180G in-wall Display/350G system

[13threefmaniac]

Well, after much researching, reading, planning and observing, i have finally decided to take the plunge and start work on my very own 180G in-wall display. The idea is for it to be a mixed reef with schools/shoals of small fish swimming in and out of the rock work. The display tank will be connected to a 100G sump, a 30G refugium and hopefully a 30G frag/acclimatization tank. There will also be a 20G QT tank, that for obvious reasons will not be connected to the main system. As far as equipment is concerned, I'm trying to keep things as cheap(initial price and running costs) and simple as possible while not skimping on quality. Hopefully this ensures i won't have to buy the same items more than once.


Equipment List:

CHILLER
Mitshubishi Starmex 1 hp Titanium Coil Chiller.

LIGHTING
10 X bulb, 39W ATI Powermodule or 12 X bulb, Sfiligoi Stealth

SKIMMER
Clueless??

RETURNS
I plan to split my return to two and have them directed to the front of the tank. Should i go for an Eheim 1262? or the cheaper Ocean Runner? Or would it be better to get a Red Dragon? I need advice in this area since i only have experience with Eheim pumps. The best case scenario would be to have just one pump.

FLOW
1 X Tunze Wavebox and 2 X Vortech (might switch to the new Streams once i've had a chance to see them in action)

CALCIUM REACTOR
No clue yet as i've always maintained CA/ALK via the 2 part dosing method. Any advice would be very much welcome.

CONTROLLER
RKE or Profilux

As you can see, my list is nowhere near complete. I am still undecided on a lot of things and i hope to get this sorted out by the time the tank is done.

[13threefmaniac]

The dimensions of the tank are 48" X 36" X 24". I like the extra width because it allows for more open and 'creative' rock placement. The tanks viewing panel will be made from 3/8" Starphire (low Iron) glass. All other panels will be normal 3/8" glass. I have also decided on an external overflow as this will free up more space within the display. The overflow will be situated at the right side of the tank and will be 28" X 4" X 12". My experience with external overflows are limited at best so if there are any flaws with my design, please feel free to point it out.

[13threefmaniac]

Well, thanks to mcliffy, i'm finally done with my first attempts at 'drawing' my tank in SketchUp. Here are the results. I forgot to mention in the earlier post but the tank will be braced on all four sides as shown in the picture. (i believe the correct term is Eurobracing...no??)

http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee275/13thstreetmaniac/180%20Build/TNK1ai-1.jpg

[13threefmaniac]

http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee275/13thstreetmaniac/180%20Build/TNK1a-1.jpg

[13threefmaniac]

http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee275/13thstreetmaniac/180%20Build/Layout1.jpg

The tank will be viewable from the dining area. The glass door on the left leads to the kitchen and washing area. The floor in the kitchen and fish room are tiled whereas the dining room's floor is black polished granite. The area where the tank is situated(in the SketchUp rendering) is now a solid 6" wall and i have been on the lookout for a good contractor to make the required hole in the wall. The idea is for the tank to be "framed" in stone which sticks out approximately 2 " from the main wall. The only aspect of the room that i have yet to figure out is what colour to paint the walls.

http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee275/13thstreetmaniac/180%20Build/Layout1a.jpg

Overview of the fish room (details have yet to be added)

http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee275/13thstreetmaniac/180%20Build/Layout1b.jpg

[jimmy n]

I'm planning a similar in wall for my basement, but with 2 viewable sides.

May I ask who you are using for your custom tank? Especially if you go glass, because I'm determined to avoid acryllic.

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13423790#post13423790 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jimmy n
I'm planning a similar in wall for my basement, but with 2 viewable sides.

May I ask who you are using for your custom tank? Especially if you go glass, because I'm determined to avoid acrylic.

Two sides as in back and front right? That means all your equipment would go under the tank? I am going glass, though i doubt my tank maker would be of any help to you since i'm located all the way over in sunny Malaysia. :lol:
Btw, got a build thread i can check out?

[13threefmaniac]

http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee275/13thstreetmaniac/180%20Build/Layout1e.jpg

http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee275/13thstreetmaniac/180%20Build/Layout1c.jpg

I managed to add in a 55G frag/acclimatization tank under the main display. Now all i have to figure out is how to draw a 100G Rubbermaid tub.
http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee275/13thstreetmaniac/180%20Build/Layout2a.jpg

Trim or no trim?
http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee275/13thstreetmaniac/180%20Build/Layout1d.jpg

http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee275/13thstreetmaniac/180%20Build/Trim1.jpg

[13threefmaniac]

My fish/invert list

Clean up crew (assorted snails and hermit crabs)
2 X - Cleaner Shrimp
2 X - Blood Shrimp
5 X - Ignitus or Lyretail Anthias
1 Pair - Royal Gramma or Black Cap Basslet
1 Pair - Potters Angel
1 Pair - Rhomboid or Flame Wrasse
15 X - Glass Cardinals
2 X - Psychedelic or Target Mandarin(once tank has matured)
Yasha Haze Goby/Candycane Pistol Combo

[13threefmaniac]

As expected, i have already run into a few problems in the planning stage. Since my wall is 6" thick, the idea was to place the front 6" of the tank in such a way that it sat on top of the ledge. This would mean that i have to shorten my overflow box so i changed its dimensions to 20" X 4" X 12". Would this be enough?I was also wondering whether there is any difference between having the overflow situated at the rear glass panel vs the side as per my SketchUp. Secondly, seeing as the front 6" will actually be sitting within the wall, this might leave a shaded area in the front of the tank. Can this be solved by simply tilting the light fixture? Or i could bring the tank back a little, giving it a recessed look (won't be flush with the wall from the front). Finally, i can't seem to decide to go with the black trim or not? My gf seems to like the trim but i feel its a bit too much. Might distract from the tank itself. Any opinions would be welcome.

[13threefmaniac]

One more question, i am toying with the idea of increasing the tanks height to 30". Bearing in mind that the tank is already 36" wide, will the added depth make maintenance a hassle? And with a 10 bulb ATI or Sfiligoi fixture, i still should be able to keep LPS on the sandbed right?

[13threefmaniac]

I'll start off by putting all my questions in one post.

1) I'm pretty much set on my tank dimensions (48" X 36" X 24") but i am still toying around with the idea of increasing the height a little. Would i be better off going with a tank that's either 26" tall or 30" tall? Keep in mind that my lighting will consist of T5's ONLY (Sfiligoi Stealth or ATI powermodule)

2)Would an external overflow (24" X 4" X 12") be sufficient or overkill. I have no experience with external overflows so any advice will be very much appreciated.

3)I am still undecided on my return pump. I'm torn between a Red Dragon, Dart Gold or Eheim 1262. Is it true that the Red Dragon only draws about 60watts?

4)Trim? Should i incorporate the black granite trim/lip or not?


On a more positive note, i did manage to find a reputable contractor who has done some beautiful work in other houses for a good price. He even likes the same beer i do...mmmmmmmmm.....Stella!! I also ordered my skimmer a couple of days ago. Was sold on the Reeflo Orca 200(pro package) after reading the super long thread on it. I should have the lighting sorted out by today so things are really starting to get moving over here.

Updated sketch
http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee275/13thstreetmaniac/180%20Build/Layout3.jpg

[waynem]

Have you got the tank yet?

[PaulieWalnuts]

nice 3D plan...can't wait to see it...following this!

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13564968#post13564968 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by waynem
Have you got the tank yet?

I have not received (or ordered) it yet. I did change the dimensions a little as i managed to make room (and fine the dough) for a slightly larger tank. The new one will be 60" x 36" x 26" ( tank dimensions were inspired by Mcliffy2 ). I just got back from India a couple of hours ago and will be hibernating for a couple of days before finally placing my order with the tank maker. I have a few revised plans that i will post a little later.

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13568307#post13568307 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by PaulieWalnuts
nice 3D plan...can't wait to see it...following this!

Thanks for breathing some life into the thread PaulieWalnuts. As i mentioned above, my plans have changed somewhat so there are new sketches in the works. Here's a little teaser

http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee275/13thstreetmaniac/180%20Build/Layout4b.jpg

Progress is a wee bit slower than i would like but i would rather take my time and get everything done properly than do it in a hurry and end up dissatisfied with the final result. I did manage to fire up my 36", 6 bulb ATI Powermodule and play around with some bulb combination's. I have also placed an order for a 48", 6 bulb unit. This is what i have decided on as far as lighting goes.

[PaulieWalnuts]

doubt it need life...it looks awesome! like the black around the tank!

[waynem]

When you do order the tank can you post the glass thickness and the price?

Which part of India were you in btw?

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13568545#post13568545 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by PaulieWalnuts
doubt it need life...it looks awesome! like the black around the tank!

It did need some life. I was not planning on any updates because of the lack of feedback. That has changed now since you've rekindled my 'updating' fire. :D ...and thanks for the compliment.

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13568598#post13568598 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by waynem
When you do order the tank can you post the glass thickness and the price?

Which part of India were you in btw?

I am planning on using half inch glass for the tank. Which part of the world are you at?

I was in Chennai/Madras for a couple of days, before following a relative to Tirupati Temple which is about 4 hours outside Chennai. After that i was in Mumbai/Bombay for 4 days before coming home.

[Ed Reef]

Looking great - love the revised layout of the tank position. This way you get a more 3 dimensional view :)

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13568912#post13568912 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Ed Reef
Looking great - love the revised layout of the tank position. This way you get a more 3 dimensional view :)

Thanks Ed, but i can't take any credit for it though. It's a rip off of one of my favorite RC tanks. I love your tank btw. Any sign of the Golden Angel yet?

[waynem]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13568868#post13568868 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by 13threefmaniac
I am planning on using half inch glass for the tank. Which part of the world are you at?


I am in Surat right now.

But I reside in KL.

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13568993#post13568993 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by waynem
I am in Surat right now.

But I reside in KL.

Oh cool. Where exactly? Do you have a build thread of your own that i can check out?

[Ed Reef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13568954#post13568954 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by 13threefmaniac
Thanks Ed, but i can't take any credit for it though. It's a rip off of one of my favorite RC tanks. I love your tank btw. Any sign of the Golden Angel yet?

No sign...I think my Golden Angel has gone MIA and presume RIP as it's been over a week now :(

[mcliffy2]

I don't know how I missed your build thread earlier, obviously I think the plan is awesome :) and the sketchup renderings look superb!

I have always wanted to visit Malaysia (I'll be nearby in Thailand next month), and I think it will be in the works in the next few years, just in time to see this tank fully grown out.

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13569036#post13569036 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Ed Reef
No sign...I think my Golden Angel has gone MIA and presume RIP as it's been over a week now :(

Aww man..that blows. Sorry for your loss (es) Ed.

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13569375#post13569375 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mcliffy2
I don't know how I missed your build thread earlier, obviously I think the plan is awesome :) and the sketchup renderings look superb!

I have always wanted to visit Malaysia (I'll be nearby in Thailand next month), and I think it will be in the works in the next few years, just in time to see this tank fully grown out.

Thanks for the kind words and the help with Sketchup, Mcliffy2. The whole setup is basically inspired by yours as you can see. How's the Reeflo Skimmer working for you btw?

Are you going to Thailand on holiday or for work related reasons? I might be there sometime next month too if things go according to plan. I hope my tank will be worthy of your viewing if and when you decide to come to Malaysia. ("worthy of your viewing"??hmmm...is that proper English??I seem to have left my brains in India!!)

[mcliffy2]

My girlfriend and I will be there on vacation. We're going to Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Racha Yai, and a few days diving out in the Similans, then finally a few days in Bangkok at the end. The Reeflo is kicking butt, I only wish I'd got the Pro Kit! I think the 200 with a Pro Kit might be better than a 250 without.

[waynem]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13570803#post13570803 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mcliffy2
My girlfriend and I will be there on vacation. We're going to Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Racha Yai, and a few days diving out in the Similans, then finally a few days in Bangkok at the end.

Dont think much of Phuket, Phi Phi is amazing. Dont forget to check out Soi Cowboy in Bangkok

Diving's better after Nov when the rain stops IMO

Wish my wife would dive :( I am sure if she was to I could spend lots more on my tank :lol:

[waynem]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13569035#post13569035 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by 13threefmaniac
Oh cool. Where exactly? Do you have a build thread of your own that i can check out?

Not far from IOI mall,

No thread yet still in planing stage of my new tank / upgrade.

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13570803#post13570803 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mcliffy2
My girlfriend and I will be there on vacation. We're going to Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Racha Yai, and a few days diving out in the Similans, then finally a few days in Bangkok at the end. The Reeflo is kicking butt, I only wish I'd got the Pro Kit! I think the 200 with a Pro Kit might be better than a 250 without.

Phi Phi is totally awesome. You're definitely in for a great time. Just hope the weather does not ruin it though. Global Warming has lead to some really unpredictable weather in these parts.

I'm looking to get a Reeflo for my tank but finding a dealer in these parts is proving to be a lot more difficult than i initially expected. The pro kit is basically a taller/larger collection cup and a dart gold pump right?

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13571109#post13571109 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by waynem
Not far from IOI mall,

No thread yet still in planing stage of my new tank / upgrade.

That is not too far from where i live. Where do you normally shop?Oceanic? And man, that's one monster tank you are planning on getting. Get in touch with Water Solutions to build your tank. They are a little more expensive than normal but their workmanship and quality is worth the extra cost from what i have heard.

[13threefmaniac]

Updated Equipment List:

CHILLER
Mitshubishi Starmex 1 hp Titanium Coil Chiller.

LIGHTING
6 x 39w ATI Powermodule and 4 x 54w ATI Powermodule
( I already have the 39w unit and plan to order the 54w unit in a couple of days. Should i do 4 x 54w or 6 x 54w? )

SKIMMER
Reeflo Orca 200 (Pro Kit)

RETURN
Eheim 1262

FLOW
1 x Tunze Wavebox
1 x Vortech

CONTROLLER
RKE or Profilux

CALCIUM REACTOR
No clue yet as i've always maintained CA/ALK via the 2 part dosing method. Any advice would be very much welcome.

SUBSTRATE
Something really white!!

[Ed Reef]

Chris,

With the width of your tank, I would go for the 6 x 54w. Would be even better of you could go 8 or best 10 tubes as your corals will love the add light spread

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13579539#post13579539 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Ed Reef
Chris,

With the width of your tank, I would go for the 6 x 54w. Would be even better of you could go 8 or best 10 tubes as your corals will love the add light spread

I was considering doing 8 tubes but decided against it has i want the back and left wall to be dimly lit so as to give the illusion that the tank is bigger than it is. Furthermore, i plan keep LPS, softies and NPC's in the tank and thought they would appreciate the low light areas. Most importantly, the 4 x unit is approximately USD300 less than the 6 x unit. I am a cheapskate at heart :D :lol:

[13threefmaniac]

I finally got down to laying down the design for the tank. As mentioned earlier, the tank will be 60" x 36" x 26". I plan on using 1/2" glass on all sides with the two viewable panels (front and right) being 1/2" Starphire glass. The bracing will be 4" wide and the ends of the long braces will overlap the shorter ones.

http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee275/13thstreetmaniac/180%20Build/Tank1.jpg

One of my main aims while designing this tank was to keep most of the hardware out of sight. I liked the idea of Ozkrogh's external wavebox and with a little help from JarHead a.k.a. Steve, i came up with this. 1/2" black acrylic will be used to make the external wavebox.

http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee275/13thstreetmaniac/180%20Build/ExternalWBcover.jpg

This is what it looks like on the tank. The additional box is there in anticipation of future upgrades/add-ons. The external overflows dimensions are 24" x 4" x 12" and it will be positioned at the rear right hand side of the tank. It will be made from 3/8" glass.

http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee275/13thstreetmaniac/180%20Build/Tankbackcomplete.jpg

The overflow will have 2 x 1.5" drains and 1 x 1 " drain. The 2 x 1" holes on top of the rear brace are for the returns.

http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee275/13thstreetmaniac/180%20Build/Tankfrontcomplete.jpg

Is there anything i might have missed so far? Are there any improvements that can be made? I will be placing the order on Friday so i still have time to change things around if i want/have to.

[Ed Reef]

Chris,

Not sure how you're going to aquascape but you might want to move your external wavebox more to the side as in order for the wavebox to work well, there must be no or min obstructions in it's way and if you put both along the center, what's going to happen is your wave will be obstructed by your aquascape, unless of course your aquascape is very low.... :)

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13581228#post13581228 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Ed Reef
Chris,

Not sure how you're going to aquascape but you might want to move your external wavebox more to the side as in order for the wavebox to work well, there must be no or min obstructions in it's way and if you put both along the center, what's going to happen is your wave will be obstructed by your aquascape, unless of course your aquascape is very low.... :)

The rockwork is going to be pretty minimal/low throughout the tank except for the rear left hand corner. I plan to do an eggcrate + LR + foam structure there which will probably reach the surface. To be honest i did not think of the possibility of the rockwork obstructing the wave. You do pay a lot of attention to detail which is why your tank is so absolutely amazing. I will probably spread the waveboxes further apart just to be safe. Thanks for the heads up Ed.

[Ed Reef]

Maybe a safer bet will be to post in Tunze forum and see what Roger got to say where the best position will be to get the ultimate wave :) He usually respond within 24 hours anyway

[13threefmaniac]

Thanks Ed. I will do that.

[waynem]

I tend to drop by Oceanic or AI when I have the time to drive. AI must be one of the bigger import / export set ups around. I should post some pictures of the place sometime.

My tank looks like being 450g now and 3 x sumps around 100 each but I much prefer to work in METRIC lol . It depends on what the fish room looks like after the contractors finish. I was told Gold cup or something like that are the best custom tank builders in town. I intend to well over engineer my tank and max out the safety factor. I am happy to pay for quality. I will talk to Water Solutions as well once I can locate them....

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13582061#post13582061 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by waynem
I tend to drop by Oceanic or AI when I have the time to drive. AI must be one of the bigger import / export set ups around. I should post some pictures of the place sometime.

My tank looks like being 450g now and 3 x sumps around 100 each but I much prefer to work in METRIC lol . It depends on what the fish room looks like after the contractors finish. I was told Gold cup or something like that are the best custom tank builders in town. I intend to well over engineer my tank and max out the safety factor. I am happy to pay for quality. I will talk to Water Solutions as well once I can locate them....

AI? Where is that?

Holy smokes!! That's 700++ gallons in total. I too plan to over engineer the tank which is why i am contemplating adding braces at the bottom of my tank (The only thing holding me back is the fact that i haven't decided on the depth of my intended sand bed). The last thing i need is an indoor swimming pool of sorts!!I have yet to place the order for my tank so there is time yet to make any changes to the design. I have not heard of Gold Cup before. Would you mind shooting me a PM with their contact details? Thanks in advance.

[Jar*Head]

I was in Phuket for training in 1998 and 2001. It is pretty nice IMO

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13582301#post13582301 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jar*Head
I was in Phuket for training in 1998 and 2001. It is pretty nice IMO

Hello Steve,
Nice to have the Lord of the Wave drop by my humble thread!! :D
Phuket is nice but it's getting way too commercialized IMO.

[Jar*Head]

Phuket become like that because of the U.S Military. I respond to your thread in Tunze forum. If possible, send me an email

Steve

[mcliffy2]

We aren't planning on spending too much time in Phuket...mainly, we'll be there as a central base to head out to Racha Yai, Phi Phi, and the Similans...the claim is that November is the start of the dry season, lets hope so since all the hotels are twice as expensive then than if we went right now!

13threef - have you talked to Mike @ Reef Specialty about shipping a Reeflo from the U.S. to Malaysia? Shipping would be pricey, but maybe with the exchange rate it would be worth it. Also, there are some risks, but if you bought it from him, I could bring it with me on the plane to BKK, and if you met me there, maybe you could pick it up? only problem is you would probably need to meet me right when I get in...as I can't carry it around with me while diving. and I would worry with how they toss boxes around on planes....

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13582613#post13582613 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jar*Head
Phuket become like that because of the U.S Military. I respond to your thread in Tunze forum. If possible, send me an email

Steve

That's what my dad said. It's one of the few places in the world where the 'she-males' actually do look like ladies. NEVER hook up with anyone from Phuket. :lol: :lol:

Btw, You've got mail.

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13582723#post13582723 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mcliffy2
We aren't planning on spending too much time in Phuket...mainly, we'll be there as a central base to head out to Racha Yai, Phi Phi, and the Similans...the claim is that November is the start of the dry season, lets hope so since all the hotels are twice as expensive then than if we went right now!

13threef - have you talked to Mike @ Reef Specialty about shipping a Reeflo from the U.S. to Malaysia? Shipping would be pricey, but maybe with the exchange rate it would be worth it. Also, there are some risks, but if you bought it from him, I could bring it with me on the plane to BKK, and if you met me there, maybe you could pick it up? only problem is you would probably need to meet me right when I get in...as I can't carry it around with me while diving. and I would worry with how they toss boxes around on planes....

I've got a friend who works at a Hotel over there and he says that the weather has been pretty unpredictable for the past couple of years. Where exactly are you staying btw? Club Med? I just hope the dry season sticks to its schedule for your sake.

I have not spoken to Mike yet because from past experience, shipping items from over there more than doubles the original price of it and it takes ages to clear an item at local customs!! Then there is all the under table money and 'red tape' that one has to get through. It's too much of a PITA. The whole idea of bringing it with you is tempting but i could not impose on you in that manner, especially since you're heading there on holiday with the missus. From the pictures i've seen the RO200 is pretty large and the packaging makes it even larger/heavier. Just out of curiosity though, how much would a 200 w/pro kit set me back by(in USD)?

[Jar*Head]

Chris, just reply to your email.

[Ed Reef]

When u get Steve involved in your tank, be ready for a 5" Tsunami Wave :)

[Jar*Head]

That is crazy Ed :D

[Jar*Head]

I agree with Ed to move the box toward the front. You can combine the two box into one like this.

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f123/NgoSH0311/New%20tank%20design/withthesponge.jpg
http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f123/NgoSH0311/New%20tank%20design/overflowandwavebox.jpg

I don't have any drawing but i have pictures. The tank was build in November 2007

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13586446#post13586446 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Ed Reef
When u get Steve involved in your tank, be ready for a 5" Tsunami Wave :)

:lol: :D :lol:
I better get some added braces worked into the tank if that's going to be the case.

[Ed Reef]

Or widen your eurobracing as there will be splashing :)

[Jar*Head]

You'll be fine :D.

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13587363#post13587363 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jar*Head
I agree with Ed to move the box toward the front. You can combine the two box into one like this.

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f123/NgoSH0311/New%20tank%20design/withthesponge.jpg
http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f123/NgoSH0311/New%20tank%20design/overflowandwavebox.jpg

I don't have any drawing but i have pictures. The tank was build in November 2007


I guess it's back to the drawing board for me then.

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13588251#post13588251 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Ed Reef
Or widen your eurobracing as there will be splashing :)

I'll probably increase the width of my eurobracing by an inch just to be on the safe side.

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13589173#post13589173 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jar*Head
You'll be fine :D.

Are you sure Steve? What is the width of the bracing on the tank in your pics?

Something else crossed my mind while i was redoing my sketches. Wouldn't the continuous wave action within the tank weaken the silicone over time. This would mean that the tank itself will have a shorter 'lifespan' than a tank without any noticeable wave action right?

[Jar*Head]

Yes it will shorten the life span of the tank but we are talking about 10yrs +. My new tank has 3" brace, my old glass tank 240g cube has 4" brace.

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13589634#post13589634 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jar*Head
Yes it will shorten the life span of the tank but we are talking about 10yrs +. My new tank has 3" brace, my old glass tank 240g cube has 4" brace.

One final question (for now at least :D ). How thick is the acrylic on your wavebox?

[Jar*Head]

1/2" thick.

[13threefmaniac]

Friday(the day i place my tank order) is getting close and after reading up and getting as much feedback/advice as possible i think i have finally got the final tank design down. The tanks outer dimensions will be 60" x 36" x 26". The bottom panel will be 3/4" with all remaining panels being 1/2" thick. Both viewing panels (front and right will be made from 1/2" Starphire glass. The tank's eurobracing will be 5" wide to provide extra stability/strength in view of the waves produced by the external waveboxes. In addition to this, there will be 4" wide bracing all around the inside bottom area of the tank. All braces will be made from 1/2" thick glass.

http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee275/13thstreetmaniac/180%20Build/Tankcpltangle2.jpg

The external overflows(3/8" glass) dimensions will be 24" x 4" x 12" and it will be situated at the rear right hand corner (6" away from the end). Three holes (2 x 1.5" and 1 x 1") will be drilled into the overflow. One will feed the skimmer, the other will go to the sump and the third one will function as an emergency drain/water change outlet.

http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee275/13thstreetmaniac/180%20Build/Tankcpltangle3.jpg

There will be 4 external waveboxes built into the left hand side of the tank. Two of them will be used from the start and the remaining two will be for future additions/upgrades. In the meanwhile, i plan to fill them up with LR rubble and use the empty ones as "pod stations" (might as well use the extra real estate for something).

http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee275/13thstreetmaniac/180%20Build/Tankbackcmplt.jpg

Black Oyama paper will be used for the background.

http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee275/13thstreetmaniac/180%20Build/Tankcpltangle1.jpg

I think i am addicted to Sketchup!!

:lol:

[Jar*Head]

Dude, i think you are mistype What are you doing with 4 wave boxes? You only need 2 MAX. With the 2 wavebox you can create the wave as big as 4" or more.... Unless you are planning on the stream box which will require larger hole....

[mcliffy2]

Whoa, too much Tunze for Jarhead??? Thats a first :)

The tank looks awesome...I'd make one change however. Make your overlow box 6" wide instead of 4"...mine is 6" and it seems like any thinner would be too thin.

[13threefmaniac]

Stream boxes..hmmm..now why didn't i think of that!!?! That means the dimensions of the boxes can be the same right? How big a hole would i need for a 6105? and a 6085? If i am not mistaken they have the same output diameter.

[Jar*Head]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13591395#post13591395 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mcliffy2
Whoa, too much Tunze for Jarhead??? Thats a first :)

The tank looks awesome...I'd make one change however. Make your overlow box 6" wide instead of 4"...mine is 6" and it seems like any thinner would be too thin.


:lol: what are you trying to say?

I agree with mcliffy on 6" wide overflow box vice 4". I also think 3/8" kind of thin for glass, i would be scare to tight the bulkhead.

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13591395#post13591395 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mcliffy2
Whoa, too much Tunze for Jarhead??? Thats a first :)

The tank looks awesome...I'd make one change however. Make your overlow box 6" wide instead of 4"...mine is 6" and it seems like any thinner would be too thin.

Lol. I guess i got a wee bit carried away with regards to the wave boxes. :lol: :lol:

Thanks Mcliffy,
I shall look into the overflow box (another excuse to mess around with Sketchup). What are the drain sizes in your overflow? Someone is willing to sell me a RD10m3 but i am afraid that might be a little too much flow for the tank/overflow to handle. Time to go have another look at your build thread.

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13591540#post13591540 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jar*Head
:lol: what are you trying to say?

I agree with mcliffy on 6" wide overflow box vice 4". I also think 3/8" kind of thin for glass, i would be scare to tight the bulkhead.

I could easily go with 1/2" glass for the overflow in that case.

[Jar*Head]

Chris, you can always split the pump and run other stuff like Prop tank, fuge or media reactor etc. If you can get it for cheap and make sure it is in good condition with some warranty on it :D

[Jar*Head]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13591624#post13591624 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by 13threefmaniac
I could easily go with 1/2" glass for the overflow in that case.

1/2" is perfect..... I rather break my back from lifting the tank then break my back from mopping the floor :D

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13591695#post13591695 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jar*Head
Chris, you can always split the pump and run other stuff like Prop tank, fuge or media reactor etc. If you can get it for cheap and make sure it is in good condition with some warranty on it :D

The only thing i am worried about is the condition of the pump and also the fact that i have read a few threads about RD's choking up, broken shafts etc etc. The Eheim on the other hand could probably keep going after a direct hit from a SCUD missile.


1/2" is perfect..... I rather break my back from lifting the tank then break my back from mopping the floor

I'd rather not break my back at all but between the two, i would choose the former. My parents would break my back if there was a flood in the apartment though so i guess 1/2" it is.

I think you missed this Steve.

Stream boxes..hmmm..now why didn't i think of that!!?! That means the dimensions of the boxes can be the same right? How big a hole would i need for a 6105? and a 6085? If i am not mistaken they have the same output diameter.

[Jar*Head]

You will need 3" hole to get the water in and out the box. Look at SeanT build thread. He has 2 stream box in his 300g tank.

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13591879#post13591879 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jar*Head
You will need 3" hole to get the water in and out the box. Look at SeanT build thread. He has 2 stream box in his 300g tank.

Thanks Steve.

[Ed Reef]

Alternatively just cover the whole back, using a section for wavebox and the balance for the streams..... if you look at my build, that's what I did so no visible pumps.

Since you're going to redo the drawings, might want to also look into putting more pre-drill holes along your eurobracing for future pumps or got knows what else you want to add along the eurobracing.

Also not sure what's the water level going to be?? You might want to do your wier lower with 2 wavebox ala' Steve as I think you will be getting a 4" wave at the minimum!! :)

Other than that I think your tank looks sweet and it's going to be another great build!!

[mcliffy2]

For the overflows in my tank, I have wholes drilled for two 1.5" bulkheads. I forget the exact dimensions, but if you go to www.savko.com, they have them...sorry if this is a silly question, but aren't you guys on the metric system? I thought us silly Americans were the only ones who talked in feet and inches :)

[Ed Reef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13595119#post13595119 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mcliffy2
sorry if this is a silly question, but aren't you guys on the metric system? I thought us silly Americans were the only ones who talked in feet and inches :)

We are but just making life easier for you Americans :p

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13593953#post13593953 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Ed Reef
Alternatively just cover the whole back, using a section for wavebox and the balance for the streams..... if you look at my build, that's what I did so no visible pumps.

Since you're going to redo the drawings, might want to also look into putting more pre-drill holes along your eurobracing for future pumps or got knows what else you want to add along the eurobracing.

Also not sure what's the water level going to be?? You might want to do your wier lower with 2 wavebox ala' Steve as I think you will be getting a 4" wave at the minimum!! :)

Other than that I think your tank looks sweet and it's going to be another great build!!

That's exactly what i was working on actually. I think i will increase the tanks length by about 7 to 8 inches and partition that area off for waveboxes/streams etc etc. I might also try to work in the overflow into this added space. Alternatively, i could increase the width of the tank and partition an appropriately sized area off to be used as the overflow.

I will also look into adding a few more holes as per your suggestion (maybe a few different sizes as well) in the event that i do change/add pumps in the future.

4" wave?? That's pretty big!! How low should i go?

Thanks for the kind words and guidance Ed. It is very much appreciated.

[Ed Reef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13595543#post13595543 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by 13threefmaniac
4" wave?? That's pretty big!! How low should i go?

That's Steve area of expertise... :D Steve??

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13595576#post13595576 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Ed Reef
That's Steve area of expertise... :D Steve??

The Wave Guru must be fast asleep.

Which part of China are you at btw? Shanghai? Beijing?

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13595119#post13595119 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mcliffy2
For the overflows in my tank, I have wholes drilled for two 1.5" bulkheads. I forget the exact dimensions, but if you go to www.savko.com, they have them...sorry if this is a silly question, but aren't you guys on the metric system? I thought us silly Americans were the only ones who talked in feet and inches :)

Thanks Mcliffy.
Yes we are on the metric system over here but i am pretty comfortable with either and since the majority of my "audience" are from the states i thought it would be easier to use feet/inches. "When in Rome, do as the Romans do" . ;)

[Jar*Head]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13595576#post13595576 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Ed Reef
That's Steve area of expertise... :D Steve??

Have the MFG cut the teeth 2" deep.

[Jar*Head]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13595601#post13595601 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by 13threefmaniac
The Wave Guru must be fast asleep.

Which part of China are you at btw? Shanghai? Beijing?

I was busy feeding my little girl and put her to bed. :D

[mcliffy2]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13595543#post13595543 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by 13threefmaniac
That's exactly what i was working on actually. I think i will increase the tanks length by about 7 to 8 inches and partition that area off for waveboxes/streams etc etc. I might also try to work in the overflow into this added space. Alternatively, i could increase the width of the tank and partition an appropriately sized area off to be used as the overflow.

I will also look into adding a few more holes as per your suggestion (maybe a few different sizes as well) in the event that i do change/add pumps in the future.

4" wave?? That's pretty big!! How low should i go?

Thanks for the kind words and guidance Ed. It is very much appreciated.

Sounds like you are thinking of something similar to what Bricky did with his overflow/Tunze wall. You've probably seen his thread, but just in case: http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1206908&perpage=25&pagenumber=12

[13threefmaniac]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13596866#post13596866 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jar*Head
Have the MFG cut the teeth 2" deep.

Your will be done!!

I was busy feeding my little girl and put her to bed.

I guess if and when i do become a father i know where to go to for advice.

Sounds like you are thinking of something similar to what Bricky did with his overflow/Tunze wall. You've probably seen his thread, but just in case:

Thanks mcliffy. I actually missed this one. Bbtw, is your real name Mike?

P.s: Me thinks me had one too many beers. BUUUUUUUUUUUUURPPP. Excuse me, i lost my manners somewhere between bottle 6 and 16!!:lol:

[Jar*Head]

Chris, check your email.... I got a little something for ya :D

[waynem]

Have you got the tank yet?

[marcus.breaux]

nice build plan