Closed Loops (New design)

[Quinster]

Originally Posted by Myka

The OM 2-way wants to use a bypass unit if more than 1000 gph is going through it, which from my understanding pretty much defeats the purpose of using a pump with more than 1000 gph. Or should I use a SCWD which will deplete the gph by about 30%?

I have used both the OM products and SCWD, and I would not hesitate spending a little more on the OM product, and the bypass can be used for feeding a refugium, reactors, etc.

[JDigital]

Originally Posted by Myka

Thanks for the suggestions guys! I'm not looking into putting $500 into a Vortech anytime soon. I want to work with what I have. I have lots of powerheads I can use if need be. *grumble*

How many 1/2" outputs do you think I could put on the CL with the PS3 and still have decent flow (like MJ1200 type flow minimum) coming through them? Just 1? 2? 3?

JDigital, the PS3 has 3/4" fittings on it...so do you mean I should run 3/4" piping all the way to the 3/4" bulkheads then reduce it and run 1/2" Loc-Line?

Yea, that would probably work.. or use a 3/4" Y splitter locline to 2x 1/2" locline jets. You might loose to much head splitting a 3/4" line between 2 3/4" bulkheads. I'd run it to 1 bulkhead and use the Y splitter inside the tank.

[mike31154]

Originally Posted by Myka

Thanks for the suggestions guys! I'm not looking into putting $500 into a Vortech anytime soon. I want to work with what I have. I have lots of powerheads I can use if need be. *grumble*

How many 1/2" outputs do you think I could put on the CL with the PS3 and still have decent flow (like MJ1200 type flow minimum) coming through them? Just 1? 2? 3?

JDigital, the PS3 has 3/4" fittings on it...so do you mean I should run 3/4" piping all the way to the 3/4" bulkheads then reduce it and run 1/2" Loc-Line?

Closed loop does seem overly complex for a tank that size. Just my opinion, since I know little about closed loops either. But I've read that they can be power hogs and seems like there's plenty that can go wrong with more holes drilled, connections etc. Clean looking tank yes, but a nightmare outside the tank. Anyhow, I swear by my VorTech MP40W. Yes, very expensive. You might be able to get away with an MP20 which costs less and may be upgraded to 40W later if you wish. Spread the cost over time that way as well. No electrical cord in the tank and the wet side has a low profile, just under 3 inches.

[mark]

probably not worth getting a OM device but lots of photos in their WaterPix forum for layout ideas.

[Myka]

Thanks for the link mark!! Lots of great threads in there!

I know putting a closed loop on a tank this small seems silly to you big boys, but I haven't done it before, and I want to try it out. I don't want a bigger tank. This is a good size for me.

I will think about the VorTech. I have a few items I could sell that could really knock the price down. I've already been thinking about selling my Bangaii pair...