Closed loop (undersized pipe?)

S

swampRx

I am in the process of build my closed loop. I have already glued the pieces together (not the submerged parts) and made a test run last night.

First thing that I noticed is I have alot of bubbles. I suspect I have a air leak on the intake side since I didnt put any teflon tape on the suction threads on the pump (will do this tonight).

I then began to think that I should have used larger pipe on the intake side to reduce cavitation.

I made a quick sketch that I will attach. The return lines on my sketch actually cover the entire length of the bottom of the tank and angle upwards (If that makes sense)
 
Yes, you need larger pipe. The instructions that come with Mag pump say that piping needs to be twice the diameter of the output/input for maximum flow.
 
@disbjohn wrote:
how are you priming it? ti doesn't look like you have a spot to prime and cap off. said:
I have a T to prime the CL, just forgot to add it in the drawing.


looks like I need to scavange for some more fittings
Click to expand...
 
Make sure the cap has teflon tape on the threads.

And here is a neat device you could use for the intake if you don't want to use PVC like I did, from Marine Depot:

http://www.marinedepot.com/aquarium_plumbing_parts_fittings_2.asp#bh
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ok, re-ran all pipework in 1.5" with the exception of the discharge tree at the bottom of the tank, that part is still 1"

I put teflon tape on primer T and on inlet of pump and it appears that the bubbles have gone away.



now the next stage


how much sand will I need to cover the bottom of a standard 55g tank 1.5" deep?
 
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