sump/fuge question

[repairman68]

Hi, does any one know what the max flow rate in GPH would be?My tank will be 48"L x 18"W x 30"H. Plans are to have one overflow at one end, with 2) 1-1/2" drains and 1)1" return also 2) more 1" returns at opposite end of tank. I plan to use 2) little giant M# 4-MDQX-SC one will power the two returns drilled in the tank opposite of the overflow wich will enter tank just above sand bed the other hole drilled in tank in the overflow will be connected to a spray bar under live rock. the second pump will be connected to an oceans motions OM squirt wich will provide wave motion to the top of tank. any suggestions or advise will be greatly appreciated. nothing is set in stone. :?
Thanks Scott[/img]

 

[ChrisRD]

Hi Scott and :welcome:

There's a nice head loss calculator program you can use to estimate flowrate based on your plumbing layout. Check here for an article on how to use it and a link to download:
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/2007/5/aafeature2

One recommendation - I would make "pump 1" a closed loop, not a sump return (ie. have intake piping connected to the display tank, not the sump). As shown, when the pump is off, you'll drain almost the entire display tank causing a flood. You could prevent this by putting check valves in the plumbing, but personally, I would never rely on check valves as a sole means of preventing a flooding situation in any of my own setups.

JMO & HTH

 

[repairman68]

thanks ChrisRD for the advise. If I was to use 1) of my 1-1/2" drain in the overflow and plumed it so it pulled water from the tank thou the overflow wall and used this for a closed loop would this leave me with enuff flow for my sump/fuge?
thanks Scott

 

[ChrisRD]

Yeah, that would work fine. A single 1-1/2" drain and one of those pumps should provide more than enough flow through your sump for a tank that size. I'd guess around the 1000 GPH range based on what you've mentioned and shown in the sketch.

HTH

 

[repairman68]

Thanks ChrisRd I may just go that way unless there are any other suggestions.
Scott