FLOW Question

[Bmore88]

I am finishing setting up my 55 Gal with 20 Gal long Sump/Fuge.

I have a sicce return pump that will have a split line-loc return. (I anticipate having each aimed at an opposite side of the tank running in parallel.

I will tune it down to match the CPR90 overflow.

What powerheads and how many should I use in the DT for appropriate flow?

 

[Bmore88]

sicce is 1300gph so I will have to reduce it.

 

[MitchSutherland]

Just depends on rockwork and dead spots. You want appropriate flow throughout all crevices and caves. It's really an eye test, but two RW4s is a a good place to start.

 

[mcgyvr]

What do you want to keep in the tank?
Some inhabitants like higher flow (like SPS corals,etc..)
Typically most shoot for a total circulation rate of 20-30X system volume (but some run 75-100X in their SPS tanks)

 

[Bmore88]

I am going to start with just fish, some softies and an LPS as a challenge. Eventually down the line when everyting is steady I would like to give SPS a try. But I want to get comfortable with the stability before I go buying anything to expensive.

 

[mcgyvr]

But I want to get comfortable with the stability before I go buying anything to expensive.

Very smart move..

Nothing good happens quickly in the reefing world.. Take your time.. Let the tank "mature" and just have fun..

 

[DePinchGonze]

That a lot of flow going through a 20 gallon sump/fuge. You could get one mp40 throttle it way back for your softies and LPS, then if you decide to get some SPS, you can rearrange your lower flow livestock and turn up your mp40. That way you don't have to buy more equipment down the line. Smart choice to start slow though.