Flow rate

[Jgodam]

on a 210 gallon tank.. the tank is reef ready with 2 overflows on each end.. what flow rate is best? after reading a bit .. between 5x-7x seemed ideal?

and about return pumps.. if im going for a flow rate of 6x on a 210 gallon tank .. 1260gph.. should i get 2 return pumps that equal 1260gph(meaning 2 pumps at 630gph each) orrrrr 2 return pumps that are 1260gph each?

 

[CuzzA]

Personally I would prefer a DC controllable pump, this way you can over size the pump and then back it down if need be. Nevertheless, to achieve a 1260 gph turnover rate make sure each pump can deliver 630 gph to the height of your return. Buying a 630 gph max pump will not deliver that much flow after the forces of gravity (head height) and friction loss restrict how much water is delivered.

That said, I don't think you'll be putting 630gph through each durso as it may become ridiculously noisy. But, like I said, it's better to go bigger and dial it back. The same thing can be achieved with tradition AC pumps and a ball valve on the output going to the return.

 

[scooter31707]

Personally, I strive for 3-5x turnover through the sump.

 

[thegrun]

Unless you have a very large sump where you need more flow 5 turn overs is fine. It is nice to plan for a little extra flow from your return pump so you can use it to power media reactors like carbon and GFO.

 

[roberthu526]

I agree with 3-5 times flow rate. The placement of powerhead will help circulating the water.