Circulating a Center Overflow Tank

[Rural Reefer]

I am designing a 66"x66"x32" square glass cage with a center overflow. This mixed reef tank will be visible on all sides. From this center overflow "tower", I am hoping to mount Vortech powerheads to 1) create some wave action and 2) circulate/flow the tank. I understand this is not ideal, but I want to avoid 'hardware' on the sides of the tank. I also want to avoid a closed loop system and am thinking about a relatively high-flow return loop atop the tank with maybe Sea Swirls bringing back the return water for mixing up the flow (of the Vortechs). Any recommendations on how to achieve my objectives?
Thanks

 

[tom obrecht]

I would check out Reefkeepers2 TOTM from December 2008. He has a center overflow and has numerous power heads. They are not Vortecs but his tank is stunning and the power heads are not real noticeable and creates good movt.

 

[dmorel]

I've been where you are. I tried using tunze's (lots of em even) on a center overflow. Eventually I put in a closed loop, it was the only way to get the flow I wanted. Not trying to talk you out of it, but that was my experience.

If you want to use vortex pumps on a center overflow, you're going to want to build in some sort of dry boxes inside the overflow for the dry end.

A manifold around the top, which basically is a closed loop only without drilling might be the best option if you're dead set against a CL.

 

[Rural Reefer]

Tom - I'll be sure and do that. I should have done a search before asking the question.

dmorel - My thinking is to have a central dry box which would be large enough to house the overflow box, return plumbing and of course the Vortech motors (and the ability to reach everything). With this size of a tank, there should be plenty of distance from the "dry box" and the side(s) (somewhere around 24 to 27"). I appreciate your experience. Guess I can't say I am dead set against a closed loop, just want to avoid IF I can, to avoid potential leak spots.

Agreed on the (pvc) manifold around the top of the tank (in a closed loop). I currently have this set-up on my 350g with four return entries into the tank. This works fairly well although it does reduce the return flow rate (some). It certainly gives me more flexibility for change (that a closed loop would not). Any experience with Sea Swirls and do you think this would provide a bit more turbulent flow especially to the potential dead spot corners?