The LAST big upgrade

[mseepman]

Where are you ordering the tank from Catherine? I can tell you that I got an awesome deal and an amazing tank from Jay so I highly recommend him!

[michika]

I'm requoting with all the places I originally quoted which were Red Coral, Bow Valley, and Golds. So PM me Jay's details and I'll add him to my list of quotes to request.

[andestang]

Catherine, sent you a PM :)

[lastlight]

Glad to see 'big red' and pals on the sexyRadar again. Keep those updates coming!

Edit: hmmm...and just in case you have red hair (and I have forgotten and you women always makes changes anyways) 'big red' refers to your tank stand :mrgreen:

[lastlight]

What are the angled walls on the overflow for? Just to keep detritus from settling in it? Or am I looking at the drawing wrong?

With all those holes I'm guess you must be using a 3/4" bottom minimum. What did your previous builders suggest? All those bulkheads personally scare me but if I knew they'd never be an issue I'd do a CL as well. Most have dismissed them but I will be using one on the next build. Only difference is I'm taking all my piping over the top of the tank. Never an issue so long is inlet and outlet always remain submerged in an outage.

[michika]

Hahah, I do have red hair right now, but I knew you were talking about the stand!

The angled walls on the overflow are exactly for that, less detritus, and thus less cleaning! You're reading it correctly.

I think we'd talked about 3/4" or even 1" for the bottom. I believe it was 7/8 or 1" for the back and side panels. I had one builder tell me they would consider, but couldn't promise, low-iron for the front and side viewing panels.

I had one tank with the piping over the top. The only complaint I have about it is the salt creep. It took me extra long to clean it every week, and I found it collected more salt then anywhere else. Other then that I loved it!

[michika]

I've starting asking around for quotes, and so far I've been really happy with what I've been hearing back. 6 months makes a big difference in cost, and available options! So thank you everyone who PMed me recommendations, ideas, and suggestions. They'e all been very helpful. We'll be ready to make a decision as soon as all of our quotes are in.

I'm dying to get this thing moving!

We've been keeping ourselves semi occupied by chasing down some power problems we've been having in rooms around the tank room.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0125-1.jpg

Yay! Hidden splices, just what we all want to find in our walls.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0042-4.jpg

Explanation granted for why half the plugs in the basement don't work.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0045-2.jpg

A couple sort of related, but not really, photos from our trip this past weekend. We went out to B.C. and saw the salmon run.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0345.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0487.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0488.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0489-2.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0471-2.jpg

[andestang]

Great pic's. It's a really nice event to see.

[michika]

My skimmer is so nasty it just about made me sick when I cleaned it this morning. Ugh! Great skimmer, but it produces the most foul smelling crap I've ever smelt.

I spoke with Paul at Oceans Motions and got a few really great recommendations for tweaking the design as we had it. So now I just have to wait on one more quote and we'll make our choice on builders.

[Delphinus]

What was the skimmer you have again? Did you guys build it? Looks like a 3 injector beckett? Or is it something else. I have this vague recollection of a skimmer broken in transit but can't remember if that was you or someone else. I looked back a few pages but grew weary of not instantly finding the info I sought so I'm just asking here. Besides, asking in a thread is the same as googling stuff. :)

[michika]

The skimmer is a DIY design. It is currently a dual beckett, but Kevin's going to add in a dual recirc/needlewheel design to bump up its efficiency. This was the same skimmer that got destroyed by Greyhound. Kevin rebuilt the box on it, but after about 6 months of testing is debating once again changing the box design because he isn't 100% happy with his first choice.

[michika]

Alright we're now just one quote away from choosing our tank builder! I'm feeling pretty confident that I can meet my goal of having the tank in before December.

Per some of the feed back from Paul at Oceans Motions, I need to figure out where in the city I can buy spaflex and what is a reasonable price for it. I also need to do some plumbing shopping as I can now firmly say what size holes we'll be drilling and how many of them there will be.

So does anyone pig their plumbing? How are people cleaning their plumbing right now? One thing I want to try and do is make sure that everything is accessible, and replaceable in sections just in case there is a plug, or through normal wear and tear.

[kien]

I need to figure out where in the city I can buy spaflex and what is a reasonable price for it.

I think a lot of hot tub/sauna places carry spa flex. I get mine from Western Pump in the south east. Might be a tad far for you though. The good thing about Western Pump is that they sell everything else from pvc fittings, valves to cement. One stop shopping for my plumbing (except for gate valves).

[Rbacchiega]

+1 to Western Pump. I know when I was in town thats where I'd go if I couldn't find what I was looking for anywhere else.

[michika]

I think I'll just make a trip out of it and go to Western Pump. I wonder if they're open today?

**edit**
Maybe not. I apparently left my wallet at a friend's last night. Oops.

[michika]

Tee hee hee! Pretty no?

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/f240423d.jpg

[Delphinus]

I need to figure out where in the city I can buy spaflex and what is a reasonable price for it. I also need to do some plumbing shopping as I can now firmly say what size holes we'll be drilling and how many of them there will be.


Boy, I'm glad someone listens to me on facebook when I answer to when someone asks me where to get flex PVC :p Western Pump! Western Pump! Western Pump! Spaflex = flex PVC.

My feelings are all hurt now! :lol: (j/k btw. :))


So does anyone pig their plumbing? How are people cleaning their plumbing right now? One thing I want to try and do is make sure that everything is accessible, and replaceable in sections just in case there is a plug, or through normal wear and tear.

I don't think there's any real need to pig plumbing for a tank. You won't really get wear and tear on plumbing nor should you expect blockages if you design it well enough (eg. minimize 90's and use strainers on intakes) but the insides of pipe get a good slime coat inside. If you wanted to clean this out on regular intervals just use enough unions in the pipe so that you can get access for a pipe cleaner and scrub away.

[muck]

Could also check with Gregg Distributors for SpaFlex. I used to buy from them all the time in Edmonton at a pretty good price. Pretty sure they have one in Calgary too.

[Delphinus]

Tee hee hee! Pretty no?


Yes, but ... I assume that the depth is not really going to only be 1' 11-1/4" right ?

Also no worries about forgetting your wallet, Western Pump wouldn't have been open anyhow. They're in the Foothills industrial area and run typical hours for businesses over there - M-F/8-4 and Saturday is only 9-1.

[michika]

I've kind of always been under the impression (and I don't know where I got it from) that Western pump just did fittings and rigid PVC! I'll hit up Gregg and Western Pump once the tank is in the house. I just don't want to pay the mark-up that I know some retailers put on their plumbing supplies, I'm cheap like that. Is SpaFlex a trade name?

I'll find a Saturday to go fill up my car with plumbing parts and fittings, and then when I inevitably forget some key part or piece I'll make a second, and then a third trip back on out.

Depth is still going to be 2ft, and width of 3ft. I never really looked at the numbers, just stared, drooled, and fantasized about how awesome this tank is going to look when its all done and starting to grow in.

[Delphinus]

I'm not sure if it's a trade name but if you ask for spaflex or flex PVC at the counter they will know what you mean. You specify a length, they go back and come back out with it in hand. The fittings and such are just in the aisles but the spaflex and a few other specialty fittings (ie., John Guest and so on) tend to be in the "you have to ask for it" category.

Oh ok, I see that the numbers in the drawing are correct after all, it's just confusing how they labelled them then sort of overlaid the labels so I misread which one was which.

[Delphinus]

BTW in this case I say "depth" when I mean the front-to-back dimension, and I use "height" as the bottom-to-top dimension. Depth is a bit confusing since people think of "depth" as the sort of "negative altitude in water" when in the ocean, but with tanks it seems to mean the front-to-back in that you specify dimensions usually in the order of lwh ("length, width, height") so with your tank it's 10'x3'x2' but then you're looking at it from the long side so it gets all confusing like. :neutral: Anyhow sorry for the tangent.

[michika]

BTW in this case I say "depth" when I mean the front-to-back dimension, and I use "height" as the bottom-to-top dimension. Depth is a bit confusing since people think of "depth" as the sort of "negative altitude in water" when in the ocean, but with tanks it seems to mean the front-to-back in that you specify dimensions usually in the order of lwh ("length, width, height") so with your tank it's 10'x3'x2' but then you're looking at it from the long side so it gets all confusing like. :neutral: Anyhow sorry for the tangent.

How about this; left to right; 10.5 ft, front to back 3ft, top to bottom 2ft aka giant box o' salty water.

[Lance]

How about this; left to right; 10.5 ft, front to back 3ft, top to bottom 2ft aka giant box o' salty water.



No, not a giant box o' salty water This is 470 gallons of salty awesomeness!

[michika]

I hear that awesomeness can be measured in an equation of pheasent balls per meters cubed.

[Rbacchiega]

I hear that awesomeness can be measured in an equation of pheasent balls per meters cubed.

I always thought it was squared...hmmm...either way....go faster! ha ha I cant wait to see this build get started

[Lance]

I hear that awesomeness can be measured in an equation of pheasent balls per meters cubed.


Hehe We need Brett's input here. He's the resident expert on pheasant ball mathematics.

[lastlight]

My dang phaesant balls sprouted wings and flew off. Wife has a birdcage somewhere I think.

Boy oh boy you're getting closer to having glass this must be exciting now! I don't see issues but can you make the overflow wider? Be nice to pull a wider and thinner skim if ya can?

[Lance]

don't see issues but can you make the overflow wider? Be nice to pull a wider and thinner skim if ya can?


I was thinking the same thing. Catherine how much volume are you going with for the return?

[michika]

Wider like left to right wider? I certinaly don't see why not.

The overflow was a fantastic idea from Kevin at Red Coral. The shape is to help keep the detritus moving the in proper directions. We went with 2" drains for the amount of flow.

So if I were to make it wider are you thinking double the current width? I think its already about a foot wide, but I think 2ft would be easily possible.

As for return volume, I actually am trying to think of it more along the lines of flow strength; low when we get started, medium as things grow in, and full-out when the tank is fully stocked and full of life. I know we're going to be using two Dart pumps for the return. I never really thought of it was a number as much as I am trying to focus on keeping the water oxygenated, and minimizing my own work in cleaning the detritus.

[michika]

I hauled in the leg tank today, and then sent the other half off to the hardware store for supplies. So maybe tonight, or this weekend, it will be set up and chugging along making water. Its going to be part of an automatic water change system. I'm so excited not to have to lug water around anymore. Its going to be awesome!

Upended In my kitchen
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0016-2.jpg

From above
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0017-2.jpg

From inside
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0018-3.jpg

This thing is going to be awesome!

[Lance]

Wider like left to right wider? I certinaly don't see why not.

The overflow was a fantastic idea from Kevin at Red Coral. The shape is to help keep the detritus moving the in proper directions. We went with 2" drains for the amount of flow.

So if I were to make it wider are you thinking double the current width? I think its already about a foot wide, but I think 2ft would be easily possible.

As for return volume, I actually am trying to think of it more along the lines of flow strength; low when we get started, medium as things grow in, and full-out when the tank is fully stocked and full of life. I know we're going to be using two Dart pumps for the return. I never really thought of it was a number as much as I am trying to focus on keeping the water oxygenated, and minimizing my own work in cleaning the detritus.


The reason I ask is because if you are going to use the return for a fair amount of flow in the DT I might be a little worried that a one foot overflow may not be able to handle that kind of volume, or it may be noisy. I have 4' of overflow and your tank is way larger than mine. On the other hand Kevin certainly knows what he is doing so it's probably fine.

[lastlight]

Yeah I'd personally do a pair of them 2 feet wide each but that's just me. That stock tank is awesome! Even my 20g gets nasty after one mix it's going to be labour intensive to clean that beast especially with the ribs catching some leftovers. Not much you can do tho I will do the same one day.

[fishytime]

Holy crap Girly....that storage tank is bigger than you!:razz:

[michika]

I'm definitely going to think more on that overflow. It is a lot of water, and I want to make sure it all runs smoothly all the time! Although due to the shape and accessiblity in of the tank room behind the tank, the overflow is probably only going to potentially be widened on that back left hand side. I'm starting to think about making it 3ft or 4ft wide now.

The stock tank is pretty cool. Its ridiculously light, and was super easy to source and pick up. As for cleaning that baby out my master plan is use the hose! The tank will stay in place, and I'll just run a hose from the sink to the tank. The access hatch at the top is 12" across which gives me lots of room to get an arm in an direct some water flow from the hose. I loath the monthly job of cleaning out my own 30g water barrels now, so I thought this one through, and paid the extra for the 12" opening over an 8".

We're going to start assembling the water change system tonight, we've got most of our plumbing from the hardware store, but some of the specialty stuff is going to require a trip to my favorite SW store here in town.

I also got my last quote last night, which makes me extremely excited. I do have one more person that was suggested to me that I also want to approach for a quote, but the original list of companies have all been spoken to and I've got numbers and details back from all of them.

[michika]

Wow, its been busy here. So we've selected our builder, and we're taking holidays this winter, the first time ever for us. I'm also tweaking the size of the original overflow, I need something to handle max 6000gph. The tank should be installed in December if my schedule and the builder's works out.

I'll take some photos tonight of the tank room, its been progressing. The leg tank is installed, and they layout has been affirmed. Its now just a matter of finding some time to finish it, and then paint/seal the walls against the humidity and the salt.

[abcha0s]

I'd be really interested in hearing more about your automatic water change system. I am just about to start plumbing mine, but it's not to late for me to change the design. Are you doing automatic or continuous?

- Brad

[michika]

I'll post a better and more descriptive explanation tonight on that portion of the system.

[lastlight]

Oh come on. Who'd you go with and are you building on-site?

[michika]

We've selected Concept Aquariums to build for us, and they'll be doing it all on site! We got quotes from 5 separate vendors, and ultimately Concept's quote best fit into our goals.

As for the water change system, I am lame, I went home from work, tossed some laundry into wash and promptly feel asleep at around 7:45pm. I'll do better with those photos tonight.

[dave_C]

Hi Catherine I think I have the basic idea for your sump setup, see if this will work or if we need to make some changes to this:biggrin:

thanks

http://i938.photobucket.com/albums/ad223/conceptaquariums/cathsump2.jpg
http://i938.photobucket.com/albums/ad223/conceptaquariums/cathsump-1.jpg

[andestang]

Good choice Catherine :)

[KrazyKuch]

The automatic water change system will change 10gal of water everyday, it will be setup with 2 10gal tanks beside the sump one to hold fresh salt water and one to remove old saltwater, it will be controlled by a controller that I am designing so it will be hands free....one thing I am working on is to get the controller to actually make the salt water as well but need to figure out how to incorporate a salinity probe into my design

[lastlight]

10 gallons a day? Wow I hope you're using IO!

[KrazyKuch]

10 gallons a day? Wow I hope you're using IO!

well a water change for that much water volume will be about 160Gal, so instead of trying to do one large one we will do a bunch of smaller ones.......maybe 10gal every 2 days not super positive yet but something along those lines.

and no not using IO

[lastlight]

I figured you wouldn't be I was sorta speaking from your wallet's perspective =) I think that's a pretty sweet way to change water and a chance to have more gadgets which is fun.

[michika]

My wallet is telling me that I'll be buying salt in pallets, and it may end up being only 5g a day after we see what kind of impact it has on the tank. There is definitely a balance that will need to be struck here between the costs, the results, and the bioload.

I actually haven't given any thought to the type of salt I want. Everything just keeps changing, and I really don't know what I like/don't like anymore.

[Skimmerking]

Catherine why not Stick with IO I have been using it since 2002 and never had one problem with it. So I couldnt tell you anything else about other salt , to me SALT is salt

[michika]

In the past I've always received the poorest results when I used IO. We'll just figure out what is available when we're ready I suppose. I used to really like Red Sea salt, and had great results.

[fishytime]

give seachem some thought...... its distributed locally(in cowtown) so availability will be easy and very little shipping(if any) costs

[Parker]

to me SALT is salt


Too be honest, I would have to disagree. I went from 2 year old pails of Seachem to Reefers Best and I my tank improved dramatically. Corals that were brown for the last year have started to color up, and that's after one 100 gallon water change.

I'm sure it's not the case with everyone but for me a change in salt made a huge difference.

[Skimmerking]

Too be honest, I would have to disagree. I went from 2 year old pails of Seachem to Reefers Best and I my tank improved dramatically. Corals that were brown for the last year have started to color up, and that's after one 100 gallon water change.

I'm sure it's not the case with everyone but for me a change in salt made a huge difference.


may be its was the 100 gal water change too Park:question:

[michika]

give seachem some thought...... its distributed locally(in cowtown) so availability will be easy and very little shipping(if any) costs

Do you use SeaChem?

[andestang]

If you don't mind my input I would suggest Seachem's Salinity Salt. I've used a lot of different salts but I really like this one. I went from their Reefers salt to this. If you do some research it is one of the most balanced salts out there. I'm sure you plan on keeping SPS's & LPS's along with your clams. The bucket also makes 225 us gallons. And you gotta love the lid :) Do be carefull where you buy it as I've seen over $30 difference in town. PM me if you want.


http://i486.photobucket.com/albums/rr224/andestang/IMG_1609.jpg

The lock for the lid

http://i486.photobucket.com/albums/rr224/andestang/IMG_1610.jpg

[Delphinus]

I'm not one to jump on the bandwagon about salts anymore (been burned far too many times on this) but I have to say this one sounds different.

http://www.aquavitro.com/Products/salinity.html

What really attracts me to this one is the batch testing by lot#. So you can look up your salt's #'s online by entering it's batch# or lot#. Brilliant.

I've been hosed by other brands printing #'s on the side of the bucket but finding out that they may as well be complete fabrications. Maybe you need to roll buckets and so on but IMO you really shouldn't have to. If the mixture isn't homogenous enough at the bucket level how can one be certain it's homogenous within the same batch? By publishing the batch# test results, Seachem is upholding this particular product to a higher standard. I'll probably buy this salt next and see how it goes. Also 225gallons is a nice size too.

[lastlight]

what's a good price for a bucket? might try it too.

[Strickland_673]

Has anyone read about the Red Sea coral pro salt mix? apparently it's some pretty nice stuff. I've seen some threads on other forums of people who got their hands on it and tested the mix and the alk/mag/calc numbers are pretty impressive!

http://www.redseafish.com/Prod283.asp

I want some!!!!

[michika]

I've used Red Sea Coral Pro in the past, but really found my tank was happier with regular Red Sea salt instead of the Pro.

That Seachem stuff seems pretty sweet actually, the idea of testing by batches is quite attractive. Now the flip side is what kind of price am I looking at for something like that. I haven't priced out salt in over a year, I've had buckets and buckets that I'm getting through still.

[Magma]

I saw that Seachem Salinity at pisces pet emporium yesterday for 99.99 I havent seen it before then but then again I have only really looked into IO Reef, Red Sea and Kent.

[lastlight]

Considering the price and it does 225 gallons vs the reef crystals i normally get for 65 ish and does 160...I just might give this a go. I'll have the website up and check it before i buy it lol. RC is high for both calcium and alk always for me which i like. It's incredibly low on mag tho so something more balanced would be nice.

[fishytime]

Do you use SeaChem?

no I dont personally use seachem (H2Ocean is my flavor).....I merely suggested seachem because as I said it is distributed locally so there should be any availability issues for you with that brand.....lots of peeps have lots of opinions about what salt is "best".... I just assumed that because of the sheer massiveness of your system that a "high end" brand wouldnt be on your radar.....

[michika]

I think my radar is broken....I think what I'm going to do is just buy whats cheap and has a relatively untained recent history and use that to cycle the tank. After that I don't know...I know what I've liked in the past and I know what I definitely didn't care for. I'll just have to come see you one weekend and we can make a pallet deal or something.

We're just waiting on final drawings now. The deposit is paid, and once we sign off on the drawings its just a waiting game. I'm DYING for this tank to be in place. I can now picture the tank in place and chugging along, full of tangs, clams and SPS!

[Hawkaholic]

I'm DYING for this tank to be in place. I can now picture the tank in place and chugging along, full of tangs, clams and SPS!

So are the rest of us..:biggrin:

[michika]

I think I'm going to try out this Aqua-Vitro salt and see how it goes. It sounds extremely appealing for my needs, so I figure why not?

Anyways a little bit more progress has been made on the build!

First a shelf was made in the fish room for the leg tank. Below will be the final home of the RO/DI, along with some storage space for additional salt and some bigger supplies. For perspective purposes I'm standing in the doorway, at my right is the utility sink, and to the left is the back of the tank.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0004-7.jpg

Temporary home of the RO/DI. Eventually all the walls will be replaced by blue board, poly-ied, painted with heavy duty paint, and sealed.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0006-2.jpg

Good old solenoid doing its job.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0011-2.jpg

The pump still needs to be installed, but you get the idea of how the initial plumbing from the leg tank will work.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0019-4.jpg

The start of blue boarding.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0028.jpg

Full tank shot for November
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0023-4.jpg

One with the cardboard removed
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0026-3.jpg

You can see where the leg tank sits in relation to the display
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0027-4.jpg

[Hawkaholic]

Looks like its coming along pretty ok. I myself am considering using aqua-vitro salt. A reefer friend of mine bought a pail and his tests weren't even close as what it showed on the pail. It was only his first batch so maybe it gets better further down the pail. Just figured I'd let ya know,

[lastlight]

Wow you guys have done a lot looks great!

What's going through that solenoid? Is that an orbits sprinkler job? Is there any difference between that and the ones the reef-type diy sites sell? Not sure what metal insides and ro/di water will do just curious. Great idea.

[michika]

Wow you guys have done a lot looks great!

What's going through that solenoid? Is that an orbits sprinkler job? Is there any difference between that and the ones the reef-type diy sites sell? Not sure what metal insides and ro/di water will do just curious. Great idea.

Yup, its just a Orbit's sprinkler piece. Its all PVC I believe, no metal. Its been working well so far for us.

This weekend we OKed the final drawings of both the sump and tank! I also got most of the basement cleaned out. I think I have one more dump run, and then some cleaning to do, then painting, and finally pick up some plywood for the tank stand. Its going to be a busy month in our house.

[lastlight]

Its going to be a busy month in our house.

Oh you poor thing:biggrin: We're not going to feel any pity... not when Tibet's coming home soon.

[reefermadness]

Wow....impressive build.

[Parker]

may be its was the 100 gal water change too Park:question:

I've done frequent 100 gallon water changes in the past so I'm not sure. I'm mearly basing my opinion on what I've seen in my tank. After one water change with different salt things improved greatly. Would the same dramatic change have happend by going from Seachem to IO? I don't know, I would only be speculating.

[Delphinus]

pick up some plywood for the tank stand.

How much and how thick do you need? I have a LOT leftover from my tank stands and tank room that I don't know what to do with and is taking up a lot of space. I'd hate to to take it to the landfill (it has to go, I can't park in my garage because of it), and the nearest recycling station that I know of is in High River. So it's that, or it's kijiji giveaway... or a Canreef giveaway... let me know what you had in mind and if what I have will fit your needs please take it off my hands!!!!

[Rbacchiega]

I cant read any of your recent posts Tony??????

[Delphinus]

As in anything I say doesn't make sense, or as is there is some kind of technical glitch that just shows the posts as unreadable somehow? Can anyone else read what I'm saying?

[Rbacchiega]

nope...still nothing Tony...I wonder if it's only me>???

[muck]

I can see your posts Tony.

Randi did you block Tony.. :lol::lol:

[Lance]

Tony? Tony who? 12,602 posts that nobody has read. :lol:

[muck]

Tony? Tony who? 12,602 posts that nobody has read. :lol:

Bwahahahahaa... :lol:

[Rbacchiega]

why would I block Tony?!?!?! ha ha not unless I did it in some penicillian enduced coma.....

EDIT: Sorry for hijacking the thread

[michika]

Tony I need 3/4".

Hijack away, its entertaining.

[Rbacchiega]

well I still can't read any of tony's posts...on the computer at the shop or on my personal laptop. I can read when people quote his posts though....wtf

[michika]

Tony? Whois Tony?

[Parker]

Tony? Whois Tony?


He's a giant tiger, the spokesman for some sort of ceral....

[Lance]

He's a giant tiger, the spokesman for some sort of ceral....

Why would a giant tiger named Tony who sells cereal post on Canreef?

[Delphinus]

.

[Delphinus]

.

[Delphinus]

.

[lastlight]

Tony I'm going to have to report you to a mod for all this post padding. All I see are a bunch of '.' posts and that ain't gonna fly tiger.

[Delphinus]

.

Tony I'm going to have to report you to a mod for all this post padding. All I see are a bunch of '.' posts and that ain't gonna fly tiger.

[lastlight]

.

[Delphinus]

.
.

[Rbacchiega]

OMG I CAN SEE THAT!!!!! hahahaha try typing something relatively normal....well for us anyways

[michika]

Hey Tony, I'll take you up on that plywood. I'll PM you.

So here are the finalized designs for the display and sump.

Display
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/6ff7c5c6.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/ec11f9fc.jpg

Sump from the back
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/3c6eec75.jpg

Sump from the front
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/45819063.jpg

Alright I need to go clone myself now so I can survive the rest of the month of November. I'm too busy for my own good.

[lastlight]

Now that's a nice wide overflow me likey. Did you explain the overflow lookingish area in the sump somewhere? Obviously your tank drains into the 2 socks so I'm curious what that angled bit of fancy (even with it's own small hole drilled in the side) is all about.

[Lance]

I was wondering the same thing. And yes, that overflow is much better. The first example made me nervous.

[michika]

Now that's a nice wide overflow me likey. Did you explain the overflow lookingish area in the sump somewhere? Obviously your tank drains into the 2 socks so I'm curious what that angled bit of fancy (even with it's own small hole drilled in the side) is all about.

Its a tray for running stuff like carbon, etc. The water goes up from the bottom, through the media, and then overflows into the compartment before returning on its way to the tank.

[Delphinus]

A built-in media reactor? Interesting idea!!

[Rbacchiega]

:mad::mad::mad::mad:

and back to not being able to see Tony's posts

EDIT....nevermind..there they are...dear canreef, I love you and all, but get cho' stuff together!

[Parker]

Why would a giant tiger named Tony who sells cereal post on Canreef?

Well I don't know, maybe his reef tank keeps him from raging and eating small children....

[michika]

Well I don't know, maybe his reef tank keeps him from raging and eating small children....

FTW!

I keep seeing all these posts with BEAUTIFUL livestock, clowns, clams, SPS, ugh. Its torture wanting to buy more livestock! Its like one giant tease....oh wait...that Doug and his photos.

[fishytime]

Hey!???:wink:

[michika]

Hey!???:wink:

Someone has to keep me occupied in the mornings!


This week we're making our big last final push for awhile. The tank glass will be ready and the tank build will start next week, or the week thereafter. Just have to do some tidying and a bit of finishing to make the space functional for tank building.

So now what I have already;
- lighting (MH portion, still need T5s)
- Stand
- Tank
- Sump
- Skimmer
- obnoxious dogs that need to constantly be in the way of what you're doing
- Automatic water change system
- Controller
- Free manual labour & tank cleaning (but he's not as hot as the Tank Girls :sad:)

What I still need;
- cookies - oatmeal chocolate chip would be nice
- more power bars, and the remote interface for my RKE
- T5 lighting set ups, I think I only need like 2 of these
- Salt
- Rock
- Sand
- Beer
- Water
- clams
- pretty clowns; snowflakes?
- display side finishing & access ideas
- mag float
- 2x Hammerhead ReeFlo pumps
- plumbing supplies
- pheasant balls, for umm.. good luck...yeah...

Here is hoping our nasty Calgary weather keeps most people out of the hardware store tonight.

[lastlight]

You guys have most of the big things taken care of. The cookies is a tough one. I'd recommend something chewy tho. I am so craving oatmeal raisin now thanks.

[fishytime]

Someone has to keep me occupied in the mornings!

I suppose I should feel happy that I fill some kind of need for ya:wink:

- Free manual labour & tank cleaning (but he's not as hot as the Tank Girls :sad:)

your just not dressing him properly:lol:

What I still need;

- Salt
- Rock
- Sand
- Beer
- Water
- clams

Sounds like one hell of a shooter!:drinking:


- display side finishing & access ideas

you do know a finishing carpenter

You guys have most of the big things taken care of. The cookies is a tough one. I'd recommend something chewy tho. I am so craving oatmeal raisin now thanks.

- Rock
- 2x Hammerhead ReeFlo pumps
- plumbing supplies

IDK brochacho....Rock, two reeflos and plumbing for a tank of this scope is a pretty chunk o change:wink:.....for me anyway:neutral:

[lastlight]

Oh hell lots for me too. We're here to encourage, support, and distract her from that fact =)

[michika]

Yes, I need more distractions, and cookies!

I got my plywood yesterday for the stand (Thanks Tony!), the last of the required blue board for the fish room, and some other misc. parts to clean up some of the furnace vents. Someone was a big fan of the random offset when our new furnace was installed.

I never said this was going to be a fast build! Rock, pumps and plumbing are expensive...and thus I require a sugar daddy/mama or a wealthy patron, however in the event I cannot locate such people I'll just have to save my pennies. I think we're going to go with a large amount of dry rock (if the price is right) to help offset the costs.

Doug, once the tank is built I'll come pick your brains for ideas on how to finish the display side. I'm just not feeling any of the previous ideas I'd flagged as possilibies from other builds.

[michika]

The glass arrives on Friday, it will just be the tank glass for now. I opted to hold back on the sump until I'm 100% ok with the layout of pumps. This stems from a little oops with the leg tank/waterchange system. I forgot to leave enough space for the pump, and Ocean Runner 600, so now I have a bit of a connundrum to solve. I'm worried it will happen with the sump as well, so I need to re-assure myself about pump and plumbing placement before I go ahead with it.

So some photos:

Mostly clean display side of the basement
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0017-3.jpg

The stand is now a table top to do some the work above it.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0018-4.jpg

Plywood is in, just have to add a layer of foam and then the tank!
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0020-3.jpg

Moved the offsets that were in the way; before
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0021-3.jpg

after;
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0022-3.jpg

Blue board is mostly up, I wanted the stuff up behind the tank wall ASAP, just in case I couldn't get the rest done in time.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0023-5.jpg

Leg tank is all drywalled and the backside is now mudded
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0025.jpg

View from the backside of the tank into what will eventually be our media room
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0024-1.jpg

[untamed]

Leg tank is all drywalled and the backside is now mudded
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0025.jpg


The way this shelf is constructed has me a bit concerned. Is this only screwed to the wall studs at the sides? If so, you are carrying the weight based on the shear strength of the screws only... Wouldn't you want to have some vertical studs on the sides? This would reduce the space you've created underneath by only 3"-6", but it would make it much stronger.

Maybe you notched the studs...that would be good.

[michika]

There will be legs under the free edge, but they only go on after everything has been painted and sealed. Its just too much of a pain to get under there to mud, and pain with the legs in the way.

It will look something like this....but with the magic of 3D!

_{water}_
| | | <---- The spacing changes but the legs will be evenly spread out under the leg tank.

So as of this weekend most of the glass is sitting in my basement! I took some photos, but then went partying all weekend long and didn't quite make it to uploading them yet. It looks pretty, I'm excited to see it go up in the next few days, or at least part of it will go up.

I'll probably be unemployed after December 15th so I'll have plenty of time to do stuff around the house, why can't unemployement also come with copious amounts of cash? Yay for being a contractor! Oh well, at least I got my tank out of this last one, so I can at least be uber happy about that one.

[lastlight]

I don't recall what you chose for glass. What thicknesses and what types of glass? I remember the glass for my 400 sitting in the basement. I'd just pace around the basement staring at it dreaming. FUN!

[michika]

Its 3/4" glass for all the pieces I have in the basement right now. I'll post some photos up tonight I think once I escape from the office of doom. Today is definitely a Monday, no questions asked.

[michika]

I snapped a few shots with my phone this morning while I was getting ready for work. The builders are coming tonight to start the assembly process!

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/11fcf497.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/6921504c.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/fe0b5cd7.jpg

[lastlight]

I think it moved...

That's some serious sexy there!

[Parker]

You must be getting pretty excited!

[Delphinus]

Wow that's a long piece of glass. :eek: Looks so awesome. Darn I wish I could pull off a 10' tank. You have noooo idea how jealous I am!

[michika]

Wow that's a long piece of glass. :eek: Looks so awesome.

It looks even better when you use a better camera! :biggrin:

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0135-1.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0139-1.jpg

And for the finale my December 2010 tank shot!
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0137.jpg

[Delphinus]

It looks even better when you use a better camera!

I'll say!!!! Because in the first shot it just looks like a flat piece of glass and then with the better camera it actually looks like an actual tank! Nyuk, nyuk, nyuk me so funny. Sorry I'll shut up now.

Tank looks good.

[michika]

Thanks!

Now that its up its so much easier to visualize the end product. I'm on the fence if I'm going to start with the plumbing, or the lighting next. My credit card is cowering at the thought of purchasing plumbing right now.

[JDigital]

Tibet is ALIVE! :twised: Cool stuff guys! Going to be a great looking tank.

[michika]

Tibet is ALIVE! :twised: Cool stuff guys! Going to be a great looking tank.

Thanks!

[lastlight]

That looks awesome! Is any of that starfire? It doesn't look that green in the shots and it's 3/4"...

[michika]

That looks awesome! Is any of that starfire? It doesn't look that green in the shots and it's 3/4"...

Actual no, none of it. We ended up going with regular plain old glass. We debated, then it came down to a rugged competition of paper, rock, sissors (lizard, Spock). We chose plain old regular glass for its durability, and so far I've been quite happy with all of our regular glass tanks, and didn't really see the need to go to low-iron like we originally planned for.

[es355lucille]

Nice looking tank Catherine!......I can't wait to see more!


Brad

[riceboy]

Sorry must not have catched it but who built your tank? i myself will be getting a tank built soon to but looking for the best price in town :lol: budget is tight while saving up for a house :lol:

[michika]

Sorry must not have catched it but who built your tank? i myself will be getting a tank built soon to but looking for the best price in town :lol: budget is tight while saving up for a house :lol:

Concept Aquariums is our builder.

House buying is a lot of fun, or at least I thought it was.

[michika]

The tank has an overflow and the rest of its eurobracing. It looks fantastic, well it did at 4am today, I'm betting it will look twice as good when I'm not feeling so sleep deprived.
Concept Aquariums was/is fantastic to deal with, they also do nice work!

I'm planning to order our bulkheads and most of the valves shortly. I don't think we'll get around to much else before the end of year, I'm too tired.

[Delphinus]

Sweet!!!

[Coleus]

sweet looking tank

[michika]

Alright I've got my orders and cash ready to buy the following;

- Salt & Dry goods @ Red Coral's Holiday sale this weekend
- Dry Rock @ Eco-Reefer.com, thanks for the photos Mike, they made my decision!
- 50% of my plumbing from BRS (I'm doing a group order in early January if you want on)

Now that the tank is in place we can start figuring out all the things I was scared to do before it was assembled; light rack, and plumbing placement.

I think this is what I'll do every December, tank buying spree! Christmas isn't for me, so maybe I'll turn it into Tibet-mas?

[Magma]

I think this is what I'll do every December, tank buying spree! Christmas isn't for me, so maybe I'll turn it into Tibet-mas?

maybe I missed it in the thread but whats the reason behind calling it Tibet?

[riceboy]

Alright I've got my orders and cash ready to buy the following;

- Salt & Dry goods @ Red Coral's Holiday sale this weekend
- Dry Rock @ Eco-Reefer.com, thanks for the photos Mike, they made my decision!
- 50% of my plumbing from BRS (I'm doing a group order in early January if you want on)

Now that the tank is in place we can start figuring out all the things I was scared to do before it was assembled; light rack, and plumbing placement.

I think this is what I'll do every December, tank buying spree! Christmas isn't for me, so maybe I'll turn it into Tibet-mas?

I'm in for some plumbing if you do a group order.

[michika]

maybe I missed it in the thread but whats the reason behind calling it Tibet?

Tibet was named by JDigital and it stands for The Incredibly Big Expensive Tank.

[Snappy]

Catherine & Kevin, do you have a timeline in mind for a finishing date? This build is moving along almost as fast as Tony's.:razz::razz:
That will be a sweet tank.:biggrin:

[Magma]

Tibet was named by JDigital and it stands for The Incredibly Big Expensive Tank.

Love the name! lol

Cant wait to see it filled :D

[Delphinus]

Wow that's really funny, clever, and witty, Greg. Have you considered doing stand up comedy? You're a real natural. :p

[Snappy]

Wow that's really funny, clever, and witty, Greg. Have you considered doing stand up comedy? You're a real natural. :p
Sorry I just couldn't resist. :lol: Since I've had to start mine over again pretty much from scratch I guess I shouldn't be pointing fingers anywhere but at myself.:wink:

[michika]

You guys crack me up!

We want the tank up and running/cycling by February/March, and I'm hoping for a transfer in April/May. Our goal is to complete our basement renovation by September of next year. Our tank build is slow, very slow, there is just so much work that needed to be done in the basement to get it to the point where we could do anything with it.

I did order what I hope will be the rest of my rock this morning. Between what I have cooking in my sump, and 180g system, and the 100lbs I just ordered I hope its enough, if not its enough for me to start building some of my aquascaping.

[michika]

The display tank is officially done. Concept Aquariums did a fantastic job on it. We'll be having them back soon to do our sump.

My live rock arrived from Eco Reefer a couple of weeks ago, great large shelf pieces, exactly as I requested. They were great to deal with. I now need to get some rods to start assembling it for Tibet.

I think we now have about 1/3 of our total plumbing requirements. I'm setting up a group BRS order to pick up a few more things I can't pick up locally. We're focusing right now on getting all the plumbing parts we require to do our first water test on the display tank.

I need to take some more photos.

[muck]

I need to take some more photos.
Yes... yes you do. :twised:

[michika]

Maybe tonight I'll get on that.

I can't wait to fill this baby up with water.

[lastlight]

How many days has it been curing and what did they recommend? Can't wait to see the next round of pics!

[Lance]

..........I need to take some more photos.


:boink:

[michika]

:boink:

Very fitting.

The sad thing is that my camera is no more then 2 feet from the tank, and less then 8 feet from my laptop. :redface: I'd say maybe tonight, but I can realistically say that I'm probably not going to get around to it.

Although I do need a January FTS...

[fishytime]

Ya cmon Catherine....I show you my reef porn.....you show me yours:wink:

[michika]

Ya cmon Catherine....I show you my reef porn.....you show me yours:wink:

Just for you I busted out my phone after practice last night to snap some shots, and put my camera's battery on to charge. Also because my good camera would have caught too good of a reflection of my post-practice self.

Hack January 2011 FTS. Note all the bulkheads!
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/095c4e72.jpg

Start of the plumbing. Just waiting now for my BRS order to arrive with the rest of what I need.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/faf98f96.jpg

Small sampling of the 100lbs of rock I got from Eco Reefer
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/d62a07d8.jpg

[lastlight]

Holy swiss cheese batman that looks pretty dang cool. You've got bigger pheasantBalls than me I wish I had the courage. Can't wait to see your plans to hide-a-scape all them bulkheads.

[michika]

http://abcnews.go.com/images/Health/nm_swiss_cheese_081125_main.jpg

I'm on the fence if I'm going to make the first one with a PVC structure, or acrylic. Although honestly I was able to stack the rock near perfectly on the floor without either, however we all know how reefing works and I'll never be able to re-assemble it in the tank in all its glory.

[imcosmokramer]

I simply stacked both recent tanks, and wish that I had used aquamend/aquastick..

[phi delt reefer]

http://abcnews.go.com/images/Health/nm_swiss_cheese_081125_main.jpg

I'm on the fence if I'm going to make the first one with a PVC structure, or acrylic. Although honestly I was able to stack the rock near perfectly on the floor without either, however we all know how reefing works and I'll never be able to re-assemble it in the tank in all its glory.

zip ties from the dollar store. You get 25-50 for a buck so you can zip tie it all once you get it into a format you like. Works well as long as you dont make a 60lb structure cause you dont want to have that thing fall as you try to lift it out so you can epoxy it all together. Though zip ties neatly trimmed and properly applied can be hidden with dabs of that aqua putty. Seems like you might have enough room to do that in that tank - given that your tank is bigger than the homes of most living in third world countries :mrgreen: (yes i am entitled to bash cause my parents are from India)

[fishytime]

I like cheeeeeeese*said with a big cheese eating grin on my face*........thanks Catherine, when I asked you to show me yours, I didnt epect to get such a detailed picture of your holes:wink:

[lastlight]

I've always splurged and used the ties from home depot because they come in massive lengths and say they are UV resistant. They feel stronger and with this protection I imagine don't become brittle being in the tank quite as fast.

[michika]

I like cheeeeeeese*said with a big cheese eating grin on my face*........thanks Catherine, when I asked you to show me yours, I didnt epect to get such a detailed picture of your holes:wink:

What can I say? I aim to please!


Can someone wave a magic wand so my BRS package would arrive today? Please? I'll even post real photos, from an actual camera, and not a phone! I'm not sure why its so hard for me to wait for this package, but its killing me! KILLING ME! I just want to fill up my tank with water and see how she holds.

[lastlight]

Haha that's too funny. Why do you think I *really* abandoned my closed loop? I can't bear to wait until I can actually begin work on the setup to fill it up lol.

[michika]

The waiting is terrible! I know patience is a central tenant to reefkeeping and all, but seriously, I require some instant gratification!

[fishytime]

well dry goods should be instant gratification:wink:.....

[michika]

Too bad they aren't!

Did some shopping last night to add to my BRS box that arrived yesterday! So now I'm up to ~$1,300 spent in plumbing to date and we're only around half way in that process.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/7e3c2460.jpg

More photos soonish. I took them, and I charged my camera, but need some quality time with my laptop.

[lastlight]

$1300? HOW is that possible? Unless you have a bunch of massive sch80 true union valves and gate valves that seems crazy high. Unless you're including pumps in that figure...

[michika]

massive sch80 true union valves and gate valves

We have a winner!

I think plumbing costs is going to eclipse the tank cost once I add in pumps and the Ocean Motions.

[lastlight]

Those valves are SO much better than the white ones you get at home depot etc. Not sure which way I'll be going...most likely the CHEAPER way =)

[michika]

We got ours via BRS and it made a difference in pricing for sure. We also scoped out some local places to buy as well, but BRS' prices couldn't be beat on the Group Order.

Think of it this way; I bought enough stuff from BRS that when I sit it all on the eurobrace it spans nearly the full 10.5ft.

[lastlight]

Think of it this way; I bought enough stuff from BRS that when I sit it all on the eurobrace it spans nearly the full 10.5ft.

Saying something like that without posting a pic seems a little mean!

So you can't even do a water test until you're all plumbed? Or do you guys have threaded plugs for your bulkheads at least?

[michika]

Yeah, it does seem a bit cruel, so I'll hook you up tonight with some shots. We were busy doing some actual plumbing last night and I got sidetracked.

Actually all the bulkheads are slip by slip for the tank itself. We're plumbing everything back to the valves, which we'll shut off for the water test. I have one more run to make to the hardware store tonight; there is always a missing piece isn't there?

[Northernseacorals]

Just caught up from page one; this is an awesome project!!!!

Cannot wait to see more, this is like a good book you do not want to put down :biggrin:

[michika]

I'm happy your enjoying it! I certainly am.

[michika]

Plumbing showed up!
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0161-1.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0184-2.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0162-1.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0157.jpg

There was a third set, but I never took a photo.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0179-1.jpg

Some vaguely better photos of the dry rock I received. They really don't accurately represent how porous and great they look.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0164-1.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0174-1.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0172-1.jpg

February FTS
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0167-1.jpg

[lastlight]

Crap that thing is a monster! That line of valves on the eurobrace made my wallet stutter!

[muck]

I thought your wallet got emptied yesterday.. :twised:

[lastlight]

I thought your wallet got emptied yesterday.. :twised:

Yeah the bank fixed that. Check facebook once in a while sheesh Ryan!

[muck]

Yeah the bank fixed that. Check facebook once in a while sheesh Ryan!
Whew... glad you got your $28 back.

[mseepman]

Awesome build at work here! Loving that plumbing line-up...scary to think what we spend on plumbing.

[michika]

The plumbing is taking forever; I keep having to glue a few, then leave the room, otherwise its glue a few, and redo them.

We picked up 2/4 buckets of salt for the eventual start up. Going to try the Aqua Vittro this time and see what happens. I like the way the buckets close and open, its much nicer on my damaged shoulder.

I'm also starting to get rolling on having our sump made.

[fishytime]

is it just me or is the snowball really startin to roll on this???:wink:

[andestang]

Things starting to come together quickly Catherine, look-in good ! I think you're going to really like that salt and the lid is pretty slick isn't it. I also like the the sticker with the batch results right on the bucket or you can also go on line and check it out. Keep things coming along.


The plumbing is taking forever; I keep having to glue a few, then leave the room, otherwise its glue a few, and redo them.

We picked up 2/4 buckets of salt for the eventual start up. Going to try the Aqua Vittro this time and see what happens. I like the way the buckets close and open, its much nicer on my damaged shoulder.

I'm also starting to get rolling on having our sump made.

[michika]

is it just me or is the snowball really startin to roll on this???:wink:

It was....jinx?


Can't wait for the day I can go home after work, crash on my basement couch and just zone out for a bit while staring at the tank.

[Skimmerking]

It was....jinx?


Can't wait for the day I can go home after work, crash on my basement couch and just zone out for a bit while staring at the tank.

Heck Catherine just come live with me, come lay on my couch and hang out and watch my fish tank...:razz: Stay with me I'm make ya famous.

[michika]

Hahahah, that totally was the jinx!

I'm stuck now, I need to find this stuff called Mastertop 110 plus Underlayment to do some more leveling of the fish room floor, on the side by the leg tank, but I can't find it anywhere. Its holding everything up. I know its available here in town, but the place we were told, Union Concrete Supply(ies?) doesn't seem to exist.

Frustrating!

[es355lucille]

Catherine, I thought you guys used another product for leveling under the tank? I wrote it down somewhere......damn can't find anything!!....need coffeeeeee!
Is the stuff you are referring to below for doing a job that requires more volume? Thanks :smile:

Hahahah, that totally was the jinx!

I'm stuck now, I need to find this stuff called Mastertop 110 plus Underlayment to do some more leveling of the fish room floor, on the side by the leg tank, but I can't find it anywhere. Its holding everything up. I know its available here in town, but the place we were told, Union Concrete Supply(ies?) doesn't seem to exist.

Frustrating!

[fishytime]

Hahahah, that totally was the jinx!


sorry:redface:

[michika]

Catherine, I thought you guys used another product for leveling under the tank? I wrote it down somewhere......damn can't find anything!!....need coffeeeeee!
Is the stuff you are referring to below for doing a job that requires more volume? Thanks :smile:

Yeah its for an area where one side is off by 1/8" and the other is by like 1.5" or something. I'm just the poor soul who has to source it out. Its a huge PITA because its whats stopping us from water testing right now. Its making me so frustrated that I can't just fill Tibet up. Essentially its the outside wall between Tibet and the water change system at the back of fish room that needs to be filled. Otherwise if there is a spill/mess things won't drain right and we run the risk of a large flood spilling into other areas of the basement.

Also it doesn't help when I go to look at other people's threads with their pretty clams, fish and corals, the temptation to spend the cash set aside for the sump or more plumbing is really hard to resist. I think I'd feel so much better about how far the build has progressed if only I could water test it.

[michika]

sorry:redface:

Guess I'll just have to put you to work in exchange. :lol:

[Delphinus]

You'll have your moment in the limelight soon enough where everyone else is all wishing they had your tank and stuff. Keep the faith :)

[The Grizz]

You'll have your moment in the limelight soon enough where everyone else is all wishing they had your tank and stuff. Keep the faith :)

I am wishing I had that tank and stuff now :lol::lol:

[Delphinus]

Yah yah yah. Says the guy with not one but TWO 8' tanks if I'm not mistaken? :lol: You have some nice stuff there too mister. :)

[fishytime]

Guess I'll just have to put you to work in exchange. :lol:

Sure! whatcha have in mind there Girly??:biggrin::wink:......and kudos to you for the restraint exercising............hmmmm.....restraint exercising...... that sounds interesting:twised:

[The Grizz]

Yah yah yah. Says the guy with not one but TWO 8' tanks if I'm not mistaken? :lol: You have some nice stuff there too mister. :)

Yes you are correct on that Tony, but all my gear is used. The only thing I have at the moment that is new are my lights :biggrin:

[michika]

Alright, somebody here is lucky, who is it?

Found the concrete/leveller/whatever we're calling it/last step before water testing/something something dark side/Mastertop 110! Its on its way home right now!

I'm going to see if I can convince myself to do it tonight....couch vs. tank....the epic battle.

[michika]

Concrete is finished now!

I just started phase 1 of our water test. The plan is to fill the tank over the course of a few days, and then let it sit for one week. Then next weekend, provided there are no leaks, we'll train it, and then start working on putting up the walls and completing the fishroom.

I have complete faith in our builders and don't expect any leaks at all.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0193.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0201.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0203.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0206-2.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/DSC_0208.jpg

[fishoholic]

Sure! whatcha have in mind there Girly??:biggrin::wink:......and kudos to you for the restraint exercising............hmmmm.....restraint exercising...... that sounds interesting:twised:

Not to interesting I hope! Hummmm....maybe I should teach you some lessons in restraint :twised:

The tank is looking awesome Catherine, so exciting to see water going in it, I'm sure the water test will go well :biggrin:

[lorenz0]

BUSTED!!! lol

back to the topic, I can't believe I am seeing water in this thread now. Two thumbs up

[michika]

Its pretty exciting!

So far no leaks, not like any where expected anyways, Tibet is built like a tank.

[es355lucille]

Good things come to those who wait! You realize you are doing a huge build here right!! LOL! Its going to a beauty.......and better to do things right. You will be having fun here very soon!


Yeah its for an area where one side is off by 1/8" and the other is by like 1.5" or something. I'm just the poor soul who has to source it out. Its a huge PITA because its whats stopping us from water testing right now. Its making me so frustrated that I can't just fill Tibet up. Essentially its the outside wall between Tibet and the water change system at the back of fish room that needs to be filled. Otherwise if there is a spill/mess things won't drain right and we run the risk of a large flood spilling into other areas of the basement.

Also it doesn't help when I go to look at other people's threads with their pretty clams, fish and corals, the temptation to spend the cash set aside for the sump or more plumbing is really hard to resist. I think I'd feel so much better about how far the build has progressed if only I could water test it.

[MitchM]

Looks good!
You're fortunate to have lots of clean, pressurized city water.:smile:

[lastlight]

The water shot is so rad. Can't believe you guys plumbed the garden hose in that's so nerdy. Naturally I approve!

[fishytime]

Not to interesting I hope! Hummmm....maybe I should teach you some lessons in restraint :twised: I'll get the cuffs:wink::lol:

BUSTED!!! lol

yup I was so......had to do some serious butt kissing to get me out of that one........if I were a boob guy that might actually be the bad thing that it sounds like it is:twised:

The water shot is so rad. Can't believe you guys plumbed the garden hose in that's so nerdy. Naturally I approve!

should tell you bout my leak test when I did my tank......lets just say that the "more water pressure*Tim Taylor type grunts*) from the hose idea when you are alone was not........good



very excited for yous two......we are all assuming that the leak test went well???:razz:

[es355lucille]

I kinda forgot what thread I was on.......This is beginning to look like Doug's thread....LMAO!!:rainbow1:

Can't wait to see more guys!! Doug can amuze us for a while until you get back....take your time!! lol

[michika]

Leak test went swimmingly well. Tank is spectacularly stable and such!

Sports have started up already for the season, so we're really struggling for time to work on this. So far it seems like Kevin goes home, works on the house, and then I get home and we go on about our regular lives. Its kind of looking like from this part forward I'll probably only be ordering, paying, and making arrangements for components, while Kevin will be doing all the actual work. I don't mind, but I like participating in the build; doing the physical labour of it all stands for a bit more then just whipping out your credit card and paying.

[fishytime]

good to hear about the leak test....."all systems go!"
whipping it out is enough work isnt it?

[mseepman]

Just wondering...what ever happened to this build?

[michika]

Its still happening...

I'm just making a final push to finish off some other house renos by the end of August, and then we'll be back on track.

So far the tank has been leak tested, the water change/mixing station is underway as is the associated controller for it. We have most of our lights, but now I'm wondering if I want LEDs.

Anyways...photos later, its still happening.

[mseepman]

Good to here! Always really liked this build.

[michika]

Ok so a bit of a recap I suppose is required.

I took down my 180g grow out system. I've been slowly re-homing fish. I pretty much gave all but one tang away to temporary homes. I'm slowly working on packing it up and getting it out of the house for sale.

When the 180g came down we found some near-fails. This is one of my check valves. The inner o-ring was nearly corroded through, the valve could not make an appropriate seal. Scary thing is that I checked all the o-rings and plumbing not even 2 months prior!

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/4c8cd17a.jpg


Then I took Tony's old 90g (man this thing really gets around), and set it up for my tang and long-spine urchin.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/7d0cc9ad.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/675d8c54.jpg

I set up the RKE, and am waiting for the new SL2 module to be released. I'm 98% sure there is something wrong with the calibration of my pH probe. I've cleaned and calibrated it twice now, but maybe the 3rd time will be the charm. If not, new probe time.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/0a676404.jpg

Because I've been enamoured with LEDs for ages now, I'm actually starting to experiment. On the 90g I've put in 3 strips of Cool White Phillips LEDs (waterproof/water resistant fixtures) that I'm so far not minding. Granted I don't have enough PAR (probably) to keep any LPS or SPS, I'm finding that working with LEDs isn't like T5s or MHs.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/47072894.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/43171bd8.jpg

[mseepman]

Glad to see the update. Interesting to hear about the check valve...those have always worried me on tanks. On the LED side of things...they can actually be a bit of fun to experiment with...but you'll eventually want to move towards more reef oriented versions.

[gregzz4]

I don't have the NET module, but I'd be curious to see what pH reading you get when the system is unplugged from your PC
Everytime I plug mine in, I have to wait awhile for the pH to read correctly
It starts off high like yours, then slowly comes down

[michika]

Sadly, it seems to be getting worse. I'm going to try and re-calibrate it tonight because its driving me nuts to see it at 8.4+.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/1259b90b.jpg


One of my favourite things about MHs is the infamous "shimmer", and really what I'm hoping for from these LEDs is to a) light my tank for my tang, and b) decide if I can live without my "shimmer". Plus, they were f-r-e-e so its kind of hard to say no. I'm looking at "reef appropriate" lighting right now, but the price is such a downer.

The price of new reef equipment has definitely gone up in the last few years. What bothers me is that it seems that a lot of stuff has become more high-tech, or high priced, but it seems like being more energy efficient has fallen off the wagon. To me Tibet is a long term investment with a daily ongoing maintenance cost, and things like energy efficiency is really important for me. Sorry, rant of frustration there.

[molotov]

Back in early 2009 you said you were going to have a salt party. Are you still gonna have a salt party? I could bring some live rock :)

[gregzz4]

What pH reading do you get on the head unit when it's NOT plugged into your PC ?

[mseepman]

Catherine I agree with you that efficiency is critical, especially when you look at lighting. LED is the way to go in regards to energy. As for cost, there are a lot of alternatives. I know there are fans of Aquastyle LED's on here...they can be reasonable. I think the multi chip leads from some eBay vendors can be amazing as well.

Keep looking...plus LED will give you your shimmer.

[claymax]

and dont rule out diy, modular led kits are probably the easiest to to assemble, and they're local.

[fishytime]

bah!.....10 radions should do it:wink:

[michika]

What pH reading do you get on the head unit when it's NOT plugged into your PC ?

I swear I responded to this...anyways its still creeping up. Its totally the probe! Unplugged it was the same as plugged, today its 9.37!

Catherine I agree with you that efficiency is critical, especially when you look at lighting. LED is the way to go in regards to energy. As for cost, there are a lot of alternatives. I know there are fans of Aquastyle LED's on here...they can be reasonable. I think the multi chip leads from some eBay vendors can be amazing as well.

Keep looking...plus LED will give you your shimmer.

We're definitely going to do a DIY LED fixture if we go that route (and I think I am). After having lived with LED shimmer for awhile I think I do like it. Its a bit different from MH, but nothing significant enough.

and dont rule out diy, modular led kits are probably the easiest to to assemble, and they're local.

Any recommendatinos on some?



I got a box on my doorstep last night; more LEDs, plumbing parts, and some RO/DI replacements. Now I'm onto ordering rock and sand from Eco-Reefer. I'm so pleased by their products and their prices.

I think my UPS and Canada Post guys deserve some big heavy bottles of good liquor as thanks for hauling many big and heavy boxes to my front door.


Perhaps the sand shall wait another cheque....I feel silly saying I spent all my fun money on rocks and sand. :cry:

You will need approximately 473 pounds of sand
to achieve a 2 inch depth in a 126 x 36 inch tank
assuming the sand weighs 90 pounds per cubic foot.

[Parker]

Bah! No pictures........... fail.

[michika]

Bah! No pictures........... fail.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/E5A8EFBB-E40B-4A03-B979-5EE7AEB0EF1C-21343-00000E1E0FC89124.jpg

[lockrookie]

omg you guys are making my day love the pic lol

[mseepman]

Haha....that is classic!

[claymax]

Any recommendatinos on some?

http://www.modularled.ca/4-foot-tank-kit/

two of these might work, i would personally go with 2:1 royal blue to neutral white, and splash a couple blues in there.

heres a good example of "going all out"

http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=80996

[mseepman]

The links above are excellent. I think you can save some real dough if you do the heat sinks right...take a look at how I did it for only $115 worth of metal. http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=61961&page=9

[michika]

The links above are excellent. I think you can save some real dough if you do the heat sinks right...take a look at how I did it for only $115 worth of metal. http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=61961&page=9

You made it look so simple. I really really really love the plexi spashguard offset with the nylon spaces and screws. I think it looks great!


http://www.modularled.ca/4-foot-tank-kit/

two of these might work, i would personally go with 2:1 royal blue to neutral white, and splash a couple blues in there.

heres a good example of "going all out"

http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=80996

Thanks! Modularled is fun to go poke around at. I don't think I've seen green LEDs used before their website, and Grizz's build. LEDs are really coming into their own now it seems.

[fishoholic]

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/E5A8EFBB-E40B-4A03-B979-5EE7AEB0EF1C-21343-00000E1E0FC89124.jpg

:pound:

Next a picture of the tank would be cool :biggrin:

[mseepman]

You made it look so simple. I really really really love the plexi spashguard offset with the nylon spaces and screws. I think it looks great!
.

Would you believe that those spacers are pens chopped to equal lengths...bought a pack for $1 and still have 7 pens left. :biggrin:

[michika]

Would you believe that those spacers are pens chopped to equal lengths...bought a pack for $1 and still have 7 pens left. :biggrin:

Nope, I totally wouldn't. They look just like nylon tubes! Nice find!

[Parker]

I was going to reply with a blurred picture of me giving you the finger, because I thought you'd get the humor in it. However, it's probably not appropriate for a family friendly site.. :D

[michika]

I was going to reply with a blurred picture of me giving you the finger, because I thought you'd get the humor in it. However, it's probably not appropriate for a family friendly site.. :D

You're right. I would have laughed my face off!

[Kryptic4L]

just did a quick skim through your thread, Thought i would chime and and say that the ph probe that came with my rke was screwed up. Da replaced it, however I wouldnt waste my time anymore with them, and have been using pinpoints with the system ever since.

Also the sl2 unit, has been almost ready for a few years now, ive given up on it.

[michika]

just did a quick skim through your thread, Thought i would chime and and say that the ph probe that came with my rke was screwed up. Da replaced it, however I wouldnt waste my time anymore with them, and have been using pinpoints with the system ever since.

Also the sl2 unit, has been almost ready for a few years now, ive given up on it.

I'm actually glad you posted this and I think you're right, soon = forever. I have my current SL module packaged up waiting for the exchange to kick off, but it's been ready to go for 3 months now...

Did you end up sticking with DA's RK or did you migrate elsewhere?

[michika]

I'm gonna order a sump this week I think!

[michika]

Story of the week... placed 4 orders for tank stuff; pumps, rock, sand, etc. All of them, from 3 different vendors, cancelled for various vendor issues (low stock, shipping problems, etc.)

http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_ma0j32BPFs1rwmt25o2_500.jpg


This girl needs herself 3 reeflo Hammerhead pumps!

[mseepman]

Maybe J&L for the hybrid Hammerheads? They show in stock for now.

[claymax]

maybe before you order those hammer heads you might want to look at some blue eco pumps, heres a thread on them, the largest model pushes 12000gph

http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=83977&highlight=eco+blue&page=5

[The Grizz]

I would look at the Waveline DC 10000 pumps, I am supposed to have 3 of them shipped as well as a 5000 model. Fraction of the price and dead silent from what I'm told.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[daplatapus]

I would look at the Waveline DC 10000 pumps, I am supposed to have 3 of them shipped as well as a 5000 model. Fraction of the price and dead silent from what I'm told.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

And be because they're DC pumps, they're variable speed.

[mseepman]

you can get them from Nick: www.reefsupplycanada.com

Hope that helps.

[michika]

I've got a sump! Its pretty, oh so pretty.

Now to sort through my PMs about pumps.

[fishytime]

Catherine!.....tsk tsk.....you know the rules.....pics are required:wink:

[michika]

Catherine!.....tsk tsk.....you know the rules.....pics are required:wink:

True, I admit, I did violate the rules. Guess I better go punish myself by spending some money on pretty tank things.

[michika]

Here you go Doug

6ft x 2ft x ~20". Built by Concept!

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/ABC333EA-2D4B-4A3F-9C71-779D94252033-14235-00000C87B87F2A2F.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/95502799-366D-4038-9633-A7055F99CA8C-14235-00000C87BFF0F76F.jpg

[JDigital]

I wondered who that sump was gonna be for... Saw it through a few stages of its construction.. :lol:

[Parker]

Finally, some pictures!

Nice sump, I'm in the middle of rebuilding mine to something similar. Let me know if you come across any issues with it. :D

[michika]

Quick update for people sending me PMs. We've had a non-tank related plumbing issue at home and as such I've been focusing on having a working toilet and running water. Hopefully this will be solved shortly and life can go on again.

[FishyFishy!]

Hows Billy Bob the Blue Tang doing??? Did he make it home nice and safe?

[michika]

Hows Billy Bob the Blue Tang doing??? Did he make it home nice and safe?

He is awesome! I adore his personality. He made it home in one piece, and was out and eating at the nori in the tank within 15 minutes of getting in.

[JDigital]

Empty your PM box please! :mrgreen:

[michika]

Empty your PM box please! :mrgreen:

Done!

[michika]

Sometimes I like to put rock in my glass boxes.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/97683CE8-51E3-45B7-9AA8-96DE3E6F04E7-1700-0000017A60231B8D.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/CEC4DF21-5056-4A20-B63E-7A1334555012-1700-0000017A471B36D7.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/E3041267-4C6C-489C-95FD-B585D61DD802-1700-0000017A5158F350.jpg


And play with plumbing

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/59994767-F0CA-4F46-95DC-80165C2486A2-1700-0000017A335F611A.jpg

[JDigital]

Very minimal rockscape! :lol:

[michika]

Pumps...I need to take a FTS.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/photo_1.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b286/michika/photo_2.jpg

Been busy applying coats to seal the wood under my stand, then its assembly time!

[mseepman]

So glad to see progress. This build helps me not feel so bad about the slowness of mine.

[kien]

:surprise: Be careful with that big bad boy. You could hurt someone with it! :surprise:

http://i1002.photobucket.com/albums/af144/muzanji/pump.jpg

[Arok3000]

:surprise: Be careful with that big bad boy. You could hurt someone with it! :surprise:

Oh man. :shocked!:

[michika]

:lol: Bwahahahahahaha!

[reefwars]

lol kien :P


looks great , the pvc in the pic how did you bend it or is that an optical illusion??

[michika]

It was bent after being heated with a plumbers torch and then put into the bulkhead (friction fit) then adjusted and held in place for about a minute to cool. Took about 10 minutes total. It kept its shape and diameter.

I've previously tried doing this by heating the section in the oven, this way is much faster and more precise.


Anyone know where I can go buy salt in town? I've just made it through my last bucket and I need 4 to fill up Tibet to start her on her maiden voyage.