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NEReef

Closed Loop Questions

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NEReef
, 06-29-2011 at 08:46 PM (1928 Views)
So I am trying to figure out the best way to set up the closed loop on my new tank. Here is a sketchup model of how the tank is currently drilled/plumbed.
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I want to use all four 1" bulkhead as outlets for the closed loop, so I am thinking about drilling another hole as the inlet for my iwaki. Like this.
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With the black circle being the new 1.5" inlet for the iwaki. Does anyone see any problems with this? Ive read that the inlet should be bigger then the outlets to prevent cavitation?? This is my first closed loop so I am really worried about ruining the pump by sucking in debris/ running it dry/ cavitating/ pretty much anything you could possibly due to ruin a pump. Also I have been scouring the internet for info on closed loops, and it seems like there are two schools of thought 1.use pressure rated pumps with flow accelerators (penductors/eductors) 2. use low pressure high flow pumps. With the upside being low pressure pumps use less electricity. I already have two iwakis an md-100rlt i bought for $40 and a 30rlxt i got for $50 so i would like to use them, but if it will cost me an arm and a leg to run them then maybe its worth shelling out the cash up front... Any thoughts?? Anyone have any experience with flow accelerators that could lend some first hand experience???

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Tags: closed loop
Categories
‎ Tank Entry , ‎ Plumbing , ‎ Questions - Need some input , ‎ Equipment

Comments

  1. pepper'scove's Avatar
    Hmmm... without doing your homework for you I have a bit of a direction to send you in. Pipe flow is a fairly well defined field. Look up "Reynolds Number" and you will find tons of information related to laminar and turbulent flow. Also, the "Moody Diagram" will be of use to you. When you run into problems with things like the "friction factor" look them up online and you will find the information you need. The critical (i.e. the number at which turbulent flow begins to form - or as you put it, cavitation) number for pipe flow is typically around 4000 for a developed flow. Happy hunting! Oh, and if you really make a go at undertaking the calculations, don't hesitate to come back here and ask questions, I'll be glad to help you.
  2. DJ in WV's Avatar
    Im not running a closed loop but i am using only the main pump for flow. reeflo marlin pressure pump rate at 2050gph with 4 penductors and it moves plenty of water in my 180 i have to turn it down to keep the substrate from blowing around. You can also run pumps in parallel or series to get more flow or pressure, also to keep your pressures even thur out your plumbing never end your plumbing with a outlet dead head it