How many MP40w's??

[Eels&Lions]

Hey guys & gals. I'm in the process of setting up my first large shallow reef system. Tank is 72in long x 42in wide x 16in high. Tank has 2 3/4 returns and I plan on using 1 or 2 Tunze wave boxes. How many MP40w's would you recommend for the tank?

I was thinking 2 would be good. Thanks in advance for you help.

 

[EcoTech Marine]

If you will be using wave boxes to create a standing wave then I would recommend at least two VorTech's in addition.

However, you could negate the need for any wave boxes by using four VorTech's on that tank with two located on each 42" pane. Set the VorTech's up in short pulse mode with the two on one side in sync and the two on the other side in anti-sync and you will likely be able to create a nice wave.

-Tim

 

[Eels&Lions]

Tim - Thanks so much for the info.

With the 4 Vortechs on pulse mode and 2 3/4 return from the sump. Do you think that will be enough water movement? I plan on making this a SPS & Clam dominated tank.

 

[EcoTech Marine]

We are planning a tank measuring 72x36x30" and plan to run two pumps on each left and right side plus two pumps along the back wall. With a tank as low as the one you are planning, I am confident you'll have enough flow. However, a sandbed may not work in a tank so short with this type of flow.

-Tim

 

[Eels&Lions]

Tim thanks so much for all the helpful info.
I was planning on running BB with this tank and setting up a remote DSB. Now all I have to do is go to my LFS and convince them to give me a sweet deal for buying 4 MP40W's.

 

[Eels&Lions]

Hey Tim I went with your advice and got myself not 4 but 6 MP40W's.


I will set them up per your recommendations 2 on each 42in side and I'll also add 2 to the back of the tank flowing forward. This should definitely be more then enough flow now haha.

 

[EcoTech Marine]

Wow! That will be some great flow! Let me know if you have anymore questions.

-Tim

 

[Eels&Lions]

Tim - Now that I have the 6 MP40W's I need to ask about the 2 I'll be putting on the back of the tank. I'll have 2 on each of the short sides in pulse mode for the wave action.

The 2 pumps on the back. Should they be on constantly flowing? Or should I set those on up pulse mode as well?

Sorry for all the questions..

 

[EcoTech Marine]

No problem on the questions, that's what we're here for.

I would recommend two pumps on the back in Reefcrest mode and the pumps on the sides be placed in either short or long pulse mode with each side sync'd and opposite sides anti-sync'd. This will get you back and forth movement while the two pumps on the back will really stir things up.

-Tim