Not a typical doctor's waiting room... 450 gallon reef

[KingfishJohn]

Hi all,

First I'd like to introduce myself. My name is John and I own and operate a saltwater maintenance business in Austin, Texas with my business partner Brian. I've been keeping saltwater tanks for going on five years now and it has become my life's passion.

Austin is getting a new children's hospital this year (Dell Children's) and one of my very good friends (Mike aka Dudester on RC) commisioned us to build a 450 gallon reef tank into the Pediatric Surgery waiting room. This thread will document the building process of the tank in hopes that it helps others down the road.

On to the specs!

[KingfishJohn]

Tank:

Manufactured by Acrylic and Glass Exhibits out of Dallas, Texas.
www.acrylicandglassexhibits.com

96"L x 36"W x 30"H

The tank will just into the waiting room as a divider and will be viewable from three side. The fourth side has an external weir type overflow and will back into a small tank room. The tank's bottom is constructed out of Sch. 80 PVC.

Stand:

Custom steel stand and cabinetry.

Circulation:

Return - Sequence Dart (3600 gph)

This pump will be cranked down to probably 2000 gph but Sequence pumps can be ramped down and consume less electricity.

Closed Loop - Sequence Hammerhead (5800 gph)

Wavemaker - Tunze Wavebox and Extension

Sump:

Custom 150-180 gallon acrylic sump/fuge.

Support Equipment:

Skimmer - Deltec AP902

Kalk Reactor - Deltec KM500

Calcium Reactor - Deltec PF601 (with Rowalith C+)

Rowaphos Reactor - Deltec FR509

Auto topoff - Tunze Osmolator 3155

Controller - Reefkeeper 2 (w/ expansion socket and PH probe)

RO/DI unit - Aqua FX Mako

On site saltwater mixing reservoir for waterchanges.

Lighting

(3) 400w Coralvue Reeflux 10k bulbs on Coralvue Ballasts

(4) 72" URI True Actinic VHO's on Icecap 660's

Pictures of the tank as the silicon cures should be up soon, followed by pictures of the space and eventually installation.

Thanks for looking!

John

[KingfishJohn]

Mike's original thread documenting his tank can be found here if anyone is interested.

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=993868&perpage=25&pagenumber=4

[gkarshens]

Sweet. can't wait to see pics!

[ret25yo]

i'm also trying to get ahold of that manufacturer for my 270g... its tough..

[KingfishJohn]

Acrylic and Glass Exhibits does not sell directly to the public.

Hope that helps,

John

[invincible569]

John, cant wait to see some pics. Do you guys have a public store in Austin?

[Prince Dakkar]

can't wait to see pics.Great project

[Dudester]

John, thanks for starting this thread. I'm glad I didn't start it months ago when we only had drawings and a bunch of ideas - now you have to host it :bum: .

invincible569 - John and Brian have a shop here in Austin called Kingfish Aquariums. It hasn't been open for very long but already it has a large following and they've distinguished themselves by stocking and selling top of the line equipment and dry goods, healthy fish and inverts, and premium live rock. They're both extremely knowledgable and they have different strengths which complement each other. This makes for an ideal LFS, and I feel lucky to live in a city where so much experienced help is available to me.

Now on to the tank. I, too, can't wait to see pics!!

[divecj5]

Sounds awesome John and Brian. Just making my way over here after following Dudester's thread for a long time. Can't wait to see the pics.

Adam

[bcoons]

Hey, I'm here! Looking forward to following this one. I'll have to get down to Austin one of these weekends to go visit Kingfish.

[EnFuego]

Hey guys, this is mburton from ARC. Looking forward to see how this thing shapes up. John/Brian, have you guys opened the shop up? I knew you had livestock in, but wasn't sure if you were actually open to the public yet.

[thor32766]

wow, sounds like the kids are going to love seeing this thing!

[thor32766]

wow, sounds like the kids are going to love seeing this thing!

[makoJ]

looking forward to the pictures!!

[KingfishJohn]

Ok finally got some pics! Originally the tank was going to come in tomoprrow but with the ice in Texas, it will probably be later this week. On to the pics!

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/DSCN0631.jpg

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/DSCN0630.jpg

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/DSCN0629.jpg

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/DSCN0628.jpg

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/DSCN0627.jpg

[KingfishJohn]

I'll work on getting some pictures of the equipment and live rock next!

[gkarshens]

That thing is a beast!

[scaryperson27]

8'.

Really nice.. I like

[melev]

I'm :inlove: with your tank!

[Dudester]

I dunno John, I think we should have gone BIGGER :D .

[JayS]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8957761#post8957761 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ret25yo
i'm also trying to get ahold of that manufacturer for my 270g... its tough..

After talking to them direct and then one of their "retailers in Houston" it took 5 weeks for them to get me a quote. I followed up with them atleast 3 times and they kept giving me over to different people to talk with. I ended up going with Aquarium Obsessed and was very happy.

[KingfishJohn]

My experience couldn't have been farther from yours. Tom answers my calls and emails very quickly and has been extremely informative during every tank build.

My experience with AO was that it took 2 or 3 weeks to get quoted, then at least 12 to get the tank built. The last tank we got from AO (while beautiful) took about 15 weeks to get to Texas.

Mike,

Haha this one looks heavy enough to me! :smokin:

[drummereef]

That tank is sick. Very nice.

[EnFuego]

wow, that thing looks great. If you all need any help with the move, give me a PM and I will send over my number.

[jjjimmy]

Sounds very nice. One concern that I see with your original setup is only (3) halides on a 8 foot tank. Why not use 4 for better light distribution?

[billr]

That is cool..........

[invincible569]

Did you ask for those pics or where they offered to you?

By the way, nice tank!

[clekchau]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8993644#post8993644 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by thedude15810
My experience couldn't have been farther from yours. Tom answers my calls and emails very quickly and has been extremely informative during every tank build.

My experience with AO was that it took 2 or 3 weeks to get quoted, then at least 12 to get the tank built. The last tank we got from AO (while beautiful) took about 15 weeks to get to Texas.

Mike,

Haha this one looks heavy enough to me! :smokin:

hi mike,

i also researched ag&e as i live in dfw, but their customer service and knowledge or lackof was dissapointing in my experience. i asked alot of questions regarding a tank a little larger than this one, as i asked the same questions to socal creations, envisions, midwest custom aquarium and a few others, they didn't seem to be as knowledgeble or friendly

glad that it worked different for you though, great looking tank, can't wait to see it finished

[KingfishJohn]

Edward,

I asked for pictures of the tank and Tom took them for me. He has taken pictures of all the other tanks we've done in their "drying" stage as well.

Jimmy,

I used three halides on a 6" wider tank and the light was more than enough. This tank will be a mix of coral and if we ever do need to add a 4th halide, there will be more than enough room. Lumenarcs have a supposed 36" spread which more than covers the tank.

Clekchau,

One of the problems I think people are running into is the fact that AGE does not sell directly to the public. They do this for several reasons, but one is to not be overwhelmed with demand resulting in much better lead times, and service when a retailer does order a tank.

Tom called me yesterday to check how the weather was and we decided to continue to postpone the tank's shipment. I'd rather have the tank take longer to come in then to get a broken tank!

John

[clekchau]

i don't blame you, it's pretty icy here in dallas today and i heard it was bad down south too

[E-A-G-L-E-S]

Way to go guys!

One thing though....i've read multiple times from Sequence that the Dart shouldn't be ramped down more than 30% though....not sure if that's just them covering their own tails or what.

[Dudester]

While everyone is entitled to their opinions, and believe me they are all sought after and welcome here, the purpose of this thread is not to analyze any particular vendor. This is intended to be a tank diary thread. I believe John mentioned that our tank vendor does not routinely deal with the public, which may be why some folks have had less than ideal experiences with them. Fortunately, John is not a "Joe Public" citizen; he is a member of the elite force know as a LFS Owner, which entitles him to a few privileges to which we mere mortals are excluded. Hopefully AG&E will expand their services in the future so that more people can acquire their beautiful products. I'm just glad I was able to get one!

jjjimmy - Great question. We patterened our lighting from GMFett's 600 gallon reef, which you may have seen here on RC. His tank is also 8' long, but it's 4' wide (ours is only 3'). His tank is lit with (6) 400W MH's, aligned as (2) rows with (3) MH pendants each. The 3 pendants cover the length of the tank quite well, and with a foot less in depth, we'll probably be OK with only 1 row of lights. Our tank will be less-SPS dominant as well (the kids like to see soft corals swaying in the current more than tree branches), which is another reason we think we can get away with only 3 MH's. And lastly, the system is expandable and upgradable - if we find that we want to add more SPS or if there are gaps in the light, we can always add another pendant.

Thanks for the compliments, everybody!

[clekchau]

i see what you are saying guys, but what does it mean when you indicate they don't deal with the public? my father a few months back went to a home and garden show which targeted specifically the public and ag&e had a big booth and a rather impressive handout of their services, that is why i called/visited them in the first place :dunno:

[KingfishJohn]

Eagles,

Great observation, I've read that as well (and don't know if it is to cover their tails or actually necessary). With our proposed overflow of 1600 - 2000 gph, we should be well above that 30% cutoff.

Mike,

Actually Marcus's tank (GMFett) (http://web.mac.com/marcusfettinger/iWeb/Longhorn%20Reef/Equipment.html) has only (3) Lumenarc 400's. The tank also only has (2) 72" VHO while we will have (4).

Clekchau,

I don't know what booth they had setup but the deal with AGE is, they only deal with Retailers (LFS). In order to order with them, you have to have a retail license. Quoting takes up 75% of the manufacturers time and this allows the LFS to handle the quote and design the tank. This makes it so that only one quote is handed to the actual manufacturer and all the design is delegated to another company.

John

[clekchau]

the booth was at the home and garden show at the henry b gonzales convention center in san antonio last november. my father spoke to the guy at the booth and he gave him the brochure and told him to contact a.g.e at any time for a quote on a custom aquarium/installation.

i'm not sure why they would have a booth at a convention targeting the general public and welcoming inquiries if they only sold to local fish stores, but that explains their "slow" response time.

thanks for the clarification.

[gkarshens]

I thought Marcus's tank only had three lights. I am glad to know I am not going forgetful.

Maybe they started out offering to the public but realized it would be too much to handle.

[Bono]

This might be a dumb question but how does the tank stay together? Since it doesn't have trim on the bottom or top can silicon alone keep it together?

[KingfishJohn]

Bono,

Not a dumb question at all! You are correct that silicone holds the whole thing together. Trim really doesn't hold the tank together (as it usually comes in 4 seperate pieces) just is there for aesthetics.

John

Pictures incoming!

[Bono]

Wow, I just had no idea silicone alone was strong enough.

Awesome tank BTW.

[KingfishJohn]

Deltec Family (Minus FR509 Reactor)

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture006.jpg

AP902

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture007.jpg

Lighting Components

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture008.jpg

Halide Ballasts

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture009.jpg

[KingfishJohn]

10k 400w Coralvue Reeflux 10k's

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture010.jpg

Lumenarc 3's

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture011.jpg

VHO Ballasts (Icecap 660)

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture012.jpg

[KingfishJohn]

Saltwater Mixing Pump

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture013.jpg

RO/DI Unit (AquaFX Dual DI)

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture014.jpg

Lots and lots of salt

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture018.jpg

[KingfishJohn]

Circulation

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture015.jpg

Sequence Hammerhead

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture016.jpg

Group shot of the equipment (200 pounds of sand in the boxes in the back right)

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture017.jpg

[KingfishJohn]

Gratuitous coral shots:

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture019.jpg

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture020.jpg

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture021.jpg

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture022.jpg

Finally, the reason the tank isn't already in place

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture024.jpg

[jnarowe]

sweet!!! Hey, where did you get the Tropic Marin in 82lb. bags, and is that the "Pro"??

[KingfishJohn]

My Tropic Marin supplier carries the 300 gallon bags so wherever you get TM from, they should be able to order the big bags.

They do not come in pro unfortunately. As the tank progresses, we may have to switch back to buckets, depending on what the alkalinity sits at.

[fishypets]

Nice thread John and Mike. :)

I'm thinking about going back to school for another 6 years so I as well can have a 450 gallon tank.

Hey Mike-

Looks like you get my corals after all. Make sure to dip before adding to your system though.

[Dudester]

It turns out we were all correct. Marcus used to have 6 MH pendants, but after switching to the Lumenarc reflectors, he's down to just 3.

fishypets - You're such a tease! And don't worry, I'll dip EVERYTHING I get from you :) .

[benf]

Only question is the size of the overflow...what turnover do you expect? I too am using a Hammerhead pump and i expect 10-15x turnover running 3 2" drains and 2 1.5" returns.

[Typhon]

Impressive equipment list. The doctor's office must have some deep pockets.. :D

[leoskee]

Definitely deep pockets. Thats a lot of high end equipment. Thousands of $

[jnarowe]

I use a Hammerhead and have two 2" and one 1.5" drain and that is more than enough. I can shut any of the drains individually with no adverse affect.

[swannking]

If you use the hammerhead as a return pump, I don't think the length of your overflow box is long enough to handle that kind of volume and may cause your tank to overflow. I have a 450g tank 78"X36"X36" and I have the overflow occupy the one side of the tank with a length of 36". I run a barracuda pump and the water level rises to about 1.5" above the bottom of the teeth.

[KingfishJohn]

The hammerhead is the closed loop pump, not the return. The return is a sequence dart throttled back to 1600-2000 gph.

What that group of doctors wanted is a solid reef system, with a minimum amount of headache and maximum return. Although costs could have been cut here and there, maintenance would increase and the overall project costs would go up. When I go with another skimmer that cannot handle a 450 gallon heavily stocked reef, I end up doing greater water changes. By going with top of the line equipment, maintenance to the tank decreases, and nothing will need to be upgraded.

John

[jnarowe]

swannking: Not sure about that. While my overflow box is about 94" long, it is only 6" x 6" and there is only about 3 inches of water in it, so it really depends on more variables.

[swannking]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9012587#post9012587 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jnarowe
swannking: Not sure about that. While my overflow box is about 94" long, it is only 6" x 6" and there is only about 3 inches of water in it, so it really depends on more variables.

It is the length of the overflow box that determines the volume of flow that it can handle ie. from the tank to the overflow. How fast the water inside the overflow box drain into the sump is determined by the size of the drain. Since yours is 94", there is no issues. If your length of the overflow is much less, let say 12", then the water in the tank can't get to the overflow box fast enough and the main tank water level will rise until it overflows.

[benf]

OK, so you are using the dart for a return....cause i was concerned with the small overflow for using a hammerhead, that is why i brought it up. I decided to run my Hammerhead as return and feed my chiller and refuge as well. My tank is much smaller than your build....72x27x24, but overflow box is ~60" with 3 2" drains.

[KingfishJohn]

My rule of thumb on tank/sump turnover is always 5 times the tank volume. This slow flow allows greater contact time with the skimmer, less bubbles and salt creep, and a smaller return pump. It also allows the sump to act as a settling chamber for detritus where it can be easily shop vacced out.

Since the bottom is PVC (and not glass) we elected to not have AGE cut the closed loop holes for us and do it ourselves. The tank stand is already in place and has LOTS of steel cross members and getting the tank and stand to match up would have been near impossible.

Another thing to mention is that when selecting equipment for this tank, we went with manufacturers that were known to be the best on the market.

Sequence offers a three year warranty and excellent customer support. I also stock Sequence in case the pump needs and immediate replacement.

Deltec has the best representative in the market in Doug and nothing cannot be handled quickly. I also have the same model Deltec in store in case a part needs to be robbed in hours.

Tunze's warehouse is located in Austin, they have the BEST powerheads on the market, and Roger Vitko is a first class retailer. Any problems can be taken care of without hassle and wasted time.

Coralife and Icecap have a distributor not 30 minutes from our store.

AquaFX is a brand I personally have been using for over 2 years. We have one of their units in store driving our water and Marianne (president) is ALWAYS willing to do what it takes to help you.

Finally we're using Tropic Marin salt as I use it in store, and on all maintenance accounts and the difference in salts is very evident. Tropic Marin's rep is also an incredibly helpful guy and I encourage anyone who goes to MACNA to meet with him.

[clekchau]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9013002#post9013002 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by swannking
It is the length of the overflow box that determines the volume of flow that it can handle ie. from the tank to the overflow. How fast the water inside the overflow box drain into the sump is determined by the size of the drain. Since yours is 94", there is no issues. If your length of the overflow is much less, let say 12", then the water in the tank can't get to the overflow box fast enough and the main tank water level will rise until it overflows.

the width of the teeth in the overflow also plays a factor

[jnarowe]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9013002#post9013002 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by swannking
It is the length of the overflow box that determines the volume of flow that it can handle ie. from the tank to the overflow. How fast the water inside the overflow box drain into the sump is determined by the size of the drain. Since yours is 94", there is no issues. If your length of the overflow is much less, let say 12", then the water in the tank can't get to the overflow box fast enough and the main tank water level will rise until it overflows.

true, but a 12" overlow for a large tank would be a poor design. Myself, I am a big proponent of coast-to-coast overflows.

Teeth spacing matters of course. Having a by-pass line on the output of the return pump is really the only economical way to ensure that you have the proper flow. It also helps in priming the main pump in certain situations. Just after the pump output, I have a "T" with the straight side returning to the display, and the T side having a valve and line going back to the sump. I can change the flow by adjusting this valve, and as systems age, it helps to have extra flow that can be brought into play to make of for growth inside the return lines.

I can change the flow though my overflow just by turning that valve. I prefer this method to using a valve to actually restrict the pump like so many people do. I don't like to put any more back pressure than I have to by design.

[Dudester]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9013977#post9013977 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jnarowe
Just after the pump output, I have a "T" with the straight side returning to the display, and the T side having a valve and line going back to the sump. I can change the flow by adjusting this valve, and as systems age, it helps to have extra flow that can be brought into play to make of for growth inside the return lines.

I can change the flow though my overflow just by turning that valve. I prefer this method to using a valve to actually restrict the pump like so many people do. I don't like to put any more back pressure than I have to by design. That's a great idea, Jonathan. I guess you just pump the "T'd off" water back into the return section so that the sump doesn't necessarily receive extra flow?

And for those who are concerned about how much we are spending on the tank, keep in mind the following:
1. if you do it right the first time, very few if any upgrades and/or repairs are required and you actually save money
2. we require reliable equipment since the office will be closed on evenings, weekends and holidays
3. this tank will be a reflection of me and my colleagues, and we want it to look clean and professional
4. we want the kids in the waiting room to view a reef that's as natural as possible, not watching John pull out hair algae, and last but not least,
5. no one goes into this hobby to save money.

[swannking]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9013574#post9013574 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by clekchau
the width of the teeth in the overflow also plays a factor

That's without saying.

[jnarowe]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9014300#post9014300 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Dudester
That's a great idea, Jonathan. I guess you just pump the "T'd off" water back into the return section so that the sump doesn't necessarily receive extra flow?

Not exactly. After hearing and reading about umpteen stories of micro-bubble problems, I installed a dual sump system with two 2" lines between and BVs.

This gives me a lot of flexibility while elimanating micro-bubbles from the display. I have an in-bound sump and an out-bound sump. The inbound sump has the inflow lines from the overflow as well as all my probes. The skimmer sits in the inbound sump but empties into the outbound sump. In teh out-bound sump I have heaters and rubble, as well as the effluent from my Ca and Kalk reactors.

The nice thing about dual sumps is taht I can take one offline any time I want, drain it, clean it, etc. and still have a working system. In fact I keep the water volume lower than half so that either one can absorb the water from the other or from the skimmer...I have had a lot of floods and this type of system helps me avoid that! :D

Here is a shot of the outbound sump:

http://home.wavecable.com/~jrowe/return%20sump.jpg

And a shot of the sumps next to each other.

http://home.wavecable.com/~jrowe/barr%20kalk%20stirrer5.jpg

For your application, I don't think you could really do this, but the element of having the by-pass line is still valid for any sump situation. You just need to make sure it doesn't add bubbles to the display. If you need more pics let me know. Click on the red house to see various tank room shots.

[Dudester]

Thanks for the clarification, Jonathan (and I've clicked your red house many times before ;) ).

I went to the office today to check on the construction progress. Here's where we are as of today.

This is the view when one enters the waiting room. Once the tank is in place, cabinets will be built down to the floor and up to the ceiling around the entire perimeter of the system.
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b27/mjosephs/office%20tank/waitingroom1.jpg

Here's the lockable door to the tank equipment room.
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b27/mjosephs/office%20tank/waitingroom7.jpg

This is the stand. It's powder coated and strong as, well, you know.
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b27/mjosephs/office%20tank/waitingroom6.jpg

This will give you a better idea of just how thick the metal is on this stand. That oughta hold'er.
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b27/mjosephs/office%20tank/waitingroom5.jpg

Inside the equipment room is a janitor's floor drain with a water source/faucet above it (not pictured but partially seen in the first image).
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b27/mjosephs/office%20tank/waitingroom3.jpg

The walls of the equipment room are painted with a gloss paint that will deter corrosion. To assist with temperature control, the equipment room has its own HVAC unit.
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b27/mjosephs/office%20tank/waitingroom2.jpg

And finally, here's the view from the tank room, looking into the waiting room.
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b27/mjosephs/office%20tank/waitingroom4.jpg

[jnarowe]

very cool indeed. Having that tank room is a real plus.

[clekchau]

damn that stand looks beefy

[Bax]

Man what is that? 4" square tube??? Saweeet!!!

Mike, just stumbled onto this thread, all I can say is ... Awesome!!!

I wish I had gone bigger in my office .... after all, office furniture is a business expense!!!

[Dudester]

4" indeed! And you can see in the photos that the stand is actually bolted down to transversely-oriented joists beneath the floor. We don't have many earthquakes here in Austin, but if we did, I think this would weather the storm.

Actually, John and Brian, take a good look at the 1st and 3rd photos -- the metal brackets and bolts occupy some space inside the stand. Is this going to be a problem with the sump resting on the bottom platform? I'm not sure, since I don't know the exact sump dimensions.

Mike

[scaryperson27]

To think, i might actually be moving to austin in a couple years. What do you think of it over there?

[EnFuego]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9018083#post9018083 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by scaryperson27
To think, i might actually be moving to austin in a couple years. What do you think of it over there?

I just made the move from Florida to Austin, and I love it here. I moved for grad school, but I have already signed with a company to work here when I finish.

And to not stray completely off topic, Mike, I saw your sump at the shop the other day, and that thing is massive. This tank is moving along quickly...can't wait to see the tank in place.

--
Mark

[KingfishJohn]

Since Brian saw the stand, I'll assume he took those bolts into consideration. I literally cannot WAIT to start of this project and look forward to showing all of you the progress.

It's funny, before every big tank I've ever been a part of, time draws near and I start thinking "oh god and what if". With this project, I've had very small what if's and it EXCITES me.

Also what is everyone's favorite acanthurus tangs? My personal choice would be an achilles (and I have a very good source for net caught hawaiin fish) but would like to hear others thoughts.

John

[KingfishJohn]

And on Austin,

I went to school here from Dallas and don't see myself ever leaving. The city's atmosphere is great (even if you do have to deal with the occasional hippie :bum: ) and the weather and scenery are great.

[i2ik]

This is a very interesting thread! Love the idea of having a tank in a waiting room! I have seen a couple of dentist waiting room with a tank in, but nothing as big as a 450G tank!

My favorite acanthurus tang is a very hard choice, debating between the powder blue tang and the achilles tang. I am wondering in a size of your tank, i guess having those 2 would not be an impossible option.

The Clown Tang would also be in my top 3 favorites tang.

If i would have to choose one, i guess i will also go for the achilles tang or the achilles gold rym hybrid one if you can put a hand on one.

Keep us posted!

[reefworldaq]

Hai Thedude, Beware with your salt because based on my exp the cal and kh was low, I think you use the MARINE ENVIRONMENT SEA SALT. in there web there are comparation about salt including TM.

[Tunjee]

I thought silicone would only adhere glass to glass. How is it that they can glue glass to plastic and I cant?

[jnarowe]

you're going to put down some styro sheet under the sump anyway, right?

[MaGNuS042]

Im pretty sure they are using a special silicone, it's not 100 percent like we use for glass to glass.

[Beenalongtime79]

Oh, it hurts so goooood. :) Those will probably be the happiest children in the world.

Then again, when I was a little kid, I always wanted to see sharks! Probably not a huge chance of that happening in this tank. Hehe :)

Good luck with the rest of the planning. It is definitely going to be a topnotch tank.

Cheers,
John H.

[Dudester]

rufio173 - Thanks for the nice comments, and good luck with medical school (it's totally worth it!).

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9022282#post9022282 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jnarowe
you're going to put down some styro sheet under the sump anyway, right? John/Brian, care to tackle this one?

[Beenalongtime79]

Thanks Dudester! I think I will be happy with what I'll be doing in the future. :) May I ask, but are you also in the medical field?

Also, how do you like the reeflux bulbs?

[Dudester]

I haven't used the 400W ReefLux bulbs personally, but I'm currently using a 250W 12K and it looks great.

sending you pm

[KingfishJohn]

Possibly on the styrofoam but probably not. The sump is only 24" wide so should fit no problem.

John

[jnarowe]

well, the styro sheet will help to reduce vibration noises so I figured you would be doing that and the bolts were really a moot point. at 24" it's no big deal anyway. whenever I help others build systems, I always try to have them put in a water-proof liner and styro under the sump and return pump.

[fishypets]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9004230#post9004230 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by E-A-G-L-E-S
Way to go guys!

Hey Matt, I told you everything is bigger and better in TEXAS!! LOL

[gkarshens]

I just helped move this thing in today. Let me say "WOW!" It is a terrific tank and you could land a 747 on that stand. I am sure John will post pics soon.

[KingfishJohn]

Brian's phone has the pictures as I didn't bring a camera this time (knew that I'd have to be lifting and not shooting pics haha).

The tank is an incredible thing. Very very well built and beautiful. The stand the builders built is 6" steel and literally could hold anything I could throw at it.

Thanks to my "crew" , I could not have lifted that tank alone!

[Dudester]

Just got back from vacation, and honestly I'm jealous that I wasn't there to help get the tank into the office and onto the stand. John, you have to share the info that you gave me about the tank move - talk about close calls!

Gabriel, no pics? I don't think I've ever seen you without a camera in your posession :cool: . Guess you had your hands full, though. Thanks so much for helping out!

[Yaryman]

I know this has been covered already, but I'm just amazed at how few overflow slots there are.

Just my 2¢, but I think you will come to regret that part of your design.

[jnarowe]

there's more than one way to run a reef tank. I am a fan of large overflows but many tanks thrive on just a corner overflow. Different philosophies are what is great about this hobby! :D

[KingfishJohn]

I know that everyone doubts the overflow. Let's wait until it's running and maybe you'll be singing a different tune or I'll be dremeling out some new slots.

I love this hobby!

John

[Tunjee]

I wonder what kind of special silicone they use to adhere glass to plastic?

[KingfishJohn]

Love Aqua Teen btw...

I'll offer this advice on the silicone.

We weren't sure if this tank was going to fit in the overflow. Only one was working at the time, and it wasn't a service elevator, just one that would handle a pediatric gurney.

Two options if the tank didn't fit at this point... cut off the external overflow and reattach it (or so we thought) or get a crane. I called AGE to talk about option 1 and we would have had to have one of their guys come to Austin and fix it personally.

Luckily the tank fit in the gator and is in its final resting place (on top of a stand that could handle the weight of a semi).

[Dudester]

I'll take the liberty of editing thedude's post. He meant to say "We weren't sure if this tank was going to fit in the elevator."

Since Brian's phone appears to be "off-line" I'll post the pics I took last night of the tank on the stand. I wish my 6'5" partner was with me, it would have been nice to get a photo of him laying in the tank ... with room to spare. Love the PVC bottom.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b27/mjosephs/office%20tank/tank1-29-07-1.jpg

Here's a view looking down the barrell, with the controversial overflow in the foreground. Check out the acrylic bracing.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b27/mjosephs/office%20tank/tank1-29-07-2.jpg

[jnarowe]

really looks good. may be tough to keep that overflow comb clean but I am sure you guys will figure it out. how thick is the pVC bottom?

[Beenalongtime79]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9115909#post9115909 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jnarowe
really looks good. may be tough to keep that overflow comb clean but I am sure you guys will figure it out. how thick is the pVC bottom?

I think it'd be rather easy to construct something out of gutter guard to place over those combs and just take it out once a week for a quick rinse and then back over the combs. :)

Gosh guys, I really would have wished my pediatric surgeon was that cool and savvy to put a monster reef tank in the waiting room!

Keep the progress notes and pictures coming!

Peace,
John

[alien9168]

This looks awsome!

[makoJ]

WOW thats a HUGE tank, nice work man!

[longhornreefer]

Hello All,

I can't believe i just found this thread and it is already 4 pages long, and its just a glass box.

Allow myself to introduce.....(pause).....myself. My name is brian with kingfish aquariums in austin, and i have been slaving over this tank for the past few days. i have documented the installation and have some great eye candy.

Let me comment on the "poor design' of the overflow. We had no choice but to make it 12" wide because of the wavebox and extention, the 2 C.L. holes, and the constraints of the filtration closet. I definately see a dremel in my near future, i think i will start by cuting out every other tooth and using black eggcrate from behind to keep small fishes out.

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s232/bacarlile/pic1.jpg

I had already built the sump b/4 I noticed the bolts anchoring the stand down (even though these bolts are so unnecessary). So I planned and jointed some 2x4's and attached them together with waterproof wood glue and biscuit joints. I leveled the 2x4 sump riser with 1/8" and 1/4" pieces of rubber mat.

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s232/bacarlile/pic2.jpg

[longhornreefer]

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s232/bacarlile/100_1573.jpg

[jnarowe]

looks cool. is the stand fully coated or just primed?

[clekchau]

looking great guys

[longhornreefer]

It was fully coated when it was fabricated, it looks like it got knocked around a little before it was brought to the jobsite. I may have to repaint it with something. I have seen some people brushing on that automotive truck liner.

[jnarowe]

Durabak is a good one but the fumes will send you into orbit. Bilge paint is good too but also very smelly.

[longhornreefer]

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s232/bacarlile/pic3.jpg

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s232/bacarlile/pic4.jpg

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s232/bacarlile/pic5.jpg

Just got home from the Dr's office and finished the closed loop, installed the sump and Dart, and installed the mako ro/di. The ro unit is running right into the tank, so it should be full in a few days-ish.

The hayward bulkheads have such a squishy oring, how tight are most people tightening these?

[melev]

It looks like you don't have the space for it, but it would be best to fill in those voids under the sump and use the rigid pink foam to evenly support it and avoid any pressure points.

I love the clean plumbing you've done so far.

[longhornreefer]

Good advise marc, but your right, space is limited and we can't afford the extra half inch. My manly biceps can barely fit between the stand and sump as it is. I guess john's girly man arms will have to service this fuge.

[KingfishJohn]

Pssssshhhtt if your arms barely fit I doubt I can get even a manly hand in that thing haha.

....

.......

Mike can service the fuge, BURN

[makoJ]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9170186#post9170186 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by longhornreefer
Good advise marc, but your right, space is limited and we can't afford the extra half inch. My manly biceps can barely fit between the stand and sump as it is. I guess john's girly man arms will have to service this fuge.
:lol:

Nice job Brian plumbing is really clean!

[jnarowe]

Plumbing job is real clean but I still don't understand why you decided on the wood base rather than foam board. Is it that you didn't feel that the foam would be sturdy enough? I am not trying to second guess the install, but rather curious as to the reasoning behind doing it this way. :)

[Bax]

I can just hear the little kiddies now ...

"Mommy , Mommy, Mommy I want to go see Dr. Dude's fish tank! ... NOW :mad2: !!!! "

:lol:

[longhornreefer]

1) The floor was not only unlevel, but the concrete was wavy, so bad that when I put the foam down, the sump wobbled back and forth while hitting the floor bolts.

2) The bolts that the stand contractor used stuck up 1 1/4" I asked if i could cut them down for better clearance, and they wouldn't let me until they hand the building over to the doctors next week.

So rather than using 3 half inch pieces of foam i decided on the wood stand.

[jnarowe]

I figured there was a good reason. Interesting that the stand is bolted down in the first place. Seems uneccessary. Lot of debate in earthquake areas about that.

Every installation has its quirks!! :D

[pwhitby]

Its Nice to see another of Tom's tanks.

I have 600g of his and he was extremely helpful when i was designing the layout of mine.

I also had floor issues, about 3/4 rise right in the middle of my stand. Its a pain to deal with, but has to be done right.

Its looking good, please keep the pictures flowing.

Paul.

[KingfishJohn]

Paul.

Thanks for the compliments, Tom was great to work with. Where in Oklahoma are you? I've got two sooner parents, a grandmother in Norman, and another set of grandparents in Bartlesville (outside of Tulsa). I'm sort of the black (more like burnt orange) sheep in my family.

John

[longhornreefer]

Tom Hudson rocks, we are lucky to have found him. We had planned on ordering the tank from Aquarium obsessed but we wanted to wait and see how the first tank we ordered turned out. From A.O. we were quoted $1800 for a 6'x2'x30" freshwater tank with 4 holes in the bottom with an 8 week delivery. We paid a deposit 9/12/06 and didn't get the tank til 1/9/07. They charged my credit card $2100 plus a $300 currency exchange fee that was never discussed (probably my fault for not asking). And shipping was $600, (not AO's fault, just alot of $$)
Not to mention empty promises of progess pictures to settle our client, or call backs.

Sorry, i was starting to rant. The point of this post is to highly recommend Acrylic & Glass Exhibits (A.G.E.)

[longhornreefer]

Today's progress

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s232/bacarlile/pic6.jpg

[jnarowe]

nice pipe work! Will you be able to comfortably get on a stool and reach over to the overflow comb area, or will that be done from the display side?

[longhornreefer]

jnarowe, i think there will be good accesability from the end. The pipes only stick out about 2" past the overflow. I can reach the overflow grate while standing on the ground.

[edwing206]

wow, sweet tank. can't wait to see it filled.

[jnarowe]

cool. looks like they stick out more in the photo, but believe me, I spend a lot of time on a step stool!

[longhornreefer]

Once the tank is up, i plan to build a "step bench" that is 4' to 6' feet long, 30" tall with some kind of non skid surface like grip tape. We help our friend GmFett work on his 600g reef (8'x4'x30+) alot and it is such a pain to place a frag then get down from a step stool and move over a foot, etc. With this bench, one could walk up and down the 8ft length to clean the tank. I guess it would be like a catwalk, or mini-scaffolding.

[rayman45]

comming along greatly...

[Dudester]

At this pace, and with the office's expected opening day of 2/12, this is going to challenge Melev's 14 day tank setup. When making plans with the builders, I expected that Brian and John would have had access to the office and tank room for several weeks by now. The goal was to open the office with a lightly stocked but healthy reef tank. Unfortunately the builders have been a bit behind, and the guys haven't truly had workable access until yesterday. I'm extremely impressed with their forethought and flexibility, having completed as much of the work as possible at their shop so that items can be installed in turn. Great job, guys, I'm jealous that I have to work and I'm missing out on so much of the fun.

[gkarshens]

Brian, I have a collapseable aluminum step that is 4' long. It is used by tape and float guys. I use it for doing the roof of SUVs and trucks. Next time I am there remind me and I will show it to you.

[longhornreefer]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9178506#post9178506 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Dudester
Great job, guys, I'm jealous that I have to work and I'm missing out on so much of the fun.

Thanks Mike, and yes you are missing out on some fun, but you must keep working so that we can have the $$ to stock this thing. If it makes you feel better, there will always be a place for you on the kingfish staff should you ever get tired of the whole doctor thing.

[melev]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9178506#post9178506 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Dudester
At this pace, and with the office's expected opening day of 2/12, this is going to challenge Melev's 14 day tank setup.

If y'all do it, it just goes to prove that reefers in Texas are highly motivated individuals. :)

[pwhitby]

Hi John,

I live in OKC. I was looking at my tank thread.....this time last year I was taking tile up to get the stand in.....

Here is where I am at today....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/DSCF0101.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/T5_lit_column2_2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/tank101506-5.jpg

and since you kindly showed your plumbing........
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/backcomplete.jpg

I also drilled the tank myself.....a scary proposition but really allowed me to work the designs in my head a great deal before I ended up with the final system.

---didnt want to steal your thread.........

Paul.

[Dudester]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9178751#post9178751 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by longhornreefer
If it makes you feel better, there will always be a place for you on the kingfish staff should you ever get tired of the whole doctor thing. Thanks for the open door Brian, and sorry I can't make you the same offer ;) .

After you complete the plumbing, might I suggest that you describe the pattern of flow for those followers who may be overwhelmed by all of that PVC (love the grey, BTW, very European!). Also, what are you using as a "background" for the overflow side of the tank?

pwhitby - Very nice tank, thanks for sharing.

Melev - It's not a fair comparison anyway -- you did yours without help. I continue to delight in your accomplishments.

[hatfielj]

Hey Dudester, awesome tank build so far! Can't wait to see the finished product. BTW, just curious as to what field of medicine you are in if you don't mind me asking? I'm a third year in med school right now and if you ever need to hire a student to take care of your tank for a month while doing a rotation...I'm your guy! :)

[KingfishJohn]

The black on the back of the tank is sort of like aquarium contact paper and I'll let Brian elaborate as to its use.

Flow diagrams with pictures will come when the tarp comes off the tank as it will be way easier to describe with some good pictures.

Anyway, pictures incoming!

[KingfishJohn]

Deltec 902 Body (sizing up plumbing)

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture025.jpg

Trying to protect the Hammerhead... it was completely covered when we left it

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture026.jpg

RO/DI mounted over the sink (yellow discharge line and black supply)

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture027.jpg

Lifting up the dust guard to watch the closed loop come on

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture028.jpg

[KingfishJohn]

Old Faithful

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture029.jpg

All lines open

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture030.jpg

Under the tank plumbing detail

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture033.jpg

Why we haven't been able to do more... this keeps the drywall out

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture036.jpg

[alien9168]

Lookin' Good!

[KingfishJohn]

This is the little sister to Mike's tank... a 350 gallon AGE freshwater tank that measure 8'x2'x3'.

Tank in place just filled

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture037.jpg

Sunlight so you can see through the murk

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture039.jpg

The equipment is slightly easier

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture042.jpg

UV

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture043.jpg

Heater

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture044.jpg

[melev]

Dudester, I did have some people help me each day. Without their help I don't think I would have reached my goal successfully.

[jnarowe]

very nice. The FW install is very tidy. That is some good help you have there!

[Dudester]

hatfielj - I'll send you a pm.

Great update Kingfish guys! Based on the 11 o'clock position of the pressure gauge, am I correct to say that we're getting only around 60 psi on the Mako? How many gallons will that 100 gpd membrane produce at that pressure?

The Hammerhead puts out an incredible amount of water. Was it damaged at all by the workers, or just a little uncovered? Hope that Deltec putty is up to the test with the coral mounts.

Seeing my "little sister" atop that well-built and practical stand underscores how insanely overbuilt the stand is to our office tank. But you guys are obviously spending too much time with that tank and not enough time on mine ;) .

This is getting very exciting!

[jnarowe]

60 psi is about right at 77F to meet the membrane rating. I usually keep mine around 65 psi.

[KingfishJohn]

We have great help, his name is Brian. In all seriousness, Brian's technical ability and maguyver-esque building abilities are incredible. You come up with an idea, he can make it and more importantly, make it look GOOD.

50 gpd membrane getting 65 psi at most times. When the rest of the hospital isn't using water it jumps slightly higher. We went with the 50 gpd membrane to conserve DI life and there aren't many situations that require an immediate 100 gallons. As of this evening, the tank was about 1/4 full which means jug time!

Hammerhead was fine, just a little rattled. Mike (the new floor manager) has been excellent coordinating with ESPECIALLY compared to his predecessor.

As of tomorrow night, we should have a pretty much full systems go from the construction company.

[mrcrab]

What type, brand of heater is that? Is it good for SW of only FW?

Thanks

[KingfishJohn]

Hydor Inline 300w heater, good for either.

[mrcrab]

Thanks.

I'm looking for something for my 345. I'll check it out.

[longhornreefer]

Yesterday we built a "control panel" to try to conseal some of the wiring in this system. It measures 16w x 48tall x 6" deep, and it will conseal an RK2, wavebox, wb extension, osmolator, and possibly some milwakee controller in the future.

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s232/bacarlile/control1.jpg

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s232/bacarlile/control2.jpg

[NYproDJ]

this is my favorite thread :)

[longhornreefer]

NYproDJ

Thanks, that means a lot. We will continue to try to build cool stuff and keep the eye candy flowing.

P.S. How do you like your Finnex tank? i just got some finnex lights and they are really well designed, and inexpensive.

[NYproDJ]

I like the tank except for the filtration and the skimmer... im sure the tank would have been fine left un modded but I added a second pump.... I'm having bubble issues! Skimmer doesn't work that great too... lights are working wonderfully tho!

[longhornreefer]

Finished the control panel. I absolutely love tunze pumps, but with the transformer, driver, and controller times 2 or 3 pumps, thats just a ton of wire. This way everything is concealed.

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s232/bacarlile/Control3sm.jpg

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s232/bacarlile/Control4sm.jpg

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s232/bacarlile/Control5sm.jpg

John and I also finished plumbing in the Deltec 902. The tank and sump are now full of water and tropic marin salt. We also added a couple hundred lbs of Caribsea live sand because we are too lazy, and hate rinsing sand. Once the dust clears in the morning, we will plumb the reservoir and add live rock.

[longhornreefer]

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s232/bacarlile/Control6sm.jpg

[KingfishJohn]

For those interested, we tried 60 pounds of Caribsea's latest sand (and I can't remember what it was called). It's not wet in the traditional sense but damp and came with a "bio-activator packet."

When the dust clears, we'll see if I like it.

[NYproDJ]

Man you guys are amazing... I wish I could join your team lol...

[melev]

I love that electrical panel. That's gorgeous.

[gkarshens]

When do I get my tour???

[Prismatic]

Awesome looking panel :)

[TandN]

looks like a great start cant wait until it done ;)

[Bax]

That electric panel is inspirational!

[DrBDC]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9204805#post9204805 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by gkarshens
When do I get my tour???

As soon as you make an appointment and pay your copay/deductable! :lol: If you don't have kids (he's a pediatrician) just tell them you're a kid at heart!

[Dudester]

Just for the record, I'm not a pediatrician.

Today's the office move-in party, and I'm heading over there to see all of this for the first time since I photographed the empty tank and sump.

[rppvt]

Just for the record, I'm not a pediatrician.

But I did sleep at a Holiday Inn last night
lol

[KingfishJohn]

We worked on the tank all day today and pics will be forthcoming.

John

[longhornreefer]

Here is a top down pic of the return manifold. We decided to do it this way, because peninsula tanks ted to have surface proteins collecting at the end opposite of the overflow.

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s232/bacarlile/top1.jpg

We had to cut out the overflow grates for safety. With the grate, the water level was just under the bracing and now it is about an inch below

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s232/bacarlile/top2.jpg

Still a little cloudy, i think we used 220-240 lbs of live sand, John?

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s232/bacarlile/side1.jpg

We have a 100 g reservoir with a float hard plumbed into the sump for quick, efficient water changes. Mixing is provided by a Mag 9er.

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s232/bacarlile/reservoir1.jpg

For anyone out there that thinks Deltec is too expensive, this is why.
http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s232/bacarlile/nog1.jpg
NOGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG!
How many skimmers actually pull out the actual sand in the water column?
http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s232/bacarlile/nog2.jpg

[invincible569]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9204159#post9204159 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by thedude15810
For those interested, we tried 60 pounds of Caribsea's latest sand (and I can't remember what it was called). It's not wet in the traditional sense but damp and came with a "bio-activator packet."

When the dust clears, we'll see if I like it.

thedude, I just used that with the bio packets. I love this sand. The one i got was from the Caribbean.

[longhornreefer]

invincible569, we feel graced to have you following this thread, and we are liking the sand too so far. Once both of our tanks are up we should do a tank tour in Htown and Austin. Between, this tank, green mako, and GMFett's, there are some cool tanks here, as i know there are in your neck of the woods.

[invincible569]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9209258#post9209258 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by longhornreefer
invincible569, we feel graced to have you following this thread, and we are liking the sand too so far. Once both of our tanks are up we should do a tank tour in Htown and Austin. Between, this tank, green mako, and GMFett's, there are some cool tanks here, as i know there are in your neck of the woods.

Thanks for the kind words. I agree and I feel the same about Austin reefers. Looks like TX is the place to be. ;) I think we are all in the setup stages with our tanks and will soon be ready for some tours. I am definitely in agreement and you guys are welcome anytime. Let me finish getting the rest of my equipment and stand finished up and I will be ready.

My water has been clear for a while now. I dont have any sandstorms with my flow. Everything is very stable. The good thing is that I didnt want to go over 1-2" of sand. Im at 1/2-1". Im amazed. My last tank with oolitic sand was such a pain to try and tame it.

[Brewen]

Wow what a great build thanks for sharing.

[asnatlas]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9209215#post9209215 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by longhornreefer

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s232/bacarlile/top1.jpg

We had to cut out the overflow grates for safety. With the grate, the water level was just under the bracing and now it is about an inch below

You plan on putting some gutter guard, egg create, or something else over the hole ??

[KingfishJohn]

First off, thanks to everyone for their kind words. It really means a lot to both Brian and myself that others are interested in what we're doing.

We actually ended up using 340 lbs of sand (unless my math is wrong and I'm pretty tired). 3 boxes of bahama oolite yesterday (40lbs a box or 2 bags) and 60lbs of Ocean direct. Today, we used 4 boxes of bahama oolite making for around 340 lbs of sand (more than I expected).

Asnatlas,

Nah, I figure if a fish gets caught in the pump, free food for everyone smart enough to not go in the overflow!

Just kidding, we'll come up with some kind of overflow guard.

[AJT]

I just looked at the prices of Deltec. $ 1,250.00 for a heavily stocked 200g. Since you have used these, are they worth that much? Do they perform that much better than the others??

Thanks

Andy

[jnarowe]

I like that reservoir. Do they have square ones? Got a link?

[KingfishJohn]

We got the reservoir local Jonathan, sorry.

Andy,

If you've never used a Deltec before, then I understand your concern with their price. They are above and beyond, the best skimmer on the market IMHO. They are worth every (and there are alot them) dollar.

John

[jacmyoung]

NOGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG!
How many skimmers actually pull out the actual sand in the water column?


I am following your thread with admiration, however I have say even the most average skimmer will pull out the kind of fine sand nog as the Deltec.

Check out the post below I pulled from the Octopus thread, this skimmer sells for around $1,000 and the owner was testing it with fresh water:

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8973557#post8973557 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by tonyf
Just taken delivery of the my new 'big mumma'. Previously I have used the DNW-200-6540 and it was a beaut!

The packaging is as big as my current 5' tank. (skimmer will go on to a new 8' tank currently in planning)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y285/tfendt/Reef%20General/FDNW-400-6540012.jpg

Excellent internal packaging

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y285/tfendt/Reef%20General/FDNW-400-6540015.jpg

Size of this thing compared to my JDM Technologies FI627 beckett skimmer

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y285/tfendt/Reef%20General/FDNW-400-6540017.jpg

Freshwater and leak testing with 2 litre of vinegar in solution ... notice the foaming

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y285/tfendt/Reef%20General/FDNW-400-6540018.jpg

<img src="http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y285/tfendt/Reef%20General/FDNW-400-6540019.jpg" border="0">

Found this inside the skimmer ... does anybody know where it fits ins? :lol:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y285/tfendt/Reef%20General/FDNW-400-6540011.jpg

Tone :bum:

[KingfishJohn]

I have no idea as to how those pictures are at all relevant to this thread, but I'll elaborate on the Deltec.

I've setup tanks with many different skimmers and this particular setup was impressive for several reasons.

1. The water was relatively clear in 12 hours of the tank turning on. I attribute this to the surface movement and Deltec.

2. The skimmate wasn't your typical watery sandy skimmate associated with new tanks. This skimmate when tilted to the side (and we tried to show this) was actual a cup of sand in the collection cup. Water came along with the sand but I have NEVER seen a skimmer pull an actual cup of sand from a new tank.

Anyway, it was very impressive to me but the real NOG is yet to come :bum:

[jacmyoung]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9209512#post9209512 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by AJT
I just looked at the prices of Deltec. $ 1,250.00 for a heavily stocked 200g. Since you have used these, are they worth that much? Do they perform that much better than the others??

Thanks

Andy

May be relevant to the question this member was asking?

[longhornreefer]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9209304#post9209304 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by invincible569
My last tank with oolitic sand was such a pain to try and tame it.

Apparently this bahamas oolite is a larger heavier oolite from an area with cold water (or freshwater) upwhelling which causes calcium precipitation, as opposed to oolites created by living organisms. So its easier to tame.

Brewen, Thanks for the encouragement. Please tell us how you are using ozone in your bullet 1. We are considering O3 for some other projects and wonder about the typical considerations in using it; decreased skimmer performance, smell, human dangers, etc.

asnatlas, I am going to sleep on it tonight, and see if sometihing comes to me in a dream for the overflow. Not that there is anything wrong with eggcrate or g.g. but i want to come up with something custom.

AJT, yeah they're not exactly giving Deltecs away, and if you would have asked me a year ago when we started planing this tank, I would have told you we were going with the ER CS12-5. After using the larger deltecs, i will never go back. I will admit that I have not used a bubble king yet. We hungout with NAGA at MACNA last year and he really digs them, but uses everything else deltec. We'll have to wait til our next over 400g build and we will let our client be our guinnea pig.

Jnarowe, we got our res. at a feed supply store in dripping springs, Texas. It is the same manufacturer that makes the ones at Tractor Supply co www.mytscstore.com I am going to try to go direct to the manufacturer for a catalog. I'll let you know what I find.

Jacmyoung, That octopus skimmer seems like a lot of bang for the buck, I have seen them at another LFS and they seem economical and fairly well built (with the SCH 80 true unions and such). We'll all just have to wait to see how it works.

Owning a Deltec is like owning a hybrid car, it literally makes your farts smell like roses. Maybe that is why they charge a little extra than their competition.

[mrcrab]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9210705#post9210705 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by longhornreefer
AJT, yeah they're not exactly giving Deltecs away, and if you would have asked me a year ago when we started planing this tank, I would have told you we were going with the ER CS12-5. After using the larger deltecs, i will never go back. I will admit that I have not used a bubble king yet. We hungout with NAGA at MACNA last year and he really digs them, but uses everything else deltec. We'll have to wait til our next over 400g build and we will let our client be our guinnea pig.


You may want to consider looking at the ATI Bubble Master threadwheel skimmers. Went from ER to BM on my 345 and absolutely love it, granted I can't personally compare it to a Deltec.

[gws294]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9210705#post9210705 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by longhornreefer


Owning a Deltec is like owning a hybrid car, it literally makes your farts smell like roses. Maybe that is why they charge a little extra than their competition.
Now that's the best argument I've heard so far for going Deltec. ':D'





Jnarowe, you might look here for storage tanks.

http://www.plastic-mart.com/class.php?item=911



Great work guys... following with interest.

Geoff

[longhornreefer]

I have been following bubble masters for a few months now, and I may try one on my own personal reef, but when recommending a skimmer to go on the 4th FL of a hospital above a few million dollars worth of MRI machines etc, its Deltec all the way, helps me sleep at night.

[jnarowe]

Thanks for the responses about the reservoir. That one looks very nice and I want to replace my 96g Rubbermaid bins with something larger. I am trying to find square ones to maximize gallons per sq. ft. and they are tough to find.

And regarding the overflow, I wouldn't even consider egg crate as it will grow algae like you can't believe because of all the flat surfaces.

I use removable overflow combs and I think they would be ideal for your application as well.

Here's a pic:

http://www.aquacave.com/images/Overflow%20Combs-1.jpg

These are 12" and I have 6 of them on my tank. They are really handy because you can pull the comb out and take it to the sink to clean. And there's no issue with trying to dislodge stuff from inside the tank.

[longhornreefer]

That comb looks perfect, i'll try to copy it first, and if it doesn't work, i'll call aquamedic. Thanks Jonathan.

[TandN]

lol I love these things about skimmers I think my bubbleking is the best out there lol I tell you what my deltec was amazing HIGHLY recommend them to anyone but I love my BK :)

[KingfishJohn]

I personally cannot wait to play with a bubbleking and a bubblemaster but like Brian said, the Deltec helps me sleep at night. On setups that we don't have daily contact with, only components tried and tested are used. This is not to say that BK's and BM's aren't better we just don't have experience with them.

John

[Dudester]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9211065#post9211065 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by longhornreefer
I have been following bubble masters for a few months now, and I may try one on my own personal reef, but when recommending a skimmer to go on the 4th FL of a hospital above a few million dollars worth of MRI machines etc, its Deltec all the way, helps me sleep at night. Sorry to be such a stickler for detail, but I can't let this pass. It's not a hospital, it's a medical office building. You are correct in that there is a lot of expensive equipment beneath our office, including an outpatient surgery center and radiology facility on the 1st floor. We certainly don't want a flood to drain down through the floors below. This was a major factor in the planning of this system.

Since Brian and John are "sandbagging" I'll provide a small update. The sandstorm is almost completely clear, and the aquascape looks fantastic (nice work, John!). There is plenty of swimming room despite 400 lb of LR, and there are a number of large and small arches. Most importantly, there are ample flat spaces upon which to mount corals. The 'scape was well planned out, with different zones for SPS, LPS, rics and clams. There will be some mixing of species throughout the reef, but we will also have these specific zones of concentration as well.

Despite the massive amount of water flow, the tank runs nearly silently, which is important since it's in an office waiting room. We open our doors to patients tomorrow, and while the kids will only have lit rocks and sand to look at, I'm sure they'll still find it interesting.

Jonathan - love the removable comb, thanks for the idea.

And thanks, everyone, for the excellent comments and input.

[mrcrab]

Excellent job on the setup, well planned and executed.

Can't wait to see it with the colored sticks! :D

[jnarowe]

I swear I posted that I got that comb inexpensively on ebay from AquaCave, but I don't see the post ow. I wonder if I posted it in the wrong thread?

[jnarowe]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9210959#post9210959 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by gws294
Jnarowe, you might look here for storage tanks.

http://www.plastic-mart.com/class.php?item=911
Geoff

great link Geoff. Thanks!

[TandN]

lol I remeber readin about that jnarowe lol matbe it was in another thread

[longhornreefer]

We just got a nintendo Wii, so I won't be installing the lights until later today, pics to follow, check back in at around 7 or 8ish.

[jnarowe]

and please post a vid of your flailing about when you play the Wii!

[lurshy]

Still a little cloudy, i think we used 220-240 lbs of live sand, John?

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s232/bacarlile/side1.jpg

Does that Sump have enough spare volume to hadnle the overflow in case of power loss? You were talking later about the need to protect the floors beneath you.

BTW a most excellent setup Congratulations! and may you be cyano free.

[KingfishJohn]

Lurshy,

Nice observation. That was when we filled the sump way way too high and the return was off. The running water level is a solid foot lower and has no problem handling a power loss.

John

[GMFett]

Ok- so about 30 minutes later and I'm finally caught up on this thread. Where do i start??

Brian and Juan- You guys really are amazing at what you do. The plumbing is unbelievably clean- love that schedule 80 alll the way. The install is so clean so far. Brian- you can start building my "control box" whenever you are ready. That thing is freaking awesome! This is the most professional install i've seen! Glad you got a trial run with my tank brian!!! :lol:

Mike- holy crap! you officially have the coolest waiting room in the world! do you think the kids will be scared when they walk in and the bearded college student is checking out the tank? :lol: seriously first class! i cant wait to come see it!

Anxiously awaiting more pics!!!!

-Marcus

[KingfishJohn]

More pictures!

So Kingfish was busy this weekend scrambling to get this thing operational. Basically, we got it filled and running Friday night (literally an hour after they finished the tank room), scaped and finished the sand on Saturday, and got VHO's up today.

Here's what 400 pounds of Tonga live rock look like in an RX7

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture048.jpg

Deltec right after cleaning

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture050.jpg

Plumbing shot (again) showing the return line from reservoir. Water changes will be a quick ball valve turn (the line is the one secured to the wall).

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture051.jpg

Another shot of mission control

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture052.jpg

[KingfishJohn]

Picture better showing the running sump level (this is actually a little low)

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture053.jpg

Cloudy tank

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture055.jpg

Beginning of the cabinet

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture057.jpg

Temporary Cabinet

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture058.jpg

Longways shot

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture059.jpg

[KingfishJohn]

Far side Day 2

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture061.jpg

Front Day 2

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture063.jpg

Near side Day 2

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture065.jpg

Tanning bed anyone?

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture071.jpg

[KingfishJohn]

Note the holes for Lumenarcs above

Far side VHO

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture069.jpg

Front VHO

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture070.jpg

Near side VHO

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture072.jpg

Strainer

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/Picture076.jpg

Hope ya'll enjoy!

John

[gkarshens]

Looks awesome! I love all the open space. Now fill it up with corals!

[TandN]

Re the side panels able to come off ?

[alien9168]

:thumbsup: great photographs and documentation of this project!

[KingfishJohn]

Thanks guys!

The whole stand/canopy is only temporary so no, they don't come off easy (as we found out today)

John

[GMFett]

Sweeet job guys. Damn they finished that place up fast!

[GMFett]

Sweeet job guys. Damn they finished that place up fast!

[GMFett]

Sweeet job guys. Damn they finished that place up fast!

[gary faulkner]

Listen, I here an echo in here.

[NAGA]

Hey gentlemen,

that looks like a solid set up!!! I love the rock work you did in there. On the subject of skimmers I wouldn't change what your doing on the brand. Your a dealer for Deltec use them! I love them and I don't get phone calls regarding problems with them. When that is plugged into the equation as you said, you sleep at night. That's worth everything.

My plans are to come down there on the 23rd (Friday). I am working on flights so hopefully when we get together I can see this beast in person.

Jeff

[melev]

That looks awesome.

Naga, I never noticed your occupation before. How'd I miss that?!

[NAGA]

dunno.............I've certainly been around for a while :) I met John and Brian at MACNA this past year. Good Guys for sure!

[GMFett]

sorry about the triple post!!! haha not sure how that happens! that LR is so nice- well aquascaped guys- who is gonna take credit brian or john?

[BFG]

What is that gadget the contractor is using on his leg on page 8? Never seen that before.

[rppvt]

Those are drywall stilts.

[jacmyoung]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9218815#post9218815 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by NAGA
Hey gentlemen,

that looks like a solid set up!!! I love the rock work you did in there. On the subject of skimmers I wouldn't change what your doing on the brand. Your a dealer for Deltec use them! I love them and I don't get phone calls regarding problems with them. When that is plugged into the equation as you said, you sleep at night. That's worth everything.

My plans are to come down there on the 23rd (Friday). I am working on flights so hopefully when we get together I can see this beast in person.

Jeff

No doubt in setups like this one, only the most reliable equipment should be considered, and money should not be an objection.

How about a live webcam in the waiting room to point at the tank when it's done?

[Dudester]

GMFett - Thanks for the nice replies. If our tank ends up half as nice as yours, we will have accomplished a lot. To answer your question, John is the aquascape wizard and is primarily in charge of the tank and its contents, while Brian is the fabricator of the clean plumbing, controller panel, sump, light rack, etc. They make a handsome couple, don't they? I was, at one time, helpful in the planning of the system, but my role has diminished significantly since the install began. Now I'm mostly a cheerleader and a consultant with occasional valuable input. Oh yeah, and I'm responsible for financing.

jacmyoung - Thanks, as well. I'm going to have to veto the live webcam request, as this may violate the rights of our patients.

[Mahlhavoc]

This is turning out quite nicely and I am tagging along as my tank, ( http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=970914 ) is of the same size.

If you notice anything you would see as something you would like to have a "do over" and do differently, let me know.

How do you feel about the overall depth and height of the tank? Does the 36"depth and 30" tall look as huge as I would hope in person? I just realize size won't be done justice on camera is why I ask and I, myself, am curious if it gives off a 'WOW' effect when looking at it as it seems to in pictures comparitivly.


I cannot wait to see the final aquascaping and stocking, yours will be done faster than mine by a month or two at least. Great job fast work and impressive I say! ;)

[Dudester]

Thanks, Mahlhavoc, for the compliments. I checked out your thread, and I think your stand is too wimpy. :lol: just kidding, but you can see how I'm tainted by the 1000 pounds'o steel that are holding up my tank.

As far as what I would change, I guess we could have made the overflow larger, but that may have interfered with the CL returns and the waveboxes, so our layout may be just right. I don't see a lot I would change thus far, but we're still early in the setup process so ask again later.

I wish we would have gone 48" deep, like GMFett's tank. When walking around the side of his tank, the depth is simply amazing, and I don't quite get that with 36". I am thankful for every 30" of height we chose. It is impressive walking through the door of the office and seeing the tank, that's for true.

[Mahlhavoc]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9225115#post9225115 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Dudester
Thanks, Mahlhavoc, for the compliments. I checked out your thread, and I think your stand is too wimpy. :lol: just kidding, but you can see how I'm tainted by the 1000 pounds'o steel that are holding up my tank.

HEY NOW! no reason to get nasty! :D

I am actually really worried my stand is not strong enough for a long haul so don't make me start nail biting now! I have never built a stand before and doing a first run at a 450g stand can make a man lose hair. . wait, I already have lost it :mad:

Well, I think overall I can wish for more tank, but you have to say WHEN sometime, and too much tank I may be sorry about later in cost and upkeep. Keep up your great work!

[jacmyoung]

Yes for average casual guests, I found the biggest WOW factor is the height of the tank not the depth. I went from 24" to 30" tall and the reaction was amazing.

But if you spend time to investigate the tank, like every hobbyist does, the extra depth will take your breadth away.

I doubt most of your patients will notice the depth but they sure will have their jaws on the floor seeing how tall the tank is--the in your face factor. Isn't this how most public aquariums design their tanks?

[fishypets]

What a sweet freaking set up!

[Bax]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9224299#post9224299 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Dudester


jacmyoung - Thanks, as well. I'm going to have to veto the live webcam request, as this may violate the rights of our patients.

Come on! Give us something!! ... How about an after hours night cam with LED night lights if nothing else!:p

[Dudester]

fishypets - Thanks, just hope it will look as good as your former tank. BTW, I heard a rumor that your new tank is in - can't wait to see it develop.

Bax - I'll talk with the Kingfish guys and see if they can fit that into the budget.

Water tests were done and there was no ammonia or nitrates, so last night we put the first 2 fish into the tank, a yellow tang and a royal gramma. As of this morning they're both looking good. We'll start feeding tonight.

One of the 3 metal halides was hung, and it looks sensational. I can't wait until the others are installed, but we have to wait until the guys doing the cabinetry remove the temporary cover so that Brian and John can have access to the ceiling above the tank.

[KingfishJohn]

Just so ya'll know, I do not typically recommend putting fish in a tank on the fourth day it was setup! We did several things in advance to this tank to make the cycle less harsh (or non-existent) and I'll outline them below (so that others may learn from my mistakes or success).

1) Used all live sand. It clears faster, is populated with bacteria, worms, pods, etc. already, and we hate rinsing dry sand. The price difference really isn't much so I personally will never use dry sand again. I mean seriously how much is your time worth? Our fish refugium used dry sand and it took me an hour to rinse 3 bags.

2) The live rock for this tank came in to my store in December. It goes through a 2 stage curing process (or 3 in some cases). First, it sits in a vat with a beckett skimmer (skimming very very wet), carbon, and zeolith then gets a 100% water chance one week into the process. It then goes into final curing (when it stops smelling) in a 2 vat system skimmed by a Deltec AP702. From there, big pieces were put into our fish system to further establish the bacteria.

3) The fish we put into the tank had been QT'd in my system for almost a month and were chosen for their hardiness.

4) The tank has a big Deltec :smokin:

[melev]

Way to go guys. Lots of hard work getting done in record time.

[KingfishJohn]

I appreciate it Marc. Let this thing grow out for a bit and we'll have ya'll down to Austin for a little tank tour. In the meantime, we are having a frag swap (with MAAST and ARC) March 18th and everyone following this thread is invited. More info here:

http://www.austinreefclub.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=968

[KingfishJohn]

Sorry for the lack of updates but we've had a few snags in the grand scheme of the tank.

1. Tank is going through a pretty bad bacterial bloom. The water is very cloudy but will clear in time (I have no idea if this is at all related to the bio activator packets we used that came with the ocean direct sand).

2. A faux cabinet is up, making access to the tank minimal to non-existent. We did take down the panels and installed the remainder of the lighting. Right now, I decided to put a 12k Reeflux on the end of the tank to simulate a deeper water look... I also won't lie, it's UGLY when the bulb lit. I'm hoping the 12k mellows with time but I'll probably sub another 10k.

3. Temperature control was going to be provided by an aquarium specific AC unit and thermostat. Problem is, they don't exist. Currently the tank runs between 80 and 82 and they're installing our AC unit.

So progress since the last update;

Lighting finished
Diatoms started (hehe)
Topoff finished
Electrical finished
Calcium and kalk reactor ready for water

Current livestock includes:

(4) Peppermint shrimp
(4) Cleaner shrimp
(1) Yellow Tang
(1) Royal Gramma
(1) McCoskeri Wrasse Male
(2) Rainfordi Gobies
A bunch of snails

Hopefully we'll have new pictures soon.

John

[rppvt]

The best reefers also post the bad stuff--- thank you
I hope this is the worst of the journey for you and this great tank

[dark8nge1]

Hey John, you should get some of those drywall stilts to do maintenance with, but you might have to call you insurance guy that there is a chance you can fall and drown in this tank. I must say a very nice build so far. Yet another job well done.

[LeeMc]

H-U-G-E ! What are your plans for substrate? Bare bottom? Sand?

[asnatlas]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9360420#post9360420 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by LeeMc
H-U-G-E ! What are your plans for substrate? Bare bottom? Sand?

I guess you didn't even skim over the pages ?? Click the link below... It was stated back on page 7...

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=9209215#post9209215 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by longhornreefer

[LeeMc]

Thx - skimmed to fast..

[KingfishJohn]

We're over all bacteria issues and the tank is running great. One "secret" we use when starting new tanks... run rowaphos is a reactor from the beginning. Diatoms are essentially painless if you can get the silicate out of the water.

The tank is looking crystal, the Deltec is rocking socks, and the fish are fat and happy. Today I added the first coral, a beautiful dark green torch, and a Palani tang.

We are having problems with the topoff which resulting in a flood of about 3 gallons. I'd tell you more about the topoff problem if I knew what exactly was happening. When we find out, so will you all.

I'll try to get some pictures tomorrow.

John

[KingfishJohn]

Oh and LeeMC,

We used 340 lbs of sand (I think I said earlier) but there is one huge barespot in the tank. I had the middle closed loop jet angled towards the wavebox path and I think they are the culprits. When the faux canopy comes off I'll be able to mess with the direction of the jet and hopefully eliminate the barespot.

John

[Mahlhavoc]

yes pictures, this is my tank more or less, so I wanna see closer to finished product =)

I'm selfish like that :)

[BONDQ]

Tank is looking great!

Can't wait to see more photos of your progress.

[KingfishJohn]

So I did indeed go look at the tank today and sadly, no pictures. My camera was out of batteries and I had two other tanks in the same building that needed attention.

I'll be going back tomorrow and PROMISE to take pics (my battery is plugged into the wall as we speak).

One thing to note is that the wavebox in this tank is truly amazing. It's quite something when I have to sit back on the low benches in the waiting room and simply watch the fish. The motion created is second to none and I WISH I could get a video for you all.

PS: I think I asked this once before but any fish suggestions?

So far we have:

(1) McCoskeri Wrasse Male
(1) Yellow Tang
(1) Palani Tang
(1) Royal Gramma
(1) Rainford's Goby

Fish on the soon to be acclimated include:

(1) Flame Hawk
(1) Blue Throat Trigger Male
(1) Blue Throat Trigger Female
(3) McCoskeri Wrasse Female
(2) Royal Gramma
(1) Blue Spot Jawfish
(1) Mystery Wrasse
(3-4) Other Flasher Wrasse Males
(3) Juvenile Hippo Tangs
(1) Naso Tang (blonde, naso, or vlamingi)
(2-3) Other acanthurus tangs (powder blue, lineatus (LAST FISH), etc.)
Anthias of some type
(5) Green Chromis
(5) Firefish

[DrBegalke]

Nice setup! I'm sure the kids will love this reef.

[rppvt]

Forget the kids--- I got a boo-boo-- lemme see that TANK!

[KingfishJohn]

Pictures! This tank is a little over three weeks old now. Everything is looking great, we lost both rainfordi gobies (they both dissapeared and the brittlestar now lives in their home), and there is some interesting brown fuzz growing on the rocks.

Full Tank (Tank room side)

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/IMG_0876.jpg

Full Tank (Door side)

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/IMG_0889.jpg

How the return jets are positioned

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/IMG_0886.jpg

Shot looking down the tank

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/IMG_0884.jpg

[KingfishJohn]

Fish

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/IMG_0877.jpg

Blurry Fish

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/IMG_0879.jpg

Gramma Fortress (yes he's upside down)

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/IMG_0891.jpg

First Coral (Green Torch)

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r269/kingfishjohn/IMG_0882.jpg

[gkarshens]

I love the aquascaping! It looks like a huge Dorsal fin.

[clekchau]

i agree, aquascaping is unique but very nice.

[mcrist]

I have a setup very similar to yours and I was wondering about your use of the Tunze Wavebox. I considered using a Wavebox too, but I was concerned with it depriving the overflow of water when the wave is sent. It was my understanding that a Wavebox is best used if you have an overflow on both sides of the aquarium so that one overflow always has water. How high is the wave in your setup?

[KingfishJohn]

It kind of does look like a high dorsal fin doesn't it haha :bum:

One thing to mention is that this aquascape was created with coral areas in mind. The flow on top of the highest structure is ridiculous and I don't think anything but SPS could survive up there (that's ok by me!). The front area is very very open and will consist of mostly softies and a huge clam bed in the front. I already have a 12-14" gigas and 6" gigas waiting to go up there and I'll probably surround them with croceas and maximas.

LPS will be scattered along the bottom throughout the tank and the area closest to the door and back wall will be for a carpet anemone (have to appease kids and their cry for nemo).

Thanks Gabriel and Clekchau!

Mcrist -

The way the flow works in this particular tank (due to the return jets) the entire surface of the water works towards the back overflow. The most effective way to use an wavebox is to use a single center overflow as the water level in the middle of the tank doesn't really fluctuate.

Our setup seems to be working great as the entire surface of the water is rushed into the overflow every 2 seconds. The open aquascape also really helps the strength of the wave.

Currently the wave is right at about 1 inch (but on purpose). Originally, the plan was to use a wavebox extension and I imagine I could get at least a 3" wave with the extension.

We aren't using one however as the wave would go right out the front of the tank :lol:

[KingfishJohn]

Also, you can see the 12k bulb on the front of the tank in these pictures. I thought maybe the 12k would be just blue enough to look good but it doesn't and will be switched out to another 10k.

[coldwaterreefer]

Nice setup like the openess of the tank great job!

[coldwaterreefer]

Nice setup like the openess of the tank great job!

[dew2loud1]

Must be fun getting to set up and stock these tanks!

[dew2loud1]

Love the way you aquascaped it also!

[jdan1324]

This look as though it's coming together quite nicely!

[jacmyoung]

Love the aquascape.

[makoJ]

wow tank is looking good man!

[gary faulkner]

Looking good guys. Pics are great, keep em comming!

[cbui2]

love the elevation changes and rock setup, can't wait to see more...can be in front of tank all day long, keep up the good work