return pump for 125 megaflow

I tried a pair of Mag7 pumps initially, one on each return, and got a fair amount of microbubbles. I eventually chalked that up to cavitation - the pumps were supplying too much flow. I've replaced them with Mag5 and that is doing much better.
 
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14926521#post14926521 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by doublejesus
I've got an eheim 1260 for the returns on my 180gal, great pump!

are you using a single pump for both returns? did you T them if so?
 
i have a panworld 100px-x on my 125. i feed both my return outlets, skimmer, and CA reactor off it.
 
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14927007#post14927007 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by sacremon
I tried a pair of Mag7 pumps initially, one on each return, and got a fair amount of microbubbles. I eventually chalked that up to cavitation - the pumps were supplying too much flow. I've replaced them with Mag5 and that is doing much better.

The microbubbles probably came from too much flow through the sump where all the bubbles from the drain lines did not have time to rise and pop before going back into the pumps. Cavitation will happen irregardless of flow rate, it has to do with the impeller alone.
 
I ususally go by 3 - 5x dispaly size. 375 - 625 GPH after headloss in your case. An Eheim 1260 would be in that range.
 
I was running a Mag 18 T'd on my 125. Didn't like the extra heat so I drilled and installed a Blueline 55, and put eductors on the returns for stepped up flow (lots of it). Now I am running a Blueline 70 that also feeds my skimmer. Without the backpressure of eductors I'd go with a Blueline 40.
 
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