Couple questions

[Maxi]

I have a couple of questions regarding flow.

~ equals the time the star polyps move with the flow

| equals the amount of time stopped... (1 second each line)

example...


~~~~~~||~~~~|| ect..

I'm wondering, is that is a good flow pattern that I have?

Also, should the current come from both sides of the tank or one?

 

[greggnyce]

The flow in your tank depends on what you are keeping. SPS need alot of flow, while lps and softies do not need as much. Random flow is good and basically the minimum flow you want is enough to keep detritus from settling on the bottom or corners fo the tank.

 

[seapug]

you don't need to be too concerned with precise times of motion. As, greggnyce mentioned, you really want to keep it random and/or alternating with surges and try to prevent dead spots or constant flow in one direction.

I've experimented with many powerhead configurations in my 90 gal. tank and found using two MJ 1200s with Sureflo mods in the opposite top corners of the tank on a 45 second alternating cycle works best. The water flows in a nice alternating circular pattern through the entire tank. When one switches off and he other starts, it creates a turbulent "wave crash" effect as well. None of my rocks touch the walls of the tank, so detritus never settles anywhere, which is nice.