New 325G In-Wall Project

[LIReefer]

With all of these great projects going on - I thought I would join in on all the fun. I'm in the very early stages of the process and haven't even bought the tank yet - but I'm only days away from doing that. Anyway, I've attached a tank design in hopes of getting a sanity check from everyone. It's an 84x30x30 with an external overflow. I'm planning on a closed loop with an 8-way oceans motion wavemaker. A few things that I'm concerned about are, enough flow, size of the bulkheads, and their placement. I'm planning on using a sequence hammerhead or stingray as the main system pump and a dart for the closed loop.

Any help would be greatly appreciated


http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997Tank_Design1.JPG

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997Tank_Design2.JPG

[Acrylics]

You might want to resize the perimeter bracing. As I read it, you have a 3" perimeter brace, considering 3/4" or so material thickness, this leaves a net "lip" of 2.25" - keep in mind a 1" BH requires a 1.75-1.94" hole (depending on type) and a 1.5" BH requires a 2.5" hole - you won't have enough beef in the bracing even with the large radii in the cutouts. BTW I'm referring specifically to the corner bulkheads, the ones in the crossbraces are fine.
Everything else looks dandy to me.

HTH,
James

[LIReefer]

James,

Doesn't this tank look familar? You and I have been talking a lot about this build. You know I want to keep the openings as large as possible - so what size should the perimeter bracing be?

Ed

[Acrylics]

Hi Ed,

If okay, add some beef to the back brace (inch or two) and maybe a little on the front/ends as well as just use a larger radius in the front corners. In case you weren't aware, the 1" bulkheads have a overall diameter of 2.75-3" so if you've got to add something in there. What size radius were you thinking in the front corners?

James

[LIReefer]

James,

I have no specific radius size in mind - I was leaving that up to you. In keeping with the same design - what is the minimum brace width I should have without compromising the structural integrity of the tank? Also, keeping in mind access for cleaning and maximum light penetration.

Ed

[valid]

do you really need bulkheads in the top? it's not like you need a watertight seal, is it? why not just run your plumbing through - that way you make smaller holes and save on plumbing fixtures as well.

[LIReefer]

Originally posted by valid
do you really need bulkheads in the top? it's not like you need a watertight seal, is it? why not just run your plumbing through - that way you make smaller holes and save on plumbing fixtures as well.

No you probably don't, but I've seen it done on several large tanks, and in any event it will provide real solid support for the piping

Ed

[Acrylics]

For 1.5" ells and other fittings, you need a 2.25" hole, a 1.5" bulkhead hole is 2.44 so you don't save much in the way of "meat" for the holes by using bulkheads.

The "plan" I came up with is a 3.5" perimeter flange on the front & ends with 5" on the back with ~3" radius. This leaves a comfortable amount of flange material w/out any significant compromises. Of course if you can go wider - this is always beneficial but you will lose *some* opening space.

As for width on crossbraces, 5-6" minimum IMO.

HTH,
James

[LIReefer]

James,

Thanks - I'll update the drawing and shoot you an e-mail.

Thanks - Ed

[Julio]

very nice design, how much flow are you planning on having on the tank?

[LIReefer]

Originally posted by Julio
very nice design, how much flow are you planning on having on the tank?

Julio,

My goal is 5000GPH through the overflows - but I know they can handle more.

Ed

[Julio]

Nice, what circulation pump are you planning on using?

[LIReefer]

Originally posted by Julio
Nice, what circulation pump are you planning on using?

Julio,

A sequence hammerhead or stingray and maybe a dart for the 8-way OM on the closed loop.

Ed

[Julio]

what kind of corals are you planning on keeping? or are you just upgrading tanks?

[LIReefer]

Originally posted by Julio
what kind of corals are you planning on keeping? or are you just upgrading tanks?

Mainly SPS and some softies. Lighting is going to be 400w MH supplemented with actinics.

[LIReefer]

Now we've gone from paper to reality. Here are some pics of the tank coming together. Courtesy of James from Envision Acrylics.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997Tank1.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997Tank2.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997Tank3.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997Tank4.jpg

Its coming out real nice!

Ed

[Loudz34]

Nice .. cant wait to see the finished prod.....

[hmoore]

Looks like a beauty in the making! I've heard that James is the BEST!

[LIReefer]

Originally posted by hmoore
Looks like a beauty in the making! I've heard that James is the BEST!

Yup!!!! If you want acrylic, he's the guy to go with.

[jlehigh]

I have a 72X30X30 with an 8-way. might lend some insight. Here is a thread with more info:
http://www.reeffrontiers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1848

Most pics are in the latter pages

[LIReefer]

Originally posted by jlehigh
I have a 72X30X30 with an 8-way. might lend some insight.

jlehigh - Thanks very nice set up.


Here are some more pics of the external overflow being installed

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997Back_Overflow2.JPG

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997Back_Overflow1.JPG

Here's the top

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997Top2.JPG

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997Top1.JPG

Ed

[LIReefer]

Here's a few more shots of the tank almost complete. All that needs to be done now is, some trimming, the install of the overflow screens and removable black side panels.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997FullTopView.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997SideView2.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997CL_Holes.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997TopViewOverflow.jpg

Can't wait to get this beast!!!!

Ed

[kandiru]

that is some beautifully impressive acrylic work

good luck and most of all - enjoy!

[Reddhaus]

Looks great!! Can't wait to see it up and running.

[DidierC]

Please keep us posting with photos when you set up that monster!!

[LittleBlueGT]

Looks awesome! As far as flow goes consider using the OM HD 4-way unit. With a 2 inch inlet and 1.5 inch outlets it can flow a lot more than an 8-way. I believe that 4 ways is enough to have random current in the tank. I own a hammerhead pump. I also own a HD 4-way. You can check out my build here (http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=414183). If I were you I would get a good deal on a SEQ 1000 series pump vs. a reeflo. They can be gotten at custom aquatics for a decent price, and I think they are of better build quality. I broke the volute on my Hammerhead, and I have heard of others that have too.

[jimmy n]

Just a piece of advice on the external overflow.

Your acryllic looks very thick, and may bow very little. But the slightest bow will cause the corners of the external overflow to bow out and create potential leaks.

I know this because I made this mistake in the past and had to trash my 140 with external overflows. My overflows, in contrast were higher on the tank with thinner acryllic so you may not experience this problem.

Jim

[javajaws]

Originally posted by littlesilvermax
If I were you I would get a good deal on a SEQ 1000 series pump vs. a reeflo. They can be gotten at custom aquatics for a decent price, and I think they are of better build quality. I broke the volute on my Hammerhead, and I have heard of others that have too.

Ditto on the Seq 1000 recommendation. I just got mine last week and it's a monster (28 lbs!). Thats some serious material they made the volute out of, not at all like the reeflo series. Also comes with all stainless hardware (not sure if the reeflo's do). Now if my danged tank and OM 4-way would get here so I can hook that bad boy up...

[LIReefer]

Originally posted by littlesilvermax
As far as flow goes consider using the OM HD 4-way unit. With a 2 inch inlet and 1.5 inch outlets it can flow a lot more than an 8-way. If I were you I would get a good deal on a SEQ 1000 series pump vs. a reeflo.

littlesilvermax:

That's exactly what I did.... After speaking with Paul at OM I agreed to purchase the HD 4-way. I already received it and it looks like a real good product. I'll look into the 1000 series as well. Thanks for the feedback.

Ed

[LIReefer]

Originally posted by jimmy n
Just a piece of advice on the external overflow.

Your acryllic looks very thick, and may bow very little. But the slightest bow will cause the corners of the external overflow to bow out and create potential leaks.

I know this because I made this mistake in the past and had to trash my 140 with external overflows. My overflows, in contrast were higher on the tank with thinner acryllic so you may not experience this problem.

Jim

I haven't thought of that being an issue, but I know James has built others with external overflows and there were no issues that I'm aware of.

Ed

[LIReefer]

Here are the last shots before delivery:

Overflow Screen in place
http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997Screen_Inside2.jpg

All trimmed and ready to be crated!
http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997Trimmed_Top.jpg

In the crate.....Come to papa!:D
http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997In_the_Crate.jpg

If you want a custom tank built - this is the place to go http://www.envisionacrylics.com/

Ed

[SaltFishMD]

any updates on this tank? did you have any bowing problems? how much did the tank cost?

[LIReefer]

Originally posted by SaltFishMD
any updates on this tank? did you have any bowing problems? how much did the tank cost?

It's been delivered, but not installed yet. I'm still constructing the fishroom

[tacocat]

That looks GREAT. What did you use for overlfow screen? I replaced my black overflow teeth with black eggcrate so I could get enough flow. Be sure to clean the grate often, or it's off to flood city.

[LIReefer]

Sorry it took so long but I've been very busy!! Here are some of the latest pics on the progress. So far the basement is framed as well as the fish room. The tank stand is built and the tank is sitting in place. In addition a 220v 60amp sub panel is installed to feed the equipment room.

Stand Construction:
http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997stand2.jpg
Rough Opening:
http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997rough_opening.jpg
http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997opening___stand_2.jpg
Tank in place:
http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997tank_in_opening.jpg
Rear of tank inside room:
http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997tank_inside_room_2.jpg
Start of sub panel wiring:
http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997220v_60amp_sub_panel.jpg

There still is a lot more to do!

Ed

[A Reef Scene]

That is a great looking set up.

[Fursphere]

Whats is the blue stuff under the tank?

[Acrylics]

My *guess* is just plywood that's been laminated together then painted with waterproof paint. 'Course I could be mistaken. I did the same thing with my tanks.

James

[maxxII]

I'm guessing its foam to aid in leveling the tank.
Nick

[LIReefer]

Originally posted by Acrylics
My *guess* is just plywood that's been laminated together then painted with waterproof paint. 'Course I could be mistaken. I did the same thing with my tanks.

James

That's it - 3/4 ply painted with an aqua blue apoxy paint.

Ed

[Opiy]

I really like the idea of the overflow on the back of the tank like that. Gives you so much more room in the tank itself without a big black box in the way. Good luck to ya on the build.

[LIReefer]

Originally posted by opiy
I really like the idea of the overflow on the back of the tank like that. Gives you so much more room in the tank itself without a big black box in the way. Good luck to ya on the build.

Yeah, I'm fortunate to have the room available for that design.

Thanks - Ed

[hk]

Nice looking tank. I'm looking forward to seeing more updates.

[sjreefer]

That looks like its going to be incredible, very well planned

[Fursphere]

Updates? :)

[LIReefer]

I know its been a long time since I posted updates on this project but just wanted you all to know its still going. As usual other things got in the way like finishing off the living area of the basement first. The wife wouldn't have it any other way. So now progress has been pretty steady. Most of the plumbing is completed with just a few odds and end to finish. Here are some recent pics on the project. Glad to be posting progress again

Ed

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997Overflow_plumbing__2_.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997Tank_plumbing__2_.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997Sump__2_.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997Filter_buckets__2_.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997Filtter_bucket_inside__2_.jpg

[LIReefer]

Here are some more!

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997refugium_internal_plumbing__2_.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997OM_4way__2_.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997OM_4way_x2__2_.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997MRC_Media_reactors__2_.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997Kalk_Reactor_and_Calcium_Reactor__2_.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997CL_Dart_pumps__2_.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997lifereef_skimmer_VS3-72__2_.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997mixing_barrels__2_.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997inwall_view__2_.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997HH_feed_pump__2_.jpg

[Lacrosseboss18]

cant waint to see where this goes

[mako199]

Very nice! especially nice looking plumbing...can you explain what's going on in the Rubbermaid sump specifically the PVC piping.

[cali_reef]

Two years since you started this thread and there is no water in the tank?

[kranky]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7756618#post7756618 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by cali_reef
Two years since you started this thread and there is no water in the tank?

Must meanits al that much closer

[LIReefer]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7756048#post7756048 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mako199
Very nice! especially nice looking plumbing...can you explain what's going on in the Rubbermaid sump specifically the PVC piping.

There are 2 - 2" returns each attached to a Sequence HH. There is also a 1 1/2 line attached to a Seqhuence HH feeding the skimmer, UV, calcium reactor, phosphate reactor and a carbon reactor. This line loops around the outside of the fuge and also has multiple tee's for the various probes of the AC III pro. There is also another line attached to a little giant pump that will drain the sump inot the sink for water changes. The external overflow plumbing from the tank feed the 2 - 5gal buckets in the sump that will have filter media installed on top of the yellow strainer in hopes of providing mechanical filtration and bubble control. The UV, phosphate reactor and a carbon reactor will also be connected to the tops of these buckets. The other 2" holes in the overflow feeds the refugium by gravity flow. I'm hoping it will work.

Ed

[LIReefer]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7756618#post7756618 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by cali_reef
Two years since you started this thread and there is no water in the tank?


Tell me about it!! I never thought it was going to take that long. I hope this isn't a record.

[8BALL_99]

Looks good. Don't worry about the time frame.. The longer you work on it the more things you will think of.. Taking alot of time while your seetting it up should save you some Headaches down the road ;)

[Hop]

LOL. or if you are like me you will forget where you put stuff, why you put things where they are and how it works:D

Nice build though! very impressive, I've spent quite a bit of time looking at the details and I have to say... More eye candy would be nice! JJ

[LIReefer]

You're right.....I've purchased so many things in advance that I've also forgot where I've put them and end up buying the same thing again. Thank god they were low cost items. I'll also take some more detailed pics for you eye candy freaks.

[LIReefer]

A new toy came today and took a real long time to get here. Not that I need it yet with no water in the tank, but it’s always good to be well prepared. The quality looks excellent and the magnets are pretty powerful. Let’s hope it cleans as advertised.

It’s a Magnoclean Magnet made specifically for acrylic tanks by Schuran of Germany.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997Schuran_Magnoclean1.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997Schuran_Magnoclean2.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997Schuran_magnoclean3.jpg

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/7997schuran_magnoclean4.jpg

[cali_reef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7757094#post7757094 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by LIReefer
This line loops around the outside of the fuge and also has multiple tee's for the various probes of the AC III pro.

FYI, the pressure from my Sequence 6000 was strong enough to break a few pinpoint PH probes when placed in pressurized pipe. You might be better off moving all the probes in the drain lines.

[LIReefer]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7776864#post7776864 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by cali_reef
FYI, the pressure from my Sequence 6000 was strong enough to break a few pinpoint PH probes when placed in pressurized pipe. You might be better off moving all the probes in the drain lines.

Even though the pump is feeding my skimmer, UV, calcium reactor, phosphate and carbon reators - you think there will still be too much pressure in the pipe that could damage the probes?

[bjmycroft]

Hi there,
im watching your thread with interest as im setting up a 7x30x30 as well. I liked the Magnoclean Magnet - I may have to invest in one of those myself - cant wait to see your tank set up :-)

-Bob

[NexDog]

How much was the Magnoclean? I'm very interested in this product.

[LIReefer]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7785253#post7785253 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by NexDog
How much was the Magnoclean? I'm very interested in this product.

I can't post that here. I have a spy at my Wife's job that's been watching this thread. I PM'd you.

Ed

[NexDog]

Great, thanks. :D

[Ridgeline]

looks like a nice magnet ..It also looks huge

[LIReefer]

It's bigger than anything else on the market that I know of. What I like most about it is that it doesn't sit flat against the acrylic, therefore less chances of getting a piece of sand under it that can scratch.

[dprill]

Wait a minute! I am no spy! I haven't told her a stinkin' thing, HONEST! :-)

[LIReefer]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7834620#post7834620 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by dprill
Wait a minute! I am no spy! I haven't told her a stinkin' thing, HONEST! :-)

I know...Just kidding:lol:

[cali_reef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7777626#post7777626 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by LIReefer
Even though the pump is feeding my skimmer, UV, calcium reactor, phosphate and carbon reators - you think there will still be too much pressure in the pipe that could damage the probes?

Assuming you are not putting any pressure reducers at that part of the pipe, the pressure in all the piping should be pretty much the same.