Converting to RR

[Oblivionis]

I have an empty 55 gal fish tank that I want to convert to reef ready. I know that I have to drill it but where, how many holes and what size? Also what kind of overflows do I need and where do I get them? Please offer your suggestions. Any and all help is appreciated.

 

[jcar1]

When I didn't know the answers to these questions I called Rod and took my tank to his store. He drilled it and told me all the info I needed to know, he also built me a sump, overflow, and hooked me up with all the plumbing. Give him a call and go see him, well worth the trip.

 

[Oblivionis]

I've been to Rod's many times and I've also called him many times asking for advice. He is great, and yes, it's definitively worth the drive. With this tank though, I want to make it something that I can do myself. A project if you will, go gain experiance and also have some fun doing it.

 

[squibley2]

I would check first to make sure that the glass is not tempered. If it is then forget drilling it. If not then you need a good hole drill (diamond) tipped is better, then you need to figure out where you want the overflow and then drill your hole or holes depending on the desired flow rate and then you buy or make an overflow chamber and silicon it into position and hey Bobs your uncle a RR tank.

 

[Oblivionis]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8790343#post8790343 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by squibley2
I would check first to make sure that the glass is not tempered. If it is then forget drilling it. If not then you need a good hole drill (diamond) tipped is better, then you need to figure out where you want the overflow and then drill your hole or holes depending on the desired flow rate and then you buy or make an overflow chamber and silicon it into position and hey Bobs your uncle a RR tank.

OK, lets say I want a 600 GPH flow rate. One overflow is enough, right? Where to put it? Center? Corner? I'm guessing the bottom glass is tempered so I'll have to drill on the side. Is one 1 inch hole big enough to support that flow rate? Do I get one of those overflows that go all the way to the bottom or a one like the nano cubes have?

 

[squibley2]

If you are doing a traditional overflow you would get one that goes all the way down.

This should help you figure out what size you need and how many.

http://www.flowcalculator.com/

 

[squibley2]

You will notice on the calc that the velocity is at 1.5 fps which is a good estimate. At that you will need just over a 1.5 inch pipe to do 500 gal.