Circulation Idea for Larger Tanks

[AquariaUSA]

Hi all,
I have been thinking about new circulation ideas for a large tank I plan to build in our new house, and for a few client systems on tap for next year. Although SeaSwirls and Streams work good on smaller tanks (200-500 gallons) the tank we plan to build will more likely be about 1350 gallons without sump volume with dims at 120"x72"x36".

Planning on using 3-4 large volume external pumps for the returns. However, I am thinking about devising a way to split each return pump into 2 lines and finding a way to have gate valves controlled intermittantly (one return with open gate valve...few minutes later it closes, and the other return opens, etc.). I know there are electronic gate valves out there ($80-150?) but how would it work to put them on some sort of timer to control on and off...thus creating wave simulation between the 6-8 returns?

I have yet to really get into researching the valves, so figured this would be the first place to see if anyone is using something similar?

[inerratum]

do a search for "actuated ball valve" and you should find some good examples of people that have done this with their tanks.

[beerguy]

Also take a look at the oceans motions device. It basically does what you're talking about without the need for actuated valves.

Cheers

[Mr.Lloyd]

I just hooked up my Oceans Motions 4 Way.2" input and 4 1 -1/2" outputs.The drum I am using has 2 ports but it moves at ONE RPM.Whatever amount of water you want to run through it within reason will work.I got some black PVC fittings that really blend well in the tank(300).One idea for water movement in a different way was done by the folks I got the tank from.The return from my sump comes through the bottom of the tank via 3 bulkheads with PVC pipe and 45 degree elbows.The elbows are at the top of the substrate and camoflauged.I used Apoxie Sculpt 2 part epoxy putty and covered the elbows with it.I embedded small rocks and textured the epoxy with rock.Unless you knew the rock with the acro on it had a hole with water coming out you would not know it was a port.The hole is not visable from any viewing direction.Gate valves would work well too and I am sure controllers with wavemaker features could send the signal to the valve to go on and off.The 4 Way is really a simple device but well designed and built.I would expect it to run for years with no maintenance.My guess is that it would outlast many gate valves.I would think you would want one for each closed loop pump but you may want some combination with some pumps using one type and others doing something different.Good luck.

[AquariaUSA]

I just spent a few hours (that I didn't really have!) reading up on the 8 port units. Now if I can get one to test on a smaller system, I should be buying plenty of these for clients, and a few for my own tank I plan to build this fall. Looks like Paul had the idea I tried figuring out in regards to the gates, and made it more simplified and cost effective

[ReeferMac]

Yeah, the oceansmotions are definitely the way to go. We've got a couple Hayward Actuated ball-valves on our zoo tank, and while they work very nice, they are HUGE, and the seals wear surprisingly fast on them (especially if you're thinking of cycling them that frequently).
And tell Paul you want a discount on volume orders...

- Mac

[AquariaUSA]

Ordered both the 8 Port and 4 Port to test Will let you know how they turn out.

[SOMEthinsFISHY]

nice thread aquaria hope u well !

[AquariaUSA]

Hooked up the 4 port running just off a Mag12 (temporary) thus far (not enought flow imo, but ok to test) and so far very impressed with Paul's work. These units definitely appear to be durable, and the flow could easily be increased to whatever is desired. Will be hooking up the 8 port on a 525 this week. At first will just use a BL100 external, may go bigger depending on flow.

Excellent product made by Paul at Oceansmotions I doubt I will ever use SeaSwirls or Streams again on anything larger than a 300!

[SOMEthinsFISHY]

well USA that is great to hear !!!!

[kathyharper103]

awesome!

[lovetoreef]

is there a warranty on the motor that turns the drum? that seems like that could be the only area that would potentially breakdown on the oceansmotions ... other than that though, they seem to have great potential. thanks.

gm