RS Lumen Bright Thread

[JRaquatics]

We wanted to have a place where Lumen Bright users and those interested in LB reflectors can ask questions, gather information, show results, experiences, etc. We would like to see pictures of your tanks, mounting styles, before and after or what every you wish to share with us.

For those that are looking for a great source of information on these reflectors and their benefits, please check out this Reef Keeping article written by our good friend Jim (bubbletip2).
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2008-06/review/index.php

[JRaquatics]

Here is the shot of the left 3 reflectors in Mike’s tank (acropora nut) after the rock wall was removed to form pillars and the corals thinned out. He is using the very first 5 Lumen Bright reflectors over his 500+ gallon reef. He uses 400w Reeflux 12ks on CoralVue dimmable ballasts.

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x278/jmemije11/LumenBrite3reflectorshot2.jpg

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x278/jmemije11/TopDownLumenBritelaserbeam.jpg

Testing the par
http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x278/jmemije11/1-oversurfacereading.jpg

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x278/jmemije11/RedAcroReading.jpg

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x278/jmemije11/BlueMille1212copy-1.jpg

http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x278/jmemije11/MikeL500g1117-1.jpg

[GlassReef]

Hey, Jeremy - great idea for a thread! After you and Mike turned me on to the LumenBrights, I decided to use them (large model) for my new 375gal build. The tank is 96" X 36" X 25". I went with four 400W ReefLux 12K driven by CoralVue dimmable ballasts.

My tank is part of an in-wall system so I wanted an open light rack design. I went with a 1" aluminum tube frame. It was simple sizing it - I just based each light's opening on the size of the LB reflector. Then I added an extra mounting area on the long sides to allow me to add some T5s for extending the viewing period:

http://i515.photobucket.com/albums/t358/selbold/Aquarium%20Build/Lighting/Assembly/Assembled-Frame.jpg

I mounted the ballasts on the wall, above the light rack:

http://i515.photobucket.com/albums/t358/selbold/Aquarium%20Build/Lighting/Assembly/Ballasts-and-All.jpg

Here's what four LumenBrights covering an 8ft X 3ft tank look like:

http://i515.photobucket.com/albums/t358/selbold/Aquarium%20Build/Lighting/Assembly/Finished-Frame.jpg

Here you can see how each LB reflector fits into the tubing "squares".

http://i515.photobucket.com/albums/t358/selbold/Aquarium%20Build/Lighting/Assembly/Finished-Frame-2.jpg

The tubing I used has a 3/4" flange along it's length. Here's a pic:

http://i515.photobucket.com/albums/t358/selbold/Aquarium%20Build/Lighting/Assembly/Tube-End.jpg

The flange allows the reflector to rest on the rack. There is no attachment needed. The reflector can't fall through and is easily removed for maintenance, etc. You can see exactly how this works, here:

http://i515.photobucket.com/albums/t358/selbold/Aquarium%20Build/Lighting/Assembly/Reflector-From-Bottom.jpg

Notice the four openings around the reflector - this is a very important advantage in the design of the LumenBrites - heat is allowed to rise up and away from the tank. These reflectors are the coolest I've ever used.

The bulb bracket makes it super easy to adjust the position of the bulb so that you can get it exactly centered in the reflector:

http://i515.photobucket.com/albums/t358/selbold/Aquarium%20Build/Lighting/Assembly/MH-Connector.jpg

Here you can see how nicely the T5s fit along side the LumenBrights:

http://i515.photobucket.com/albums/t358/selbold/Aquarium%20Build/Lighting/Assembly/Lights-On-1.jpg

My bulbs are 17 1/2" above the water and I'm getting 475 PAR at the bottom of the tank (measured 23" of water depth). The LBs completely cover the area of the tank - I think they would even handle a 42" depth (front to back). I think this is because of the height at which they can be installed.

[JRaquatics]

You da man Tom. Thanks for posting.:thumbsup:

[acropora nut]

One word explains your lighting setup. INSANE!!!!!!!!!!!
Thx's for the post Tom!!

[JNye]

Wow that is some quality work there Tom.

[BreadmanMike]

I'm surely not going to post my pendants hung ghetto style after Tom's pics. Thanks a lot Tom!


:lol:

Seriously Tom, that is a sweet looking light setup.

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14310784#post14310784 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by BreadmanMike
I'm surely not going to post my pendants hung ghetto stlye after Tom's pics. Thanks a lot Tom!


:lol:

Seriously Tom, that is a sweet looking light setup.

:lol: That is exactly why I am waiting for page two before I post my pics up.:D

[GlassReef]

Thanks everyone. Actually, building the rack was pretty easy. The trick was using the aluminum tube with fiberglass composite connectors. Once that was together, it was just busy work. :D The form of the LB reflectors, along with the flanges on the tubing, makes for a pretty failsafe build.

[bubbletip2]

Here's what four LumenBrights covering an 8ft X 3ft tank look like:

http://i515.photobucket.com/albums/t358/selbold/Aquarium%20Build/Lighting/Assembly/Finished-Frame.jpg


Very nice design:thumbsup: Love how you set in your T5 ballasts and electrical. Can't wait to see this tank....

[Dobbs1101]

What can i say but WOW! I just purchased the LB 250w and can't wait to get them going.

Where did you get the square tubing with the flange on it. was it from Lowes or Home Depot or was it from a metal shop?

I like your idea and would like to build something similar.

-Bob

[GlassReef]

by Dobbs1101
Where did you get the square tubing with the flange on it. was it from Lowes or Home Depot or was it from a metal shop?
-Bob I purchased it from www.eztube.com

Make sure you buy the composite connectors, NOT the steel ones.
For a lot more info about putting the aluminum together, take a look at my build thread (red house). I think it starts at about page 4.

[JRaquatics]

I wouldn't skip to page 4. Read the whole thread, it is well worth it. IMO Tom has one of the best builds yet here on RC.

[JRaquatics]

...And LBs over my tank.
http://i107.photobucket.com/albums/m292/rvision/lb_closeup.jpg

http://i107.photobucket.com/albums/m292/rvision/lbside.jpg

Par testing with 3 250 watt Reeflux 12ks ran by CoralVue dimmable ballast in Lumen Bright minis
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2008-06/review/images/Jer_180g12K250ParTest12SM.jpg

[GlassReef]

Your isn't looking too shabby either, Jeremy. :D :cool: Nice design and an excellent installation. Very clean. Is the eggcrate for ventilation?

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14318780#post14318780 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by GlassReef
Your isn't looking too shabby either, Jeremy. :D :cool: Nice design and an excellent installation. Very clean. Is the eggcrate for ventilation?

Thanks Tom, but nothing like yours. The eggcrate is for added ventilation and to deter aqua jumpers.

[Kshack]

OK guys, help me figure this out.
My tank is 68X36X25. Dave at CV suggested 3 400W with large LB. If I do this there will only be 2" between the reflectors, and thus only 2" between the end of the tank and reflectors. Will this not spill a lot of light at both ends? If I go with only 2, would there not be dark spots? What I need is to spread the light 36" front to back (penninsula tank). Would 3 mini wide allow me to place them closer together, and thus farther from the end of the tank? If my tank is only 25" deep, would 250W not be enough light? Thinking of running just the MH (20K radium or Reeflux), so I would not have extended viewing time if I go with 400 (cook corals)?
Would just going with ATI 10X60" T5 solve my problems?

Thanks for your thoughts.

[JRaquatics]

You will need the Large LBs if you want to go with 250w and would have to mount them side by side. You will have a good amount of crossover light here too. But if you choose to go with the mini-wides then you will have to raise them up even higher to get the spread so the light won't be as intense and would recommend 400 watters.

What type of reef tank do you plan to have and at what levels?

[GlassReef]

Kshack - your 36" depth means you should definitely use the maxis. Your width is a bit unusual. You're correct when you say there will be a little spillover on the sides, but IMHO that a comprimise you should make. You can mount the LB's as close as 1" apart. That would give you 3" on each end.

250W would be OK if you keep the lamps low enough. I look for at least 400 PAR 2/3 down the water column.

[Kshack]

(What type of reef tank do you plan to have and at what levels?)

Tank has more flow at one end due to overflow and 2 Vortec pumps located at the end (pennunsula style). I had SPS in one half and LPS in the low flow end. Want to try some of the more exotic corals.

So, 3 large reflectors placed as close together with 250W.
Ballast choice? Galaxy or CV? Would like to run either Radium or the new 20K Reeflux.

[JRaquatics]

If you are looking to overdrive the Radium then go with an HQI ballast or the CV dimmable ballast. All Reeflux bulbs run best on CV ballasts.

You just want to match the bulb you wish to run to the appropriate ballast.

[Kshack]

So CV dimmable ballast cranked up all the way would drive the Radium OK, then set at normal would work well with the 20K Reeflux? Would give me options....

[JRaquatics]

The CV ballast won't drive it as hard as an HQI as they only overdrive the lamp up to 10%. IMO most Radium users suggest and use HQI ballast to fire the Radiums. Just like most Reeflux users are most happy with CV ballasts.

[Kshack]

How about 400W over the SPS end and 250W over the LPS? Would that look OK?
With the 20K bulbs, would the 400W get my PAR up to where it should be?

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14333149#post14333149 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Kshack
How about 400W over the SPS end and 250W over the LPS? Would that look OK?
With the 20K bulbs, would the 400W get my PAR up to where it should be?

IMO that would look funny. What par numbers are you trying to reach? and at what depth?

[Kshack]

That question is over my head, I'm afraid. At the sps end (higher flow), want to keep exotic, including Oregon tort, Sunset monti, etc. Low flow end..Hammers, frogspons, etc. Acans and Blasto scattered throughout.
Does that help?

[JRaquatics]

Well the 250s will give adequate par for sps to thrive and grow with great results. You will just have to keep higher light demanding sps at the top half of the tank were you will get between 200-500 par. If you go with the 400 you will have to go with the LB wides and raise them high to gain spread and disperse heat. But you will be able to keep sps on all levels within the tank. You would just tuck the LPS in the shadows or outskirts of the light.

[JRaquatics]

Here is the most current shot of what Lumen Brights have done to my tank.

http://i107.photobucket.com/albums/m292/rvision/DSCN3605.jpg

http://i107.photobucket.com/albums/m292/rvision/DSCN3625.jpg

[GlassReef]

Wow, Jeremy! That is stunning. I can't wait for mine to start looking just a little bit like yours ...

[Dobbs1101]

I should be getting my new LB mini's delivered today for my 120g 48x24x24 SPS tank. I'll also be finishing up a wall unit that I've been building. The wall unit will surround the tank and has a 48L x 22H x 26D, interior, hood for hanging the lights. Pics to come.

I was wondering, do any of you use T5 or similar actinics for sunrise/sunset. I actually like the way the actinics look at night. I was thinking of using one T5 in the front of the tank and one towards the back. Would this be enough or would two in front and back be better? Or heck, do i even need the T5's at all? Wouldn't a sudden shock of 250w LB's be harmful to my corals.

How would I mount them if I wanted to add t5's without casting a shadow? I am going to use Mike's idea of putting strips of wood along the sides of the inside, front to back, so i can adjust the LB's like a bakers oven rack. if you know what I mean. I initially was going to build the rack like Tom's but I thought it'll be overkill since you wouldn't really see them. I changed my design and was going to screw the LB reflectors to a piece of 3/4'' plywood about 8'' wide.

If I put the T5's 18 inches off the water next to the LB's would they be close enough to do the sunrise/sunset that I'm looking for or should I make a lower rack and mount then closer to the water? Would T5's be bright enough or maybe VHO? I'm worried about casting a shadow from the LB's if I move them closer. If you don't think I'll cast a shadow then I'll mount them closer. My current lights now are about 3'' off the water.

I can build anything that will work, I'm just looking for Idea's.

I'm also going to need help trying to figure out mounting moonlights. I'd like to purchase the Neptune Lunar Sim for my AC JR. Any help there would be appreciated!

-Bob

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14348423#post14348423 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by GlassReef
Wow, Jeremy! That is stunning. I can't wait for mine to start looking just a little bit like yours ...

Thanks. I have not doubt that your tank will surpass mine.

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14353906#post14353906 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Dobbs1101
I should be getting my new LB mini's delivered today for my 120g 48x24x24 SPS tank. I'll also be finishing up a wall unit that I've been building. The wall unit will surround the tank and has a 48L x 22H x 26D, interior, hood for hanging the lights. Pics to come.

I was wondering, do any of you use T5 or similar actinics for sunrise/sunset. I actually like the way the actinics look at night. I was thinking of using one T5 in the front of the tank and one towards the back. Would this be enough or would two in front and back be better? Or heck, do i even need the T5's at all? Wouldn't a sudden shock of 250w LB's be harmful to my corals.

How would I mount them if I wanted to add t5's without casting a shadow? I am going to use Mike's idea of putting strips of wood along the sides of the inside, front to back, so i can adjust the LB's like a bakers oven rack. if you know what I mean. I initially was going to build the rack like Tom's but I thought it'll be overkill since you wouldn't really see them. I changed my design and was going to screw the LB reflectors to a piece of 3/4'' plywood about 8'' wide.

If I put the T5's 18 inches off the water next to the LB's would they be close enough to do the sunrise/sunset that I'm looking for or should I make a lower rack and mount then closer to the water? Would T5's be bright enough or maybe VHO? I'm worried about casting a shadow from the LB's if I move them closer. If you don't think I'll cast a shadow then I'll mount them closer. My current lights now are about 3'' off the water.

I can build anything that will work, I'm just looking for Idea's.

I'm also going to need help trying to figure out mounting moonlights. I'd like to purchase the Neptune Lunar Sim for my AC JR. Any help there would be appreciated!

-Bob

First, congrats on your new lighting setup. Personally I like VHOs for actinic supplementation (sunrise/sunset). They have internal reflectors built in so they are less bulky than the T5s and the reflector. You can mount 2 VHO one in the front and another in the back and you will have enough blue light to do the sunrise sunset look. If you are looking to use the lamps for beneficial light then you will have to mount them closer and may block some lights from your MH. I tried the VHO for a couple of months and didn't care for the look as I preferred the look of 1 MH lamp firing in 15 minute intervals from one side of the tank to the other. The shadows this produces is cool IMO.

I have my cheap LED mounted to the canopy and works out well. I like to keep everything as high up and out of the way as possible, makes for easier maintenance.

[MstgKillr]

I am having an issue that started with the edges of my coraline algae turing white. Then I noticed the monties started to turn white and now the tips on some of my Acros are turning white and losing flesh. Polyp extension in minimal compared to a few weeks ago. Its definatly not growth.

I changed my lighting from (3) 250w DE 14k Phoenix in LumenMax Minis on for 8 hours per day to (3) 400w Reeflux 12k in Lumen Bright Minis on for 2 hours per day. The Lumen Brights are mounted 18" from the bulb to the water.

All of my parameters seem to be close to normal except for my ALk slightly elevated at 11 dKH

Do I have too much light or not enough? I thought going from 8 hours to 2 hours would be a good starting point. Should I increase or decrease my photo period?

Thanks for the help.

[JRaquatics]

What is your magnesium level at?

[MstgKillr]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14393684#post14393684 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by JRaquatics
What is your magnesium level at?

I can't remember excatly but slightly over 1300.

I haven't made any changes besides the lighting.

[JRaquatics]

What is your alk usually at? I would also suggest if you currently have it for 2 hours a day to split the photo period. Try to keep all of your parameters steady as possible especially when acclimating your reef to your new lighting. I would also try increasing your photo period gradually. Can you post a current pic of your tank?

[MstgKillr]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14393806#post14393806 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by JRaquatics
What is your alk usually at? I would also suggest if you currently have it for 2 hours a day to split the photo period. Try to keep all of your parameters steady as possible especially when acclimating your reef to your new lighting. I would also try increasing your photo period gradually. Can you post a current pic of your tank?

Alk is usually at 11 dKH but it may slowly vary from high 10's to low 12's.

[JRaquatics]

Then you are burning your corals. You will have to raise the lamps higher and slowly drop them down or get some type of light diffusing material to kill the intensity some. This will also allow for you to have longer but diffused photo periods till they acclimate to your new lighting. There really must have been a big difference in the amount of light/intensity getting to your corals to affect them that much.

[MstgKillr]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14394154#post14394154 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by JRaquatics
Then you are burning your corals. You will have to raise the lamps higher and slowly drop them down or get some type of light diffusing material to kill the intensity some. This will also allow for you to have longer but diffused photo periods till they acclimate to your new lighting. There really must have been a big difference in the amount of light/intensity getting to your corals to affect them that much.

Any idea on what type of material to use to diffuse the light?

[JRaquatics]

Layers of egg crate, sheets of nylon screen. I would get eggcrate and place that over the top of the tank and place a few sheets of nylon screen material right on top. You can purchase the window screen by the foot at most ACE hardware's.

[MstgKillr]

I found some screen and just laid 2 layers over the egg crate. It seems to work great. I also increased the phote period to 6 hours. Time to watch and wait.

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14401384#post14401384 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by MstgKillr
I found some screen and just laid 2 layers over the egg crate. It seems to work great. I also increased the phote period to 6 hours. Time to watch and wait. :thumbsup:

[Tbduval]

JR,
What is the min height for these reflector to give the max benefits? My canopy is 16" and the bulb sits 3" below the top of the reflector, right? Can I use the mini or should I use the mini wides? Also, what makes the mini & mini wides different? The specs look the same. Thanks JR!

[JRaquatics]

Minimum I would say would be 14" bulb to water surface. I would also suggest the mini wides.

[Tbduval]

So for my canopy at 16", I should go with the mini wides? How are they different then the reg. minis? Thanks JR.

[JRaquatics]

More spread. But I still feel that your canopy is too short to get full advantage of these reflectors. You will notice a "spot light" look at any bulb height less than 14.5 inches.

[Lomholt]

I could use some help here.
My tank dimensions is:

Length: 64" (160 cm.)
Depth/width: 32" (80 cm.)
Higth: 28"

total volumen: 230 g. (approx 900 litre)


I am keeping acroporas, montiporas, sacrophytons, ricordias - but in total I only got 15-20 corals at the moment, so it looks rather empty. After the light upgrade i would like to buy more corals.

the sand is 0,5 to 1,5 mm. diameter, and there is plenty of room at the bottom.

At the moment i only go a single 400 watt MH (single ended), and a poor reflector, so am thinking about getting two LumenBright reflectors with 400 watt Single Ended bubls.

Have you any suggestions / comments concerning what I should buy?

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14472090#post14472090 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Lomholt
I could use some help here.
My tank dimensions is:

Length: 64" (160 cm.)
Depth/width: 32" (80 cm.)
Higth: 28"

total volumen: 230 g. (approx 900 litre)


I am keeping acroporas, montiporas, sacrophytons, ricordias - but in total I only got 15-20 corals at the moment, so it looks rather empty. After the light upgrade i would like to buy more corals.

the sand is 0,5 to 1,5 mm. diameter, and there is plenty of room at the bottom.

At the moment i only go a single 400 watt MH (single ended), and a poor reflector, so am thinking about getting two LumenBright reflectors with 400 watt Single Ended bubls.

Have you any suggestions / comments concerning what I should buy?

Sounds good to me. That is how I would do it: 2 LB 400 SE larges.

[Lomholt]

thank you :)

[tas5tas]

I think I may have recieved a bad batch of bulbs......after only 6 weeks of use my 250w SE Reeflux 12k's have shifted to a horrible white with yellow tint that caused a nice algae outbreak in my tank. I have been running them fully dimmed now for a week and the algae outbreak is starting to subside. When fully dimmed they still look blueish, but not as blue as they once were. They are more of a 15k look now and somewhat resemble a Phoenix 14k just not quite that blue. I hope the new 20k bulbs hold their color better as that is what I want to replace them with when the time comes.

[ArizonaReefer]

I'm building my own canopy so I would like to plan for the right height and some adjust ability, when I read 16" from the water is that from the bulb or the bottom of the reflector?

[GlassReef]

From the bulb.

[Charlie Davidson]

I am going to be getting 2 luman brite pendants to hang over my tank.. Anyone here have Ideas on.. Connecting them together and using less wires from ceiling?
All sugguestons will be welcomed!

Picture of my currently unfinshed homemade "do-flagle getit" (don't make too much fun of it ;) )
Some reason i can never finish project before buying new toys! :D
http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x242/CharlieDavidson/002-28.jpg

[GlassReef]

Before your question can be answered, we would need to know what kind of ballasts you are using, i.e., single or double, etc.

[Charlie Davidson]

I am not meaning to be smart arsse,, but Maybe a better answer Is ;) Ballast will be remote.
( I play with lighting alot) have maybe 10 different ballast here. I plan to start with 2, 400w 'new' coralvue, but I may just put on 250w ARO's .. (

I may have not asked for help properly..
I am getting ready to set up a 75g tank to display my Acan colonies..
But it is a mixxed reef..
I have ordered 2 of the lumanbrite 16x16 SE pendants.. I could just simply hang these from cieling but we have some GREAT brains here! I am open to all thoughts..

[Charlie Davidson]

BTW, I posted picture simply because some people enjoy pictures.. IT has nothing to do with this new setup.. other than I may use the radium bulbs it now uses! :D

[Charlie Davidson]

You know, a few days ago i post this pic, just to show how, i tend to never finish some projects.. because I care more for the critters than the look of the container they are in ...

The guys, started talking about my "heat problem".. Its funny :) I have no heat issues.. but it does show good signs of opservation by them :thumbsup:

[JRaquatics]

400s will be way too much for a 75 and especially for acans. I have all my acans in the floor of my tank and in the shadows. Otherwise their color fades or they just don't do well. I have found they seem to do best for me with par #150 or less.

[GlassReef]

You asked "Anyone here have Ideas on.. Connecting them together and using less wires from ceiling? All sugguestons will be welcomed!" In order to suggest different ways of hooking them up with as few wires as possible, it would have been good to know whether your using single or double ballasts ...

[Charlie Davidson]

Tom,, I guess my communication skills are lacking, but your helping me focus.. I am a retired HVAC mechanic with a lot of control training and insatllations under my belt.. So for electrical wiring it will look like a single 3/4" black flexable tube from wall to first pendent, the 1/2" to the other pendant.
I guess the reason i didn't answer that part was because I am 99.9% sure of what the electrical wiring will be.. You had no way of knowing that unless i told you.. Sorry!

The reason I ask, is I was hoping someone had figgured a way (brace) to connect 2 pendants, so that they can be hung/ supported from cieling /wall.. using a lesser amount of support wires..
Good example is, I used only 2 wires for the "funny little pendant" shown above picture

[MarineFishGuy]

Lot's of good info here. I have been looking into the Coral Vue Dimmable ballast. I like the idea of being able to acclimate corals to new bulbs without adjusting other items. I am working on my new 210g Peninsula build.

Charlie (and anyone who is interested), Here is the lack rack I put together from Aluminum angle and stainless steel hardware.
http://www.kccweb.com/Tank/Images/ReefTank2/FinishedLightRackSide.jpg
I really like the Lumen Brights, they give a nice even spread.

Here is what it looks like hanging. I used a sailboat block and tackle to make it easy to raise and lower inside the canopy.
http://www.kccweb.com/tank/images/reeftank2/LightsHangingfor210.jpg

My Build thread is here:
http://www.corareef.org/forum/showthread.php?t=5187

Here is the most recent picture of the build from last night after I finished hanging the plumbing. The canopy framing is next, once I leak test everything.
http://www.kccweb.com/tank/images/reeftank2/210PlumbedToTempSump.jpg
Eventually it will be plumbed into the basement sump. The plumbing in front is only for leak testing the return manifold.

[Macimage]

I have a 72" x 24" x 30" 225 gallon reef. I am going to replace my Maristar fixture with 3 SE Lumenbrite Minis' so I can run Radium bulbs.

When I went to your website, I saw the new Lumenbright Mini Wides. It's an inwall tank and the room has vaulted ceilings, so I can mount the reflectors as high as I want.

Am I better off with the older Lumen Brite Minis or would the new Lumen Brite Mini Wides be better?

Thanks!
Joyce

[JRaquatics]

The LB minis carry more of a punch then the wides. The wides are for those that may not be able to hang the reflector high enough so it disperses the light at shorter distances from the water surface. Due to your water depth of 30" I think you would be better off with the LB minis for the greater punch for better water penetration. The LB minis will have no problem covering an area of 24" X 24" at 15" (bulb to water surface). I would only suggest to go with the wides if you are unable to get that height, want to run the reflecctor at lower heights or you needed more spread than intensity.

[Macimage]

Thank you! I'll be visiting your site soon!

Joyce

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14759305#post14759305 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Macimage
Thank you! I'll be visiting your site soon!

Joyce

Anytime, let use know if you have any other questions.

[MarineFishGuy]

I saw this on your website:
Once the ballast are plugged into power you cannot make an adjustment to them until 10 to 12 minutes. Once this time has passed then you can start adjusting the ballast. If you try to adjust the ballast before this warm up period the ballast will over ride the dimming feature and you cannot adjust the ballast until it has been unplugged and reset again.

Does that mean the ballast does not remember the setting when used with a timer?
In other words, I get new bulbs, install them, power on and wait 15 minutes. I then set the dial to -30%.
My timer turns them off, are they still set at -30% the next time the timer turns them on?
Or do I have to dial them back to -30% each time the timer turns them on?

Thanks,
Ken

[JRaquatics]

The built in override feature is used as a safety feature to the lamps. The Lamps must be fully fired and warmed up to safely dim. Once they have heated up you can dim them in small increments but remember you must allow for heating and cooling to occur when adjusting to see visual effects. The ballast will stay at the last dialed in setting, so if you set it at -30% when the lamps were fully fired then when the lights go out and come on for the next photo period they will remain at 30%

[jwilliams860]

Hey JR,
I currently have 2 HQI LB pendants over my 120 (48x24x24) Im getting ready to converge my two tanks into my one 300, it is (96Lx24Tx30"W) do you think I should get the large reflectors to cover the 30" width of the tank or do you think the HQI pendants would give enough coverage if I also have a row of VHO across the front and back?

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14775320#post14775320 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jwilliams860
Hey JR,
I currently have 2 HQI LB pendants over my 120 (48x24x24) Im getting ready to converge my two tanks into my one 300, it is (96Lx24Tx30"W) do you think I should get the large reflectors to cover the 30" width of the tank or do you think the HQI pendants would give enough coverage if I also have a row of VHO across the front and back?

Your best off with the LB larges but if possible I would try out the ones you have and see how it works out for you before purchasing anything new. I know Mike had every other reflector over his 500gal tank a mini and looked good. However I think he would have went with all larges if he was able to fit them all within his canopy.

[arc eye]

Do any of you have pictures of your canopies? I have a 180g I need to build a canopy for and I would like to use lumenbrights. I currently have two Icecap 250W ballasts.

would you recommend the minis, larges, or mini wides. thanks

[JRaquatics]

I would either go with three LB minis or two LB minis and one LB mini-wide for the center.

Here is the shot of my canopy. It works out real well. I still have not built a crown to cover the tops of the reflectors.

http://i107.photobucket.com/albums/m292/rvision/lbmounted.jpg

http://i107.photobucket.com/albums/m292/rvision/lb_closeup.jpg

The outer portions of the reflectors stay out of the inner canopy to help disperse heat .

The doors Velcro on
http://i107.photobucket.com/albums/m292/rvision/tankandstand.jpg

[arc eye]

I forgot to mention that my tank has about a 20" glass center brace. If I did three minis, do you think the center light would still be usable/useful? or do you think I should do two larges instead?

[JRaquatics]

I still think it would look better and will still be more efficient with 3 minis even if one is directly above a glass brace.

[Fish_wiz2]

Hey Jeremey, it's Wiz from CMAS. I just got some LB larges for my new 125 and was wondering if 2 would be enough? my tank is the old skool oceanics with the glass brace not the thick plastic. Also how do you clean them as i bought mine used but it has some hard to get off water stains? metal polish? rim (car) cleaner? Thanks

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15014205#post15014205 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Fish_wiz2
Hey Jeremey, it's Wiz from CMAS. I just got some LB larges for my new 125 and was wondering if 2 would be enough? my tank is the old skool oceanics with the glass brace not the thick plastic. Also how do you clean them as i bought mine used but it has some hard to get off water stains? metal polish? rim (car) cleaner? Thanks

If you have the standard 125 gallon dimensions of 72x18x22 I think you will be wasting a good amount of your light outside of the bounds of your 18" wide tank. The LB larges have a light spread of 30+ inches when hung properly. I would have suggested the LB minis for your tank with a spread of 24" at recommended hanging height. I would also have lit it with 3 250s in LB mini reflectors (even with the center brace the reflector will penetrate light through it). But since you already have them, give them a go and see if you like what you see visually and how it does for your reef.

We only advise to use fresh water. We take the sockets out hose them down with hot water and blow them off with an air compressor gun till dry. If there is stubborn spots you can scrub gently with the insides of a baby diaper but still run the chance of hazing the reflective material.

[mikeatjac]

Here is my mounting system.

Normal
http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m260/Mikeatjax/swing1.jpg
One light swung out of the way.
http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m260/Mikeatjax/swing2.jpg

I got to the point I hated my canopy so I came up with this. I had lost all of my corals due to a cracked MH bulb so I could take my time. I bent conduit and attached it to a sleeve on the back of the tank stand. Would have been really easy if the tank did not have water in it.

Now when I want to get into the tank I just swing the lights out of the way. I love it.

[JRaquatics]

Nice and clean. Well done.

[mordibv]

I am looking into purchasing an all CoralVue setup .

I have a few questions I hope to get help with .

I will be lighting a 36 or 30 inch cube 20 inches tall .

I am comfortable with a 250 dimmable ballast.

A 20 k Reeflux se bulb

A CoralVue Mini Pendant SE .

I plan to use 2 t5's .

Will the ballast fire a Radium bulb with good results ?

The set up offered to me comes with the 3

CoralVue products above . The price offered is the best I found so far .

I will want to suspend it 16 inches above the water line .

Will this work ?

The tank will be mixed with LPS and SPS .


Thanks

[JRaquatics]

I would suggest going with the mini wide pendants and hang it another inch or two higher off the water surface to cover more of the 36" area. I have heard there are no problems with using the Radium bulb on the dimmable CV ballast but have not tried them out myself yet. I am hoping to grab a 250 radium soon to try out on my tank to confirm.

[CryptoFusion]

I posted this question about lumenarcs on another thread but it would apply to lumenbrights as well. Lumenbrights may work just as well for me so can anyone help me out with this?

I have a 170 gallon concave front acrylic tank. I was thinking about getting 3 large lumenarcs but I'm not sure if that's the way to go. For one thing the middle of my tank is narrower in the middle because of the concave front. I'm also worried about having enough room in my canopy for actinics.

For those of you with 72x24 tanks do you feel like you have enough room for the larger lumenarcs + actinics?

I'm thinking I'll either go 3 minis - or 2 large for the sides and 1 mini for the middle. Any thoughts?

Thanks!

Ps. I have chosen to go with 3 250w Icecap ballasts.

[JRaquatics]

Depending on how high you can raise the LBs I would go with either the LB minis or the LB mini wides. I have 3 LB minis over my 180gal 72x24x24" tank and get great amount of direct light.

[CryptoFusion]

Well my canopy currently isn't built yet so I can probably go whatever height would be best. What do you recommend? Also - do you have to run a chiller on your tank?

[JRaquatics]

I don't run a chiller on my system and the tank temp usually maxes out at about 83 in the summer without air conditioning. On average the halides raise my tanks temp 3-4(max) degrees above the outside tank temp. Either of the LB smalls will work, all depending on how high you want to raise them, how diffused you want the light to get and even rock work.

[spsfarmer09]

what would work better for my 35 x 20 x 18 sps tank, lumenbright or lumenmax

[spsfarmer09]

would i need 2 150's or 1 250?

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15094282#post15094282 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by spsfarmer09
what would work better for my 35 x 20 x 18 sps tank, lumenbright or lumenmax

It really depends on how high you can hang the reflector. Do you plan on using VHO or T5 supplementation? What type of MH lamp do you plan on using? I am not a fan of 150w MH (not a great selection out there). Personally those dimensions are a tad tough to work with. Is there a particular reason why you chose MH over a full T5 setup? T5s will run cooler and give you the best overall coverage for a 35x20 tank and with it being only 18" deep it will easily penetrate to the bottom of the tank. T5s will also run a lot cooler on a tank that size too. Just want to throw those options out there.

[spsfarmer09]

i have up to 30 in to hang the pendant and i might use vho's ,not sure and i like halides better and i might make the tank taller so like 35 x 20 x 20 . I dont really like the color of t-5s.

[JRaquatics]

The thing is about MH reflectors is that you get a perfectly square spread and the higher you raise it the larger the spread becomes. Say a standard LB mini has a beneficial spread of 24x24" square area at 15" from bulb to water surface. That means 4" of bright light is spilling outside the bounds of the tank and you still need to spread the light 8-10 more inches to eliminate any dark spots. I think if you want to run 1 250w halide your best to go with the lumenmax and get the extra spread at a lower height. But if you decide on 2 175 waters I would go with 2 LB minis. I would also ask around and see what others say, as I am bias since I am not a fan of single light source lighting for various reasons when dealing with SPS.

"I dont really like the color of t-5s"
this is a first usually its the other way around as with t5s you can really tailor to the color of light you want by interchanging bulbs.

[Aquaticadvisor]

I would like to thank you for such an informative post. I have a 96L x 36w x 30h tank. I will be hosting all sps from the half way point of the tank and up & lps and various lower demanding corals in the lower half. Can I use 4 250watt Large lb pendants over this setup ?

Thank you

[JRaquatics]

Yes you should be fine with 4 250 LB larges on your tank. Just keep all high light demanding corals in the upper 3/4 of the tank.

[spsfarmer09]

hey jeremy sorry to keep asking but i am building the tank and its final dimensions are 36x 21 x 18. Would i be fine with 1 250w mini wide or would i need 2. The tank is going to be sps only and i have 36 in to hang the reflector?

[tas5tas]

You need two. The lumenbrights will only cover an area of about 24"....therefore you need two to cover 36".

[JRaquatics]

1. 2 175w (would only go 175w if you have a lamp you like otherwise you have more choices with the 250) or 250w LB minis

2. 1 LB mini wide 250w and hang higher with VHO or T5 supplementation and strategically placed rock work.

If it were my tank I would go with two LB mini reflectors since I prefer the look and benefits of multiple light sources (crossover light). I just think you would get better results this way.

[spsfarmer09]

i am building a 80 gallon sps tank and mike got me to order 2 lumenbright mini wides for it.

[tas5tas]

For those of you who have not completely centered your bulbs within you lumenbrights, I suggest you do so. Mine were only off by about 1/2" and I always just figured...."It can't be making that much of a difference." While doing my weekly cleaning and water change, I decided to go ahead and center the "hotspot" perfectly within all three reflectors. I don't have a par meter to measure the exact difference, but it is noticable to the eye. My tank is considerably brighter!! Now if I could just get rid of this pink tint when my bulbs are turned to 100%. Tank still looks good with my ballasts dimmed all the way though. Will be replacing with Radiums in August.

[spsfarmer09]

does anyone have a light rack that i can see?

[phoenix3717]

How high should the lumenbright mini wides be hung? I plan on lighting a 135 gallon that is 72Lx18Wx24H with either 2x175w MH or 2x250w MH. I don't want the canopy to be 16 inches high.

[Nerdy Nudi]

Quick question:

How do you mate the lumen brite with a sunlight supply galaxy ballast?

Can the reflector be ordered with the correct cord in place, or is the wire fitting only done by the end user?

Thnaks

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15225991#post15225991 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by phoenix3717
How high should the lumenbright mini wides be hung? I plan on lighting a 135 gallon that is 72Lx18Wx24H with either 2x175w MH or 2x250w MH. I don't want the canopy to be 16 inches high.

You won't be able to light a 6ft tank with only two lights. You will also have to hang the reflector so that the bulb itself is at least 15-16" off the water surface.

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15226383#post15226383 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Nerdy Nudi
Quick question:

How do you mate the lumen brite with a sunlight supply galaxy ballast?

Can the reflector be ordered with the correct cord in place, or is the wire fitting only done by the end user?

Thnaks

You will have to cut the gallaxy plug off and splice the wires together. Remember to cut down the sockets cord to about a 12" whip and leave the ballast longer. You just don't want excess cord running between the ballast and the socket.

[spsfarmer09]

i want a lot of growth because i am buying all frags for this tank, but i also want nice color, would the reelux 12k be good?

[JRaquatics]

Have you seen my build thread yet and see what one year with Reeflux 12ks did for me? Most of my stuff started out as frags when I bought them. I have used Reeflux 12k 250 watt lamps the entire time on my 180gal tank. I swap them out every 7-8 months since I somewhat overdrive them with my dimmable ballasts.

Check it out. (http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1313678)

I give great credit to the equipment I am running for my results including the Lumen Bright reflector and Reeflux 12f lamps.

[spsfarmer09]

i orderd some 10k reefluxs today

[acropora nut]

Thank you Ryan!!



<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15227821#post15227821 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by spsfarmer09
i orderd some 10k reefluxs today

[Nerdy Nudi]

@jeremy et all,

what is the correct method of splicing these lamp cords? using "crimpons"? or soldering them together?

[spsfarmer09]

no problem mike

[spsfarmer09]

i will be doing a build thread once the glass is done and i get my camera

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15229201#post15229201 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Nerdy Nudi
@jeremy et all,

what is the correct method of splicing these lamp cords? using "crimpons"? or soldering them together?

There is a number of ways to splice the lines together, but I just use insulated crimp-on female and male connectors. Here is a couple of shots of how I wired my sockets to the ballasts.

http://i107.photobucket.com/albums/m292/rvision/DSCN2819.jpg

http://i107.photobucket.com/albums/m292/rvision/DSCN2817.jpg

I didn't use a ground due to a full wood canopy but you can still use it by just adding another connector to the mix.

[stevedola]

I see youve left the cord from the socket short. Is there a reason for this? Ive been having issues with my bulb not firing when prompted by my controller. It seems the first few times the bulb fires however after a few uses (3 to be exact) the bulb wont fire unless you unscrew the socket from the reflector and then wiggle the bulb insocket.

Ive changed out the socket (supplied by manu) and replaced the bulb but still the same issue prevails.

WHen attaching the Ballast to the reflector the only thing ive done is clean the 3 wires coming from the ballast (white, black, green)and 3 wires from the LB socket (whhite black green) and then wire them together using wire nuts and electrical tape. What would make this problem persist?

My equipment Im using are:
20k radium 250w SE, LB mini 250w reflector, and 250w Bluewave HQI ballast.

[JRaquatics]

We recommend that the length from the socket to the ballast be no longer than 9-10'. The longer the cord is the more strain is on the ballast. That is why I recommend cutting the reflector/socket cord to about a 12" whip and leave the ballast cord longer (give or take 8'). You also have to remember bulb have to cool down fully before restarting, most ballast have a safety mechanism that won't allow you to fire a lamp after power failure/shutoff for 15min or so.

[stevedola]

its not when trying to refire its when initially starting the bulb. have there been others with this issue?

[JRaquatics]

How long of a cord do you have between the ballast and socket? The length can cause the lamps to have enough juice to start. It takes more energy to fire a bulb than to run.

[stevedola]

the full length of the socket cord plus the full length of the ballast cord. its coiled up and nver really measured. prolly 12' +

[JRaquatics]

Cut the cord down and it should solve your problem.

[stevedola]

well, After the first test after cutting down the cord more than 10' the bulb fired on perfectly. The second test comes at 5pm. Im hoping that my headache is gone. keep your fingers crossed.

[stevedola]

it fired on with the second test but i did alittle investigation and it looks like the wire that coralvue is using is rated 300v and not 600v. I plan on contacting them to inform them of this issue. What problems besides not starting can this create? will it damage my ballast or bulb? Ive cut down the 300v wire to 1 ft but now its got me worried. Would it be the price of 300v wire compared to 600v wire that would lead them to use the lower voltage wire?

[JRaquatics]

I don't see a reason to use 600v wire since we are using 120 or 220VAC. We have customers that run 1000w halides in these reflectors without any trouble.

[icantremember]

I believe stevedola is referring to the wire running from the ballast to the mogul socket.

Although HID ballast use 300-600V to fire the bulb initially the overall operating voltage is significantly lower. If the wiring supplied by CoralVue is rated at 300V's then my guess is it would be fine. All of their new ballasts are UL rated.

However, if it eases your mind you can upgrade to the 600V rated wiring with no ill effects.

[tempest115]

Hey

I am needing some help with my lights please! I have 3x 250wDE pendants, center is 20K coralvue bulb, two other ones are 15K bulbs (not coralvue, they broke in transit.. ). i also run non-dimmable 250w CV E-ballasts. Currently the lights are heating the tank by 2degress C every night and it's currently winter! also burning some of my softer coral so i have cut down the photo period of the two outside lamps to 2-3hrs, middle 20K is on for ~8hrs day. What height would you recommend i run the lights? 15" bulb to surface? I am setting up the tank for acro and plating monti's. The other two lights are hung and running, but my camera stopped working! there will be a lot more rock in the tank within two weeks and it will be up near the surface. And yes, i am going to tidy up the wiring when i get the height sorted.. :D

http://users.tpg.com.au/gadeberg//display.JPG

http://users.tpg.com.au/gadeberg//ballast.JPG

[shookbrad]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14308959#post14308959 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by GlassReef
Hey, Jeremy - great idea for a thread! After you and Mike turned me on to the LumenBrights, I decided to use them (large model) for my new 375gal build. The tank is 96" X 36" X 25". I went with four 400W ReefLux 12K driven by CoralVue dimmable ballasts.

My tank is part of an in-wall system so I wanted an open light rack design. I went with a 1" aluminum tube frame. It was simple sizing it - I just based each light's opening on the size of the LB reflector. Then I added an extra mounting area on the long sides to allow me to add some T5s for extending the viewing period:

http://i515.photobucket.com/albums/t358/selbold/Aquarium%20Build/Lighting/Assembly/Assembled-Frame.jpg


Brian,
I am planning to build a rack like yours. I am concerned about heat distribution though. I was planning on putting glass over the reflector to keep splashing off the bulbs and refletcors. How do you pull the heat off the lights. I will not have a hood. The rack will be suspended above the tank on pullies so I can lower and raise it if needed.
How do you pull the heat away from the lights and tank? here is the drawing for my light rack. i will have three reflectors and two VHO.
http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n55/shookbrad/240G%20In%20Wall/light_rack.jpg

[shookbrad]

MstgKillr: Why did you go from 250's to 400's That is why to much light. Light difuses as you go deeper into the water so unless you are trying to go 30" deep for sps you should switch back to 250's. I had a very similer issue. I Just upgraded my reflector and the intensity of the light was so great my corals started bleaching. I had to drop all my sps to the sand to keep them alive. It took my corals about one year to acclimate to the extra lighting. I had to put screen over the tank to difuse the light. My tank is 24" deep that I am refering too.

[Tomoko Schum]

Hi,

Are three 250W 20K metal halide bulbs with lumen bright mini be enough for keeping acropora colored up well in a 180 gallon tank?

I recently moved my corals from a 120 to a new 180 setup with three Lumen Bright mini with 250W 20K SE bulbs. My corals are used to very bright light (250W Phoenix on HQI ballast only 4 inches above the water surface.) My acros are all browned up right now. I don't know if it is due to the stress of moving them into a new tank (live rocks were also transferred from 120) or not enough light. I have three 250W XM20K bulbs on Ice Cap ballast. The Lumen bright fixtures are 14 inches above the water surface.

Do I need to change my bulbs and ballasts to 400W ones to brighten up my acropora?

[Tomoko Schum]

Hi,

Are three 250W 20K metal halide bulbs with lumen bright mini be enough for keeping acropora colored up well in a 180 gallon tank?

I recently moved my corals from a 120 to a new 180 setup with three Lumen Bright mini with 250W 20K SE bulbs. My corals are used to very hight light (250W Phoenix on HQI ballast only 4 inches above the water surface.) My acros are all browned up right now. I don't know if it is due to the stress of moving them into a new tank (live rocks were also transferred from 120) or not enough light. I have three 250W XM20K bulbs on Ice Cap ballast. The Lumen bright fixtures are 14 inches above the water surface.

Do I need to change my bulbs and ballasts to 400W ones to brighten up my acropora?

[JRaquatics]

You have more than enough light above your 180 to get great colors out of your colored sticks, even on the sandbed. I have 3 250w 20k Reeflux bulbs fired by CV dimmable ballasts in LB minis and am getting killer light penetration. I believe your browning is due to the move. You can check out my build to see what LBs and Reeflux bulbs have done on my 180 within a years time.

[Tomoko Schum]

Thank you very much for the info.
Is your Reeflux bulbs 12K? I really like the color of Phoenix 14K bulb. Do I need an actinic supplement with 12K Reeflux?

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15424870#post15424870 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Tomoko Schum
Thank you very much for the info.
Is your Reeflux bulbs 12K? I really like the color of Phoenix 14K bulb. Do I need an actinic supplement with 12K Reeflux?

I started out using the Reeflux 12ks and had great results but have since switched to 20ks for the extra par. Otherwise both the 20k and 12k are very similar in appearance. I never used any supplemental lighting for the 12k when I ran them. They appear to look like a bright white that produces some great colors out of various corals.

[Tomoko Schum]

You switched to 20K for extra PAR? How could that be? I thought that 12K bulbs generally have higher PAR values than 20K. Is Reeflux different in this respect?

[JRaquatics]

Yes. I did par testing on the 250w Reeflux lamps and the 20k did indeed have higher par than the 12k. Not a whole lot more but it did read higher numbers.

http://i372.photobucket.com/albums/oo164/reefspecialty/Reeflux_group_par.jpg

[Tomoko Schum]

Thank you. It is very interesting. I am going to look for Reeflux 20K bulbs. Have you seen or heard about any comparison between Reeflux 20K and XM20K?

[JRaquatics]

Both XMs and Radiums will be bluer than the Reeflux 20k. The Reeflux 20k will be much brighter though.

[Tomoko Schum]

Thank you! I gotta get them, then.

[JRaquatics]

If your really looking for the blue look the 20k Reeflux is not for you. I suggest the Radium for a good blue lamp.

[Tomoko Schum]

I really liked my Phoenix 14K on my HQI magnetic ballast. They were very bright and not as blue as XM. I wonder if it's closer to 20K Reeflux.

[crsaz]

for a 180 would you go 4x250w cv dimmables or 3 400w cv dimmable's in lumen bright reflectors? and what distance from the water would you suggest keeping the reflector?

[shookbrad]

crsaz, That is such a loaded question. I know you have heard this but that depends on what you want to keep in the tank and the dimensions of the tank.

Take a look at the first page you can see great pics of what kind of PAR levels 250W vs 400w lamps provide and at all the different depths. You can also see what types of corals are at those PAR values.

In my opinion it mostly depends on the depth of the tank. Assuming you want to keep SPS corals look at the PAR values in the two setups and compare the colors and growth. Then determine where in your tank you would like to keep the corals. Determine what the PAR levels should be and pick the wattage.

Just and FYI my new setup will be as follows.
Tank LxWxH 72"x30"x25"
3 250W 10K XM bulbs with the LB Reflectors and 2- 160 VHO Actinic. All lighting is run by Electronic Ballast. I should not have any problems keeping any SPS corals. I have been running this combination of Kelvin for about 3 years and have great growth and awesome coloration of the corals.

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15441932#post15441932 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by crsaz
for a 180 would you go 4x250w cv dimmables or 3 400w cv dimmable's in lumen bright reflectors? and what distance from the water would you suggest keeping the reflector?

IMO you will only require 3 250w lamps using LB wide reflectors over a 180gal (72" x 24" x 24").

[drummereef]

Hey Jeremy, I see you recommend either the LB Mini's or LB Mini Wide's over a 180g tank (72x24x24). Is there a benefit to using one over the other? I was considering getting 3 LB Mini's for my 180g. Thoughts?

I was planning on using 250 watt Galaxy ballasts with Radium bulbs.

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15527226#post15527226 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by drummereef
Hey Jeremy, I see you recommend either the LB Mini's or LB Mini Wide's over a 180g tank (72x24x24). Is there a benefit to using one over the other? I was considering getting 3 LB Mini's for my 180g. Thoughts?

I was planning on using 250 watt Galaxy ballasts with Radium bulbs.

I would recommend the reg minis for a 180gal. The wides seem to loose almost a 100par at the bottom as compared to the wides per Melev testing (http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1664775) The wides are an alternative to those that are beyond the 24" wide tanks but under 40" or your canopy isn't high enough to sustain a decent spread with the minis. I run the minis on my 180 and don't plan on changing them out for the wides.

[Macimage]

I was thinking of getting 3 LB Mini Finished Pendants for my 225 (72" x 24" x 30") and have two questions.

1. Are the LB Minis the correct choice?

2. What do I have to do to use my Blueline ballasts? I have one dual and one single. Are there a way to plug and play? I don't want cut and connect wires if possible.

Thanks!

[drummereef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15528531#post15528531 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by JRaquatics
I would recommend the reg minis for a 180gal. The wides seem to loose almost a 100par at the bottom as compared to the wides per Melev testing (http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1664775) The wides are an alternative to those that are beyond the 24" wide tanks but under 40" or your canopy isn't high enough to sustain a decent spread with the minis. I run the minis on my 180 and don't plan on changing them out for the wides.

OK great. How high from the top rim of the tank to the bottom of the LB (glass) do you run yours? I have about 25" to play with from the top of the tank to the ceiling... it's an in-wall 180g.

[JRaquatics]

Mine is about 12.5"-13" from the rim of the tank to the bottom of the reflectors.

[drummereef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15528987#post15528987 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by JRaquatics
Mine is about 12.5"-13" from the rim of the tank to the bottom of the reflectors.

Perfect. That will give me a couple inches to spare. :)

[IRISSERVICE]

hows the par on the 20k 175w?

[thedivachef]

I am in the process of setting up this 500 gallon acrylic. The dimensions are 120" x 30 X 30. There are 3 openings on the top measuring 29" lenght and 20" wide. The original idea was to have three Lb pendants over these openings and creating 3 bommies for corals with high lighting demands. My question is which pendant would work for my tank? In addition how far apart for optimum spread of light ? Here is a top down pic of the tank.


http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa122/thanegevas/th_084.jpg (http://s196.photobucket.com/albums/aa122/thanegevas/?action=view&current=084.jpg)

Thank you

[jwilliams860]

I have a 300 that is 8ft long, 30" wide and 24" deep, I have 4 250 Large SE lumen brights and the coverage is great, I have them centered over the tank so there is 6" in front and in back of the light fixture, I think with 30" wide you should go with the larger pendant, and mine are in a suspended canopy 16" off the surface of the water.

[nesto719]

DOES RADIUMS RUN WELL ON THE CV BALLASTS OR WOULD THEY RUN BETTER ON GALLAXY BALLASTS. HOW MANY AMPS ARE THE CV BALLAST RUNNING ON?

[nesto719]

THIS IS ON THE 400"S BY THE WAY .

[nesto719]

WHAT KIND OF PAR ARE THE MINI WIDES GIVING. I WOULD LOVE TO HAVE THE INTENSITY THAT THE REGULAR LB'S GIVE BUT I AM NOT WANTING TO PUT MY LIGHTING SO HIGH OFF THE TANK. 250'S AND 400'S

[shookbrad]

I got the parts for my light rack. I plan on putting it together and hanging it tonight. It will have 3 of the LB wide reflectors.
http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n55/shookbrad/240G%20In%20Wall/Picture001-5.jpg

http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n55/shookbrad/240G%20In%20Wall/light_rack.jpg

[Tomoko Schum]

Hi Shookbrad,

Your plan looks great! Where did you get these parts? Does someone makes them for Lumen Bright reflectors?

[shookbrad]

Thanks Tomoko!
I got the connectors and tubbing from esto connectors

I just made the plans for it to fit my tank and asked them to cut each piece for me so all I have to do is assemble. I probably should have gone 20" wide though. two of the reflectors are not bent correctley at the bottom and flair out a bit. That will cause for a very very tight fit. i will post pics of how I hang it tonight.

If you decide to go the same way I did and need some help with the plans just let me know.

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15615037#post15615037 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by thedivachef
I am in the process of setting up this 500 gallon acrylic. The dimensions are 120" x 30 X 30. There are 3 openings on the top measuring 29" lenght and 20" wide. The original idea was to have three Lb pendants over these openings and creating 3 bommies for corals with high lighting demands. My question is which pendant would work for my tank? In addition how far apart for optimum spread of light ? Here is a top down pic of the tank.


http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa122/thanegevas/th_084.jpg (http://s196.photobucket.com/albums/aa122/thanegevas/?action=view&current=084.jpg)

Thank you

With only having 3 reflectors over a 120" tank you will have shadows and it will appear like spot lights even at great heights. I would at least go with 5 LB larges for your tank.

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15623239#post15623239 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by nesto719
WHAT KIND OF PAR ARE THE MINI WIDES GIVING. I WOULD LOVE TO HAVE THE INTENSITY THAT THE REGULAR LB'S GIVE BUT I AM NOT WANTING TO PUT MY LIGHTING SO HIGH OFF THE TANK. 250'S AND 400'S

All of the LB will require higher than normal hanging heights. Your still looking at 14" from bulb to water surface even with the wides. Here is a great thread of test Melev did with the LB reflectors Click Here (http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1664775) . The Radium fires just fine on the CV ballast but the Gallaxy seams to still be the electronic ballast of choice among Radium bulb users.

[watson_barrett]

hi there, wondering if 22" is too high (bulb to water) for the LB larges. I will have 3 spead over 65" tank (so they just barely fit length wise...

Water depth is around 26" i believe.

Will I loose a lot of PAR at this level or do you think i will be good?

Any known testing at this height range?

[JRaquatics]

Why would you raise them so high? You will loose intensity especially with the larges at that height. I would go with 3 minis or mini wides over a 65" wide tank 26" deep. What is the tanks width? 250w right?

[shookbrad]

here are my LB on my light rack
http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n55/shookbrad/240G%20In%20Wall/Picture001-6.jpg

http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n55/shookbrad/240G%20In%20Wall/Picture002-4.jpg

http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n55/shookbrad/240G%20In%20Wall/Picture003-6.jpg

[watson_barrett]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15632623#post15632623 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by JRaquatics
Why would you raise them so high? You will loose intensity especially with the larges at that height. I would go with 3 minis or mini wides over a 65" wide tank 26" deep. What is the tanks width? 250w right?

No 400w....Tank is 250G: 65x36x26

Well i wanted to leave as much room as possible to do maintence since they are mounted to ceiling and will not be moveable once up.

So you think i should move them down into the 18-20 range then, or even lower???

Any knowledge of testing and PAR numbers at this height conducted by anyone???

[Wheel of Time]

I have (4) 400w Lumenbrights over my 300g tank using the 12k Reeglux bulbs. I have been very pleased with the coloration and growth. I have no supplemental lighting, but do use a couple of old 96w actinics for sunrise/sunset effect.

I have several questions: |
1) how many hours are you running the lights?
2) how often should one swap 12k (Im on non-dimmable cvallast)
3) Jeremy you switched to 20k for better par -- can we get a current par comparison after the 20k's have burned for a few months? Are they still higher par than the 12k's after burn in?
4) do you install them nipple up -- or doesnt matter?

Last question: some are trying to talk me into swapping into XM 10k's and supplemental -- what are your thoughts?

Thanks.

[shookbrad]

I have run XM 10K's with VHO actenic supplemental for several years and I am very pleased with growth and coloration.

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15635270#post15635270 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by shookbrad
here are my LB on my light rack
http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n55/shookbrad/240G%20In%20Wall/Picture001-6.jpg


Nice Rack. :rollface:

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15636457#post15636457 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Wheel of Time
I have (4) 400w Lumenbrights over my 300g tank using the 12k Reeglux bulbs. I have been very pleased with the coloration and growth. I have no supplemental lighting, but do use a couple of old 96w actinics for sunrise/sunset effect.

I have several questions: |
1) how many hours are you running the lights?
2) how often should one swap 12k (Im on non-dimmable cvallast)
3) Jeremy you switched to 20k for better par -- can we get a current par comparison after the 20k's have burned for a few months? Are they still higher par than the 12k's after burn in?
4) do you install them nipple up -- or doesnt matter?

Last question: some are trying to talk me into swapping into XM 10k's and supplemental -- what are your thoughts?

Thanks.

1) how many hours are you running the lights? 6-7 hours
2) how often should one swap 12k (Im on non-dimmable cvallast) I still recommend swapping out every 8-12 months.
3) Jeremy you switched to 20k for better par -- can we get a current par comparison after the 20k's have burned for a few months? Are they still higher par than the 12k's after burn in? Those par tests I did were done after burn in, I think it was around 8 weeks time.
4) do you install them nipple up -- or doesnt matter? Always nipple up with the Reeflux lamp.

Last question: some are trying to talk me into swapping into XM 10k's and supplemental -- what are your thoughts? You will get a lot more par but when I used to run 10k XMs I would get about 4 -6 months out of them when I ran them on my old hamilton ballast and switch back over to Hamilton 10ks. Out of all the lamps I have ever used, I have been most pleased with the results I get with the Reeflux (color and growth). Is there a reason they are trying to get you to switch to 10k XMs?

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15636319#post15636319 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by watson_barrett
No 400w....Tank is 250G: 65x36x26

Well i wanted to leave as much room as possible to do maintence since they are mounted to ceiling and will not be moveable once up.

So you think i should move them down into the 18-20 range then, or even lower???

Any knowledge of testing and PAR numbers at this height conducted by anyone???

Well if your running 400w you can get away with greater heights and still provide the intensity you looking for. I would still look into the mini wides over the larges and should get a good spread at 20". The larges will be a tight fit and at that height, I think you would bleed too much light on the sides of your tank. Or you can mix them up with one large in the middle and two mini/wides on the sides.

[Wheel of Time]

Jeremy, thanks for the quick response.

I think they are trying to get me to switch to xm10k's because they think they get better / faster growth, but have to add supplmental.

I have been pretty pleased with the 12k reeflux bulb, but seeing you switch to the 20k makes me wonder if I should do the same.
Now that you have run the Reeflux 20k's for many months do you feel they still have better par than the 12k's? And do you have a ballpark guess on the difference in growth rates under reeflux 12k vs 20k?

Thanks again.

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15636661#post15636661 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Wheel of Time
Jeremy, thanks for the quick response.

I think they are trying to get me to switch to xm10k's because they think they get better / faster growth, but have to add supplmental.

I have been pretty pleased with the 12k reeflux bulb, but seeing you switch to the 20k makes me wonder if I should do the same.
Now that you have run the Reeflux 20k's for many months do you feel they still have better par than the 12k's? And do you have a ballpark guess on the difference in growth rates under reeflux 12k vs 20k?

Thanks again.

There is definitely better par coming from the 20k but I have not seen much difference in growth with the few acros I have left. I just know that I was close to growing out my whole 180gal tank in only a years time (from frags to colonies) with only using 3 250w 12k Reeflux lamps in LB reflectors. There is no doubt that in the right tank conditions you will get better growth with any 10k lamp but color will not be the colors of your corals will not be the same as with the 12k Reeflux.

[jeninjohnk]

i'm running a tech 120 w/ 2 lumenbrighrfull size at 400w 12k reefluxon a m59 ballast. .+vho actincs. don't like it. seems to much ligth for my zoasitting at the bottom. bulb to water hieght is 16". was think about dropping down to a 250 radium on a hqi ballast. any ideas/comments. BTW i love the idea of the reflectors high so i can work in the tank without bumping into the lights. iwould perfer not to change reflectors unless its needed. thanks john

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15636756#post15636756 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jeninjohnk
i'm running a tech 120 w/ 2 lumenbrighrfull size at 400w 12k reefluxon a m59 ballast. .+vho actincs. don't like it. seems to much ligth for my zoasitting at the bottom. bulb to water hieght is 16". was think about dropping down to a 250 radium on a hqi ballast. any ideas/comments. BTW i love the idea of the reflectors high so i can work in the tank without bumping into the lights. iwould perfer not to change reflectors unless its needed. thanks john

You can actually raise yours a bit higher with the 400s your running. If possible I would try to get them up another 3-4" and see how it lights your tank. What are the exact dimensions of a tech 120? I would only switch to Radiums if you really looking to get a blue looking tank.

[GSMguy]

The 250s would be better for a 120 IMO, 400w bulbs in these reflectors are still hot at 30"

[jeninjohnk]

48x24x24 the tech is eurobraced so you loose about 2.5 inchs all the way around the opening

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15636920#post15636920 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jeninjohnk
48x24x24 the tech is eurobraced so you loose about 2.5 inchs all the way around the opening

I wouldn't raise the reflectors then, you would loose too much light with the LB Larges with your tank Dimensions. You are better off going with 250s IMO. You would loose so much heat and it would be more comfortable for you to work under the lamps when they are on. 400w is way too much for your tank with LBs IMO.

[jeninjohnk]

thanks-- thats what i thought. just wanted to check with the experts.:)

[thedivachef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15615037#post15615037 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by thedivachef
I am in the process of setting up this 500 gallon acrylic. The dimensions are 120" x 30 X 30. There are 3 openings on the top measuring 29" lenght and 20" wide. The original idea was to have three Lb pendants over these openings and creating 3 bommies for corals with high lighting demands. My question is which pendant would work for my tank? In addition how far apart for optimum spread of light ? Here is a top down pic of the tank.




Thank you
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



With only having 3 reflectors over a 120" tank you will have shadows and it will appear like spot lights even at great heights. I would at least go with 5 LB larges for your tank.


Thank you for getting back to me. A couple more questions...:o)
How High should I keep the reflectors from the water ? 14" ? Can I get away with 250 watt ?

[JRaquatics]

It is really going to depend on the bulb/ballast/par choice and what you keep in the lower portion of your 30" deep tank. You can defiently get away with 250s at a good height with the LB minis with good planning.

[Wheel of Time]

There is no way 3 LB's will cut it for a 120" long tank. Min 4 required, preferably 5 IMO. I have an 8' long tank with 4 large LB's. I cant imagine having a tank 2 ft longer and having one less LB

[thedivachef]

Wheel..... Are you using 250's ? How deep is your tank ?

[Wheel of Time]

My tank is 30" deep. I really debated between 250's and 400's. I ended up going with 400w's, but in hindsight now I wish I had chosen 250's I think.
Dont get me wrong the 400w's are great, just produce a lot of extra heat to contend with and use a more electricity.

[thedivachef]

Seth thanks for the input.....:)

[CHAR3]

i have 250s over my 110 tall thats 31" and im glad i got them instead of 400's. i still have to hide some softies because its to much light for them.

[mseepman]

Do they make a DE Large Lumen Bright or just the SE version?

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15648507#post15648507 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mseepman
Do they make a DE Large Lumen Bright or just the SE version?

Sorry they do not make a Large DE LB reflector.

[danjen10]

Just got my new lumenbright minis.

I need to get them setup over my 72", 125g tank.

I was thinking about spacing them evenly but wonder if I should space the outer 2 a little closer to the center reflector? My rationale is that the overflows take up a goog chunk of the corner of each side of the tank.

Thoughts?

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15687591#post15687591 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by danjen10
Just got my new lumenbright minis.

I need to get them setup over my 72", 125g tank.

I was thinking about spacing them evenly but wonder if I should space the outer 2 a little closer to the center reflector? My rationale is that the overflows take up a goog chunk of the corner of each side of the tank.

Thoughts?

That is how I have mine setup. Just brought the outer two reflectors in to decrease any light bleed to the outside and to increase overall crossover light within the center of the tank.

[ChrisOzment]

I have a new tank coming my way - 92" x 35" x 28"H. I am thinking I can use 3 Lumen Bright Large reflectors to light the entire tank. 400W Coralvue dimmable ballasts with Radium 20k's.

Trying to go with 3 vs yet another 400W setup to make it 4.

Think 3 with 4 VHO supplementals will do the trick?

Building the light rack soon so I hope 3 will do the job.

[kmu]

Do coralvue dimmable ballast use less electricity when dimmed?

Im about to set up a 30x30x20 reef tank and would like to use a large lumenbright pendant with a 250 watt radium 20k probably dimmed. Im afraid I will hurt my corals since im gonna have alot of lps, zoas, rics, acans, brains, mushrooms, bubble tip anemone

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15697613#post15697613 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by kmu
Do coralvue dimmable ballast use less electricity when dimmed?

Im about to set up a 30x30x20 reef tank and would like to use a large lumenbright pendant with a 250 watt radium 20k probably dimmed. Im afraid I will hurt my corals since im gonna have alot of lps, zoas, rics, acans, brains, mushrooms, bubble tip anemone

Yes they will pull less wattage when dimmed down but IMO not enough to show a drastic difference in your electric bill. The Radium lamp dimmed down will look very blue, very close to toilet bowl cleaner blue. I would run the Radium at 250 or slightly more or less to you liking. But to acclimate your corals i would just shorten your photo period and increase in small increments till you reach your reg. photo cycle.

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15696031#post15696031 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ChrisOzment
I have a new tank coming my way - 92" x 35" x 28"H. I am thinking I can use 3 Lumen Bright Large reflectors to light the entire tank. 400W Coralvue dimmable ballasts with Radium 20k's.

Trying to go with 3 vs yet another 400W setup to make it 4.

Think 3 with 4 VHO supplementals will do the trick?

Building the light rack soon so I hope 3 will do the job.

I have seen it done before, and for the most part users are pleased.

[ReddingReef]

I current have a 180 gal (60x24x29) reef that has a Hamilton light fixture. The fixture has two 250mh 10k bulbs and a pair of 50" T5's. I'm not satisfied with the amount of light. The tank has a glass support right in the middle which is approx. 18" wide. I've read the thread and I'm considering building a new fixture. The intent is to have primarily SPS corals and a couple of clams. Would you recommend 3 x 250mh using the LB mini's or should I go to 400watt because of the depth (29")?

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15700408#post15700408 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ReddingReef
I current have a 180 gal (60x24x29) reef that has a Hamilton light fixture. The fixture has two 250mh 10k bulbs and a pair of 50" T5's. I'm not satisfied with the amount of light. The tank has a glass support right in the middle which is approx. 18" wide. I've read the thread and I'm considering building a new fixture. The intent is to have primarily SPS corals and a couple of clams. Would you recommend 3 x 250mh using the LB mini's or should I go to 400watt because of the depth (29")?

Due to the tanks volume I would try to aquascape around the 250s to save on electrical $ and heat problems that are associated with running 400w fixtures. Just keep all sps in the upper half of the aquarium and softies, montis and LPS in the lower half. I have had the Hamilton fixture before and is night and day difference between them and the output you will get with the LB reflector.

[kmu]

On a 30x30x20 cube, would there be alot of light spill outside the tank with the Large Lumen Bright pendant? The reason I ask is because I got 2 toddlers that I dont want them to look directly to the light.

Which bulb makes the corals glow better, the Radium 20k or the Reeflux 20k?

[BreadmanMike]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15700851#post15700851 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by kmu
On a 30x30x20 cube, would there be alot of light spill outside the tank with the Large Lumen Bright pendant? The reason I ask is because I got 2 toddlers that I dont want them to look directly to the light.

Which bulb makes the corals glow better, the Radium 20k or the Reeflux 20k?

I have literally no light spill on mine. I also have two toddlers and another one coming in a few weeks, so it is something I was concerned with as well.

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15701122#post15701122 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by BreadmanMike
I have literally no light spill on mine. I also have two toddlers and another one coming in a few weeks, so it is something I was concerned with as well.

A few weeks already? O-boy have fun. I wish your wife well.;)

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15700851#post15700851 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by kmu
On a 30x30x20 cube, would there be alot of light spill outside the tank with the Large Lumen Bright pendant? The reason I ask is because I got 2 toddlers that I dont want them to look directly to the light.

Which bulb makes the corals glow better, the Radium 20k or the Reeflux 20k?

The Lumen Brights have the least amount of spill from a high end reflector IMO. But no matter what reflector you place over the tank if there is not shield or canopy there will always be a direct line of site to the lamp. The Radium will give you more glow/florescence as it is a bluer bulb.

[BreadmanMike]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15701343#post15701343 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by JRaquatics
A few weeks already? O-boy have fun. I wish your wife well.;)


pfft how about wishing me well?:rolleyes:

I'm going to have to go to work and take care of her and three kids for a good three weeks after... I'm looking at 3 hours sleep tops! :lol: Just wait, your time is coming!!! You have it easy now bro. :p

[kmu]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15701122#post15701122 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by BreadmanMike
I have literally no light spill on mine. I also have two toddlers and another one coming in a few weeks, so it is something I was concerned with as well.

Congratulations, I have another one comming on march...

How high do you have your pendant set up?

[BreadmanMike]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15702866#post15702866 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by kmu
Congratulations, I have another one comming on march...

How high do you have your pendant set up?

Congrats to you too buddy. The bottom of the pendant is 10" off the water surface.

[ReddingReef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15700541#post15700541 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by JRaquatics
Due to the tanks volume I would try to aquascape around the 250s to save on electrical $ and heat problems that are associated with running 400w fixtures. Just keep all sps in the upper half of the aquarium and softies, montis and LPS in the lower half. I have had the Hamilton fixture before and is night and day difference between them and the output you will get with the LB reflector.

If I build a canopy similar to yours can I place the reflectors and then add twin T5 24" fixtures on the outside and still stay within the 24" width of the tank.

The mini reflectors are 16", I'm guessing the twin 24" fixtures are approx. 4" wide so that equals 24" since there are two fixtures. If this works then I could have 3 250watt MH with 20k radium bulbs, and 8 T5's surrounding the MH reflectors.

Too much? Better question - will it fit over a 60" x 24" tank?

[vchin]

Hey everyone,

Would 18.5 inches from the bulb to the water be too far on these pendants on a 24" wide by 30" deep tank? I'm concerned about heat issues but plan on having an SPS dominated tank from the middle of the tank on up. If it is "deemed" too high, where would you put it, I'd like to know before building the light rack as it will be mounted directly on floor joists. Thanks in advance and any input would be appreciated.

Vin

[FLAMAANGEL]

hi, i have a 300gal tank with three access holes on the top. the tank dimensions
are 96" long, 30" wide and 24" tall. i have mostly LPS corals in my tank and
will have some sps. i was going to go with 3 250w bulbs and Lumenbright Large
pendants. is this good? should i go with mini or stick with large. remember i have only 3 access holes on the top of the tank.
thanks

Dan

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15719910#post15719910 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by FLAMAANGEL
hi, i have a 300gal tank with three access holes on the top. the tank dimensions
are 96" long, 30" wide and 24" tall. i have mostly LPS corals in my tank and
will have some sps. i was going to go with 3 250w bulbs and Lumenbright Large
pendants. is this good? should i go with mini or stick with large. remember i have only 3 access holes on the top of the tank.
thanks

Dan

The LB larges would be best to give you the spread you need. Are you going to supplement with T-5 or VHOs?

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15710841#post15710841 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by vchin
Hey everyone,

Would 18.5 inches from the bulb to the water be too far on these pendants on a 24" wide by 30" deep tank? I'm concerned about heat issues but plan on having an SPS dominated tank from the middle of the tank on up. If it is "deemed" too high, where would you put it, I'd like to know before building the light rack as it will be mounted directly on floor joists. Thanks in advance and any input would be appreciated.

Vin

If your running 250w lamps you will be best at anywhere between 15"-18". If you want to penetrate deeper in the tank then I suggest you hang the reflector closer to 15"-16" bulb to water. This will also depend on what type of bulb you plan on using and your aquascape.

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15709981#post15709981 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ReddingReef
If I build a canopy similar to yours can I place the reflectors and then add twin T5 24" fixtures on the outside and still stay within the 24" width of the tank.

The mini reflectors are 16", I'm guessing the twin 24" fixtures are approx. 4" wide so that equals 24" since there are two fixtures. If this works then I could have 3 250watt MH with 20k radium bulbs, and 8 T5's surrounding the MH reflectors.

Too much? Better question - will it fit over a 60" x 24" tank?

I will have to get back to you to see how long an actual 24" t-5 set is. But sounds like it should work. You didn't want to run 2 4' or 6' T-5 on the front and back?

[ReddingReef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15721593#post15721593 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by JRaquatics
I will have to get back to you to see how long an actual 24" t-5 set is. But sounds like it should work. You didn't want to run 2 4' or 6' T-5 on the front and back?

I may be better off just running a T5 twin bulb fixture down one side of the canopy. The MH's would be move a little toward the back and the T5's would be in the front. I could use 60" T5's. Is the width of the T5 fixture and bulbs approx. 4 inches? I'm going to order the aluminum framing materials this afternoon and probably the reflectors and ballasts assemblies also.

[JRaquatics]

The only thing nice about running the smaller t-5 between the reflectors is that you will have a more even spread of actinics and MH.

[ReddingReef]

If I put them in between then I could use only two twin tube fixtures. The reflectors are each 16" that equals 48" leaving 12". The two twin tubes I' guessing are each 4-5" that is 48+10 = 58" the tank is 60" long. Is two twin tubes enough?

[FLAMAANGEL]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15721555#post15721555 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by JRaquatics
The LB larges would be best to give you the spread you need. Are you going to supplement with T-5 or VHOs?



I plan to use 4 48" actinic vho, do i need any more?
thanks

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15722466#post15722466 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by FLAMAANGEL
I plan to use 4 48" actinic vho, do i need any more?
thanks

You should be good with 4 48" VHOs.

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15722335#post15722335 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ReddingReef
If I put them in between then I could use only two twin tube fixtures. The reflectors are each 16" that equals 48" leaving 12". The two twin tubes I' guessing are each 4-5" that is 48+10 = 58" the tank is 60" long. Is two twin tubes enough?

Sorry but I am a little lost on what your saying/asking here.^

[ReddingReef]

The tank is 60" long and 24" wide. If I use 3 mini LB reflectors they are 16" across (each) If we add 16+16+16 = 48". I now have 12" remaining to place T5 fixtures. I would naturally want to place them in between the reflectors, correct? They are are being placed front to back (24" fixtures). If each fixture is 4-5" wide I an only use two fixtures. Is that any clearer?

[JRaquatics]

Now I got you. When I get home tonight I will measure the spacing between my reflectors to get a better idea of how this would look. Is your 180 a standard AGA tank with 2 center braces?

[ReddingReef]

It is an Oceanic with a large glass and plastic center brace 60x24x29 tall

Thanks for the help Jeremy

Bob

[vchin]

Jeremy,

I'm running 400W lights, and I appreciate the input. Would the 18.5 inches be OK on 400W? I like that I won't have to clean reflectors as much and the heat is cut down dramatically. Do you think I should still take it down to 16" on a 30 inch deep tank? Thanks again!

Vin

quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15710841#post15710841 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by vchin
Hey everyone,

Would 18.5 inches from the bulb to the water be too far on these pendants on a 24" wide by 30" deep tank? I'm concerned about heat issues but plan on having an SPS dominated tank from the middle of the tank on up. If it is "deemed" too high, where would you put it, I'd like to know before building the light rack as it will be mounted directly on floor joists. Thanks in advance and any input would be appreciated.

Vin
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



If your running 250w lamps you will be best at anywhere between 15"-18". If you want to penetrate deeper in the tank then I suggest you hang the reflector closer to 15"-16" bulb to water. This will also depend on what type of bulb you plan on using and your aquascape.

[JRaquatics]

No. I would leave it at 18.5 due to the 400w heat output.

[vchin]

Thanks so much Jeremy - I got these lights (my entire set up actually :-)) through you guys and you gotta just love the price and service that comes with them!

I just wish I could get PAR readings from that distance! I'd love to be able to grow SPS on the bottom of the tank! Has there ever been a determination on what the minimum PAR must be to grow SPS?

What does everyone use to clean the reflectors and bulbs? Just RO/DI water or some kind of chemical spray? Thanks for the input!

[JRaquatics]

Different corals have different light demands and even the same coral can look different under different conditions. Most SPS do well with par levels 100 and above. Mike and I just hose down our reflectors and blow them off with an air compressor.

[JRaquatics]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15723570#post15723570 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ReddingReef
It is an Oceanic with a large glass and plastic center brace 60x24x29 tall

Thanks for the help Jeremy

Bob

I don't think you will have the enough room to place the T5 between the reflectors without the outer reflectors being too close to the outer sides of the tank. I would suggest using the 4' instead, this way you can set the halides in your desired position over the tank.

[Tomoko Schum]

Quote:
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15687591#post15687591 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by danjen10
Just got my new lumenbright minis.

I need to get them setup over my 72", 125g tank.

I was thinking about spacing them evenly but wonder if I should space the outer 2 a little closer to the center reflector? My rationale is that the overflows take up a goog chunk of the corner of each side of the tank.

Thoughts?

That is how I have mine setup. Just brought the outer two reflectors in to decrease any light bleed to the outside and to increase overall crossover light within the center of the tank.

How many inches did you move them toward the center from the ends? I am thinking about doing the same. I am considering moving the ones on ends two inches inward.

[ptan]

hello guys... planning to start my own reef and im contemplating how layout my lighting...

my tank dimension is 72Lx36Wx24H... it will be peninsula tank...

the only lumenbright available in our LFS is the 20"x20" version (is this the large version or small version?)

my question are the ff:
1. can i get away with two sets of lumenbright to lit the whole tank?
2. if two sets are not enough, and 3 sets are needed, can 3 sets of lumenbright with 20x20" footprint fit into my canopy?

Thanks for the replies...

[JRaquatics]

hello guys... planning to start my own reef and im contemplating how layout my lighting...

my tank dimension is 72Lx36Wx24H... it will be peninsula tank...

the only lumenbright available in our LFS is the 20"x20" version (is this the large version or small version?)

my question are the ff:
1. can i get away with two sets of lumenbright to lit the whole tank?
2. if two sets are not enough, and 3 sets are needed, can 3 sets of lumenbright with 20x20" footprint fit into my canopy?

Thanks for the replies...

They are the larges and 3 should fit within your canopy. I would stick with 3 reflectors using either the larges or the mini wides.

[ptan]

They are the larges and 3 should fit within your canopy. I would stick with 3 reflectors using either the larges or the mini wides.


will follow your recommendations... thanks...

[serpentman]

hello guys... planning to start my own reef and im contemplating how layout my lighting...

my tank dimension is 72Lx36Wx24H... it will be peninsula tank...

the only lumenbright available in our LFS is the 20"x20" version (is this the large version or small version?)

my question are the ff:
1. can i get away with two sets of lumenbright to lit the whole tank?
2. if two sets are not enough, and 3 sets are needed, can 3 sets of lumenbright with 20x20" footprint fit into my canopy?

Thanks for the replies...

I tried to light my old 150g (72x18x27) with 2LBs and hated it. Even when mounted on an angle there are noticeable dark areas. Definitely go with 3. Front-to-back you should be ok.

[jwilliams860]

+2 on the 3, I have 4 across an 8ft tank, looks great

[chriscobb]

I'm in the build process of a tank 65"Lx40"Wx24"H. I am going to supplement with either T5's or VHO's, but wondering which reflector you would recommend? I was leaning towards the LB wides, but now starting to second guess myself......I'm planning on running 250w ballasts. I have 24" to mount above the tank. Any suggestions would be great!!!

[jwilliams860]

my tank is 30" front to back and 24" high, i have the large pendants mounted about 16" above the water.I have VHOS mounted in front of and behind the reflectors I get enouh coverage, i think if you stagger the lights across the 40" it would work

[ptan]

thanks serpentman and jwilliams for that insight.. will definitely use three LB for my setup... thanks again...

[chriscobb]

Would going with the LB mini wides provide alittle more coverage?

[JRaquatics]

Would going with the LB mini wides provide alittle more coverage?

Not more coverage than a LB large but more intense (especially at the lower depths of your tank and will allow for more room in your canopy.

[reelsteel]

Jeremy...great thread!!! Got a question for you: I am resetting up a 500g tencor acrylic tank (120"Lx36"Wx30"H )...I have 24" from the top of the tank to the ceiling...I currently have (4)400w blueline ballast and 20k xm bulbs w/ the basic reflectors in the canopy...I am building a 16'x14' fishroom with the tank built into the wall(but will be able to see the sides also)...I would like to reuse the ballast and bulbs for now(to keep the overall cost of the fish room down, wife is keeping track of all my expenses!!! lol)...Do you think I could use 4 LB larges or should I use 4 mini's? I want to be able to raise and lower the pendants to get inside the tank...thoughts? Do you think 250's would work? I'd like to get rid of the 400's if i can...thanks

[JRaquatics]

If you are doing SPS I would stick with your 4 400w halides and use the LB larges to spread the light. If you plan on doing LPS and softies you can get away with using 250s but will most likely have to run 5 LB mini wides and strategically place your higher light demanding corals in the upper half of the tank.

[reelsteel]

Thanks...I'm going to get the LB large and reuse my ballasts for now...

[Rickyrooz1]

Yes. I did par testing on the 250w Reeflux lamps and the 20k did indeed have higher par than the 12k. Not a whole lot more but it did read higher numbers.

http://i372.photobucket.com/albums/oo164/reefspecialty/Reeflux_group_par.jpg

Thanks for these PAR values!

[mattyice]

Okay got a question for Jeremy. I'm setting up a 30x30x24 cube with the possibility of maybe getting a 36x36x27 cube...I've been looking but cant seem to get the answers I'm looking for. I thought that going with a single 400W Lumen Bright setup with a 20K bulb would be the best. How far off the tank should the reflector be for either tank to get that spead of light

[JRaquatics]

Okay got a question for Jeremy. I'm setting up a 30x30x24 cube with the possibility of maybe getting a 36x36x27 cube...I've been looking but cant seem to get the answers I'm looking for. I thought that going with a single 400W Lumen Bright setup with a 20K bulb would be the best. How far off the tank should the reflector be for either tank to get that spead of light

I would think at least 20"+ (bulb to water surface) to give you an approximate spread of 36"

[FloformAustria]

Hello!

i´ve got a question!
i´m about to order two Lumenbright Pendant.
but i´m not shure which one to use, SE or DE?
The DE is a little bit smaller than the SE.
http://i774.photobucket.com/albums/yy27/flofromaustria/devsse.jpg

I hope here i can ask this!

Thx

Flo

[Rickyrooz1]

Jeremy, What is the effective coverage area for the LB large? Could three cover a tank 72"x40"?

[JRaquatics]

Hello!

i´ve got a question!
i´m about to order two Lumenbright Pendant.
but i´m not shure which one to use, SE or DE?
The DE is a little bit smaller than the SE.
http://i774.photobucket.com/albums/yy27/flofromaustria/devsse.jpg

I hope here i can ask this!

Thx

Flo

It is really just personal preference at this point. I personally am a fan of SE lamps because there are so many bulb options that are available for SE lamps as the DE are somewhat limited in comparison.

[JRaquatics]

Jeremy, What is the effective coverage area for the LB large? Could three cover a tank 72"x40"?

Depends on the height and wattage you plan to do. I would say it ranges about 30"-36" at recommended hanging heights.

[FloformAustria]

It is really just personal preference at this point. I personally am a fan of SE lamps because there are so many bulb options that are available for SE lamps as the DE are somewhat limited in comparison.

thank u for your answer!
Perfect, i´m going to order the LumenBright SE LRG Pendant!

Flo

[Oldtimer]

First off - Very informative thread so thanks for it. I'm about ready to build the lighting for my 240 SPS dominated display (72"L x 30"W x 26"H). 3" Euro brace all around. It is an in-wall tank housed in a fish room. I plan to make a lighting rack similar to Glassreef's. Since this is a basement setup in an old house, I'm height limited. I have approx 20" from water surface to ceiling. My plan is as follows:

* (3) Lumen bright SE Mini's
* (3) Reeflux 250W 12k blubs
* (3) Coralvue dimmable 250W ballasts
* (4) 60" T5's with 2 of them placed in front and 2 in back of the MH's

My concern is narrowing down the best reflector. I fully expect the top of the mini reflector to be around 1-2" from the ceiling to achieve the recommended 14"+ distance from bulb to water line. On the otherhand, I do have a 30" wide tank so would the slightly taller large reflector serve me better? Or, is this the perfect application of a mini wide?

I'm leaning towards the mini wide based on what I've read, but before I place an order I want to be sure that I will not find that I need to raise the reflector higher than my ceiling allows in order to have full coverage in the tank. Thanks!

[JRaquatics]

First off - Very informative thread so thanks for it. I'm about ready to build the lighting for my 240 SPS dominated display (72"L x 30"W x 26"H). 3" Euro brace all around. It is an in-wall tank housed in a fish room. I plan to make a lighting rack similar to Glassreef's. Since this is a basement setup in an old house, I'm height limited. I have approx 20" from water surface to ceiling. My plan is as follows:

* (3) Lumen bright SE Mini's
* (3) Reeflux 250W 12k blubs
* (3) Coralvue dimmable 250W ballasts
* (4) 60" T5's with 2 of them placed in front and 2 in back of the MH's

My concern is narrowing down the best reflector. I fully expect the top of the mini reflector to be around 1-2" from the ceiling to achieve the recommended 14"+ distance from bulb to water line. On the otherhand, I do have a 30" wide tank so would the slightly taller large reflector serve me better? Or, is this the perfect application of a mini wide?

I'm leaning towards the mini wide based on what I've read, but before I place an order I want to be sure that I will not find that I need to raise the reflector higher than my ceiling allows in order to have full coverage in the tank. Thanks!

I would suggest the Mini Wides for your setup. This should allow for your much needed room between your tank top and your future canopy top.

[Oldtimer]

Thanks. No plans for a canopy here since it's in a fish room, but the ceiling isn't moving! So, I do appreciate your response. My choice is clear now.

[ChrisOzment]

Do they make LumenBright Large AND Wide reflectors like they do for the minis? If so, what percentage spread increase left to right should one expect? I am evaluating lighting options over my 92"x35"x28 tank since my current setup really isn't giving me the PAR I'm looking for.

I tested a Lumenbright Large reflector at 14" above the water (Coralvue ballast and Radium 20Ks). The PAR is good but there is definitely a "column" of light in the tank. Trying to see if there is another LumenBright large/wide option that might work for my application. Thanks

[JRaquatics]

The LB larges do not come in a wider spread reflector. Is the 14" off the water from bulb to water surface or reflector bottom to water surface? How many reflector are you using over your tank?

[ChrisOzment]

14" from the water surface to the lamp in the reflector. I am also testing the lamp 20" from the water surface.

I was trying to use 3 large reflectors over the 92" tank.

If the 20" height doesn't work then I either have to go with 4 400W sets or 2 1000W sets higher up.

[JRaquatics]

14" from lamp to water is way too close and is why you are seeing a spot light effect. You want them to run approx. 18-20" to get you a nice 30-32" spread. IMO you should have no problem lighting 92" of tank with 3 large LBs with 400w, as long as the braces don't obstruct the reflectors placement.

[stevedola]

how far should the mini be from reflector to water surface?

[JRaquatics]

how far should the mini be from reflector to water surface?

About 12-13" is standard for a good 24" spread. (bottom of the reflector to water surface)

[ChrisOzment]

14" from lamp to water is way too close and is why you are seeing a spot light effect. You want them to run approx. 18-20" to get you a nice 30-32" spread. IMO you should have no problem lighting 92" of tank with 3 large LBs with 400w, as long as the braces don't obstruct the reflectors placement.

Coralvue 400W ballasts overdriven 10%
Radiium 20K lamps 1 month old
Lumenbright Large reflector (20" from water surface to the bottom of the lamp)

Tank is 28" deep with a 1" sandbed

Measurements are across the middle of the tank about 28" wide "window".

Are these PAR numbers expected with the above criteria?

1" under the water - 300 / 650 / 400
14" under water (half way) - 250 / 350 / 200
sandbed - 180 / 220 / 200

[JRaquatics]

I am not sure with the Radium 400w 20k. But when I ran par #s on the radium 250 version the par numbers were rather low compared to a few other lamps I tested but still considered good #s for a 20k lamp. Those # you are getting are rather decent for 400w even at 20" above the surface running a 20k lamp. Can you lower the reflectors to 18" and see if there is huge change in numbers and see if the spread is to you liking?

[ChrisOzment]

Seems like 3 Lumenbright Large reflectors at anything less than 20" would most likely give me some deadspots high in the tank (visible on the back wall).

So it looks like I need to either go with 4x400's or 2x1000's to get everything I'm looking for - High PAR, no deadspots, blue tint, and not have the lamps 15" or less from the water.

My next question/concern is heat from 4x400's at 16-18" vs 2x1000's at 22" above the water.

[tgriffin]

I'm hoping to get some input on lighting a tank I am planning on setting up soon. I am going with a 150 cube 36x36x27 and wanting sps/lps. I was thinking about going with 1 lumen bright 3 with a 400 watt radium 20k and supplementing with a few t5's. Does anyone see a problem with this for this tank and what I'm planning on growing? How far off the water would I need to have the fixture. I am planning on having my rockwork kind of set up as a pyramid shape in the middle of the tank.

Thanks

[jthomps123]

I have a question about height.

I have a LB Mini on a light mover (reflector will cycle back and forth across length of tank) and am going to use a 250w Icecap ballast supplemented with 3x80w (overdriven on IC 660) ATI Blue+ bulbs. Tank is a 150 gallon, 5ftx2ftx2ft.

My question is what height is suggested for hanging this. There will be plenty of fans in the canopy so heat dissipation shouldnt be a problem. Also since its on a light mover dead spots and coverage wont be a problem. Im thinking that since its on a light-mover that I could hang the reflector closer to the surface of the water due to the reflector not being able to bake one position for more than a few seconds at a time. What do you guys think?

Thanks.
Jason