Closed Loop System?

[rnhrtfan]

OK maybe this is adumb question but, I have seen several posts in other forums and several system descriptions that refer to "closed loop" systems. Can someone describe exactly what they are meaning by this and what are the benefits if any over a traditional wet/dry sump or refugium??? Just a clarification for my knowledge.......

 

[phljess]

I can describe it but I think someone is going to demo a closed loop at the next meeting. So it will probably be better if you see it in person.

 

[Pharmboy]

Basically, the whole plumbing and filtration is under pressure. A canister filter is a closed loop system, with only the intake and outlet open. This method is sometimes preferred because there is less chance of flooding than a sump. You can also run the flow a whole lot faster for better circulation.

Hope this helps.

 

[rnhrtfan]

thanks pharmboy that helps a little. phil are you talking about tomorrow's meeting? if so I can't make it.....does anyone video those demo's? I asked that in the schedule thread....

 

[rnhrtfan]

Also I see how a cannister filter would be under pressure but when you see a system that is refered to as a closed loop and it has a refugium in the pic how is that a closed loop as it can't be pressurized with an open top?????

 

[MattG]

A closed loop typically refers to having a pump running on a "closed loop" inside the tank.

The pump pulls water from inside the tank and then sends it right back into the tank. Usually there are bulkheads drilled in the aquarium where the water is sucked in and then shot right back out into the aquarium. You can do a closed loop without bulkheads and a drilled tank by going over the top of the aquarium.

A closed loop allows water movement without seeing a pump.

Here is a picture of what mine looks like. The bottom hole is the input of the pump (water is sucked in) and the two top holes are the output (water sent back out).

Hopefully this is clear.

 

[phljess]

You can stop by my house and I can show you how one works. It is easier to see it than to describe it. For the most part it is just using a pump externally. The reason people like to use closed loops are to keep heat out of a tank. You put the intake in the tank and then connect it to a pump then run the return back to the tank. A lot of people use them for circulation. If your planning on hooking up a CL you will need to be able to prime the pump and make sure you put a valve and a union before the pump so you can change it out or clean it.

 

[rnhrtfan]

so no real filtration advantage just more or less for current without a visible power head???? does this allow for a great circ rate than a PH?

 

[rnhrtfan]

thanks phil I would like to stop by sometime and pick up a few of your frags you have on here if they are still available anyway. can check that out while I'm at it. I'll give you a call I think I still have your number in my inbox.

 

[MattG]

The advantage is no pump in sight and less heat added to the aquarium.

It is much simpler to just use powerheads.

 

[rnhrtfan]

thanks Matt