Closed Loop suggestions needed.

[Baalz]

I have an AGA 180rr that I want to drill for a closed loop.
So far system will have a mak4 for return pump

On the closed loop it was suggested to me to use an Ampmaster.

Install two 1 1/2" bulkheads with strainers for intake lower in tank. The ouput would be divided between two 1 1/2" bulkheads below surface with 45 elbows pointing diagnally across tank. AND two 3/4" sea swirls.

Does this sound like a good idea? i havent drilled tank yet.

Baalz

 

[M.E.Milz]

I would probably reduce the size of the return bulkheads (maybe to 1") and/or add flow control valves to these lines. Otherwise, you may end up with very little flow through the SeaSwirls as a result of their greater resistance to flow.

 

[Baalz]

Im starting to think that may be a better idea. anyone else?

 

[M.E.Milz]

Well, I think you have the right idea of using large intake bulkheads to reduce the suction/flow into the loop from the tank. But the water returning from the pump will travel the path of least resistance - which will be the large return lines, and not the SeaSwirls. To compensate, you have to turn down the valves on these return lines to create enough back pressure to force the water through the SeaSwirls. Reducing the size of the return will do the same thing. But I would still incorporate ball/gate valves in the return lines to balance the flow the way you want it.

You can also increase the SeaSwirls to 1" models to reduce the resistance through them and help balance things out.

FWIW, I will be setting up 2 separate closed loops on my next tank. Each closed loop will connect a 1.5" drain bulkhead to an individual Iwaki 40RXLT pump, with the return from the pump being directed to a 1" SeaSwirl and perhaps an extra 0.75-1.0" return line. If I include the extra return, I will add a valve to this line so that I can, if necessary, force more water through the SeaSwirl.

 

[Jeff Hood]

I agree, place ball or gate valves on all of your lines so you can fine tune your current after instalation. I use ball valves.

I have an ampmaster 3K used on my sump as a refugium and tank return pump. I have a Y on top of the pump. One goes to a 1.5 inch return line to the tank and the other is reduced to a 1 inch line. both have ball valves. The 1.5 inch line has about 8 feet of head pressure and the one inch line has about 3 feet of head. I measured the flow from the one inch line with all of the valves open and it put out 37 GPM. This pump will move some water so you will want some controll. I never realized how much current 2200 GPH realy is. My old little giant pumps that are rated at 800 to 1000 gph depending on head probably not putting out near as much as stated, I never checked.

Jeff

 

[golfish]

If you plan to use the Amp Master 3000 check out this thread. Lots of good stuff here

http://www.reefland.com/cgi-bin/forum/showthread.php?s=5e6771cf2508945f72621ace665a5221&threadid=6253