph or 26 times flow..


Please let me know thoughts on this...thanks
Click to expand...
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top