Trying to design a new tank. Measurements will be 96"x36"36", glass, with 3 external overflows measuring 16"x6"x12". I am going to use the Flowwolf diverter on a separate pump. The main pump will go from the overflows into a sump back into 1" returns on the back of tank. I am considering a closed loop for the Flowwolf, and that is the part I need help with. This is a sketch up of my design. The red is the 1" returns from sump, yellow 1 1/2" outflow to sump from external overflow and to closed loop in back of tank. Closed loop will be 20" from bottom of tank. My question is how should I run diverter back into tank. It has 6 outflows. 
Tank Design Help!!
- Thread starter mhsmith
- Start date
dave.m
Active member
I think you would get more feedback if you provided a clearer picture of your overall plan.
Perhaps you could explain your reasoning behind the choices you are making. Why do you think you need three overflows when one or two would probably do? Will you be drilling holes in the back into the overflows or will you be carving a chunk out of the top for each one, thus weakening the back pane. You did not mention glass thickness planned. You have not said whether you will use euro-bracing top and bottom.
For your closed-loop, you haven't explained your design or the reasoning behind it. Have you considered coming in over the top for feeds and returns instead of drilling more holes in the tank? What is your flow plan?
What is your overall plan for the sump?
BTW I think 96"Lx36"Wx36"H is an awesome sized tank. Best of luck
Dave.M
Perhaps you could explain your reasoning behind the choices you are making. Why do you think you need three overflows when one or two would probably do? Will you be drilling holes in the back into the overflows or will you be carving a chunk out of the top for each one, thus weakening the back pane. You did not mention glass thickness planned. You have not said whether you will use euro-bracing top and bottom.
For your closed-loop, you haven't explained your design or the reasoning behind it. Have you considered coming in over the top for feeds and returns instead of drilling more holes in the tank? What is your flow plan?
What is your overall plan for the sump?
BTW I think 96"Lx36"Wx36"H is an awesome sized tank. Best of luck
Dave.M
Hi Dave, Thanks for the response. My plan is a display tank with soft corals, and fish. I may like to try sps, however in the past I haven't had much luck. I am also custom designing a sump that will include a refugium. My sump at this date will be 84"x24"x20 that is subject to change. The tank designer suggested 3 overflows with the 2 drains each. I didn't have to much of a preference, although he would do any design within reason. The tank will be 3/4" with starphire glass on 3 sides. It will have 3 9" glass braces on the top going from front to back with 2 1/2" glass braces around the bottom periphery and top periphery . I was considering running the Flowwolf diverter from the sump and also a return pump, but I think that will be to much flow. I appreciate any input, although not so new to the hobby, I am quite new to the design stage. Previously, I just went with what the LFS said without much input. That has been fine, however since deciding on this upgrade and reading different posts, I have learned more about this trade in the last several months than I had learned in years previous. I also do not know how to post my sketches without having to open an attachment. Thanks again for response.
dave.m
Active member
Rule #1: there is no such thing as too much flow, especially if you wish to keep SPS corals happy. Figure on at least 15-20x display tank volume in total flow. Usually people plan to achieve about 35-50% of this with the main return pump and the rest via either internal powerheads and/or closed loop.
As for your questions on hole placement for the closed loop, it is better to draw out your plan for rock placement, main return pump outlets, any powerheads you are thinking of using, and the location and direction of the closed loop outlets, including any eductors/penductors planned. Then you can determine where to put your closed loop inputs.
It sounds like your tank is being well built. Make sure you have a stable stand built, in place and absolutely dead level before the tank arrives so it can go directly into place.
Dave.M
As for your questions on hole placement for the closed loop, it is better to draw out your plan for rock placement, main return pump outlets, any powerheads you are thinking of using, and the location and direction of the closed loop outlets, including any eductors/penductors planned. Then you can determine where to put your closed loop inputs.
It sounds like your tank is being well built. Make sure you have a stable stand built, in place and absolutely dead level before the tank arrives so it can go directly into place.
Dave.M
I misspoke, I meant to much flow through the sump if I hooked up 2 pumps to the sump and didn't do a closed loop. As far as your suggestions for the locations of the outlets, those are solid suggestions and honestly not anything that I had previously considered. It makes a lot of sense to have a plan to hide the outlets behind the aquascape. I guess I had been to fixed on the thought of if they leaked how far down I would have to drain the tank to fix. I have never had a closed loop so I am somewhat scared of consequences. Thanks again for your suggestions.
GooManChew
Member
First off, let me start with a disclaimer: I have no idea what I am talking about, as I am a NooB. Running water since 14 June 2013 (that's flag day by the way).
When I was designing my system, I got a bunch of insight/knowledge/ideas/husbandry concepts by watching videos like this (&part I). I posted part II because it shows & talks about (1:00-2:25) his overflow design (he's a 'fishtank' PhD).
That would be my suggestion, consider making yours like his - one continuous over flow instead of three. You would'nt have to 'carve out' the back of the tank, rather drill a series of holes (say - 1 1/2" holes about 2" apart) along most of the back, then glue acrylic weirs in the inside of the tank & the overflow box on the outside, like this (except longer):
The lid for the over flow is sitting on the bracing/ lid for the tank. You can (kinda) see the mufflers on the top of the drain pipes.
You wouldn't have to have the over flow as long as the tank if you didn't want to, maybe 84' or so.
My build portion of my rollercoaster ride just pulled into the station, as that pahse is complete. Good luck with your project! Looks like you got everything under control.
When I was designing my system, I got a bunch of insight/knowledge/ideas/husbandry concepts by watching videos like this (&part I). I posted part II because it shows & talks about (1:00-2:25) his overflow design (he's a 'fishtank' PhD).
That would be my suggestion, consider making yours like his - one continuous over flow instead of three. You would'nt have to 'carve out' the back of the tank, rather drill a series of holes (say - 1 1/2" holes about 2" apart) along most of the back, then glue acrylic weirs in the inside of the tank & the overflow box on the outside, like this (except longer):
The lid for the over flow is sitting on the bracing/ lid for the tank. You can (kinda) see the mufflers on the top of the drain pipes.
You wouldn't have to have the over flow as long as the tank if you didn't want to, maybe 84' or so.
My build portion of my rollercoaster ride just pulled into the station, as that pahse is complete. Good luck with your project! Looks like you got everything under control.
