Grizz's 300 gal 8'er / LED Heat sink build / Opinions on LED lay out needed

[The Grizz]

So here is a concept design of the 300 gal 8'er that I am planning to start in Aug. Tank will be 96"L x 24"W x 30"D, 3/4" all around, euro-braced & starphire front. I am tossed between putting a wave maker on the left end or getting a couple MP 40's. No closed loop but I will be using my OM 4 Way on my 8 return lines. Also going to run my skimmer, 2 - MR1 reactors off my return pump, add in a ATO & WC system from my water room downstairs. Definitely going with LED for lighting and hope to have a 4 pump doser to go with my Profilux 2EX controller.

This is just the sub frame built out of 1 1/2" Hss for the stand & 1" for the rest of the cabinet which will be skinned with Burch & Oak.

So what do you think? Did I forget something or do you have any ideas for me.

Could not figure out how to upload this pic to photobucket from Google Sketchup so I just took a pic with my phone.


http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/6905fd96.jpg

[intarsiabox]

That tank stand looks like it's made of wood.:lol: It looks like it'll be a great tank! I'd love to have my returns on lower levels of the tank yoo but I'm too chicken that a bulkhead would go and empty my tank on the floor. The rug could be replaced but parts of my body that my wife would remove could not.:cry:

[The Grizz]

First time using Google Sketchup, this took me several hours to put together. I don't build any stands or tank surrounds out of wood simply because wood rotts. If an exterior panel gets damaged it is easy to replace. The lower bulkheads will be at least 6" up from the bottom.

I should add, because it is hard to tell from the pic that there will be a coast to coast overflow along the top 6" x 6" draining down at the center through 2 - 1 1/2" Durso's.

[intarsiabox]

I still haven't made up my mind if I want 2 holes in my external overflow to drain or 3 holes to do a beananimal set up.

[kien]

:pop2:

[The Grizz]

Personally I find the Durso the best & my reasoning is simply because 1. it is the easiest to set with a simple air valve on the top of the 2. No gate or ball valves to fight with. 3. Less plumbing parts & pieces to leak.

I have done a Herbie, Gurgle Buster and Durso's. The 3 tanks I have running now all have Durso's, built the plumbing, filled the tanks, kicked in the return pump, spent less then 5 min adjusting the air valve & have never touch them since.

[The Grizz]

:pop2:

If you keep eating all that popcorn Kien your going to get fat & get high BP, hope it's low sodium & fat feel :twised:

[Slick Fork]

Cool. A coast to coast overflow will kill any wave you try to make so I wouldn't bother with the wavebox. With the OM and the right pump you could make a really kick ass PVC frame/manifold that supports your liverock structure and provides flow through the tank.

[bauder1986]

Can i operate the bobcat when we move this into your house this time Greg? or do I have to be you spotter again lol

[phi delt reefer]

If you keep eating all that popcorn Kien your going to get fat & get high BP, hope it's low sodium & fat feel :twised:

LOL!



Should look awesome Grizz - your build quality has been nothing but spectacular in the past. Though if i could make a recommendation - try getting those laminate panels in black, red or white. Very modern ELOS look. You know that high gloss IKEA type finish? I dunno how it would fit with your decor but it would be sweet none the less.

also - instead of the coast to coast why not go with a penninsula style overflow on BOTH Sides and just cut a wier into the side pieces of glass. That way the over flows are out of view COMPLETELY and easily accessible. There would be enough surface skimming. You could do a return on one side and over flow on the other as another option.

so what is this...tank 46? or 47? ;)

[The Grizz]

Can i operate the bobcat when we move this into your house this time Greg? or do I have to be you spotter again lol

Nope because I don't have it any more.

Should look awesome Grizz - your build quality has been nothing but spectacular in the past. Though if i could make a recommendation - try getting those laminate panels in black, red or white. Very modern ELOS look. You know that high gloss IKEA type finish? I dunno how it would fit with your decor but it would be sweet none the less.

also - instead of the coast to coast why not go with a penninsula style overflow on BOTH Sides and just cut a wier into the side pieces of glass. That way the over flows are out of view COMPLETELY and easily accessible. There would be enough surface skimming. You could do a return on one side and over flow on the other as another option.

so what is this...tank 46? or 47? ;)

The ikea panels will definitely NOT work with our room decor. I will be building all the door and side panels from scratch. If I do a peninsula style then I will not be able to look down the length of the tank from my lazy boy. I like to have the 3 sides to view what is going on in there.

And no this will still only make 3 running, this one is replacing the 165 gal because the tangs are getting big and the front glass is getting all scratched up. Has not got worse since I switched to using a razor blade to clean the glass instead of one of those mag float cleaners.


Cool. A coast to coast overflow will kill any wave you try to make so I wouldn't bother with the wavebox. With the OM and the right pump you could make a really kick ass PVC frame/manifold that supports your liverock structure and provides flow through the tank.

I was kinda thinking that but was not sure about the wave box, might just have to go with a couple MP 40's or just one 60.

I am using a pump that will push 6500 gph but I don't know if I want to see any more PVC in my tank again. The closed loop intake in the 165 is a pain in the a$$ and look crappy to.

[badAZZlars]

Looks like an exciting project. Looking forward to seeing it come together.

[bauder1986]

Nope because I don't have it any more.

Well what are you going to use this time then?

[The Grizz]

Well what are you going to use this time then?

I have a few ideas like a wheel kit attached to the stand to roll it right into the house with no lifting required.

[bauder1986]

I have a few ideas like a wheel kit attached to the stand to roll it right into the house with no lifting required.

....This is gonna be an interesting tank move Greg lol, and as usual you can count me in once your ready.

[lastlight]

Looking good man. I like the coast-to-coast but I'd seriously do my best to eliminate that center overlfow eating up your real-estate. why not just drill drains on the back of the tank and 90 up to create standpipes?

[The Grizz]

Looking good man. I like the coast-to-coast but I'd seriously do my best to eliminate that center overlfow eating up your real-estate. why not just drill drains on the back of the tank and 90 up to create standpipes?

I was trying to figure out if something like that would work. Maybe I could drill 2 holes at each end, put in a 1 1/2" bulkhead then 90 down, tee them together with a 1 1/2" x 1 1/2" x 3" tee, run a short 3" PVC to my sump with a gate valve to control the flow.

[kien]

If you keep eating all that popcorn Kien your going to get fat & get high BP, hope it's low sodium & fat feel :twised:

actually popcorn is a very healthy light snack :-D

[Coleus]

looks great but still don't know why can't you use the whole width so instead 8 feet you go for 12 feet

[The Grizz]

looks great but still don't know why can't you use the whole width so instead 8 feet you go for 12 feet

The wife want me to have some storage space for all my fish related crap & if I go 12' I don't have the room for the towers I want to build. There are a couple lights & a thermostat on the wall that I don't want to have to relocate if I can help it, there is also a closet on the left end of the tank where the door swings out 2' where we keep all our movies & holiday decor which I really can't block or the wife would put an end to the whole new tank.

[phi delt reefer]

actually popcorn is a very healthy light snack :-D

clearly you arent getting the good stuff then.

[The Grizz]

So I need some input on a return pump. I want to use only one pump for this tank to run every thing with one check valve & flow control valves for skimmer, media reactors & chiller.

What does everyone think of this pump.

http://www.pondsplantsandmore.com/Cal_Pump_T7500_Torpedo_Pump_7500_gph_p/calt7500.htm

[Hustler]

Do you have a design pic in mind of how it will plumb out with everything?
I have a monster pool/spa pump Im running on my 300 now that could easily take on several other items to tone down the flow rate....and it dosent heat up and is fairly quiet at 50-60GPM lol

[The Grizz]

No pic of what I have in mind but it will go something like this........

Return pump - check valve - OM 4-way - each port off 4-way split into 2 for a total of 8 returns ( only 4 running full at a time ) in threw back of the tank as pictured in the concept design.

Coast to coast OF - 1 1/2" drain at each end of tank - teed together to a 2" - 2" to 1" tee that will feed my 3 media reactor's - second 2" to 1" tee to feed skimmer - third 2" to 1" tee to feed chiller - end of 2" into filter sock in sump.

[Hustler]

Im going through your other thread trying to picture how it would all go together...
Best I can say is rate the wattage with the flow rate and spend a bit extra on the pump with a better ratio :)

[The Grizz]

I do have a brand new Reeflo Hammerhead pump but I don't know if it will provide enough flow for what I want to accomplish.

[lastlight]

I do have a brand new Reeflo Hammerhead pump but I don't know if it will provide enough flow for what I want to accomplish.

:shocked:

[The Grizz]

:shocked:

You think it will be enough there Brett? I have it running on my 165 as of tonight ( long messy story as to why ) but it doesn't really seem like it is that powerful of flow.

[lastlight]

What's that tank plumbed in tho? all 1" and don't you have loclines? Those pumps are flow pumps not really the best choice for pressure situations...

[The Grizz]

Ya it's 1" out of the pump, then split into 1" but then goes down to 3/4" to 4 loc-lines.

So what I want to do above do you think it would work? I really want to be able to have some SPS in it.

[lastlight]

I'm not sure man. I'm a big fan of running closed loops on dedicated pumps. Not that I *have* before but I'd run lower flow through my return (and manifold off it) but with a seperate pump. Hammerhead to do the 4-way on it's own...

[The Grizz]

I have a closed loop now in the 165 & don't like it as it has caused me more grief then it's worth.

[lastlight]

running it off your return means you need to deal with whatever flow you want out of the 4-way as a bare minimum through the sump too.

[The Grizz]

Well I have the glass panels for the tank now & I must say 96" x 30" x 3/4" glass looks heavier then it is.

[Hustler]

Well I have the glass panels for the tank now & I must say 96" x 30" x 3/4" glass looks heavier then it is.
you sir must be a beast :)
Im 290lbs and the go to guy at work when anyone needs something straightned with a sledge..... and that sucker was my last glass tank LOL Cant wait to see the pics.... Dont do internal overflows.... the one thing I overlooked getting mine built

[martinmcnally]

Well I have the glass panels for the tank now & I must say 96" x 30" x 3/4" glass looks heavier then it is.

Are you putting the tank together yourself?

[The Grizz]

you sir must be a beast :)
Im 290lbs and the go to guy at work when anyone needs something straightned with a sledge..... and that sucker was my last glass tank LOL Cant wait to see the pics.... Dont do internal overflows.... the one thing I overlooked getting mine built

Oh hell no, a whole 300 gal 8'er is EXTREMELY HEAVY! But one pane of glass really is not as heavy as I thought it would be. I am doing a coast to coast 6" x 6" overflow with my drains going out the back of the tank.


Are you putting the tank together yourself?

You bet, this is going to be a complete DIY build. The only parts I am missing is a doser & LED's ATM.

[martinmcnally]

The only parts I am missing is a doser & LED's ATM.

You looking at a Profilux doser?

[The Grizz]

You looking at a Profilux doser?

Yep, I have a Profilux 2Ex controller so I am going with the Profilux doser. I had one lined up at a great price but have not been able to get a hold of the fellow. Might have to buy one new.

[The Grizz]

So I have finally made up my mind as to what I am going to do for LED's. With the help of Martin ( Modular LED ) we have come up with this:

4 - 12" x 12" LED pods all with 68 LED's each

20 - Cool White XP-E / 45 degree optics
16 - Royal Blue XP-E / 60 degree optics
16 - Blue XP-E / 60 degree optics
4 - Red XP-E / 60 degree optics?
4 - Green XP-E 60 degree optics?
8 - Natural White XP-G (high noon kit) / 45 degree optics

All the CW, RB & B will be run off 1 - 200w driver each, the red's and green's will be run off a 38w driver each & the NW will be run with 1 - 75w driver.

Also adding 2 EVG-AP-2F Dimmable Ballast Driver card's to enable all the LED's to be controlled by my Profilux 2EX controller.

Going to build my own heatsinks out of some 1/4" plate aluminum & 1/8" x 1" aluminum flatbar.

[Skimmerking]

sounds great Greg what is the $$$ so far or what will it cost

[The Grizz]

sounds great Greg what is the $$$ so far or what will it cost

Retail would be about $2500 but Martin is giving me a nice discount because of the quantity but I will not disclose the actual $$$ figure out of respect for Martin.

[ponokareefer]

Are you going to wait for the new HEW LED's?

[The Grizz]

Are you going to wait for the new HEW LED's?

Depends on when I can get the whole thing going and if the price does not change to much.

[claymax]

ooooo this is so exciting!

[Hustler]

That sounds awesome... Ill be watching very closely :)

[The Grizz]

I have to get Oxy's tank done before I can start on mine. Between our work schedules being so different it makes thing tough to get done but we are working on it.

[martinmcnally]

Are you going to wait for the new HEW LED's?

Still playing the waiting game on the HEWs unfortunately. Almost two months now waiting on CREE. Apparently someone in North America is buying up every CREE white LED they can get their hands on and its having a huge knock on effect for everyone else. Its very frustrating.

[The Grizz]

Fill me in a bit Martin, what are HEW LEDS?

[martinmcnally]

Fill me in a bit Martin, what are HEW LEDS?

HEW - High Efficiency Whites.

They are a new addition to the XP-E range of LEDs with output similar and very close to the brighter XP-G only with the power consumption of XP-E.

[The Grizz]

Oh ok cool, sounds like it been a headack to get them.

[globaldesigns]

Where's the pics.... I am a visual type of guy. Yeah I now so very special :lol:

[The Grizz]

The only picture I could post is one of a bunch of glass leaning up against a wall, will that do? Or i could repost that pic of you in your chaps waiting for the short bus to pick you up :razz:

[lastlight]

Haha! Well to be honest I did come thru here scrolling for some glass previously. We'll take what we can get =)

[The Grizz]

well ok there you go, that is all the glass for the new 300. Only the front is starphire.

http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/c1f0b295.jpg
http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/04703e84.jpg
http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/8678102b.jpg

[martinmcnally]

This should give you an idea of spacing and what you can do with 34 modules on a 1 foot square heatsink.

http://applications.ccusa.com/martin/grizz.jpg

[lastlight]

well that's better! ever go downstairs and just stare at it?

[ponokareefer]

This should give you an idea of spacing and what you can do with 34 modules on a 1 foot square heatsink.

http://applications.ccusa.com/martin/grizz.jpg

Cool pic. Now Grizz, could you imagine if you had to solder all of that! :lol: NO THANK YOU!

[lastlight]

Cool pic. Now Grizz, could you imagine if you had to solder all of that! :lol: NO THANK YOU!

Considering Greg's the 'master fabricator' (in spirit if not in name) I doubt he'd be caught dead using a flimsy little soldering iron anyways :lol:

[ponokareefer]

Considering Greg's the 'master fabricator' (in spirit if not in name) I doubt he'd be caught dead using a flimsy little soldering iron anyways :lol:

Yah, he'd probably use the welder. :lol: Bye Bye LED's.

[The Grizz]

This should give you an idea of spacing and what you can do with 34 modules on a 1 foot heat sink

Seeing that Martin makes me think I might have to go a little bigger with my heat sinks

well that's better! ever go downstairs and just stare at it?

Every day!! I go into the shop to go to work but then my attention is diverted to where my glass is & I have to go at least touch it. :biggrin:

Cool pic. Now Grizz, could you imagine if you had to solder all of that! :lol: NO THANK YOU!

Soldering all that would not bother me a bit, I have spent countless hours build and repairing small and intricate aluminum pieces & a TIG, so soldering would be a breeze BUT I do really like the plug and play Martin has going. The ability to temp attach the boards, plug them all together & power up to see what it looks like over my tank will be sweet.

Just have to convince Martin into doing a payment play :lol::lol:

[The Grizz]

" Thank God, I thought I left my Velcro wallet on the bus. Oh Hi Steve."
http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/4e6a62aa.jpg

"Doug, do you know what time the bus is coming to pick me up?"
http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/c47806df.jpg

[lastlight]

That's a rich tapestry you're shaping Greg how does it end ?!

[The Grizz]

Not sure, ran out of pic but I hope the poor fellow made it home ok :lol:

[martinmcnally]

Are you going to wait for the new HEW LED's?

Finally some good news on the new whites. They have shipped, arriving in BC tomorrow, scheduled for assembly on Monday so I should have them by Wednesday next week :biggrin:

That will be the XP-G, XP-E HEW (Cool White and Neutral White).

[The Grizz]

Finally some good news on the new whites. They have shipped, arriving in BC tomorrow, scheduled for assembly on Monday so I should have them by Wednesday next week :biggrin:

That will be the XP-G, XP-E HEW (Cool White and Neutral White).

Very cool Mr M., so I would be best to switch my white that we have been talking about with the XP-E HEW Led's?

[Delphinus]

My retinas! WHY GREG WHY

[The Grizz]

Rick was taunting me for pic's but he hasn't popped back in to check out the new pic addition :lol:

[fishytime]

Im beginning to worry about you Greg.....taking time out from work to touch your glass and this fixation you seem to have with Rick and his chaps:razz:....which you could kindly leave me out of:wink::lol:

[globaldesigns]

Damn You!!! :biggrin:

Also I don't take the SPECIAL bus anymore... They kicked me out! I don't play nice in other's sand boxes. :mrgreen:

Doug, better be careful, might have to send you, and only you a sexy pic with chaps? Humina Humina

[The Grizz]

Im beginning to worry about you Greg.....taking time out from work to touch your glass and this fixation you seem to have with Rick and his chaps:razz:....which you could kindly leave me out of:wink::lol:

I just can't help it, touching my glass that is. When you have 300 gals of new awesomeness and no time to build you have to touch it once in a while.

Also can't resist teasing Rick, it's so much fun. I shouldn't because I have a few pairs myself but Harley riders always look good in chaps especially me. :biggrin:

Damn You!!! :biggrin:

Also I don't take the SPECIAL bus anymore... They kicked me out! I don't play nice in other's sand boxes. :mrgreen:

Doug, better be careful, might have to send you, and only you a sexy pic with chaps? Humina Humina

Now you have to take the special cab until they give you your bus pass back. :lol: Sorry Rickster just could not resist. :twised:

[RedCoralEdmonton]

lol I pop in here fro a sec to see some sweet tank and LED progress... and what do I see??? My ugly mug.... hahaha thanks Greg!

Steve

[The Grizz]

No problem Steve, any time :lol:

[The Grizz]

Received a little package today from Martin @ Modular LED, this is just a part of the list of stuff for my LED build.
http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/703b6481.jpg

[Parker]

A sight to behold!!

[fishytime]

that ought to shed a little light on things:wink:

[Hustler]

Wooo Hooo :) daily updates with pics please :)

[The Grizz]

A sight to behold!!

Yes indeedy, dealing with Martin with my LED was the best thing ever to do. We don't know how many or length of connectors we will really need until it all put together so he brought me a whole bunch of different ones & I just return what I don't use.

that ought to shed a little light on things:wink:

Should do nicely, building 2 - 39" x 12" heat sinks.

Wooo Hooo :) daily updates with pics please :)

No worries there, once I get started it will be pic over load


On the tank side of things, the wife & I where talking about it & she has told me that I can build the tank in the Dinning room as long as I seal it off so the silicone smell doesn't stink up the house. But that will be after Xmas :biggrin:

[claymax]

any progress, heatsinks? maybe got that giant glass box put together?

[The Grizz]

Not as of yet, I have been very busy with work & Adams tank to get started on mine but soon I will be on the heat sinks.

On the up side the wife has agreed to let me build the tank in the dinning room so I don't have to try to move that beast of a tank up from the shop.

[Hustler]

Well some news is good news LOL
I really want to see your led build... Im buying some knock offs in the mean time bit if they work half as well as they seem to Ill just follow this thread and pop out a big set to match :)

[reefwars]

looks awesome greg man glad to see its finally coming together:):)

[The Grizz]

Well today I received a package of more LED goodies, delivered by Mr. Modular LED himself Martin.

http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/a2c33030.jpg

5 - 120w drivers
http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/a399c320.jpg

1 - 75w driver
http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/431a65ed.jpg

1 - 75w driver for XP-G High Noon kit ( requires a higher output amperage )
http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/a3a9782a.jpg


Still need to get the 2 - 38w drivers for the Red & Green LED's & also thinking of getting a 3rd on of these to give me 6 controllable channels on my controller

http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/8552d083.jpg

[fishytime]

holy crap man......your gonna need clearance from air traffic control to fire that thing up!:mrgreen:

[The Grizz]

So I finally got a chance today to start building the heat sinks for this tank. I have decided to do 2 - 39" x 12" heat sinks both will have 136 LEDs but will have room for more.

Got my main plates of 1/4" aluminum cut & 48 pieces of 1/8" x 1" aluminum flatbars as well.

http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/6fdf3801.jpg

http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/f911a280.jpg

First 5 flatbar fins tacked on:

http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/247d6073.jpg

Now 10:

http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/e1036f9f.jpg

15:

http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/231bf249.jpg

20:

http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/a9ab4266.jpg

And finally the last 3:

http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/20854a32.jpg

http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/88e7e9ee.jpg

As you can see in the 2nd last pic I removed the very first flatbar fin, yes this was planned because I am going to wrap the whole out side of the 1/4" plate with some 1/4" x 2 1/2" flatbars.

[lastlight]

ok that's hardcore! so do you need to lay anything down as far as a paste etc to maintain ideal heat transfer between fin and plate?

[The Grizz]

I cut some 2 1/2" strips out of a small sheet of 1/4" aluminum on my tablesaw, then cut a notch into them for my 1/8" clear acrylic cover.

http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/730fb6ac.jpg

http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/585733bc.jpg

http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/4eb0079b.jpg

http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/d8fee96f.jpg

Added a 1/4" x 2" strip across the front but have to add something below the groove to hold the acrylic flat.

LED side:
http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/08273d90.jpg

Fan side:
http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/57c27ce7.jpg

[The Grizz]

ok that's hardcore! so do you need to lay anything down as far as a paste etc to maintain ideal heat transfer between fin and plate?

No with aluminum the heat will transfer evenly on its own as it is a very soft alloy and a great for dispersing heat.

[lastlight]

Do you have plans to paint it somehow and does doing that reduce it's ability to cool in any sig way?

Thing looks awesome. What a beast!

You should make a DIY lumenarc style mh reflector with an aluminum shell with fins on the top (for me)

[Bblinks]

Holy smokes Grizz. Thats friken amazing. can't wait to see it when its all done. keep them pictures coming. nice work.:lol:

[sphelps]

Looks heavy!

[The Grizz]

Do you have plans to paint it somehow and does doing that reduce it's ability to cool in any sig way?

Thing looks awesome. What a beast!

You should make a DIY lumenarc style mh reflector with an aluminum shell with fins on the top (for me)
Not going to paint the heat sinks but might do a black acrylic wrap of some sort.

Do a concept drawing and send it to me. :biggrin:

Holy smokes Grizz. Thats friken amazing. can't wait to see it when its all done. keep them pictures coming. nice work.:lol:

There will be lots of pics for sure.

Looks heavy!

It might be a little heavier then an extruded heat sink but so far both heat sinks have only cost me $40 & besides if it wasn't a beast, heavy or over built it would not be me.:lol:

[The Grizz]

Added a couple pieces of 1/2" square tube to mount the fans onto the heat sinks.

http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/f9a36f0e.jpg

http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/dc8a9e30.jpg

[lastlight]

Any transparent aluminum kicking around Greg? I'm thinking you could continue this all-metal theme and do a whole tank setup. Steampunk for the saltwater hobby?

[The Grizz]

Any transparent aluminum kicking around Greg? I'm thinking you could continue this all-metal theme and do a whole tank setup. Steampunk for the saltwater hobby?

Nope nothing transparent but that would be a killer idea.

Wait until you see the stand :twised:

[Dez]

No with aluminum the heat will transfer evenly on its own as it is a very soft alloy and a great for dispersing heat.

Have you worked with thermal glue before? I used it on my LED build - it's designed to transfer heat, even if you screw the LED starts onto the heat sink directly, you should put some thermal glue for maximum heat transfer.

Looks great!

[Nano]

Looks Great Greg! Did you make the Heat sinks too??

[Hustler]

Looking good bro, Cant wait to see the parts all come together :)
I think if i go this route I would rather brush it then cover it anyways..... Always have a soft spot for brushed alum :)

[Nano]

I will totally pay you to make me some sexy heatsinks when I do my tank upgrade next winter! and a stand too if you are up to it! :mrgreen:

[cuz]

Very nice!!!
I think heatsink # 16 is crooked!!

lol
teasin!!! You should be building these for Modular to market!!!

[martinmcnally]

This confirms my theory that you are actually building a new batman call sign haha

[The Grizz]

Have you worked with thermal glue before? I used it on my LED build - it's designed to transfer heat, even if you screw the LED starts onto the heat sink directly, you should put some thermal glue for maximum heat transfer.

Looks great!

I was going to go with the thermal glue but it would get cooked when I welded it all together. I think there is a product like silver solder that is very thin, heat it up & pour it in & it will seal everything together.

Looking good bro, Cant wait to see the parts all come together :)
I think if i go this route I would rather brush it then cover it anyways..... Always have a soft spot for brushed alum :)

I was also thinking of going with brushed.

Very nice!!!
I think heatsink # 16 is crooked!!

lol
teasin!!! You should be building these for Modular to market!!!

Martin and I have been working together to build these he has been great to deal with. I think these would be to expensive to build for market compared to extruded heat sinks. I had the plate left over from a project and just had to buy the 1/8" x 1" flat bar.

[The Grizz]

Looks Great Greg! Did you make the Heat sinks too??

yep

I will totally pay you to make me some sexy heatsinks when I do my tank upgrade next winter! and a stand too if you are up to it! :mrgreen:

Im down for that, always like to build things for other peoples set-ups

[Nano]

Im down for that, always like to build things for other peoples set-ups

:mrgreen::mrgreen:
Nice much obliged man! Not sure when but most like a year, So I will be in touch! I'm doing an all led build too, probably either 125-150 gallons 6 feet long not too sure what else haha, I've been watching the progress on this thread and I just get so excited, I can wait to upgrade and learn how not to be such a reef noob! ;)

[Zoaelite]

Very nice!!!
I think heatsink # 16 is crooked!!

lol
teasin!!! You should be building these for Modular to market!!!

Agreed, you have some great handy work there Greg!

Please hurry up, I wanna see this beasty filled!:razz::razz::razz:

[The Grizz]

This confirms my theory that you are actually building a new batman call sign haha

OK Martin, this is where I need some of your help. Here is how I have the LED's laid out thus far, what do you think?

Any other opinions are welcome as well.

http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/1d7a59c7-1-1.jpg

[The Grizz]

Agreed, you have some great handy work there Greg!

Please hurry up, I wanna see this beasty filled!:razz::razz::razz:

GEE WILLACURES Levi!! I just started this today what more can you ask for. :razz:

[The Grizz]

:mrgreen::mrgreen:
Nice much obliged man! Not sure when but most like a year, So I will be in touch! I'm doing an all led build too, probably either 125-150 gallons 6 feet long not too sure what else haha, I've been watching the progress on this thread and I just get so excited, I can wait to upgrade and learn how not to be such a reef noob! ;)

We where all noobs at some point, except for Dez, Kien and Levi I think they were all born with SW in there vains. I am still a SW noob on some things and will never ever say I know everything there is to know about this hobby :biggrin:

[sphelps]

From my experience with some experimenting over thinking the layout of various LED colors doesn't pay off. I did the exact same thing with my fixture and spend a bunch of time and effort to layout each color so they were all distributed evenly and mixed in as much as possible with my hopes of avoiding color spots and lack of blending.

The fact is it's not that important. You're better off doing rows off each color just like a T5 fixture. It keeps things much simpler and wiring will be easier, plus might even be better for heat distribution. Believe it or not you won't notice a difference in color distribution on a tank your size if you do things like this or stagger them all over the place.

One thing I also would have changed on mine is using 1W for colors like green and red, they don't really offer much except some additional spectrum adjustment which is purely just for effect. The problem with the 3W is they are still a tad bright even when fully dimmed since you can only dim down to about 5% or so and. I have 7 3W reds and I never put them past 10%. I've also actually had to completely turn my reds off for a while due to crazy algae blooms which immediately stopped with the red cut off.

Also get yourself an infrared temp gun and watch the temp on those LEDs, I found they run a little warmer than the typical star mounted ones. Doubt you'll have a problem with that heat sink though but maybe just encase, especially those ones that are really close to each other.

[Zoaelite]

We where all noobs at some point, except for Dez, Kien and Levi I think they were all born with SW in there vains. I am still a SW noob on some things and will never ever say I know everything there is to know about this hobby :biggrin:

Don't discredit yourself that fast buddy you got some pretty wicked salty skillz yourself! I would argue we really never leave the "noob" state, always stuff to be learned in this hobby!

[martinmcnally]

OK Martin, this is where I need some of your help. Here is how I have the LED's laid out thus far, what do you think?

Any other opinions are welcome as well.

http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/300%20gal%208%20footer/1d7a59c7-1-1.jpg

This layout works pretty good if you are planning on having those XPGs in the center on all the time. Otherwise you would end up with a huge blue region and whites only on the outside. I think you might be better alternating the outside rows blue and white to get some whites further in the middle.

Althought I was thinking those XPGs could be on all day rather than just for high noons, you could start out at like 50% mid morning going to 80% around mid day and then down to 50% or so again for evening. So that way they are on all day and you have your white in the center.

Having said all that I am liking how this looks a lot haha! Thinking about my new tank now :wink:

[martinmcnally]

Highly recommend you wear some sunglasses when you switch that thing on for testing haha.

[Nano]

Highly recommend you wear some sunglasses when you switch that thing on for testing haha.

:pound: yeah careful Greg, or you'll need a braille computer!
Any lunar on there or are you using the blues?

[The Grizz]

This layout works pretty good if you are planning on having those XPGs in the center on all the time. Otherwise you would end up with a huge blue region and whites only on the outside. I think you might be better alternating the outside rows blue and white to get some whites further in the middle.

Althought I was thinking those XPGs could be on all day rather than just for high noons, you could start out at like 50% mid morning going to 80% around mid day and then down to 50% or so again for evening. So that way they are on all day and you have your white in the center.

Having said all that I am liking how this looks a lot haha! Thinking about my new tank now :wink:

I was thinking of running them with the system. I was also thinking that maybe we should change out the CW for the CW & NW HEW's.

Highly recommend you wear some sunglasses when you switch that thing on for testing haha.

I will have to be wearing my auto shield welding helmet.

:pound: yeah careful Greg, or you'll need a braille computer!
Any lunar on there or are you using the blues?

I am going to put in some moon light but not sure how many yet.

[Nano]

moon lights are the bee's knees thats probably my favorite part on my tank! lol something so simple

[The Grizz]

Yes moon lights are very impressive if done right.

Built the second heat sink in less then an hr. after I laid out the LED's on the first one. Now I have to build a support frame, also out of aluminum. Planning to make it so that I can lift out one of the heat sink if needed.

[The Grizz]

Well maybe just maybe I will get this tank build off and running now that my pumps have finally arrived, THANKS Dave!!

I tried to upload some pics of the pumps but Photo Bucket failed and so did the attachment upload here.

Next on the list is to build the stand frame!!

[gregzz4]

Where's the pics dammit :twised:

[The Grizz]

Where's the pics dammit :twised:

DONT EVEN GO THERE MR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Nano]

If you need a hand shoot me a text man I'm pretty well free on the weekends in the afyernoons/evenings not the morning though! I got a new bow for hunting season!

[reefwars]

http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSjTQ1_1BWfoo5G9B2z1buGWe1uqFe_e M-zGoBgiiBVOILeBKS1

[gregzz4]

DONT EVEN GO THERE MR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

If you need a hand shoot me a text man I'm pretty well free on the weekends in the afyernoons/evenings not the morning though! I got a new bow for hunting season!
Email your pics to Kenny for uploading !!!! ( if his is working )

[The Grizz]

http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSjTQ1_1BWfoo5G9B2z1buGWe1uqFe_e M-zGoBgiiBVOILeBKS1
Now your just showing off!! And this dude is a JERK^^^^:twised:

[gregzz4]

Now your just showing off!! And this dude is a JERK^^^^:twised:
Ya, I never liked him much myself ( dude in the pic, although I can't remember his name )

I tried again, but no go
Let me know when your P-bucket is up again

[reefwars]

Ya, I never liked him much myself ( dude in the pic, although I can't remember his name )

I tried again, but no go
Let me know when your P-bucket is up again


works great thanks:P

[gregzz4]

works great thanks:P
I didn't ask you :twised:

Geez, WTH is up with P-bucket
I'm in BC, and the Grizz can't get it working in Red Deer, yet Denny 'the devil' can ....

[reefwars]

I didn't ask you :twised:

Geez, WTH is up with P-bucket
I'm in BC and the Grizz can't get it working, yet Denny 'the devil' can ....



im feeling that good about it i just may upload all night long giggady!!!

[reefwars]

http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSjTQ1_1BWfoo5G9B2z1buGWe1uqFe_e M-zGoBgiiBVOILeBKS1

[gregzz4]

im feeling that good about it i just may upload all night long giggady!!!
Have at'er man
I'll sit back and watch the carnage ...

http://a2.ec-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/114/9633ed75ae8bea75fe9db36154e7f711/l.gif

[reefwars]

http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSeYPm51NqpgWd4AVUpFDib2VBfwAbLo 1TBzUHzrjN9T1glHM0mvQ

[ensquire]

One Word for you guys........ DROPBOX

[gregzz4]

Don't know much about dropbox ...

[ensquire]

Don't know much about dropbox ...

It's an alternative to Photobucket. Haven't had any problems with it ever, and It automatically downloads any pics from any device you attach to any computer with your account .

[reefwars]

huh thats weird .....theres something wrong with my photobucket


on the screen it says:



uploading!!!!




lol

[The Grizz]

come on guys your clogging up my thread with a bunch of crap!!

And yes Mike I think Dropbox it will be.

[ensquire]

come on guys your clogging up my thread with a bunch of crap!!

And yes Mike I think Dropbox it will be.

OOOPs Guilty , was thinking that we were on the verge of a hijack.

[gregzz4]

huh thats weird .....theres something wrong with my photobucket

OOOPs Guilty , was thinking that we were on the verge of a hijack.
Any luck yet ?

It's too funny, but I also STILL cannot upload .....

[The Grizz]

Any luck yet ?

Yep here are the pumps I got for this build.
http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/3A586333-9D87-491A-A268-C1218B7BD7B6-1746-00000318B4C0866D.jpg

[ensquire]

Yep here are the pumps I got for this build.
http://i765.photobucket.com/albums/xx291/GRIZZtheWELDER/3A586333-9D87-491A-A268-C1218B7BD7B6-1746-00000318B4C0866D.jpg

Very Nice, I will wait for a review of the 10000's Im still thinking of upping my flow.. I have a 3 port manifold for reactors that I believe will be to much for the 5000.

[gregzz4]

Wowee

[The Grizz]

Well I will continue in this thread for now but will start a new one when a actually start building the system.

As for the pumps, I wanted to see how they ran so I took one into my pool room & dropped it on the second step, plugged it in & fired it up. It was COMPLETELY silent running!! Then I wanted to test the flow so I attached a 1/2" hose that was 25' long, got a water jug & timed the flow rate at low speed & high speed. On low it was flowing at about 360 liters per hour & on high it was 1080 liters per hr.

Now the thing to remember is that the max head is 5 meters ( DC 10000 model ) & the outlet & inlet are 1 1/4" ports. I also didn't realize that these where submersible pump so I will have to change up my plans a bit but all in all it just mean less holes to drill in the sump & less chance of leaks in the plumbing.

[The Grizz]

All right, well after an hr of tweaking the threads on the return outlet I managed to get a standard 1 1/4" PVC fitting on & sealed. Got everything all plumbed together & fired up one of my DC10000. I must say that it has to be one of the most silent pumps I have ever heard. I think 2 DC10000 will be just right for my new 300+ gal setup.

[sphelps]

You using it internal or external Greg? I'm thinking of moving mine internal due to them leaking very slightly around the housing. Thinking it will be quieter as well, they don't vibrate at all it so the standard pump hum isn't there which is nice but at full speed there is a winding noise I could do without.

[The Grizz]

External for now on the 165 gal. I wanted to see how they preformed so I ordered 3 of the 10000 so I could put one on my existing tank to gauge the flow and noise level of the pump. Now that you mention it there is a slight whinny noise coming from the pump but I have to shut off my closed loop pump & my skimmer to really hear it, after all compared to what we have lived with for awhile now with load pumps I can live with a little whine.

Also noticed that the pump does put out a little heat & I don't want to put that heat into my water column so I will be running them externally.

The new stand/cabinet for the 300+ gal tank is going to be as sound proof as possible inside to keep it as quite as possible.

[sphelps]

Yeah it depends what you're use to for sure, overall considering the flow-rate they are very quiet. I would think these days with everyone using LEDs they'd be looking for all the heat they can get from other equipment :lol: I know I do.

[The Grizz]

That is true but in my case it's the complete opposite. The room my tank is in is actually the hottest room in the house, my chiller runs all year round & I don't think my heater has been on once since the start of this system. My temp is bang on steady at 78 degrees. That was my reasoning for going LED's as well, the MH & T5 would heat up this room even more. I have to come up with a way to vent my chiller out of this room & into the dinning room with the new system.

I think the heat issues in this room have to do with the wall of window between it & the pool room.