New 180 Build-up INPUT PLEASE

[Curtis1]

Hello, just got a 180 AGA RR. I am in the initial planning stages, no big rush. Here's what I was thinking. For this tank, I'm pretty certain That I want to go BB w/ Starboard. I want to concentrate on a really efficient skimmer set-up. It has 2 overflows rated @ 600GPH each. I have been toying around with the idea of 2 seperate sumps and 2 skimmers each dedicated to a single return. Would like to get the skimmers matched closely or just under the flow rates of each return, Or possibly 1 larger pump to return for both sumps. I don't really see any need for the refugiums. I also would like to do a seperate closed-loop to up the total flow and probably some Tunze Streams in the tank. Please LMK what you guys all think, any and all suggestions are welcome at this time, thx Curt.

 

[yankee26th]

Hey Curtis1 --- If you don't mind I'm going to give you some advise based upon the fact that I'm also getting a 180 AGA RR tank. I presently have a 150 under operation but I'm bored with it so I'm in the process of upgrading. During my planning process, I was able to obtain alot of information from other RC members.

First --- I see you mentioned about a skimmer set-up. I met Mike and Jeremy of Reef Specialty. Mike's tank was TOTM for Sept. 2007. They both hook me up with a new skimmer on the market called "The Hurricone". IMO, its all you will need for a skimmer. For more information just click on the "Forum" link at the top, then scroll down to their company name and click on it. It will open many threads that members have started. The thread that you want is "Hurricone - A new line of Skimmers". I purchased the CAT 2 External Model. Read what members that purchased the Hurricone skimmers have to say. You won't be disappointed.

Next --- IMO, I don't think you will need 2 sumps. One 75 - 80 gallon sump will be sufficient.

Then --- IMO, one large pump, such as a Reeflo Super Dart Gold would be a good idea. Everyone talks about how important water turnover rate is. I think circulation and current in your tank is more important. I will talk more about that later. Then design a manifold in which water flows through and can be dispersed to the other equipment that requires a water feed, such as a protein skimmer, calcium reactor, media reactors, a chiller, etc.... A good example of this would be Jeremys' 180 gallon thread. Go to the Forum for "Large Tanks" and look up --- "JR Aquatics 180 Gallon Nano Reef". Its presently on the page 3.

You mentioned about using a CL System. I have one in my 150. I don't see any big advantage to it. I'm not going to have one in my 180.

Next --- getting back to the subject of circulation. I'm presently using 2 Ecotech Marine Vortechs. I want to get a 3rd for my 180. I'm very happy with their performance. Tunzes are good too provided you get the controllable models.

And finally --- spend some time in the "Large Tanks" Forum. You can get alot of valuable information from other RC members that already have their systems up and running.

I will be starting my own Build Thread next month. I already have most of the equipment I need. The last item I will be ordering is the tank. I will be doing that soon. Check out the thread and let me know what you think.

I hope this information helps. Pm me if you have any questions

Good Luck ---
Chris

 

[Curtis1]

Hey Chris, thanks buddy, I don't mind at all. You are tellin' me what I wanted to hear. I will check out everything that you said, I've made notes of it all. I love the Big Tank Forum, it's where I use to hang out before when I was gettin ready to set up a 210 a few years back. I was just wondering since going BB if it would be more beneficial to run wether single or double, skimmers at a slower sump flow to skim more efficiently. Was also considering Recirculating models. It's been awhile, just wanted to see what's new and hot, what's old and not. I also plan on starting a thread as well, I'll kepp in touch, thx Curt.

 

[yankee26th]

Hey Curt --- Please help me out hear for a minute, whats "BB w/ Starboard"?

I think if you run a single pump and a manifold with one top quality skimmer, such as a "Hurricone", I think you will find your system to be more energy efficient and effective.

When your in the "Large Tank" Forum check out "Building my 375gal GlassReef" Thread. The owners' name is Tom. IMO, he has the most cleanest and well thought out system I have ever seen.
Let me know what you think.

Chris

 

[drummereef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14699580#post14699580 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by yankee26th
Hey Curt --- Please help me out hear for a minute, whats "BB w/ Starboard"?

Bare Bottom tank with Starboard instead of sand. Starboard is basically the same stuff cutting boards are made out of.


http://www.professionalplastics.com/HDPESTAR

 

[Curtis1]

Ok, latest update. I got the tank home and all cleaned-up. So far here's what I have picked-up, a 75 tank for 1 large sump, a Reeflo Super Gold Dart, a nice RO/DI unit, and a MRC MR2 Protein Skimmer. Going to upgrade the skimmer with an additional Beckett injector. Thinking of running both overflows straight to the skimmer with Y's and valves, not really sure, waiting to here back from the folks @ MRC. Going with a large manifold off the Dart, may feed the skimmer from the Dart manifold instead. Next step will be beefing up the floor, then build the new tank stand, at least 36" tall maybe to 40". The finished height will be determined by the least amount of wasted materials, opting on the 40" side though, with at least a 48" opening in the front middle section. When I start building the stand I will start posting pics. Thx for the advice Chris, well used !!!

 

[yankee26th]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14810632#post14810632 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Curtis1
Ok, latest update. I got the tank home and all cleaned-up. So far here's what I have picked-up, a 75 tank for 1 large sump, a Reeflo Super Gold Dart, a nice RO/DI unit, and a MRC MR2 Protein Skimmer. Going to upgrade the skimmer with an additional Beckett injector. Thinking of running both overflows straight to the skimmer with Y's and valves, not really sure, waiting to here back from the folks @ MRC. Going with a large manifold off the Dart, may feed the skimmer from the Dart manifold instead. Next step will be beefing up the floor, then build the new tank stand, at least 36" tall maybe to 40". The finished height will be determined by the least amount of wasted materials, opting on the 40" side though, with at least a 48" opening in the front middle section. When I start building the stand I will start posting pics. Thx for the advice Chris, well used !!!

Any time Dude, I'm glad I can help.
I'm in the process of finishing my stand. My present stand holding my 150 is at 37", (too short). I also decided to go with a 40" stand. I like the idea of a taller stand, more room to work with underneath. My tank is located behind my living room wall. In front of my tank I have an indoor tiki bar. The tank presently sits lower than the tiki bar by an 1-1/2". The new stand will sit high enough to clear the opening in the tiki bar. I'm trying to create an effect that you might see at a fancy island restaurant. My wife decided on that idea so at the same time we purchased furniture to match. She even decided to buy carpet that looked like beach sand, LOL. I'm going to start a Build Thread of my own as soon as I get my new system completed and running. I'll let you know when that happens. I'll have pics of the living room as well as the complete system. Good luck with your build. Post pics when you have a chance.

Have a Happy Easter ---
Chris