Closed loop

01-10-2004, 07:02 AM

I have been thinking about a closed loop system with out drilling holes in the aquarium for some time now.

If anyone has done this please fill me up with information on your experiences and what you would do differently if anything.

Right now I am thinking about have 2 pvc pipes from the pump back into the aquarium and 1 going to the pump.
The pvc pipe in the aquarium will have holes or cut slots in them.

01-10-2004, 07:06 AM

Oh what pump would you use for this?
Having a quite pump would be pleasing.

Jason McKenzie · 01-10-2004, 07:47 AM

A quite pump thats funny

I don't know much about closed loop systems, most I've seen have been drilled.
I have see one that uses a spray bar return.
That was cool.
The spray bar ran along the top of the tank for the full length, just under the black molding of the tank. I was about a 1/2 inch PVC with hole drilled so the water was sprayed at a 45 toward the front of the tank.

J

Phil5613 · 01-10-2004, 08:29 AM

If you are doing that I would look into a scwd. I will be adding this in a closed loop as I get more corals in the tank.

SCWD (Squid)

The SCWD (pronounced "squid&quot

is a revolutionary device designed to provide alternating currents without the use of electricty. The SCWD mounts inline with 3/4" tubing, the two ports alternate the output, the bottom port is the input. A great alternative to expensive electronic ball valves. The SCWD will run on any pump with a minimum output of 50 GPH and a maximum output of 1400. The switching speed and current duration is dependent on the volume of water flowing through the SCWD. You can control the duration by controlling the flow going through the SCWD. Can be submersed for use with large power heads or used externally. A great product with a full one year warranty.

Matt Rogers · 01-10-2004, 09:29 AM

SCWD on a loop would be cool.
I believe Craig posted a pic somewhere around here showing exactly that.

Nautilus you should ask Craig about his Ocean Runner pump. I have wanted one of those for a while, I'd love to get feedback.

When I get some more time, I'll try to get some more pics of setups like you are suggesting.

01-10-2004, 04:10 PM

I made this drawing before the SCWD idea.
What type of pipe would you use on both sides of the SCWD? tubing or PVC? And if tubing how would you keep it where you wanted it to go?

Phil5613 · 01-10-2004, 05:43 PM

I would use both pvc and vinyl tubing I think too many 90's make to much back pressure. There is a way to heat and bend pvc if you do it sloww and fill it with sand but I haven't tried it yet. So I don't know how easy it is.
I don't know an easier way then to back to back 90's with a small pipe to get into the tank I am open to suggestions there. Also I have tried 45' and tubing but it takes too much space. Excuse the drawing my pc is acting goof and my art programs won't open so I used paint. (I hate windows ME)

Jason McKenzie · 01-10-2004, 06:35 PM

If the red was PVC and the light blue was flex it would work just fine

Sorry I stole your Pic Phil

J

Matt Rogers · 01-10-2004, 08:26 PM

WOw! A schematic throwdown!!

[smiley=smoking.gif]

omard · 01-11-2004, 02:18 AM

SCWD plan exactly what I am intending to set up on new tank. Device and pump (Dolphin 1200) already on order from CustomAquatic.

Only addition I to above schematic I am making is a flow control valve between pump and SCWD.

- and maybe some longer output hose/nozzles (flexible type) from megaflow output lines to better direct flow to where wanted in tank.

Of course, as always, remaining "flexible" myself.

OmarD