LOC return lines or just open pipe

[Ricardo18]

I could use some opinions on whether to use 12 - 3/4" loc lines on my 600g DT return , or just 3 - 1" . I'm shooting for 3000 GPH return flow.I think I do not need all those 12 lines in the water spread out over the tank.The overflow will suck the surface water in and probably does not need assistance from the locs.
The locs hinder access to the top of the tank when working in it.
Thoughts?....

 

[CHSUB]

imo, 12 returns is too many and i believe you will lack velocity. i would get 2 Sea Swirls. i have been very happy with them.

 

[Ricardo18]

imo, 12 returns is too many and i believe you will lack velocity. i would get 2 Sea Swirls. i have been very happy with them.

what is the size of the Swirl outlets (and how many?)

 

[CHSUB]

what is the size of the Swirl outlets (and how many?)

imo, 2, 1 inch Sea Swirls would work well. i use 1, 1.5 inch; i have seen some use 4.

 

[chriscobb]

I agree the flow won't be even across the 12 returns and the loc line will really cut into your flow....

 

[dave.m]

It wouldn't be so bad if you can replace the Locline nozzles with eductors. An eductor placed under the surface would quadruple the output of each outlet.

Dave.M

 

[Ricardo18]

Hmmm..I already have the 1 1/2" return line throttled down to 3/4".
But if I remove the locs,I can have 4 or 6 "open" 3/4" outlets.

 

[dave.m]

If you can add eductors to the open lines you would be further ahead, I think.

Dave.M

 

[Ricardo18]

If you can add eductors to the open lines you would be further ahead, I think.

Dave.M

Eductors are a good alternative.
This looks like a process;
-try what I have and check flow
-remove locs and keep 3/4" open lines and check flow
-install eductors and check flow..subject to my operating water level in tank;
I an concerned it might be too low.

THANKS ALL FOR YOUR INPUT...MUCH APPRECIATED!!

 

[dave.m]

Just a word of warning: The eductors must be totally submerged in order to perform correctly. That means you will have significant back-syphoning when the return pump is turned off (deliberately or otherwise). So make sure you have sufficiient capacity for the backflow in your sump.

Dave.M

 

[Ricardo18]

Just a word of warning: The eductors must be totally submerged in order to perform correctly. That means you will have significant back-syphoning when the return pump is turned off (deliberately or otherwise). So make sure you have sufficiient capacity for the backflow in your sump.

Dave.M

Thanks for the heads up