380 Starfire SPS in a closet

[Avast Marine]

Well since I ordered the tank today it only seems appropriate that I go ahead and start the build thread today as well. Tank will be built by Miracles in Glass 108x30x27 Starfire front and ends, dual 30" external overflows.

This tank will replace my 75 gallon mixed reef and plumb into my 54 corner SPS tank which will turn into the refugium for the 380. All of the livestock from the two tanks will be combined with the exception of the soft corals and rock infested with soft corals from my 75.

Location: Well it's going into a closet, well two closets actually :D It's what I got so I'll make it work. The closet space once I take out the divider wall used to be a laundry room but I just finished moving the washer/dryer to another location for er...uh... convenience (well that's how I pitched it to the wife anyway ;) ). This is on the first floor of the house with a crawl space under backing up to an outside wall. The first step will be to rip out the floor and pour a trench footing, then add a few more floor joist to beef things up. I plan to line the room with 1/8" HDPE with welded seams. There is a return duct to the central AC in the closet and I will leave that there as is. I plan to put a pretty good size pair of bath fans for exhuast and cut a decent fresh air intake vent as well. There will be a floor drain for emergency purposes that will just drop to under the crawl space. There is water and plenty of power in the room already but I will probably redo it all to fit the tank.

Flow: Return pump will be a Hammerhead and also tee off to feed remote refugium, frag tank etc. I will likely plumb a 4 way and two wavy seas or 4 sea swirls on the returns. No closed loop since the space is limited, I am going to go with 2ea Tunze 6101's and a wavebox + extention to start and see if I need more.

Lighting: 250w XM10k's on PFO magnetics in Luminarcs X4 will be the main lighting, I will also put an array of VHO actinics and T-5 AB+ bulbs wherever they end up fitting.

Filtration: I like to build my own toys :D But it will consist of a big ol skimmer, a pair of fluidized reactors running carbon and Phosar, a big ol calcium reactor and a big ol kalk reactor. I'll plan for a few hundred watts of UV. Curious to give ozone a shot but tanks going in my living room so I may pass for safety sake. All of this will be located in multiple sumps under the stand.

Other: I will have an automatic water change system plumbed in to change somewhere in the neighbor hood of 1/2% daily. I will also have a very large RO reservoir. These tanks will be located outside in a lean to shed that I need to build. Chiller will be outside as well and if I have time will be done on the mini split AC unit like Sidewinder did or I'll end up with a 1hp Tradewinds if time starts to run short.

Livestock: 90% SPS and a few LPS, rics and rare paly's and rics. Fish I currently have that will transfer are:

Longhorn Cowfish
5 glass cardinals
Joculator Pair
Algae Blenny
Yellow Watchman
Mandarin Goby
Sailfin Tang
Convict Tang
Multicolor Angel
Snowflake Moray
Bicintus Clown Pair
Dispar Anthias Pair
Copperband Butterfly
Blue Reef Chromis
Radiant Wrasse
Couple RBTA's
Couple Borneman Anemones
Dozen or so Maxi Morph Tapetums
Dozen or so Mini Morph Tapetums.

The Anemones may all end up in the 54, still haven't decided.

I have most of the fish I want except I really want to take advantage of the 9' swimming space and add a school of bannerfish. I'll probably add a few nicer angels as well and that's pretty much it.

I would love to hear some big tanker experienced thoughts before I start ripping apart my house :) Also never fear, I take LOTS OF PICTURES!!!!!!!! Here a couple of my packed 54 to quell the doubters LOL...

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1405/536325827_72acb27915_o.jpg
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/217/505034248_32f4c36350.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/197/505034202_c132345d48.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/204/516531158_16f23e01ec.jpg

[OZreefhead]

sorry dan cant offer much advise yet but judging by your 54 this tank is gunna be awsome!

[sidog1]

dan, how is your multicolor angel with sps? mine is in quarantine at the moment but would like to know your experience. your new tank sounds great. love the joculator pair!

[yoboyjdizz]

This is going to be sweet! 9 feet of swimming room sounds nice! I know i just got started on my 280 but im already dreamin of a new tank in the 8-10ft range! Good luck can't wait to see the progress on this one as well!

[Avast Marine]

Thanks Oz.

sidog1, Multicolor is in my softie tank so I just cross my fingers.

yoboyjdizz, I'm pretty excited. It kind of hit me today exactly how much work I have ahead of me.....

[dc_909]

Love the cowfish pic

[chaffey]

I love the top view pics...beautiful

[Reefghoul]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10250423#post10250423 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by chaffey
I love the top view pics...beautiful

I have to agree on this statement...tank looks awesome as well.

[nss9400]

awsome tank!

[leeweber85]

I absolutely love the fish selection. Especially the glass cardinals and the cowfish!

[meschaefer]

good luck...then again who needs luck when you have planning.

[spleify]

Looks great. Nice job.

[yoboyjdizz]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10249775#post10249775 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by dandy7200


yoboyjdizz, I'm pretty excited. It kind of hit me today exactly how much work I have ahead of me.....

Yeah and it will never end.... Enjoy!

[Avast Marine]

Thanks all :)

Well now that you have seen the 54 I'll show you where it is in relation to where the new tank will go....

Far left of this picture you can see the bow and the first closed in my living room is just to the right of that. Currently this is my "fish closet" that has my equipment sump and filtration for the tank. This room will be where all of my electrical is run from:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1008/722479205_a04d32edba.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1408/722479225_79fd3f36e3.jpg

Moving to the right you can see the two closets I am going into for the new tank:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1271/722479307_e325ce12af.jpg

The stand will be 40" tall, giving me 27" for the tank and then another 27" to the ceiling after that. The canopy per say will be a single door hinged at the top and lifted by a linear actuator via remote control. I am going to get Craftmaid pewter glazed cabinets to frame the whole thing with.

[Avast Marine]

Well, I dropped a couple mortgage payments at the LFS today, heres what I ordered:

Lighting:

3 ea L3 reflectors with AC kits
170cfm inline blower fan from SLS
3 ea 400w pfo magnetic ballast
3ea 10k XM 400w bulbs
Icecap retro 4x24" T-5 on 660 ballast with Geisman AB+ bulbs
Icecap retro 4x24" VHO on 660 ballast with URI Super Actinics

Flow:

2ea Tunze 6200's (went with these over the wavebox)
2ea Tunze 6101's
Multicontroller
Hammerhead return pump
Backup Hammerhead return pump

and:

114w Aqua UV sterilizer no wiper

I'm thinking of adding a Vortech with 2ea battery backups for protection just a tad bit more flow, for $600 and change it seems like a pretty good deal since I would spend more than that on a generator especially when you add the cost of another 6101 to get that other 3000gph. Anyone have thoughts on this?

Also for flow, I think I am going to ditch the seaswirls and OM and rely on the 2ea 6200's osculating back and forth for random current.
This will allow me to drop the returns straight down behind the reef structure, then I will put the 2ea 6101's in the back bottom shooting up and to the center and put the 2ea 6200's on the ends. I've had great luck with this flow pattern in the past and no need to change what was working before (just add a bunch more of it ;) ).

I talked to Derek at Miracles and they will be drilling the eurobracing 2 holes on each end and 4 along the back to run 1" pipe and/or powercords. These guy's are great to work with, and very patient.....It took me almost 3 months to decide on the final design along with about 60 e-mails......and I still am tweeking the design bit by bit as I see it coming together in my head.

Still need to get a controller. I am thinking I will likely stick with Neptune and get the ACIII.

Still need to build the rest of the equipment, I think I might start with the calcium reactor this coming week........

[imsocool5609]

wow i love your 54 it is so sick. I love the boxfish.

[cbui2]

:lol: dropped few months mortgage payments :D . we all have the same addiction even if they're no roof above our head but still manage for the tank to make it inside the house :cool:
will that wall needed to be frame, from the pics doesn't seems to be load bearing also 9'L will be really nice with 12" tangs. keep them pics coming and great build Dan.

[marlin_dory]

hey dandy7200
love ur 54 awesome idea with the closet space make sure u have alot of pics me myself im thinking of making a indoor pond with a window
=o i dont think its been done b4 so im hoping it work i have 1 q arent cow fish not reef safe or do u not have ne inverts in there please reply

[Avast Marine]

cbui2, yep I got it bad, could be worse though right? :) The wall is simply a divider for the two closets, will be simple to remove and I just need to attach framing to hold the cabinets to so nothing really structural going on there. The floor is a different story though, that will be the biggest challenge of my entire build (I hope).

marlin_dory, pond sounds neat. Check out last months "thread of the month" for more really good ideas. Cowfish....hmmm...not really reef safe according to the books. My wife loves "Tex" and since he will get quite large it has FORCED me to upgrade to this big tank, it's all her fault..... ;) Actually he was the first fish in my 54, I got him when he looked like a little yellow marble. Never picked on a healthy coral. Like many questionable reef fish he is opportunistic, if there is a shrapnel frag rolling on the sand bed after a pruning session he will rip the flesh from it. He has been known to knock snails from the glass and eat one every now and again but hardly a problem on a regular basis.

[Solitaryensis]

Nice pair of Jocs! Good luck on the build

[Avast Marine]

I worked over the weekend on the big ol calcium reactor and finished it today after work. It should hold about 30# of media, I'm hoping this will be large enough :D 8" x 20" chamber with a Panworld 40px recirc pump. I put it in front of my 54 for size reference:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1356/774502422_337d249c74.jpg

I was actually thinking about running this on my 54 so I could sell the one I currently have on there. Does anyone see anything wrong with running a obscenely oversized calcium reactor on a small tank? I use a controller and only feed a little bit so it seems like it would be OK, just wondering if anyone has ever done it?

[Avast Marine]

Here is the current sketch I have from Miracles, there is 2ea 1.5" sched80 bulkheads and 2ea 1" sced80 bulkheads in each overflow, the black dots around the euro represents the utility holes that will be drilled in it for cords, pipes etc.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1284/773782211_dd4ca14592_b.jpg

[erics3000]

Wow your 54 is sweet. This is some addiction. I cant wait to see your progress. Keep the pics coming..

[Avast Marine]

Thanks erics, I hope to progress quickly. I want to start cutting the wall in the next week or so.

[yoboyjdizz]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10315677#post10315677 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by dandy7200
I worked over the weekend on the big ol calcium reactor and finished it today after work. It should hold about 30# of media, I'm hoping this will be large enough :D 8" x 20" chamber with a Panworld 40px recirc pump. I put it in front of my 54 for size reference:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1356/774502422_337d249c74.jpg

I was actually thinking about running this on my 54 so I could sell the one I currently have on there. Does anyone see anything wrong with running a obscenely oversized calcium reactor on a small tank? I use a controller and only feed a little bit so it seems like it would be OK, just wondering if anyone has ever done it?

Not sure if im reading it right.. but did you build it yourself?

[Avast Marine]

yup :)

[chrisjet]

does your cowfish mess with your corals or other fish ?

[Avast Marine]

chrisjet, he gives all new fish the stink eye. He did pick up my lawnmower blenny by the "scruff of the neck" and carry him around for a little bit.

A lot of people ask me questions about this fish, here is what liveaquaria has to say:

The Cowfish Longhorn inhabit the reefs of the Indo-Pacific, usually in the less turbid waters. The body is yellow and covered with white dots, and is occasionally referred to as the Yellow Boxfish; however, the Longhorn is not to be confused with Ostracion cubicus, commonly called the Yellow or Polka Dot Boxfish. In the wild, it is not uncommon to see a 20" specimen, while in the aquarium the Cowfish Longhorn tends to be dramatically smaller - 16" or less.

When possible, the Cowfish Longhorn should be the first fish introduced in the tank. It is intolerant of other Longhorns, so keep it in a large tank, with some live rock for algae scraping. Use caution if placing the Cowfish Longhorn in a reef tank as it may nibble on tubeworms. When housed correctly, the Cowfish Longhorn is long-lived.

Similar to other boxfish, the Cowfish Longhorn's skin is poisonous and, when threatened, it will release a toxin lethal to other tank members, including other Longhorns.

Since they are omnivores, the Cowfish Longhorn should be offered a variety of meaty and vegetable foods. They are slow eaters, and should not be housed with aggressive eaters.


I have followed all of the rules and have been successful to this point. My entire stocking plan has been geared around this specimen. This is not a fish to randomly purchase without doing volumes of homework.

[yoboyjdizz]

do you accept paypal? haha

[Avast Marine]

Wow, Craftmaid is expensive!!! Here is what we came up with:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1343/793750457_fa5b298718.jpg

[woodwrangler]

Too many doors, imo, I would use 6 doors.
What is craftmaid quoting?

http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n315/woodwrangler/ecabtank.jpg

By the way, the image is your 54 gallon stretched to fit

[Avast Marine]

Kudos woodwrangler! About $2700 for solid maple panels and crown moulding etc.. I like 6 panels too. Right now they said to use 27" wide cabinets, I wonder if they make 36" with 2 doors?

[Avast Marine]

BTW, the stand is steel and 10 legs total spaced at 27" intervals so this was the reasoning behind 27" cabinets.....

[Avast Marine]

This is how I envision the lighting:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1066/804373243_15c0fb54b5.jpg

Since I wont have room for the L3's to go up or come out they will slide back and forth on a center rail. The T-5 and VHO will go up and down and the wires for those will straddle the L3's as they slide back and forth. The L3's will be adjustable up and down just not enough for maintenance.

[Avast Marine]

Yeah DEMO!!! I'll post pics in a bit....

I am thinking about the floor structurally. I have allotted 5000# for tank and water, rock etc. Over 22.5 sq. feet this comes out to 222# live load. My floor joist are 2x10 16" OC. The current span is 16' which is pretty much the maximum at 40# live load. I need just shy of 6x that amount :) I cannot seem to find span calculators that want to give me 200+ PSF calculations, anyone want to give a hand or link or just laugh with me......

[marlin_dory]

hey dandy7200 thnx for the help with the pond i have a q?
is this tank going to be on the 1st or 2nd floor

[Avast Marine]

1st floor, wood framing.

[Avast Marine]

OK, divider wall inbetween the two closets is fully removed and part of the floor is removed to expose the joist:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1217/825362092_d38f6a93e6.jpg

Here you can see my 75 across the room :)

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1231/825362022_7a03a45acb.jpg

Where I will be spending the next two days digging :(

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1269/825361994_762f810e59.jpg

It's a little wet down there...... First I will dig a hole and put a sump pump in the corner. Then digging should be a little less muddy. I decided to go with 4ea 3' long trench footers running perpendicular to the floor joist at roughly 27" centers. I will then lay cinder block to level up to the 2x10's and laminate the current joist with 3/4"ply and another 2x10 and fill the center of those with a couple 4x10 beams.....yeah that should hold it :D

[KurtsReef]

Dan, will this be viewed from two rooms? Or is where the closet doors are now going to be the back and the tank viewed where your 75 is?

[Avast Marine]

Kurtsreef, tank will be visible from one side so the front pane will be where the closet doors are now. The back wall of the closet is an exterior wall.

[cbui2]

great updates, how much room will you have for maintenance behind the display? also before cinder blocks are layed down will there be any support needed for them? keep them pics coming and awesome build

[Avast Marine]

Not much room behind tank at all. This is one of the main reasons behind going with in tank circulation rather than a closed loop.
For the support for the blocks, I dug out about 14" deep and a 4' long trench thew some cut in half axles in the bottom for "rebar" and filled with 1000# of 5000psi concrete. There will be 3 of them plus a 4th that is already there (house foundation). Here is the first one completed:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1319/838349755_9a6e69e18a.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1238/838349837_af16a18823.jpg

two more to go......

[cbui2]

that should more be then enough, great job Dan

[NYCREEF69]

SUPER NICE TANK MAN

[ybenormal]

Great job Dan, as always! I'll have to stop in soon to check out the progress. I'll wear a suit though so you won't talk me into digging footers or pouring cement. ;)

You're not going to do the maple facing and doors yourself?

[Avast Marine]

Thanks guys :)

Bob, your welcome to stop by anytime :) I'm considering doing the cabinet work myself but I'm kind of on a tight time line here.....expecting first child around the first of the year and the wife say I gotta be done (she means it this time I think) in 4 months. I don't get the tank for another 6 weeks so.......16 doors is a kinda big project to do on the fly. Don't worry though this build will have plenty of fun projects that should keep it interesting ;)

[Avast Marine]

BTW, footings are all done. Will start laying block and building my beams next week......

[ybenormal]

I'm sure you will have some nice tweaks to make the project very interesting. Let me know if you need help and I'll see if I can break away for a while.

[Avast Marine]

Not much done this week, somehow I caught a cold in the middle of July which slowed me down a little. I did however find the time to figure out my electrical plan, source a sump and figure out the generator option.

The electrical panel should be fun project and will be working on that after I get back from vacation the week after next. For this I will be building a power center. The idea is to have a sub panel put in and then run 5 circuits to the tank closet. Where those terminate there will be a "rack" system holding all electrical goodies. This rack will be a acrylic box similar in size to a musicians electrical rack system. I ordered 5ea 8 switch dj panels for the main controls. There will be 40 outlets in the top of the box. These will be wired to the back of the dj panels. From the 3 of the dj panels I will run individual break out cords that terminate at 3 DC8 neptune control boxes. Basically the switches will light when a component is turned on by the controller and I will have a switch that can over ride the neptune controls without going through any menus. The front panel will also have my ACIII and Tunze multi controller. To make it fun (or tacky, we'll have to wait and see), I also ordered 4ea 80mm red led case fans with modder metal shrouds and 4ea blue 12" cold cathode tubes and a heavy duty lazy suzan to mount to the bottom. hahaha

[Avast Marine]

Here is the sump:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1230/892911586_1c71ffdf64.jpg

This is the one that will go outside in a storage shed. It will be made from fiberglass with a 2" foam core to minimize the effects of net temperature change based on outdoor weather conditions (thanks Justin!).

All of the equipment will be under the stand along with another equipment sump. The idea is to have all the water splashing and the return pump noise not in my living room ;)

[cbui2]

very nice Dan, will you be building your owned sump?

[Avast Marine]

I will be building the acrylic sumps that will go under the tank. I ordered the fiberglass one from someone who actually knows what they are doing :LOL:

[Gooli]

tagging along..very nice dan

[erics3000]

Where you planning on getting your acrylic from? Can't wait to see them..

[Avast Marine]

Thanks gooli.

Eric, I do part time plastic fab so I get my acrylic from the local Piedmont Plastics branch.

[erics3000]

Ohh.. Should have guessed with plastic in your occupation. I am dieing to make something with acrylic. Hopefully soon.

[zoozilla]

Dan-

Looks like another very large undertaking. I'll tag along. Can't wait to see the finished product.

Good Luck :)

[Avast Marine]

Zoozilla, glad your aboard :)

Well I got some time to start the power center since I am still a little sick and didn't feel like going under the house and laying cinder block.....

The black outlets will be just switch controlled by the dj panels. The Grey ones will be wired to the dj panels firs and then to the 3ea DC8's:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/921913193/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1340/921913193_af7636cdfb.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0381" /></a>

Every outlet had the connector pin removed so the duplex is actually 2 differant switched outlets. Here is the 40 cords with plugs that will go to the dj panels:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/921913229/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1400/921913229_a8083ff073.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0382" /></a>

The 24 plugs that will go from the dj panels to the DC8's with nylon cord grips installed.

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/921913271/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1008/921913271_da968819d2.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0383" /></a>

I ordered my dj switches and DC's on Monday and still no word on either one so it looks like I will be back under the house tomorrow.....

[akbuuur]

so ive pretty much decided that im going to be building a tent outside your house and become your apprentice.:strooper:

[dtaylor123]

Great thread so far. Designing and building the whole set-up is a lot of fun. I am getting my new tank next week from Miracles in Glass, Derek was real easy to work with, can't wait to get the tank. It is much smaller than yours 36"x24"x24" with an external overflow and it is trim-less brace-less (it will be open topped with pendant lighting). I have a Neptune as well, I wish I was as good as you are with electricity, mine will be much more vanilla. Good luck with your build and I hope we are both very happy with a MIG tank.

[Avast Marine]

akbuuur, plenty of room in the backyard and wear your concrete boots tomorrow it is going to get messy with the rain. I put a temp sump pump under the house but this is a wet area so it's going to be muddy......;)

Taylor, I enjoy this part a lot. Your system sounds nice. I would recommend Miracles to anyone considering a custom tank, they are super easy to work with and don't have any attitude which is rare when dealing with custom builders of anything.

[erics3000]

Nice...Where did you get the cables for all your outlets?

[Avast Marine]

Thanks Eric, I got them at Mcmaster.com

[pcostanzo]

I always enjoy a good tank build. Your off to a good start. The 54 looks great. I was considering one in a spare corner near my big tank. It looks like a standard all-glass 54. Does that have a corner overflow in the back?

[danskim]

Updates are in order.

[Avast Marine]

I know.....my wireless is down right now and the computer I store pics on is out. I'll update by the weekend with some progress pics.

[Paikuhan]

Great work so far, Can't wait for the update's

[erics3000]

Ok.. I got it you are going to run all the plugs to the dc8 outlets from your controller. Is that right? I am getting ready to do some electrical work and wanted to see if I can get some ideas. I think I am getting to like your idea. It will be a little cleaner for all the wires instead of just plugging the dc8 to all your outlets right by the tank???Your other tanks are sweet, your work is great, this is going to be a sweet setup by an experienced reefer...

[Avast Marine]

Sorry for the lack of posting here, life has been busy lately so not much time for RC :( I have done a little on the tank setup:

Finished removing the wall:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1371/1121860178_45a97b30e4.jpg

Tank support:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1273/1121007329_02343156f5.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1196/1121856566_26f8a4abcc.jpg

On the footings I needed 3 courses of block and a few shims to get it nice and level. I sistered the existing floor joist with 2ea 2x10's and 2ea 3/4" ply in a sandwich, then bolted it all together with 1/2" bolts. So now I essentially have 3ea 6"x10" beams spanning less than 3 feet for the main tank support. Overkill is cheaper than a engineer any day of the week ;)

I found the outdoor utility building I plan to use for the outdoor sump:


http://s7.sears.com/is/image/Sears/07165058000?qlt=90,0&resMode=sharp&op_usm=0.9,0.5,0,0&rgn=0,0,2424,2128&scl=9.696&fmt=jpeg&id=34mHg3C5i0Qz_R8jV691Vl

Inside dimensions are just under 3'x8'. Should have just enough room for sump and a water holding container for water changes. It was on sale at Sears and will be delivered Saturday. Now I just need to get motivated to go dig and pour concrete for the floor in 100 degree weather :rolleyes:

I am also waiting on the 1/8" sheet PVC to come in to line the interior walls of the closet with.

Guess what else I am waiting for? LOL The DJ strips are backordered and wont ship for another few days so no power center fun either :(

Eric, almost got it on the electrical. Lets use a pump for example: The powercord will plug into one of the duplex outlets that you see, this will be plugged into the back of the DJ panels that are wired to a rocker switch. I will cut the main power cord to the DJ panels off and wire each switch to the pigtails of the powercords you see in the box with connectors installed. The ends of these plugs will go into the Neptune DC8's.

So controller turns on circuit. Power goes form DC8 to DJ panel that lights up the rocker switch so I can see the circuit is energized. Power continues to the duplex where the light is plugged into and energizes the pump. If for some reason I need to turn off the pump quickly I can simply throw the switch instead of going through controller menus. I have a setup like this with 2 DJ panels and a AC jr on my current tank and it is awesome.

A good example of how I use it now is that my heater switch is turned off for the summer. When winter comes I simply turn the switch back on and the controller doesn't need any reprogramming.

[ybenormal]

Nice work Dan. I really don't see how you manage to do all of this in addition to your businesses. Do you ever sleep?

[Avast Marine]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10555778#post10555778 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ybenormal
Nice work Dan. I really don't see how you manage to do all of this in addition to your businesses. Do you ever sleep?

http://www.luxuryfoodproducts.com/images/1003lavazza-beans.jpg

[cbui2]

looks great Dan, thats plenty of support needed. be careful not to cook yourself out there and pass out. when concrete was poured for my chiller, all the prep work was done few days prior be poured. the only left was to mix concrete and poured started 8am and finished by 10am.

[TandN]

This is one hell of a project best of luck Dan

[erics3000]

DAN isn't that the truth prep work is the hardest part of cement. I think it beat lifting all the bags of cement in the mixer.

Thanks for the explanation of the electrical. I like it. I completely understand now.That is what expierence will give you. I just run my electric and put the sheet rock on the other side of my wall last night. Oh well..Now I know for next time.

.Are you going to use the AC jr for your new tank? I have been wanting to order a controller and been thinking on just ordering it. Are you going to run Kalk with your Calcium reactor and auto top off? How are you planning running and controlling all of them? I ask beacuse i am trying ti figure hte easiest and most efficent way to set this up on my new system. My old tanks are really just FOwLR tanks. SO your advice is welcome..

Great Progress. I am really looking forward to this set up.

[TandN]

Eric I had a few diffrent controllers in my time of this hobby and now im using the PA Lighthouse and it awesome and extremely user freindly

[Avast Marine]

Well since my control box is modular, it is not too late to implement something similar. I'll see if I can locate some pictures of the one I currently use.

For controller, I am going to use the ACIII. I am going to drip all of my make up water through a kalk reactor. The reactor is about halfway built right now and should be finished this weekend. For kalk control I use a peristaltic pump on a timer AND a float switch. Basically is figure my evaporation and how long it takes for the pump to meet the maximum evap that I usually see, hook the peristaltic pump to the float switch and then set the timer to turn the float controller on for the maximum time limit I need and the float switch will override the timer and turn off the pump when it levels. If tyhe float fails I only overshoot by a little bit and I will have a high sensor alarm in the sump to indicate a primary switch failure.

[Avast Marine]

http://static.flickr.com/49/166182158_fa97a28369_o.jpg

http://static.flickr.com/55/166182155_8085447c6d_o.jpg

[Avast Marine]

That is the one from the 54. The new one will be substantially larger.

[JCurry]

Dan
When's the tank getting there? Whats the plan for the lights and other eq?

[Avast Marine]

Hi John, the tank is scheduled for first week of September. I'll put up a revised equipment list tonight.

[yoboyjdizz]

Seems to be coming around nicely.. Can't wait to see pic's of the tank!

[Avast Marine]

Thanks, yoboy. I am starting to get anxious for pictures of the tank myself.

As promised, here is an updated equipment list:

Lighting:

3ea Luminarc3's w/ 400w XM 10k bulbs on M59 ballast.
4ea 24" T-5 AB+ on Icecap retro's with 660 ballast.
4ea 24" VHO Super Actinics on Icecap retro with 660 ballast.
Neptune Lunar Simulator 4 LED white moonlights (way cool, I just got these!)

Flow:

Hammerhead circulation pump for returns, chiller, UV, skimmer feed, fluidized reactor feed, calcium reactor and remote tanks. I'm a pretty good plumber so I think I can pull this off with the correct reducing bushings off the manifold to keep the flow going constant to all equipment.

Backup Hammerhead :D

In tank, 2ea Tunze 6101's and 2ea Tunze 6201's on multicontroller.
1ea Vortech with 2ea battery backups.


Filtration, supplimenting equipment:

All built by me......

Big ol' skimmer
Big ol' Calcium reactor
Big ol' kalk reactor
Pair of Big ol' fluidized reactors

Other:

Chiller, 1/2hp Pacific Coast Imports
Heater, TBD
UV, Aqua UV 114w
Controller, Neptune ACIII
Automatic water change system
200ish gallon sump, fiberglass with 2" foam core for insulation.
30ish gallon QT system running a 40w UV
54 gallon (my current reef) refugium
30ish gallon frag tank, specs TBD


Thats pretty much it for equipment. Everything has been ordered that needs to be and I have materials to build the equipment so I need to hammer out the construction parts so I can hammer out all the little details........

[erics3000]

Thanks Tanya..

DAn let see some pics of your DIY equipment your Calcium reactor was sweet.

[JCurry]

Eric, Dan makes some the best eq that I've seen really high quality.

[Avast Marine]

Here she is......

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1155/1150433256_6aa962b705_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1252/1150433170_602ddf5c78_o.jpg

Eurobracing is being tempered and should be installed by this time next week :dance:

[cbui2]

the external boxes will be nice addition, i see many holes in them. could you explain them and size of boxes . thanks Dan you must be very excited

[pcostanzo]

I second that Eric. Lets see some more pics of the Ca reactor also the skimmer and kalk if they're already built.

[JCurry]

Sweet Tank Dan!

[danskim]

Looks like it will be awesome Dan.

[Avast Marine]

Finished the kalk stirrer today. 8" Cast tube 15" tall with a DC motorized stir bar, again in front of the 54 for size reference:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1208/774502582_18d93a296b.jpg

Skimmer will still be 12" chamber with multiple pumps and a little while before I get to it but, here is a teaser:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1429/900933672_09111e4438.jpg

[erics3000]

Wow everything looks great. Tank, Reactors, everything...

[Avast Marine]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10574827#post10574827 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by cbui2
the external boxes will be nice addition, i see many holes in them. could you explain them and size of boxes . thanks Dan you must be very excited

Yep, I love the overflow boxes like this. They will be putting an acrylic (black) insert into them to complete the blacked out back. The overflows are drilled for 4ea 1.5" sch80 bulkheads that will all be drains. There also holes for 4ea 1" sch80 bulkheads that will be the returns. The eurobracing is going to be drilled along the back for 1" return lines as well so I can come down the back tight to the back wall of the tank.

[Avast Marine]

The overflows are both 30"x6"x14" so they span a little more than half the tank. They will hold about 10 gallons each, so I guess this is a 400 build ;)

[pcostanzo]

Looks great Dan. Cool DIY kalk stirrer.

[Stile2]

Dan,
The tank is viewable from the front only, right?

My tank is viewable from three sides and the black backing on the external overview doesn't look right from the side view, straight on it looks good, but from the side it gets that mirror effect.

Keith

[yoboyjdizz]

I like it.. On my next and hopefully finally tank i think im going to give miracles a try. So how much is it going to take for you to make me a kalk or calcium reactor! Awesome job on it!

[patej]

looking good!

[Avast Marine]

Keith, yep view from just the front. Hopefully I wont get overflow glare.

Here are some updates:

I finished my beams and put down the floor, now I am in the process of lining the room with PVC sheets. There will be 3 floor drains, I sloped the floor to the back very slightly when I was finishing the floor.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1016/1260795610_37974024d9.jpg

2ea fart fans have been installed, 70cfm each. Also there is a third 4" duct stub out for the luminarc venting, the white grill is a return for my central AC:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1002/1259941185_70be952a55.jpg

My outhouse:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1318/1259941719_bbd94e8f29.jpg

[Avast Marine]

OK, the room is lined. Next step is to weld all the seams together.

Ceiling view showing the left bath fan and return duct:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1249/1272869618_ccbfe638cf.jpg

Left side showing the rough in for 4ea 20 amp circuits:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1111/1272870424_9b4b2fceb8.jpg

These 2 spots are 24"x18" and recessed so I have easy access to the out door area. All I have to do is install bulkheads where I plan to run plumbing and I picked up a Spears 4" bulkhead the other day to run all the electrical out there. I am going to use Uniseals to transition through the rubbermaid shed walls:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1156/1272007631_804d561e8a.jpg

I still need to cover the exposed 2x4's with sheet but, I plan to just weld that on as I go:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1183/1272868894_104c2db8ca_b.jpg

[erics3000]

Holy Molly.. You lind it with metal. Can you explain your theory?

[Avast Marine]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10665048#post10665048 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by erics3000
Holy Molly.. You lind it with metal. Can you explain your theory?

Not metal, it is Type I sheet PVC.

http://freckleface.com/shopsite_sc/store/html/pvcsheet.html

Bookmark that site Eric, it is a good place to buy cast acrylic tube for your kalk reactor project.

[erics3000]

WOW...You are the man...

[pcostanzo]

Looks great Dan. Freckleface has some great supplies. I was checking them out for big tubes for a skimmer.

[JCurry]

Nice job Dan, I wonder if you could use the sheet pvc to line the inside of a stand or canopy? how did you glue it to the wall? I was using that white fiberglass wall pannels that they sell at HD to line the inside of a stand but it's a bear to cut and work with!

[mountaindew]

dan, nice work i like the panels, much better way to control moisture and keep clean.
i have used the fiberglass reinforced panels "FRP board" with all the moldings glued to walls on projects like hospitals, commercial bathrooms. and even shower stalls. just noting this for others that might want to do this but are looking for a more conventional material you can get from hd

[JCurry]

mountaindew Yup thats the stuff that I used to line the inside of my stand, Its a bugger to work with. I checked out you gallery, really nice looking planted cube! Thanks.

[Avast Marine]

Yeah, I hear you on fiberglass panels. That stuff is a PIA to work with. PVC or HDPE is better suited to this application. I used a adhesive similar to liquid nails to adhere it to the wall and a few roofing screws with EDPM gaskets. The real strength comes once it is all welded together, also even the best caulk has a limited lifetime where welds are forever. If you wanted to do something similar with PVC and didn't have access to a hot air welder you could just cut thin strips of PVC to join the panels and "weld" them together with PVC cement.

[Avast Marine]

Well, I got most of the sheet welded together today. Grinding down and polishing the welds is slowing me down.....I'd rather do this than drywall any day of the week though....:p

I am ready to start my light rack now, only one problem though. I ordered everything through Pacific Garden Supply. First shipment 3ea L3 reflectors, one mogul and power cord, ac kits. Second shipment, 3 pieces of glass. Hopefully the third shipment will be ballast and the rest of the moguls and power cords, who knows when that will show up.....stoners :p


My Icecap stuff got delayed while the LFS was setting up an account to become a Icecap dealer. I suppose it's worth the wait to support the local guy. Sucks though when your ready to work and the parts are not here yet. I did however finally get my DJ centers from Guitar Center. Apparently their policy is to pack the boxes and then let them sit in a warehouse for two weeks before shipping (true story, I called) that will teach you to go for the free shipping option instead of shelling out for "expedited shipping" LOL This is what we have to look forward to if the reef hobby ever becomes as mainstream as playing the guitar.....

[Avast Marine]

Today I got most of the light rack put up. I will try and take some pictures this evening.

[Avast Marine]

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1406/1293968925_fd9f4dbe77.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1007/1294834890_b53db5c118.jpg

[normanfine]

nice pics

[gig]

truly mesmerising

[Avast Marine]

Thanks guys :)

I am trying to finish up the last few pieces of PVC welds today and build and hang the racks for the VHO and T-5 retros. Tommarow I hope to get some time to work on the power center.....

[raulalonso]

Wow, what a great job in this program, good to have the photos to keep track of it.
And my wife does not allow me to drill the wall for another socket!! How do you do that? Do you have mind powers? lol

[Avast Marine]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10687166#post10687166 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by raulalonso
Wow, what a great job in this program, good to have the photos to keep track of it.
And my wife does not allow me to drill the wall for another socket!! How do you do that? Do you have mind powers? lol

LOL, it's her fault! She wanted the cowfish :) Oh yeah, I support her hobbies too, that helps ;)

[Avast Marine]

OK, here is the deal with the light rack:

3ea luminarcs centered on 3' intervals flanked on both sides by VHO and T-5's running perpendicular to the face of the tank:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1306080880/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1277/1306080880_3d58ebc7a5.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0444" /></a>

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1306081478/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1158/1306081478_dcb64411d1.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0445" /></a>

Now when I need to work on the tank:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1306082696/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1352/1306082696_689e90a2c1_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0446" /></a>

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1306081984/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1108/1306081984_5065fb2793.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0447" /></a>

Thats about 5' of open spread. I'm pretty happy with the way it turned out.

[erics3000]

NICE Job!

[Avast Marine]

My DJ panels are going to act as over ride switches for my Neptune controller. 3 sets of DJ8's are placed between the DC*'s and the plugs that the equipment will go to. I got a ton of PM's last time I built one of these, so I took more detailed pics and instuctions this time around.
Here is how they are wired:

Remove cover:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1308939844/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1190/1308939844_b1db6f967f.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0450" /></a>

Remove top sets of jumper wires and set aside:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1308942960/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1184/1308942960_5196a1bcb0.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0451" /></a>

Remove bottom wires and discard, remove power cord and save for another project:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1308071567/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1391/1308071567_3f36750ec3.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0452" /></a>


Drill holes in back of panel and insert extension cords:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1308945306/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1090/1308945306_8c8a1989a0.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0454" /></a>

Common ground connected:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1308947728/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1221/1308947728_b8d07058ba.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0455" /></a>

Power cords have new connectors installed and go on bottom part of switch. Jumpers are reinstalled on top part of switch:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1308938552/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1244/1308938552_d0405de74b.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0457" /></a>

Close it back up and mount:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1308937714/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1418/1308937714_9116c4631a_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0458" /></a>

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1308052131/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1224/1308052131_f4be07e99b_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0459" /></a>

Many more wires to go :D

[akbuuur]

whoa... how many watts are those MH's? and when do you think this is going to be running?

[Avast Marine]

MH are 400w ea. Tank will be running about 3 days after I get it :)

[Avast Marine]

Face for power center is complete:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1316455248/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1281/1316455248_d0d760a922.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0467" /></a>

[JCurry]

Very impressive, Dan

[LNell]

Okay, where did you get those new connectors that you put on the power cords coming in that connect to the bottom part of the switch? Also, what are those plastic parts that go on the power cords that seem to be holding the power cords in place in the holes you drilled in the back? Sorry if I'm not very clear, I'm pretty drained mentally right now (damn lab reports! :) ).

[Avast Marine]

Thanks John.

LNell, the pinch connectors I got at Lowes. The white plastic parts are cord grips, I got them at Mcmaster.

[LNell]

Thanks

[normanfine]

wow that is a nice setup going

[normanfine]

wow that is a nice setup going

[Avast Marine]

I can see it now: "Hun, can you reach back there and unplug the skimmer pump?"

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1325075776/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1270/1325075776_ba8f1f484e.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0486" /></a>

:lol: That will teach her to unplug my top off pump because it's making noise ;)

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1324181083/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1395/1324181083_e4e5558cfa.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0484" /></a>

I picked up my sump today:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1324124491/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1220/1324124491_5afff2066f_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0469" /></a>

It fits:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1324180709/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1132/1324180709_7e8f4b4ac5.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0481" /></a>

[erics3000]

I feel like I should start calling you Sinsee. It is really Coming along sweet...

[Bax]

This is an amazing build.

Where do the D cell batteries go in that thing!?!

[Avast Marine]

Thanks guys! I got quite a bit done this last week. Starting to get anxious for the tank......

[danskim]

Cool sump. What's it made of?

[Avast Marine]

It's fiberglass. It looks thick since it has a 2" foam core for insulation.

[mfaustria]

Just tagging along your thread, man everything is comming along nice. But can't wait to see how everything turns out, and for the tank to arrive. Please take lots of picture of the tank when everything is set up in place.

[Paikuhan]

WOW that control panel is huge, very nicely done.

[Antiguan]

Dan,

This thread is very informative and a great help to an overwhelmed (with different equipments and options) newby like me. Great planning and experience is a hell of a combination and you are blessed with both.

Trevor

[scarletknight06]

awesome build. I have one question though (sorry if it was already asked):

How are you going to deal with the temps (heat and cold) in NoVA if your sump is in a shed like that? seems like there's not enough insulation (even though the sump is insulated) and the chiller will be working overtime in the summer, and the heaters in the winter. If you have a solution to this, please let me know, b/c as a fellow NoVA resident, I'd like to do the same thing one day (insta fishroom w/o an addition to the house!).

[Avast Marine]

mfausttria, paikuhan, Trevor, thanks!

scarletknight, don't know unless you try it right? Most temperature control will be done in the sump. Chiller will be a closed loop in the sump and a large yet to be selected heater or two or ten will be there as well. 600 gallons of the total 800 gallons will be inside so that only leaves 25% exposed to the temp extremes. If one extreme or another (hot/cold) is hit, then the ACIII will simply cut the return pump until the 200 gallons outside has a chance to catch up. There will be more than enough flow intank so even if it is 30 minutes of every hour during the most extreme few temp days we have around here I think it will be fine. Only one way to find out.....

[scarletknight06]

keep us updated. I hope it works for you!

[pardalis]

Looking great!!!!

[Avast Marine]

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1342108705/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1207/1342108705_546a427281_o.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="w dan lic fin" /></a>

Maybe late next week this picture will be taken in my living room :)

[20 20]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10713724#post10713724 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by dandy7200
If one extreme or another (hot/cold) is hit, then the ACIII will simply cut the return pump until the 200 gallons outside has a chance to catch up. There will be more than enough flow intank so even if it is 30 minutes of every hour during the most extreme few temp days we have around here I think it will be fine. Only one way to find out.....

Living in southern PA, here, and have been considering doing the same thing, putting a chiller outside. If you cut the return pump on a 10 degree day in January, aren't you concerned that the pipes to and from the outside unit will freeze? Or even if the power goes out for a few hours. That's my biggest concern.

[TandN]

Im in Staten Island I have my chiller outside. Its on a Medusa controller. The return pump runs through it so that theres water running through it at all times. I also have a back up pump on hand JIC the return dies for some reason it can be swapped out. The heat this summer did nothing to the water and last winter the cold made no diffrence. My chiller I built a room around it. The room is just a lil bigger then the chiller. Instead of plywood my husband used concrete boards. Then he used styrofoam on the outside of it. He also has a grate on one side for heat to leave it.

[Avast Marine]

Good point 20 20. What I am looking to do, is use a actuated valve to shut off flow on the outlet of the pump right after the chiller tee. Just between the chiller tee and the actuated valve I am going to run a 1/2" tee that will bypass the valve and return to the tank. This should let just enough flow through the system to keep the heating/chilling components working hard without to much cycling and prevent freeze up and not actually shut down the main pump. I figure if I tie this valve to my feed timer on my controller as well, it will be tested at least once a day.

[20 20]

Ah, that's a good idea. How about during a power outage?

[Avast Marine]

Power outage, same command line with the valve should let the sump water reheat or cool. Long term, I have a gas generator that I can run to keep the tank going, short term power outages, the tank will be sustained by a vortech w/ battery backup.

[surg_xero]

Dan,

Do I understand your sump correctly.... It's composed of insulating foam with a fiberglass shell. Did you fabricate it yourself?

[akbuuur]

hey dan,
are you going to get brand new live stock or are you going to transfer alot of stuff over from your 54 and your other (75 i think it was?)

[Avast Marine]

Yep, the livestock will all transfer with the exception of the soft corals and rock from the 75. I might add one or two new things as well ;)

I only plan to put about 250# of rock in the tank, I want it really open. 50# of that will come from my 54 so I need to pick up about 200# or so to cycle the tank with. I do have about 100# of rubble rock that I have collected over the last few months and that will be used to fill in any gaps.

[Antiguan]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10687474#post10687474 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by dandy7200
OK, here is the deal with the light rack:

3ea luminarcs centered on 3' intervals flanked on both sides by VHO and T-5's running perpendicular to the face of the tank:



Dan,
Where did you get the light racks and connections for the lighting? Thanks for sharing the information!

Trevor

[Avast Marine]

Trevor, the light racks are sliding door tracks. I got them from mcmaster.com I can look up the part# for you later.

[mfaustria]

Hey dandy7200 I am really getting anxious about seeing your tank set up in the living room.

[akbuuur]

So your going to be keeping the 75 and the 360? i woulda thought you would keep the 54 instead of the 75- that set up is just to nice!

[ctenophore]

Nice, that sump fits perfectly! Did you put it on top of an extra sheet of foam? You might consider dropping in two other sheets on the back and left, as well as a sheet for the top on cold winter nights.

To answer questions about the sump: I had it made by the fiberglass guy who built much of my aquaculture equipment in Florida. I like using fiberglass because it's very durable, lightweight, and fairly cheap. The foam core is R-13, so it should help quite a bit in the winter. A few extra layers might bump that up to R20 or 30.

[Avast Marine]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10717320#post10717320 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by tanya72806
Im in Staten Island I have my chiller outside. Its on a Medusa controller. The return pump runs through it so that theres water running through it at all times. I also have a back up pump on hand JIC the return dies for some reason it can be swapped out. The heat this summer did nothing to the water and last winter the cold made no diffrence. My chiller I built a room around it. The room is just a lil bigger then the chiller. Instead of plywood my husband used concrete boards. Then he used styrofoam on the outside of it. He also has a grate on one side for heat to leave it.

I missed this one, sorry. That is positive to hear, your enclosure sounds neat! Do you by chance have a picture of that you could post for me?

[Avast Marine]

mfaustria, me too!

Akbuuur, no the 75 will be gone. The 54 will be my new refugium for this setup. That or an anemone tank, either way it will be plumbed into this new system.

Justin, like a glove! I was planning on lining the walls with foam board after I get the plumbing roughed in, it never occurred to me to put a few layers under the sump but, that is an obvious heat saving solution, thanks.

[hawaiianwargod]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10694723#post10694723 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by dandy7200
Face for power center is complete:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1316455248/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1281/1316455248_d0d760a922.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0467" /></a>

I love your creativity and well thought planning! Very impressive dandy7200!

[Avast Marine]

Thanks wargod :)

Just got the call, tank will be here Thursday at 1pm.......

[hawaiianwargod]

Can't wait to see it....take lots of pics please...lol!

[acronautical]

Just found your thread...Fantastic Joculator pair!

[acronautical]

Just found your thread...Fantastic Joculator pair!

[Antiguan]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10728473#post10728473 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by dandy7200
Trevor, the light racks are sliding door tracks. I got them from mcmaster.com I can look up the part# for you later.

Thanks Dan.

[Avast Marine]

Trevor, mcmaster.com half way down page 2825 the 150# Bypassing Roller Track Sets for Doors HTH

[erics3000]

Dan is that 2 exhaust fans above your tank? Or on fan and a ac vent?

[Avast Marine]

2ea 100cfm exhaust, an intake for the central AC unit AND a 175cfm inline fan to pull heat from the lights :)

[erics3000]

Do you mean an ac return? Are you afraid of that moist saltwater air getting to your ac?

[Avast Marine]

Not really. The salt wont evaporate and the water that does will be taken care of by the condenser from the AC itself.

[Avast Marine]

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1026/1374875942_c7a6ed73eb.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1280/1374876266_caf7f52d09.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1291/1373970515_0cabc81f4d.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1037/1373970871_a799307e78.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1028/1374877364_e0c01395fa.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1182/1373971705_7dcce2ada1.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1254/1374878864_b3770c01f4.jpg

[Avast Marine]

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1026/1374875942_c7a6ed73eb.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1280/1374876266_caf7f52d09.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1291/1373970515_0cabc81f4d.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1037/1373970871_a799307e78.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1028/1374877364_e0c01395fa.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1182/1373971705_7dcce2ada1.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1254/1374878864_b3770c01f4.jpg

[Avast Marine]

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1434/1373974353_42377510ef.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1178/1374882150_ebd4e820d8.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1399/1373978091_9a5c4ee401.jpg

[erics3000]

Yeah baby that thig is sweet. Ilove how it open on the top. Nothing to block your lights. Sweet..Can we get some more pics..

[Bax]

Congratulations!

Can't wait until you fill it!!!

[Avast Marine]

More pics to come, I thought I posted this one though:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1066/1373979623_756f5b7154.jpg

Not sure how I am supposed to get any work done with that staring at me :D

[erics3000]

Sweet

[ReefingBuddha]

doesn't get better then that... christmas in september... congrats!

[Antiguan]

Nice and large tank. It's cool to watch this all progress.

[davelin315]

Hey Dan, how are you going to get it into the closet?:D

Post up when you need help and I'll see if I can get out there to help move it in for you. I still need to pick that tank up from you for school and pay you for it, too!

By the way, I didn't read through the whole thing, but what made you decide to go with the 10,000K XMs this time around?

[Avast Marine]

Hey Dave! Notice the last pic I posted, the stand is actually on blocks and there is a sheet of 1/8" pvc on the floor. I have a pallet jack :) Should be a two man job from here.

XM 10k is like the frigging sun baby! More so even when you run on m59 ballast. I like the look and wanted really high par bulbs so I could get the full 3' spread with the LIII's and only run 3ea halides. I have always run these bulbs just FYI.

Let me know on the school tank. Ready when you are, just the next two weeks I am swamped. I want water in this thing by 10-1.... :)

[mfaustria]

Hey dan take lots of pic. when you get in the closet, another thing, are you going to put a door on the closet to close it if you have to? Wish I had the room to have a tank like yours.

[khoivo1]

hi can i ask how much did u pay for your tank alone?thank

[khoivo1]

hi can i ask how much did u pay for your tank alone?thank

[jopo43]

looks great

[Avast Marine]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10779976#post10779976 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by khoivo1
hi can i ask how much did u pay for your tank alone?thank

More than my car, less than hers.

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1406061918/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1146/1406061918_62841fd517.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0081" /></a>

Priorities my friend :beer:

Picked up 200# of Tonga Kaelini. Lucky, I showed up at the wholesalers the day they got 20 boxes in. They let me open as many as I wanted to cherry pick:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1406048360/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1150/1406048360_ed5052d4f9.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0057" /></a>

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1406048776/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1091/1406048776_aee2bc8c27.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0061" /></a>

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1406049180/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1311/1406049180_ef38a17b58.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0070" /></a>

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1405161663/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1407/1405161663_52073bda2d.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0071" /></a>

The foam is to scale of the tank. Last pic is what I am going to try as the first version of aquascaping.

[Avast Marine]

Here is what a 4" Hayward sch80 bulkhead looks like:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1405164003/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1217/1405164003_c78667b4e4.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0077" /></a>

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1406049944/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1391/1406049944_0dac1014a8.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0090" /></a>

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1406053388/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1245/1406053388_9065048534.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0097" /></a>

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1406050372/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1351/1406050372_5637103ad1.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0094" /></a>

[Avast Marine]

Wiring the icecaps:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1406059938/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1421/1406059938_0c456e3cc1.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0050" /></a>

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1406058486/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1191/1406058486_30e8d2a538.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0055" /></a>

Wires all cleaned up (mostly) and tank in place and level:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1406055300/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1426/1406055300_df22ee9f45.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0099" /></a>

First drop:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1405168923/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1078/1405168923_dc4cc20855.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0100" /></a>

[Avast Marine]

Lots going on. You know you have problems when you start upgrading before water hits the tank LOL. I didn't really feel that the 114w UV was going to be enough so I ordered a 240w Gamma :D This should give me fantastic kill rates and let me run 4000gph through it, I like clear water ;)

I ordered a 105gallon storage tank for mixing saltwater. Should have just a tiny bit of room to slip it in the shed next to the sump.

I also ordered 8ea 250w Jager heaters and a Vortech with 2ea battery backups. Got the acrylic rough cut for my fluidized reactors and got my 12" tube and pumps for my skimmer. The plan is now to get all the gear in and then build a equipment sump under the tank around it all, then plumb it.

I will be moving the live rock that is currently in a tub into the display tank hopefully tomorrow (if I have enough water made). I will also break down my frag tank that is hooked to my 54 and transfer all of the substrate from that into the display to help seed it. No fish in that tank so it is bursting with critters ;)

[erics3000]

Where did you get that live rock? How much per pound? Looks good iI wont ask how much the 4 in connection cost you..Ouch.

[Avast Marine]

Almost forgot... 4ea dursos and 4ea of the oceans motions omniflex nozzles:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1405279671/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1248/1405279671_0f71ea23a3.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0084" /></a>

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1406168200/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1330/1406168200_3c48139f08.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0086" /></a>

[Avast Marine]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10796751#post10796751 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by erics3000
Where did you get that live rock? How much per pound? Looks good iI wont ask how much the 4 in connection cost you..Ouch.

There is a large wholesaler about 15 minutes form my house that sells to the public as well. Cost 4 and change a #. I was going to just go with the Marco rock and just stopped in to "take a look"....we all know how that goes LOL

[erics3000]

Wow thats a good price. Its looking good..

[crazy_reefing]

following along

[Bax]

That is some great progress.

I just love the truly "remote" fish room/house/shed idea.

Living in northern NJ, i'd be shy about weather issues, but if you can pull this off as it looks like you will ... hmmmmm?

[pcostanzo]

Thats an awesome deal on the rock. Man, when I was putting in my 2" bulkheads I thought those were big.

[Julio]

i love the switch board!!!

[reeffish964]

Very nice!!!

[Avast Marine]

left side:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1413637237/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1375/1413637237_a69074583e_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0120" /></a>

center:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1414518386/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1325/1414518386_1e44f273d6_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0121" /></a>

right side:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1413638029/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1188/1413638029_04e51fe5b6_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0122" /></a>

full:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1414519188/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1425/1414519188_b203a2c9f5_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0123" /></a>

Working non stop for 5 days now:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1414517538/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1433/1414517538_1d2eac7065_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0118" /></a>

Couple hundred feet of flex:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1414519972/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1259/1414519972_b3c92f583d.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0124" /></a>

Couple hundred watts of UV

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1413641085/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1077/1413641085_538699197a.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0125" /></a>

[Avast Marine]

I think I am getting pretty good light from just 4ea 24" T-5 bulbs huh?

[scarletknight06]

awesome progress. personally I think it's hillarious that you "drilled and bulkheaded" your house. I bet you're glad your house isn't tempered. Lame joke i know..........

Anyways, this is going to be great. Looking forward to seeing more progress.

[Stile2]

Dan,
I noticed that you are running the pressure assist pump on your RODI. How do you like that? I have been considering one for mine.

Thanks
Keith

[Bax]

That's a bunch of UV!

That should keep water clear and fish healthy!

[Avast Marine]

scarletknight06, I get a kick out of that too. Wife is less amused....

Keith, I have low water pressure here. 30psi, I managed for long enough.....It took ten minutes to install and shot my pressure up to 80psi. My RO production went from a drip to a stream. I would say if your pressure is less than 40psi it is a solid investment. I got the kit from AWI.

Bax, that's the plan. The unit actually inspired me to build a heating unit with a similar design....more details to come on that one......skimmer first!

[erics3000]

Wow Dan looking good...........

[Avast Marine]

To gravity feed equipment or not to. Anyone have strong feelings about this? Kinda the next plumbing decision I will have to make......

[kozmo02]

A lot of people have good results with gravity feeding but you have to take the time to do it right so you can make sure your levels are consistent, especially if you gravity feed your skimmer. I would do some research here on RC to find out as much as you can on the subject.

[Stile2]

My gravity fed skimmer is very difficult to get consistent. I have to adjust the thing all the freaking time!!!!!

When I get to my fishroom nothing will the gravity fed.

JMHO
Keith

[Antiguan]

[QUOTE]<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10796693#post10796693 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by dandy7200
[B]More than my car, less than hers.

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1406061918/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1146/1406061918_62841fd517.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0081" /></a>

Priorities my friend :beer:

Funny but true. Congratulations to you and the wife.:beer: The baby will definitely be on top the priority list and change your lives in a very positive way. Wow you could SCUBA in that tank.

[Leishman]

Nice work Dan. I need to get out there to see this bad boy in person

[yoboyjdizz]

Alright got some water in that bad boy!

[Avast Marine]

I'm still 50-50 on gravity feed. I think that will be a last minute decision.

Trevor, thanks!

Rik, anytime.

yoboy, getting there :)

[Avast Marine]

Here is how I plumbed my returns:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1424032891/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1261/1424032891_907d46e31c.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0492" /></a>

Output of 1ea of the halides:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1424915150/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1436/1424915150_2f556a0572_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0495" /></a>

with the t-5's:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1424033433/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1160/1424033433_e23d2074dc_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0497" /></a>

Still dealing with the light dilemma. Have yet to get my VHO actinics and still missing 2ea mogul sockets from PGS. Was hoping to get the bulbs burnt in, including my backup halides before I transfer livestock.

Ammonia has spiked.

[Avast Marine]

Here is my temp. skimming solution :D

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1137/1426461720_15a52d5d4a.jpg

[Avast Marine]

Heater project is dry fit, waiting for some big 'ol cord grips, don't know if I mentioned it but, I decided to go with 8ea Eheim Jager 250w heaters:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1438134933/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1343/1438134933_e65a4aef83_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0542" /></a>

Started lining the inside of the "sump shed" with 1" styrene boards, so far I have 6ea 4x8 sheets in there and decided to stop and put the sump back in, here is where I got stuck and decided to take a pic:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1438133575/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1065/1438133575_b41e77ff24.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="DSCN0519" /></a>

Got my 105 gallon SW mixing bucket:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1438134275/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1029/1438134275_addabcee8e_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0537" /></a>

Tight fit, but fit nonetheless:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1438992388/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1070/1438992388_eddddd25b2_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0538" /></a>

[mfaustria]

Love the update Dandy, everytime you update your thread is always amazing to see whatever you add to your tank or other new equipment.

[JCurry]

Dan,
where did you get the salt mixing tank from?

[Avast Marine]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10840566#post10840566 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by JCurry
Dan,
where did you get the salt mixing tank from?

tank-depot.com

[Antiguan]

[QUOTE]<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10839587#post10839587 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by dandy7200
[B]Heater project is dry fit, waiting for some big 'ol cord grips, don't know if I mentioned it but, I decided to go with 8ea Eheim Jager 250w heaters:

Great progress Dan. I do not know how the PVC fittings work with the heater, so this should be very interesting to follow.

I have a question regarding your lights. Did you consider the LII AC kit for the MH, and are there any advantages, in your opinion, to not using the kit?

Thanks.

[Avast Marine]

I don't have any doubts to the pvc working with the heaters. Why do you think it is a problem?

The AC kits are installed on the LIII's just not hooked up yet since I still need to put moguls on them. You can see the inline fan that will draw the air from the lights in the3 upper right corner of the last FTS I put up.

[Avast Marine]

Sorry Trevor, I just reread you post and it make sense. Once I show a picture of the cord grips you will understand how they tie into the piping. They are the EXACT ones used on the UV unit I have that hold the quarts sleeve in place. Next tank I guess that means I will be building my own UV......

[Bax]

So ... you're going to set and seal all the heaters in the PVC and push the water through to heat it?

Will the entire unit sit in the sump too?

Very cool (uh warm) idea!

[Avast Marine]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10843727#post10843727 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Bax
So ... you're going to set and seal all the heaters in the PVC and push the water through to heat it?

Will the entire unit sit in the sump too?

Very cool (uh warm) idea!

The whole thing will be run externally. Putting heaters in the sump kinda defeats the project :eek:

Here is a 1" NPT to 1" liquid tight cord grip. The tightening nut has been installed on the heater:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1441101204/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1177/1441101204_efa11246c5_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0574" /></a>

How it attaches:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1441101564/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1025/1441101564_b62661e378_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0575" /></a>

These heaters are absolutely perfect for this application, fit couldn't be better and the temp control stays dry.

2" x 1" FPT hex bushings sliped into the top of the tee (dry fit):

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1441100902/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1149/1441100902_152dea3d2b_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0571" /></a>

Glued and painted what I thought was the appropriate color:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1441101908/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1401/1441101908_741e215025_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0577" /></a>

[Avast Marine]

The 2" unions are a bit overkill. I am going to get a few more bushings and reduce to 1" since thats the size of line I will be running on my temperature control/equipment loop. I plan to push about 1500gph though this unit.

[erics3000]

Overkill whats that..hahahah I love the red...Looking great as expected/....

[erics3000]

Oh yeah..Love your dog

[Avast Marine]

me? overkill? Dog might kill if you touch her mixing tank though, she marked it as hers so I thought I would get her pic with it, half border collie half am-staff she tends to be a little protective.....

[Stile2]

So the theory behind the heaters is that the first heater in line will do the bulk of the heating, second one less, and so on? Or do the heaters have external temp control?

Do you expect that the first heater will burn out first?

[kawicivic]

I think the flow he has will keep all the heaters working because water will not be in contact with each heater very long.

[Avast Marine]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10847124#post10847124 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by kawicivic
I think the flow he has will keep all the heaters working because water will not be in contact with each heater very long.

That is the idea. Control will be by my ACIII turning on 4 at a time. My highest priority is heating water FAST in a emergency situation. Also since my SW reservoir is outside I need to heat a 105 gallon WC through the system rather than spend the energy to keep it hot 24/7. Again the hayward actuated valve will close the returns and let water circulate through the filtration equipment and the sump while temperature adjustments are made by heater unit and chiller and then open the valve through the UV to the display when temperature is in range.

So basically I have 2 main lines on my return. Heater/chiller/filtration loop and then UV/returns. Hopefully it will all make sense when I start the plumbing. Since the wife is 7 months pregnant I have to have all the plumbing roughed in and then she needs to leave for a day while I glue. Due to this, the plumbing planning process is far longer than the assembly. No time to run to the hardware store for just one more union....

[new_world_disor]

oof. the tank is a bit of a beast. makes my little 30g look like a .... 1/4 of a sump. haha

nice work. looking gd x

[Avast Marine]

Thanks NWD!


Got the rest of the heaters today, install, label, clean up the wires, done.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1269/1446317106_a0b13ac599.jpg

Tank is quitely cycling away. Starting to see a little diatoms on the rock and the skimmer is hackin out some nasty goo. I'll get the snails and hermits in there early next week.

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1445456565/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1218/1445456565_3ebe60376c_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0591" /></a>

Got my V-diddy toys today:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1446317630/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1071/1446317630_dd1654c54a_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0589" /></a>

Running well so far :)

Sooooo....they don't make filter socks like I want. I sense an arts and crafts project coming soon.....for the wife :p

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1446317394/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1087/1446317394_13e06a1f6f_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0586" /></a>

3 yards of 100 micron polypropylene filter felt.

[Bax]

The heater unit came out nice.

I can see how you would need so many heaters in line like that when bringing a large water change to temp in the dead of winter in WV.

Great idea! Hope it works well for you.

[Avast Marine]

Just ordered inverts for Tuesday:

40 nerite
75 astrea
200 nassarius
75 blue leg hermits
100 ceriths
6 conch
60 reef hermits
4 emeralds
6 peppermints

[Avast Marine]

Started making my indoor chiller an outdoor one. First took off the front panel and clipped the wires:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1455732313/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1075/1455732313_9e625e474d_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0592" /></a>

Made a 30' jumper cable (still needs to get wrapped):

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1456599192/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1424/1456599192_3343758c13_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0593" /></a>

Closed it up and covered the hole where the control panel was with some scrap PVC sheet and marine goop:

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/58279226@N00/1455732971/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1014/1455732971_3b2d01fa65_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN0594" /></a>

I am going to mount the display to the front of the power center along with the tunze multicontroller and the vortech display thinggy's.

[surg_xero]

Dan,

Do you have any plans to keep clams?

Steve

[Avast Marine]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10875618#post10875618 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by surg_xero
Dan,

Do you have any plans to keep clams?

Steve

No clams, I like my angels and they like my clams.

I am getting ready to transfer livestock. I don't have any filtration equipment built yet but, I do have a 105 gallon waterchange system built so that will do. We hit the under 100 days till baby is due marker and I need to get on with the transfer. So ready or not........well it is ready, tank is cycled and the cowfish will go in first. Then the dismantling and fish catching fun..... Hope to get the electric and core plumbing done in the next 2 days.

[ctenophore]

Not too many people who can say they are transferring in all their fish and coral before they have installed, or even built, their filter equipment :)

Let me know if you need a hand with anything, I can make a day trip over your way to help you do some of those things that tend to need 4 hands and eyes.

[Avast Marine]

True. This is the time I was dreading most though, having three tanks up at the same time. Nothing will give me more motivation to get the system complete than having all my cookies in one jar though. I think I might buy some sulfur media and run it in my little calcium reactor to help the initial giant bioload that will be hitting this little tank.

Cowfish is in a 5 gallon bucket acclimating as we speak :)

[jamesbuf]

That fish is gonna be loving life after having been in the 54 for so long.

[Avast Marine]

Totally. When I got him, he was the size of a quarter. Barely had nubs for horns. Now he pretty much fills 1/2 of the 5 gallon bucket, this new tank was really the only humane thing to do :D

[jamesbuf]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10876805#post10876805 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by dandy7200
True. This is the time I was dreading most though, having three tanks up at the same time. Nothing will give me more motivation to get the system complete than having all my cookies in one jar though. I think I might buy some sulfur media and run it in my little calcium reactor to help the initial giant bioload that will be hitting this little tank.

Cowfish is in a 5 gallon bucket acclimating as we speak :)

Good idea. Make sure to work out any kinks in your Denitrator before I buy one from you. :D

[akbuuur]

When do you think its all going to be complete Dan?

[Avast Marine]

A reef tank is never complete :D

[gig]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10880811#post10880811 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by dandy7200
A reef tank is never complete :D
that's what I keep telling my wife! she keeps asking when I will be done so i can clean up my fishroom! :D

[akbuuur]

lol- you know my mom asks the same thing gig

[MyFishHaveTat2s]

Where did you source these 1" NPT to 1" liquid tight cord grip fittings at. I'm going to "steal" your idea, but going to put some ball valves in the middle and fittings on both ends so I can use half of it to heat my fresh salt water prior to water changes when needed. Will the heat from the heater not hurt the seals over time? Awesome job on the whole build. Thanks!
Dean

[surg_xero]

I remeber the amazing growth you achieved in just 10 months in your 54g. I can't wait to see what you acomplish this time. Good luck! and congratulations on reaching the 100 day mark. This should be one of the more execiting periods of your life!

Steve

[dschflier]

Hey Dan,


I am enjoying watching the progress. This is as much fun as working on my tank. What is the sulfur used for?

[jamesbuf]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10893706#post10893706 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by dschflier
Hey Dan,


I am enjoying watching the progress. This is as much fun as working on my tank. What is the sulfur used for?

The sulfur is used as media in the Denitrator reactors. Promotes growth of bacteria that eats away the nitrates.

Man, I'm really starting to like having internet at work now. I can keep up with Dan's progress 24/7 now. If he would only post more pics, although I doubt much has changed since I was there Monday night. The pics he posts actaully don't do it justice. My next tank will definitely be Starphire.

[WallyBackm]

Dan, along for the ride. Can't wait to see it in person.

[LB4Life]

Beautiful!

[FunkieReefJunkie]

I'm thouroughly enjoying this build dandy7200. The heater set-up is genius. It would certainly clean up my 4-5 heater octupus in my sump. Your cow baby brings back good memories. That was my first marine fish as a teen and he would spit water at me. Little bugger. :)