Bulk Head Question

scar_11 · #1 11-02-2009, 11:45 PM

I am getting my tank drilled to put a Bulk head in. I found a bulkhead a TSC store and it is 1 1/4 hole, I was wondering if that is to small should I go with a larger hole. I am only planing on putting one in as a drain. It is drailing from a 90 to a 40 gallon sump.
What size does everyone suggest ?

intarsiabox · #2 11-03-2009, 12:29 AM

I assume that 1 1/4" is the ID of the bulkhead? The main purpose of a drain going from the display tank to a sump is just to transport water to a skimmer, refugium, etc., it is not used primarily for tank circulation. I believe the flow rate for 1 1/4" ID pipe is around 750gph and 1" ID pipe is about 600gph. So if you are using a skimmer in the sump you need to ensure that there is adequate flow to feed the skimmer with extra to divert to a refugium or what ever other items you plan on having in the sump. So one drain may be enough. Also remember to size your return pump accordingly, a little bigger is better IMO as you can always throttle the pump discharge down with a valve. Never valve off the intake of a pump.

sphelps · #3 11-03-2009, 01:04 AM

Go bigger, it's always better as you can reduce the pipe size with bushings if you want. Also use sch80 bulkheads which require bigger holes. I'd go with a 1.5" bulkhead which needs a 3" hole. If you'd prefer a 1.25" bulkhead then you'll need a 2.5" hole.

fishytime · #4 11-03-2009, 01:20 AM

Punch two holes for 1 1/2" bulkheads and do a "herbie"....you'll be glad you did.

plutoniumJoe · #5 11-03-2009, 01:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fishytime

Punch two holes for 1 1/2" bulkheads and do a "herbie"....you'll be glad you did.

+1 on the extra hole. The second hole can be for a 1" or even 3/4" pipe that catches the overflow once your dial in the Herbie. Your serenity will thank you.

mark · #6 11-03-2009, 01:59 AM

go Herbie! (really)

golf nut · #7 11-03-2009, 02:24 AM

What was the cost of the floors that the tank sits on?

fishytime · #8 11-03-2009, 02:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mr OM

What was the cost of the floors that the tank sits on?

scar_11 · #9 11-03-2009, 03:43 AM

sorry this maybe a Newbie question what is a Herbie

I don't know why I would want to put a volkswagen bug in my tank?

http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/sho...ghlight=herbie

fishytime · #10 11-03-2009, 01:28 PM

The Herbie system is the safest and quietest method of doing an overflow....its totally a gravity feed, no gurgling, no fiddling with vent hole sizes, no back pressure....it will cost you probably around $80(cost of the extra hole, a few plumbing parts and a gate valve) more to do a Herbie, but well worth the investment IME....the link in your last post has lots of good tips and info....if you have any other questions about it or need more detailed pics, just ask.