New 65 Flow Question

[AquaNewb1]

Hello Guys,

I just got back from the LFS and I think I decided on getting a 65 gallon AGA RR Tank. The thing that I dont like is the Mega-Flow system is only rated at 600gph. I don't think that will be enough for such a deep tank.(36x18x24) Can another modification be made without drilling the tank? I'm not real comfortable having to drill it.

Has anyone one used both holes in overflow for Drains, And just returned from the sump over the back of the tank? Do any of you know what the flow rate would be if I did that?

Or

Should I just use a HOB overflow to supply a CL system? If so what pump should I use for CL?

Sorry so many questions but Im new.
BTW: tank is going to be mainly reef with corals. A couple clowns And have 2-3" of sand in bottom. Would love to get a Clam later on.

Thanks

 

[drbdc]

You should have it drilled for a closed loop IMO. Sump to tank flow is only for the purpose of feeding a skimmer and a place to put a heater. Whatever the feed of your skimmer is + maybe 50 gph for some water to go through to feed macro if you have that in the sump as well.

Flow should come from powerheads/closed loops not your sump.

 

[ChrisRD]

I agree - the 600 GPH limit is more than enough sump turnover. You can get all the in-tank flow you need from devices like powerheads, closed loops, etc.

If you want to do a closed loop and you really don't want to drill you can still do it - just plumb it over the side. Also, you don't need an overflow for the closed loop intake. It is a good idea, however, to put an intake strainer, slotted pipe, etc. on the intake so you don't suck up small fish, snails, etc.

I've attached a basic sketch to illustrate...

HTH

 

[drbdc]

A good and easy cleaning strainer for an intake on a closed loop is to roll up plastic gutter gaurd and just put it in the bulkhead opening or pipe.

 

[Anonymous]

I have a 58G Oceanic (36x18x21) and for flow I use a Mag9 for the sump, 2 Maxijet 1200's and a Tunze Stream 6000. I like the flow. The only thing I may do is add an Oceans Motions Squirt (2-way) to my retrun to make more randomw currents.

I also agree that the flow through the sump should not be the only source of flow.
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[AquaNewb1]

Great Info guys!

I guess I'm kinda getting ahead of myself, by worrying about how to get extra flow now.

I'll probably go with a CL system later.

Hey Rob reefkeeper! Can I ask how much that 58gallon was? Is it drilled? How do you have your returns from the sump? What thickness of glass is the oceanic. I've been looking for one but have had no luck with the LFS that I've tried.

Thanks Great people,

 

[Anonymous]

I think I payed around $400 with the stand. It is a reef ready drilled tank.

I use a 20G high for a sump. I use the drilled return as the return. I put in a durso standpipe to quiet the overflow down.

Another thing I like ALLOT about the 58 over the 65 is the 58 has NO center brace as the 65 does. That means I can get away with a single metal halide light instead of 2. My lighting is a 250W HQI pendant with 2 95W VHO actinics.

The Oceanic glass is thicker than the All-Glass and the stand workmanship is much better.

Any more questions - just ask.
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