3 more pump questions. strainer, input size, & ball val

[fungia]

thanks for all the help setting up my new tank. i have two more pump questions.

1. do you need strainers on your return pump? any special kind?
2. i am getting a iwaki md30rlxt and i am planning on going 1 1/2 inch on the output. should the input be 1 1/2 inch too or can i use the 1 inch which is the original thread size of the pump?
3. does it matter where i put the ball valve, closer to the pump or closer the the final outlet?

tia

 

[Robin Goodfellow]

hi.
1, It helps to keep snails and shrimps away. Check out any reef hardware store for the type typically used in the hobby.

2, 1 inch is fine, but 1.5 indh will not hurt.

3, does not matter, but you have to consider the convenience factor. Some people like to have a true union ball valve near the pump so that it can disconnect easily for service. Some people want a valve close to the outlet so that the output can be adjusted and see the result immediately... instead of running downstair to the basement where the pump is. Some people have both... etc.

 

[mountainbiker619]

After doing 5 closed loops, I have many lessons learned. Yes, use a strainer on the intake bulkhead fitting. For the intake pvc, I would go as big as you can. Reason is to reduce the amount of suction. If the intake bulkhead fitting is to close to the water line, and the suction force is to great, it will call a water funnel. This will in turn cause it to suck in air and then release mad amounts of air bubbles back into the tank. In regards to the ball valves, I would attached a quick union directly to the intake and return fittings on the pump. And then I would attach a ball valve above each quick union. Reason for this is, close both valves and you will be able to completely remove the pump with little or no water spillage incase you ever need to clean the inside of the pump.

 

[binylee]

In Engineering design, we always put a shutoff valve at main for safety and maintainance. It's not required but always nice and convenient.
Then it's also recommend to install a valve at the connection where it goes to the tank. It is good to over design than under design.

 

[Modo]

Here is a good strainer....
http://www.aquaticeco.com/aquatic1v1/it ... temid=4852

You might look around at www.aquaticeco.com for other useful stuff as well.

You design sounds good and I agree with the advice above. Just remember that you want turbulence and not velocity....bigger diameter is better.