Cafe 50 cube

[CafeReef]

Here is my build to date, in late february I ordered my 50 pnp ecotech package from SCA. I upgraded to the solid cherry stand, it was damaged in freight so I ended up refinishing it (wife is much happier now).

Equipment:
50 cube 24x24x20 drilled for a herbie with return drilled into the back)
Solid cherry stand refinished to fit our "country rustic" style
2 mp10wqd's
radion xr15pro gen 3
Reef link
Jebao dct6000
Sca-301 skimmer
Finnex 200w Titanium heater (50w titanium backup)
Tunze ato
50lbs caribsea liferock
50lbs caribsea aragonite sand (dry)

First project was the sump, i took out all baffles and re-did the layout. I also built a diy removeable media rack that will allow me to do two decent size media bags or mech filter floss. There will also be a small refugium. I still need to find a sock mount I like. Have enough space for a 7" sock

Sump after
http://i.imgur.com/nwIUMTDh.jpg

For the stand, I did 2 coats of killz 2 inside and out, the in the inside I did 3 coats of rustoleums version of flex seal in white. Its essentially a spray on rubber. Feels great and completely water resistant which I like. Exteror is just a watered down latex that allowed me to distress it more and then an oil stain to antique after distressing. Last was a polycrylic finish to seal it.

before and after
http://i.imgur.com/5NSjwOyh.jpg

More to come, next is plumbing.

[CafeReef]

I forgot, media rack out of black egg crate. No idea how you guys do these things so polished, my dremmel basically made it not sharp haha.

http://i.imgur.com/nAehGyKh.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/DZZn8XXh.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/hphDGqqh.jpg

[CafeReef]

Also put a soft close damper on my stand door. Had extras from the kitchen, very affordable might I add, want to say like $5 a piece, had them for 2 years now, still work great. Figured my fish would appreciate doors not being slammed.

Stock photo
http://i.imgur.com/MYiUCj7h.jpg

[CafeReef]

Ran 12-2 to 20amp outlets (dual outlet) to their own breaker, 20amp arc fault breaker. Then added an aeon labs zwave home energy monitor to the breaker. This will allow me to log and capture energy consumption to my tank through my vera home automation hub.

To the left of the outlets is where my ATO line will come through from the closet side.

http://i.imgur.com/fGRVoBIh.jpg

[ksigaekdb]

Awesome build, I really like the layout of the sump you made.

[CafeReef]

Awesome build, I really like the layout of the sump you made.

Thanks, I'm really happy with it's layout. Silicone and straightness of baffles quality could of been better haha. But will work well.

[CafeReef]

debating if I want to go flexible pipe from the return pump, all the way up to a barbed fitting on the bulkhead, or if I want to go hardpipe down into the stand, and then a short run of flex pipe to the return pump.

[homer1475]

or if I want to go hardpipe down into the stand, and then a short run of flex pipe to the return pump.

Just did this on my SCA 80g. Works great!

[homer1475]

Sump is a unique layout if I'm understanding it properly?

Overflows come into the skimmer section, then up a baffle and across the front of the tank to the media rack where its forced down through the media, then up another baffle into the return pump?

[CafeReef]

Sump is a unique layout if I'm understanding it properly?

Overflows come into the skimmer section, then up a baffle and across the front of the tank to the media rack where its forced down through the media, then up another baffle into the return pump?

spot on!

[CafeReef]

Sump is a unique layout if I'm understanding it properly?

Overflows come into the skimmer section, then up a baffle and across the front of the tank to the media rack where its forced down through the media, then up another baffle into the return pump?

I'm definitly thinking this would be a cleaner look. barb and flex line is just easier :) Guess simple doesnt mean it's right.

[CafeReef]

I am 100% convinced that rinsing sand is the worst part of a new setup. Idk how you guys with extremely large tanks do it... I hurt from 40lbs... Guess it's part of getting older I guess...

Sand is in, tank is drilled, just need to plumb now. The it's finally time to get wet.

http://i.imgur.com/wOHnjavh.jpg

[CafeReef]

Plumbing is done and glued in place, time to get wet.

I also picked up an Apex Jr. To add to the equipment list.

I ran led's around the inside of the stand, lights up the entire space nicely. I need to get some more water mixed up, right noe I have the display full, sump dry. Its ready to start to fill, then I will let it cycle a week or two, adding some live rock and seed it with some filter squeeze :).

Pics.

http://i.imgur.com/GUuPkjTh.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/UuN7bIAh.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/sHQZHb0h.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/o2v0XkRh.jpg

[champion6sigma]

Interesting sump. I have similar dimension tank ND very similar equipment . Following on to see progress and steal ideas!

Sent from my BlackBerry PRIV using taptalk

[CafeReef]

Thanks!

Got some cable management done today. Nothing amazing but it does organize it some.

http://i.imgur.com/Mhgii7Yh.jpg

[CafeReef]

Made myself a DIY filter sock holder today. Couldnt find one I really liked online and the one's I was ok with were $30+. For $3 this will do just fine.

http://i.imgur.com/qArrFcph.jpg

[CafeReef]

Well, three trips to multiple LFS stores in my town and a cracked return bulkhead later. I am finally up and running. I think I need to slightly tweek my gate valve some. It has a very slight trickle sounds but overall very quiet. my MP10 is the loudest part of my setup, so I don't have much to complain.

My SCA 301 skimmer is decently loud, but it is a cheap skimmer, I will get my use out of it then look into something different. I won't be running it through cycle though.

one thing I am having an issue with is getting my temp up. I have my finnex titanium set to 80 and my water is slowly rising. My Apex says its at 74 now. I really dislike that the temp probe is built into the head of the heater. I really wish it was separate so I could run it into a different compartment.

http://i.imgur.com/KJviZb2h.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/4UBarzjh.jpg

[CafeReef]

Update:

Been cycling for a week now. My Tunze 3155 ATO came in. I was going to use my existing 3152 since it's only a 50, but decided to go new. Live rock in my sump was pulled from an existing tank. Feather dusters and some snails that were in the rock are thriving. I also added a probe holder and ATO hose holder. They are 3D printed ABS, very happy with the quality and price. I believe the hose holder was $6 and the probe holder was $18. Come in color options I just chose black to be consistent. They also sell magnetic frag racks and other items. Saw them at a convention in Omaha, was impressed.

Probe holder and hose line holder here: http://printedreefingsolutions.com

http://i.imgur.com/6AWVGxBh.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/tdDZMi9h.jpg

[Lilmatty5dimes]

Looks great. Love the Organization in the sump area. That website is pretty awesome had to bookmark it for future purchases. That sca is an awesome cheap skimmer. Loved the ones I've had.

[CafeReef]

CuC is in, went with 7 blue legged hermits, 3 turbo's, 2 trochous, 5 cerith snails, and will eventually move my two larger nassarius snails over from my current tank.

http://i.imgur.com/pkRuBXrh.jpg

[CafeReef]

Looks great. Love the Organization in the sump area. That website is pretty awesome had to bookmark it for future purchases. That sca is an awesome cheap skimmer. Loved the ones I've had.

Thanks, yea it doesnt seem to be a bad skimmer for the cost, definitly had it's share of micro bubbles, but tell me one that doesnt haha. I cut the barbed fitting down to be flush with the base then counter sunk it to spread the flow, Worked great, breakin is done though, bubbles are gone.

Thinking next week I'll move my clowns over and try and get my goby, will move my royal gramma last.

[CafeReef]

This weekend I began to migrate fish over from my current tank. I have decided to do this in weekly waves. Last week I moved my fire shrimp and skunk cleaner (as well as most of my hermits). Today I moved my first fish, my OC clown pair. So far they are doing well, just hanging in a corner. Next week will be my royal gramma and diamond goby.

http://i.imgur.com/C47XxkUh.jpg

[CafeReef]

might be talking to myself here, but here goes nothing :) haha.

My first major frustration of this build, and it wasnt caused by the build...Got my clowns moved over, felt that was a huge success and went very smoothly. A few hours later, I go over to my old tank and see my BTA, zoa's and my frogspawn are all closed up. I also notice, one of my plugs is flipped over (damn goby does this all the time). So I reach in to flip it back over and man, is the water warm. Check the temp, 84!. Look at my heater, stuck on... So, what was supposed to be a phased move, quickly turned into a move for everything. I was able to catch my goby and gramma easy enough, drip acclimated them while I got the corals temporarily situated on the sandbed.

Very happy with myself that I took the time to get almost all of them off my rock in the first tank weeks ago. The only things left in the old tank are my BTA, birdsnest and a zoa colony (they are all attached to a large rock).

Currently trying to "**** off" my BTA and get him to move off the rock so I can take the rock out and try to break it up to get the corals off. I really love the birdsnest, I know they are cheap, but I got it small and it's grown fairly well so I'd like to save it. The zoa's were a cheap $10 frag, but it was my first coral so wanting to tray and salvage as well, at least one head, Might need to look into fragging a polyp or two.

updated pic

http://imgur.com/Z3BivKNh.jpg

[110GTJ]

I am in love with cubes and smaller tanks right now

[CafeReef]

I honestly would have loved to have had a larger cube. d2mini used to have a cube that was simply incredible and one of my favorite tanks of all time. I just don't have the house to support one. No good corners or larger spaces to place one....which sucks.

Ultimately my favorite tank and what I will like to have someday, is a 120 tall. I really like them a lot. the size just seems perfect.

[CafeReef]

Just realized I never posted my plumbing.

I have a herbie drain system with 1 1" bulkhead and 1 3/4" bulkhead...this wasnt intentional... I should have done 2 1" bulkheads. the 1" bulkhead is reduced down to 1" before and after the bulkhead, this is my full siphon, the other bulkhead is my emergency drain. about 2 " above my siphon pipe, I drilled the back for a 3/4" threaded bulkhead for my return. inside the overflow, I have a 3/4"xclose nipple going into a threaded 3/4" fip to fip 90, then my lockline screws directly into the 90.

return:
http://i.imgur.com/k5823v7h.jpg

drain lines:
http://i.imgur.com/6o1ar7xh.jpg

[homer1475]

You might want to put a union on either side of that gate valve. If you ever need to move the plumbing, you'll be glad you did. The unions are a lot cheaper then a new gate valve.

[CafeReef]

You might want to put a union on either side of that gate valve. If you ever need to move the plumbing, you'll be glad you did. The unions are a lot cheaper then a new gate valve.

Thanks for the advice, I am lucky in that I can get a new gate valve for around $5 (father owns a wholesale pipe and fittings company), the unions just clutter to much IMO. I have one so that I can get full access to the sump if necessary.

[gb530]

Awesome build CafeReef and really liking the sump layout! Might have to copy you on that one, haha. :D No need to whip out the tape measure but did you write any of the measurements down when you built it? Wouldn't mind taking a peek if you have the measurements handy.

What kind of corals are you planning on keeping? I am thinking about getting a single Radion XR30 for my 50g cube. Curious why you chose the XR15 over say the XR30 or another brand of LED (like the Kessil A360w)?

Your build will definitely help me out when it comes time to set mine up. I'm probably a few months out until I start ordering equipment.

[CafeReef]

I bought the ecotech marine package in february when it was the daily deal from SCA and the xr15 was included. The coverage from the 15 is just fine, I get really good coverage ground to surface.

Talk to steve at SCA about building you a package deal, he can include a radion xr30 or xr15 and save you some $$.

This was my original design, I actually stole part of the design then changed it to include a media rack section. I can easily take measurements if you'd like. My water overflows are 7" and walls are 8". The sca 301 skimmer needs to be submerged 6-9". I was able to use glass from the included baffles, didnt need to buy anything extra other than GE2 silicone and a glass cutter.

http://i.imgur.com/CW597Q3h.jpg

[aaron1129]

Made myself a DIY filter sock holder today. Couldnt find one I really liked online and the one's I was ok with were $30+. For $3 this will do just fine.

http://i.imgur.com/qArrFcph.jpg

Could you walk me through how you made this? I am about to attempt to make one. I tried with a piece of acrylic, but it snapped on me when I was drilling the hole.

[CafeReef]

Could you walk me through how you made this? I am about to attempt to make one. I tried with a piece of acrylic, but it snapped on me when I was drilling the hole.

Sure thing.

It's just two parts, 1/2" pipe hanger (i believe 1/2") but could be adjusted to your needs, just buy a few and see which hangs best then return the others.

The ring is a 3" pvc slip coupling that I cut to make it smaller. Then all I did was line it up for the height I wanted. Used pvc cleaner, then pvc primer and then finally pvc cement. then I hung it up from the ring for a day letting the hanger sit flat/level so it wouldnt slide or move while the cement cured.

So far it works great. 4" draw string socks slip right over it and I sinch them over the ring, the extension coming down from the hanger is then inside the sock and kind of helps the sock keep its form and not float away.

If using socks with an attached collar just cement the pipe hanger to the outside of the coupling.

[aaron1129]

Sure thing.

It's just two parts, 1/2" pipe hanger (i believe 1/2") but could be adjusted to your needs, just buy a few and see which hangs best then return the others.

The ring is a 3" pvc slip coupling that I cut to make it smaller. Then all I did was line it up for the height I wanted. Used pvc cleaner, then pvc primer and then finally pvc cement. then I hung it up from the ring for a day letting the hanger sit flat/level so it wouldnt slide or move while the cement cured.

So far it works great. 4" draw string socks slip right over it and I sinch them over the ring, the extension coming down from the hanger is then inside the sock and kind of helps the sock keep its form and not float away.

If using socks with an attached collar just cement the pipe hanger to the outside of the coupling.

Thank you so much. I have been trying to figure this seemingly simple DIY project for a week now. haha. My grandma loves sewing and I found a good template for filter socks online, and sent to her and she made me like a half dozen and said it barely cost her anything to make. Off to lowes. ;)

[CafeReef]

Thank you so much. I have been trying to figure this seemingly simple DIY project for a week now. haha. My grandma loves sewing and I found a good template for filter socks online, and sent to her and she made me like a half dozen and said it barely cost her anything to make. Off to lowes. ;)

no problem at all, I make my wife make me filter socks, SOOOO much cheaper. She can knock out a dozen socks for me in about an hour, so every few weeks I put her to work.

Been tempted to sell them to members of my local club even, save everyone some $$.

[pelphrey]

Glad to see these tanks more and more. I am leaning towards a SCA tank myself!

[CafeReef]

Glad to see these tanks more and more. I am leaning towards a SCA tank myself!

my only complaint is I should have gone with the 80 gallon haha. but I am very happy with it :)

[pelphrey]

I looked at the 90 gallon cube, but for the same price I can get the 120 & for a $100 more the 150! I'm leaning towards the 120 at the moment.

[CafeReef]

I looked at the 90 gallon cube, but for the same price I can get the 120 & for a $100 more the 150! I'm leaning towards the 120 at the moment.

Yea, I would have liked to have gone larger, but it is in my living room and the supports under it are not the greatest, so had to go smaller. Also the reason for the 50 vs larger was the added cost of equipment. I have expensive taste unfortunately, paying $1200-2000 for Radion's was something I didnt even want to try and explain to my wife.

[Bossy @ Belgium]

Nice tank! I'm tagging along to see the progress.

Really like the organisation and neatness in the cabinet!

grts Bossy

[HuskerBioProf]

Thanks for the advice, I am lucky in that I can get a new gate valve for around $5 (father owns a wholesale pipe and fittings company), the unions just clutter to much IMO. I have one so that I can get full access to the sump if necessary.

What company is it? I am new to the Omaha area and am largely dissatisfied with the PVC selection at Home Depot. Haven't found a place to get more specialty fittings yet. This plumbing is really clean.

[CafeReef]

All of his stuff is wholesale and doesnt sell to the public, but a great place is dultmeier on like 140th and industrial

[gb530]

This was my original design, I actually stole part of the design then changed it to include a media rack section. I can easily take measurements if you'd like. My water overflows are 7" and walls are 8". The sca 301 skimmer needs to be submerged 6-9". I was able to use glass from the included baffles, didnt need to buy anything extra other than GE2 silicone and a glass cutter.

http://i.imgur.com/CW597Q3h.jpg

Perfect! Thanks, will be mimicking this as much as possible. :beer:

[Macro1]

Very nice!

[CafeReef]

Very nice!

Thanks! it's coming along.

Today I ordered an AFS and PM2 module with salinity probe for my Apex.

[CafeReef]

Skim from the SCA 301 is honestly pretty impressive. Skimmer has been running for 3 weeks, 1 week with fish. I feed once per day, LRS reef frenzy about the size of a stamp.

http://i.imgur.com/bLxXDAkh.jpg

[gb530]

Skim from the SCA 301 is honestly pretty impressive. Skimmer has been running for 3 weeks, 1 week with fish. I feed once per day, LRS reef frenzy about the size of a stamp.

Nice! :thumbsup:

[CafeReef]

Nice! :thumbsup:

Thanks, I honestly think it's coming along well.

I finally got my BTA to move off of it's old rock that I was not going to keep. Shipping Santa comes today bringing my PM2 and salinity probe. Also ordered a 90 USB adapter so I can hook up my AFS.

Next projects will be to redo my screen top and add an acrylic back piece. I tried to notch around my light mount and a spot for the auto feeder, it looks aweful so I refuse to even post pictures of it.

After this, Major project will be to redo a cabinet of some sort to move my equipment into. I would like stand to be sump only. Will see how it goes.

To be continued...

[CafeReef]

unexpected update of the day. Just checked in on my tank and see one of my clowns is hosting my frogspawn. IDK when this started, maybe today, never seen him/her do it before.

sorry for the crap picture, dropcam..

http://i.imgur.com/0tOptb1h.jpg

[Jah2707]

congrats. Clown hosting anything makes the tank more fun to watch.

[CafeReef]

PM2 module and salinity probe have been installed and basic wire management done. Need to hook up my AFS yet. Thinking about starting to look into a small android tablet and frame mount to the wall next to my tank to monitor everything.

I am thinking about redoing a small cabinet to put next to my stand to try and clean up the wire's a bit more.

http://i.imgur.com/USNhTbdh.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/YbTHOo5.jpg

[EGS25]

Great build so far love the cube! Wish I could have gotten one but just didn't have the right space for it. Ironically I just bought my sca-301 skimmer this morning b/c it dropped to $70 :thumbsup: looking forward to future updates!

Eric

[D.v]

Very neat build.

[CafeReef]

Thanks, it has been a fun build so far.

Great build so far love the cube! Wish I could have gotten one but just didn't have the right space for it. Ironically I just bought my sca-301 skimmer this morning b/c it dropped to $70 :thumbsup: looking forward to future updates!

Eric

I highly recommend the modification to the SCA-301 skimmer, cutting the barbed fitting down. It will give you far less micro bubbles and give you better head in your skimmer.

[CafeReef]

A few weeks ago I made my first screen top. I ordered the kit from BRS and royally jacked it up.

I tried to make notches in the screen to go around my light and an area for my Apex auto feeder. Where it technically worked, it was not square, the screen was loose and I frankly just could not live with it.

I have looked into the artfully acrylic screen tops. LOVE the way the look. I think I might ask for one for christmas from my wife and kid this year.

For now, I went to the hardware store, and bought some more frame. Luckly BRS sent me enough clear mesh to make a top for a 1000 gallon tank.

First/old screen (it looks much better in the picture than in person):

http://i.imgur.com/GDNQ7aKh.jpg


New screen:
I just made a square frame screen, no more bump outs or notches. I picked up some acrylic and took it to the bandsaw and cut it up so that I could get everything covered for jumpers. With this I used 100lb clear 3m tape (I think it should hold ha) and then some clear velcro to create a food door to remove when I need to use the AFS when I travel.

Full top:

http://i.imgur.com/MEpfbyrh.jpg

Notched area for the AFS. The center section in front of the AFS is the door that I used velcro to hold in place, this way I can remove it easily.

http://i.imgur.com/AE4PBUjh.jpg

remainder of the back. The senter section is over my overflow. I havnt decided if I want to cover this yet or not as I like to be able to have the area to get into to pull water samples from easily.

http://i.imgur.com/3na5hyyh.jpg

[CafeReef]

Also,

Recently picked up a swatch book from Apollo gel filters, decided to take some pictures of some of my corals tonight to see how it would work.

Mind you these are ultra crap iphone pictures. my camera is borderline shot on my phone...

rastas, sunny d's and utter choas zoas:

http://i.imgur.com/6asSAJmh.jpg

Frogspawn closeup (7 heads):

http://i.imgur.com/MdlykEzh.jpg

GSP, keeping this guy as an island on my sandbed as the rock is fully encrusted:

http://i.imgur.com/7YbCON1h.jpg

garf bonzai acro:

http://i.imgur.com/p4Ff8p6h.jpg

more zoa's, blue eye'd blondies and an unknown (my first frag from my old tank, it has been broken up and placed around the tank)

http://i.imgur.com/XpYV7bch.jpg

small hammer I recently brought home from my work tank, still new:

http://i.imgur.com/QJ9TRRJh.jpg

[EGS25]

Thanks for the tip ill definitely do that! That GSP is awesome, have to grab me one of those.

[CafeReef]

Thanks for the tip ill definitely do that! That GSP is awesome, have to grab me one of those.

heh. if you were in Nebraska I'd give you some. I have a frag I put up on my local reef club for free. couple people were interested, but no one claimed it. it fell into my rocks down to my sand bed. Now I need to dig it out...

[homer1475]

Wondering what mod to the 301 your referring to? I've looked up the mod, and it seems my 301 doesn't have the barb fitting. Just a small snub fitting(no barbs above the threads). I plan on cleaning my skimmer today, and I'll snap a couple pics.

[CafeReef]

this is the best pic I can find. Sorry if the owner is on here. full credit! you can see him holding the part cut off. after the "hex" part of the fitting to tighten, the fitting goes straight up for a half inch or so, then transitions to a barbed fitting, the mod is to cut it when the straight part ends right when the barbed fitting begins. this way when your skimmer is sitting ontop of the pump, you will see just a small amount of the fitting sticking up into the body of the skimmer. I can see about 1/8" on mine.

http://i1199.photobucket.com/albums/aa468/kriskristofferzen/ADA-60-f/IMG_1792.jpg

[CafeReef]

found the link. much better:
http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?p=19918529

[homer1475]

Yeah my 301 looks just like that pic of it cut off, I don't have the barbs above the threads.

Maybe in newer models they already made that adjustment? I'll post up some pics later when I tear it down to clean it.

[CafeReef]

Yeah my 301 looks just like that pic of it cut off, I don't have the barbs above the threads.

Maybe in newer models they already made that adjustment? I'll post up some pics later when I tear it down to clean it.

possibly. i got mine in February. I wouldnt think that it is anything SCA did as they are just utilizing a pump the purchased to go with their skimmer. maybe it's a different pump all together?

I need to clean mine too. Been up and running 5 weeks now, algae boom is in full force.

[homer1475]

Got mine right around the same time, interesting. Maybe I'm mistaken, I'll definitely look at it when I take it apart this afternoon.

[homer1475]

Actually, I just looked on SC's site. My mistake, I have the 302 skimmer. But I'll still post some pics, because I think mine comes like that stock.

[EGS25]

heh. if you were in Nebraska I'd give you some. I have a frag I put up on my local reef club for free. couple people were interested, but no one claimed it. it fell into my rocks down to my sand bed. Now I need to dig it out...

I don't need another reason to take a vacation! The hard part will be convincing the wife that Nebraska is the best place to take a vacation right now:lmao:

[CafeReef]

I don't need another reason to take a vacation! The hard part will be convincing the wife that Nebraska is the best place to take a vacation right now:lmao:

http://www.omahazoo.com/

Rated the best zoo in the world and has a pretty sweet aquarium :)

[EGS25]

http://www.omahazoo.com/

Rated the best zoo in the world and has a pretty sweet aquarium :)

Our son loves animals, its perfect! I wish we had an aquarium up here. The best one I've ever seen is the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, which I get to go back to this summer:celeb3:

[homer1475]

Just finished cleaning the 302, it already has that mod stock.

Just the screw in part.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k23/homer1475/IMG_20160517_1534541.jpg (http://s84.photobucket.com/user/homer1475/media/IMG_20160517_1534541.jpg.html)

Installed on the pump with the bubble cup in place.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k23/homer1475/IMG_20160517_1537179.jpg (http://s84.photobucket.com/user/homer1475/media/IMG_20160517_1537179.jpg.html)

And no that not a crack in the pump. Cheap Chinese pumps, and that's where it looks like it was molded together.

[CafeReef]

see, now that fitting would have been nice to have out of the box...

not that it took me much time, about 2 seconds on my bandsaw. but still, principle ha.

[HuskerBioProf]

heh. if you were in Nebraska I'd give you some. I have a frag I put up on my local reef club for free. couple people were interested, but no one claimed it. it fell into my rocks down to my sand bed. Now I need to dig it out...

I might take you up on that in a couple of months. I like the look of GSP. I was thinking of keeping it on an island to prevent invasion, as well, but I have never had it in previous tanks. Has the island been working?

[CafeReef]

Update 05-27-2016

Nothing overly new tank wise. I have decided not to wash my filter socks, since I am making them myself, the material just falls apart in my washing machine causing it to pill, this is making me not like the material so much.

I am going to have my wife make me socks out of non-flame retardant felt since it is extremely cheap and easy to do.

One new aspect, I have decided it is time to step my DIY game up a notch (might even make a small side gig out of it if I could help fellow reefers out, unsure yet).

3D printer :) Not the grandest in the world, but will allow me to print objects in ABS up to 7.8x7.8x7.8 inches.

http://i.imgur.com/tCb1R7Mh.jpg

first reef project teaser

http://i.imgur.com/c7qWIodh.jpg

[EGS25]

That thing looks awesome! I know i could just buy an overflow but buying a printer and printing it sounds much cooler...

[mannyhernz]

Update 05-27-2016

Nothing overly new tank wise. I have decided not to wash my filter socks, since I am making them myself, the material just falls apart in my washing machine causing it to pill, this is making me not like the material so much.

I am going to have my wife make me socks out of non-flame retardant felt since it is extremely cheap and easy to do.

One new aspect, I have decided it is time to step my DIY game up a notch (might even make a small side gig out of it if I could help fellow reefers out, unsure yet).

3D printer :) Not the grandest in the world, but will allow me to print objects in ABS up to 7.8x7.8x7.8 inches.

http://i.imgur.com/tCb1R7Mh.jpg

first reef project teaser

http://i.imgur.com/c7qWIodh.jpg

following!!
let me know if you print a sock holder! i need one since i just purchased the same setup with the same sump!!!

[CafeReef]

following!!
let me know if you print a sock holder! i need one since i just purchased the same setup with the same sump!!!

Im actually working on a design to eliminate socks but still give the sock concept. :)

[plecoco]

Following this thread. Keep posting.

[gb530]

Looking good CafeReef and looking forward to seeing what you will make with the 3D printer!!! :thumbsup:

[CafeReef]

Thanks, work has been killer this last week, lots of changes have kept me up most nights. hoping to get started this week.

[Rakie]

I am in love with cubes and smaller tanks right now

I agree! But cubes are deceptive in their size. A 36x36x24 seems like pretty small tank to me -- But it's 135! TO me, that tank feels half the size of a standard 120g.

I'm afraid if I wanted a cube for a main display I wouldn't be happy without a 60x60x24

[CafeReef]

I agree! But cubes are deceptive in their size. A 36x36x24 seems like pretty small tank to me -- But it's 135! TO me, that tank feels half the size of a standard 120g.

I'm afraid if I wanted a cube for a main display I wouldn't be happy without a 60x60x24

I completely agree.

Next spring we are finishing our basement, im going to be putting a 180 down there when done with a full fishroom behind it. debating inwall. my cube will then become my "fun" tank.

[Rakie]

180g sounds nice. I think a 112g cube could hold me over for a little while.. There's this mystical thing about cubes to me, they somehow seem like they give a lot more room than they do, while actively seeming much more small than they actually are.

I can't explain how they trick me so effectively, but they assuredly do, and I love them.

[CafeReef]

180g sounds nice. I think a 112g cube could hold me over for a little while.. There's this mystical thing about cubes to me, they somehow seem like they give a lot more room than they do, while actively seeming much more small than they actually are.

I can't explain how they trick me so effectively, but they assuredly do, and I love them.

I'm a big fan of 150 tall tanks, that might be an option also

[CafeReef]

Update day,

Somewhat tank oriented, made myself a prototype mini algae/nori grazer. The back panel slides off, insert the sheet, close and stick. It weighs enough to not move and spook the fish but only the size of a deck of cards. I have some design changes to make that I found in this design. This one in fact cracked because the suction cup is to tight. I'm thinking some rare earth maginets will work. The whole thing floats so I could remove the mag on the outside and let it float to the surface. Thoughts??

http://i.imgur.com/D8EWdHqh.jpg

[mr9iron]

Very cool, what type, and where did you get the printer?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[CafeReef]

It's an XYZPrinting Da Vinci 1.0A, picked it up locally from a store that had them on clearance. Got it for a great deal.

[CafeReef]

Version 2.0
The sliding tray had an issue with the suction cup being in the way, went to a tension latch system, this might become the final design as it works extremely well. More to come.

http://i.imgur.com/JpstqMEh.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/XsDJQLEh.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/XkfylM3h.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/tHtFJYrh.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/5Z2386Zh.jpg

[CafeReef]

Update:

Last week I decided to sign up for "The Coral Dudes" Coral of the Month club. On the third thursday of each month I will get two frags in the mail, I'm really thinking I'm going to start a zoa garden as I have quite a few now and I really like the look.

So with this, A small frag rack was needed, spent the morning going through google images until I found one I kind of liked the design of, so stole some of it's aspects until I made it my own.

This rack will be roughly 4" wide, so very small, but enough to hold a couple plugs.

I plan to print it tonight in red ABS which is what I use as my prototype filament, if it looks good and my magnets I have fit, then will print it up in black as my final copy or will make some minor adjustments. Based on it's size, I'd say it's probably a 3 hour print.

http://i.imgur.com/jEvGXzOh.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/l9FMe3Oh.jpg

[Jah2707]

Can't wait to see that frag rack built. My plan is to get some of one the racks that look like rock but if I had a 3d printer this would look much better.

[CafeReef]

Can't wait to see that frag rack built. My plan is to get some of one the racks that look like rock but if I had a 3d printer this would look much better.

Thanks,

I had considered getting some "natural" filament and printing a rock rack, but I don't plan to keep it in my tank full time.

Here is what I came up with, I found kind of a neat design on google so I somewhat copied the design but went with suction cup style and did a little more reinforcements in the frag holders. I need to redo it though and put a little support off the back, It "tilts" slightly, not much, but enough to bother me.

http://i.imgur.com/rfNJ982h.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/By1zevEh.jpg

[Rakie]

I like that frag rack, simple, nice, doesn't obstruct flow. Very cool. I just wish there was a good cheap source for waterproof magnets. I've had enough bad experiences with suction cups -- They're surely the devil

[CafeReef]

I like that frag rack, simple, nice, doesn't obstruct flow. Very cool. I just wish there was a good cheap source for waterproof magnets. I've had enough bad experiences with suction cups -- They're surely the devil

I agree, my issue is I try my very best to buy locally whenever possible. I cant find anywhere near me that sells neodymium magniets. Im impatient and dont want to order online if they wont work. I have 10mm glass, hard to find something strong enough, that is small at the same time.

[TprMoore]

That 3D printing is so cool! Awesome ideas!

[CafeReef]

update:

Added a breakout box to my apex, only added one float switch for now. Printed up a mount for the float switch and used a nylon screw to act as a set screw against the glass. Program is set to work for my ATO as a DR shutoff. Should the optical sensor, and backup float sensor on my tunze fail, then the breakout box float switch will kill power to the outlet.

program:
Fallback ON
Set ON
IF SWX2_6 Closed THEN OFF

http://i.imgur.com/nDXcnVqh.jpg

wiring is starting to get a bit out of control. moderate wire management, really would like to find another way to clean this up, not a big fan of racetracks.

http://i.imgur.com/8w9WRFlh.jpg

Right now these are my pride and joy, my Utter chaos, rastas and sunny D's, utter chaos is now at 9 heads, started with 4, rastas have 4 new heads coming in since I got them a month ago and the Sunny D's have added 2. Things seem to be going well :)

Gurgle had to make an appearance, thought food was coming

http://i.imgur.com/RaXxAvNh.jpg

updated front tank shot. sorry for the nori holder in the way

http://i.imgur.com/wZVAunwh.jpg

[CafeReef]

I also added a second temp probe, now have one in my sump and one in my overflow in my tank, this way I can have a more accurate reading between the two, so far the most they have been off from one another is .4 degrees so not to terrible.

[Rakie]

Looks great, very clean and nice Aquascape.

Are you happy with the Radion XR15 over your tank? It seems like many people say it would be too small but your growth and colors look great

[CafeReef]

Looks great, very clean and nice Aquascape.

Are you happy with the Radion XR15 over your tank? It seems like many people say it would be too small but your growth and colors look great

Thanks,

For the footprint the xr15 is just fine. My growth has been very nice and very little shadowing. If it was larger than 24x24 I'd want an xr30

[Reeflife916]

Version 2.0
The sliding tray had an issue with the suction cup being in the way, went to a tension latch system, this might become the final design as it works extremely well. More to come.

http://i.imgur.com/JpstqMEh.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/XsDJQLEh.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/XkfylM3h.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/tHtFJYrh.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/5Z2386Zh.jpg

That is awesome I love the idea of the 3D printers and seeing the stuff you are making makes me want to get one!

[Rakie]

Thanks,

For the footprint the xr15 is just fine. My growth has been very nice and very little shadowing. If it was larger than 24x24 I'd want an xr30

Fair enough, everyone swears up and down it wouldn't be enough but yours looks great. Which of the 2 lenses are you running, the 120 or the 80?

[CafeReef]

Fair enough, everyone swears up and down it wouldn't be enough but yours looks great. Which of the 2 lenses are you running, the 120 or the 80?

I'm using the 80, par seemed to drop off to much for the 120. Ive never done a reading, just going off specs

[CafeReef]

update time.

I bought some blue reef chromis which brought ich into my tank even after being in QT... This killed off almost my entire tank except for my diamond goby. Catching him has been a nightmare in an attempt to move my tank to run fallow. But today I found him dried out on the floor...not exactly what I had in mind but I am officially running fallow.

November 2nd will be redemption. Hoping to get a pair of maroon lightening clowns.

[Rakie]

That's a shame CafeReef! especially since it survived QT.

I actually had another radion question for ya -- What spectrum and Intensity % are you running it at?

[homer1475]

Maroon lighting are super spectacular looking, but also very spendy. My LFS has a pair and I seriously considered them, but we all know how aggressive Marion's can be, so I opted for a mated pair of naked clowns.

Love the 3D printed rack too.

[CafeReef]

Maroon lighting are super spectacular looking, but also very spendy. My LFS has a pair and I seriously considered them, but we all know how aggressive Marion's can be, so I opted for a mated pair of naked clowns.

Love the 3D printed rack too.

Thanks, yea, I told my wife that there is a good chance it could cost easily $500-800 for the pair. Luckily for me, she really likes them haha. But We shall see.

[CafeReef]

New monti frag today. More wanted it to see if I could get a good mocked up test of a new plug design for overhangs.

http://i.imgur.com/uSSuqzrh.jpg

[Rakie]

That's pretty awesome Definitely like that plug design

[CafeReef]

Update,

Since I cant have any fish in my display right now (Fallow until Nov 2nd), I decided to work on the sump some. After a fellow reefer had a small electrical fire in his stand it made me think it would be smart to put a smoke detector in mine.

So I picked up a Nest Protect. It has the ability to sense the difference between humidity/steam and smoke, operable range of up to 80% so I feel very confident in it. To boot I like that I will receive notifications when at work, so added bonus.

I also was able to land a great deal on craigslist for a Radion XR15FW Freshwater model. I was able to pick it up for $75, not bad for a $300 light. Should make a great refugium light. It was extremely dirty so I tore it apart and cleaned the dust out and now it looks and runs brand new.

http://i.imgur.com/STnkEA0h.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/BcXU3eAh.jpg

[Lilmatty5dimes]

Awesome pick up for the refugium light. Really can't beat that deal. Those frag racks look pretty cool as well. What's the cost in making one of those?

[Rakie]

Yeah definitely love the monti plugs.

[CafeReef]

update time.

Fallow is completed. I was able to move in my new clown pair.

When I started this hobby I didnt want to go nuts on buying expensive fish in case I failed. so I bought some Ocellaris clowns for my first pair. Now that I have some experience under my belt I went a little more out there this time.

First tankmates to the newly fallowed setup: Black Ice Snowflake clowns

http://i.imgur.com/hu60cqT.jpg

Here's to a smoother ride this time around.

[GfordQC]

Looks good cafereef. Glad to see some fish in that tank!

[TprMoore]

Any updates?!

[CafeReef]

Nothing overly new, the XR15 Freshwater LED I am using for a fuge light is incredible. I have to trim it every two weeks as it overgrows the compartment it is in if I don't. I usually cut about a third to half of it away.

I've been on the lookout recently for a Marine Beta to add. One of my LFS got one in recently but didnt want to sell it as it didnt look so great, it didnt make it. So waiting for more to arrive.

I need to finish designing and printing my hinges for my lid and will be automating my water changes in the next month or so.

[TprMoore]

Just went through the whole build thread, I love it! Awesome finishing on the tank stand. Subscribed.

[CafeReef]

Thanks TprMoore, sorry for the delayed response, not sure how I missed it haha.

I have some updates:

update 1:
I mounted a Amazon Kindle Fire to the wall behind my tank. I have been meaning to do this for months since I bought it last year. I have it in developer mode so it does not time out, mounted it inside of a wood frame and used a brad nailer to secure it to the wall. I drilled a hole behind it through the wall and plugged it into an outlet that I have in the linen closet on the other side of the wall. It is on at all times and really makes things simple for seeing how things are going at a glance and to control for water changes etc.

http://i.imgur.com/egZH1Jv.jpg

update 2:
added WXM module to my Apex, this way I can put my dual MP10's into feed mode. This was an important addition as my wife generally feeds the fish a lot for me since I have to be at work more times than not. Before she didnt know how to put them in feed mode manually so the food would just disperse everywhere and my fish would really have to hunt for it. I have FeedA configured to go to constant mode for 10 minutes, then goes into Nutrient export mode at 90% for 5 minutes after that to clear the tank out.

update 3:
redid my saltwater mixing setup (I wont call it a station haha). Since I only have a 50 gallon tank, I do weekly 10% water changes. I went to a home brewing supply store by my house and picked up a 6.5 gallon food grade bucket. I mounted a float switch inside the bucket at the 5 gallon mark. To mount it I used my 3d printer to print a quick mount, drilled the mount and the bucket and used a 1/4" nylon bolt and nut to secure it to the bucket. On the outside I used silicone around the nut so that it is sealed. Now note, the water level should never rise to this point, but just in case, it's sealed. I also drilled a hole for the wires to feed through and used a 1/4" rubber grommet to give it a cleaner look. The float switch I soldered and heat shrinked to 3.5mm headphone plugs so that I can easily disconnect the float when I carry the bucket to my tank to do water changes. This is all programmed to my Apex/Breakout Box and have a 1/4 powered solenoid from autotopoff.com so when the float closes, power is cut to the solenoid shutting off the water supply. This way I will get exactly 5 gallons of RODI water every time.

whole view-
http://i.imgur.com/QE7uTpW.jpg

Solenoid-
http://i.imgur.com/wTcuqo0.jpg

Float-
http://i.imgur.com/MuaZVwX.jpg

Outside shot, nut and grommet-
http://i.imgur.com/KJIza2s.jpg

[TprMoore]

Very nice! That Kindle is an awesome idea.

PS, I cut my stand to your dimensions and they were spot on! Thanks again!

[CafeReef]

Very nice! That Kindle is an awesome idea.

PS, I cut my stand to your dimensions and they were spot on! Thanks again!

no problem man, I saw the stand, looks great! good work on the trim.

[.equis]

Very cool set up! Curious as to where you got those leds inside the stand ?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[CafeReef]

Very cool set up! Curious as to where you got those leds inside the stand ?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Thanks, they are just from home depot, water resistant coated

[1littlefishy]

Love your setup. How are things going?