Where do i put the holes?

[mr_X]

ok. i'm finally getting around to ordering my new tank. a 200+- gallon RR with starphire in the front and 2 overflows, with 2 holes for each.
now i want to implement a closed loop.
since this tank will be in-wall, i want to put 2 holes about 5" in from the front, and 5" down from the top, on each side(i imagine using a short locline on each to push water back towards the rock).
now i need to figure where i am to put the remaining 4 holes(i am thinking of 2 intakes and 4 returns for a total of 6 holes, not counting the overflows).
where should i place the intakes? where should i place the returns?
i kno0w i will have 2 returns coming from the sump via the overflows, so..maybe halfway down in the back?
any ideas/schematics/pictures would be greatly helpful.
i need to fax this guy a diagram asap. thanks

 

[Anonymous]

Personally I do not like the holes and fitting in the front of the tank. IMO it would be better to have the holes under the rock work with spray bars or the like to blow the crud out.

 

[mr_X]

this tank is 30 inches from front to back. if i put everything in the back, the flow in the front of the tank will be next to nothing. the only other option is to put the holes in the bottom, and i think i'd rather have them on the sides in the event of a leak.
thanks for the response.

 

[cindre2000]

Are you going to put any plumbing above the tank? That is what I did for all of my returns on my 120.

 

[mr_X]

i saw the tank that they have at penn state, and i am thinking i'll copy their closed loop design somewhat, which has the returns coming over the back. i still have 2 returns in the sides of the tank though. i really like this design. the only downfall is that it will be hard to sell the tank if i decide to leave the hobby, but i don't think that's gonna happen any time soon.

i'll post the build as it happens :wink:

 

[Anonymous]

i'm looking forward to the build

 

[mr_X]

the tank is ordered. no holes in the sides. i'll go over the sides and back with most of the returns. :wink: