72" x 24" x 10" Frag Tank Flow Layout

Enzman · Dec 12, 2015

Need some help with the plumbing on my frag tank. I plan on having dual herbie overflows on this, and am trying to make sure that I have big enough drains without going overkill. I'm trying to use my pump to be 75% or more of my flow.

72" x 24" x 10" frag tank. Basically each overflow will have (2) 3/4" returns and I'm thinking about buying 4 of these http://www.fish-street.com/dual_nozzle_loc_line_y_shape_with_connector. I will also be using a Jebao DC12000 but will possibly be upgrading to a DCT 15000 if it isn't enough flow.

My main question is will the (2) 1-1/4" MAIN drains be sufficient, or would it be best to just go (2) 1" mains and 2 1" emergencys? I've read that a full siphon from the herbie is quite a lot of water. I plan on putting gate valves on both of the mains, and just having a slight trickle over into the emergencys. The tank is being built as we speak, he's just waiting on my final answer on the holes & overflow information.

I'm also wondering what would be the best setup from my Jebao pump (1-1/2" connection) to a manifold for the (4) 3/4" returns, and also possibly another for the separate refugium underneath. This will be strictly for lps and z's & p's.

Please feel free to give advice. Thanks!

Pepcrylic · Dec 12, 2015

There is a chart somewhere that will give you the flow rate of most PVC sizes. Off the top of my head it is approx 1300 to 1800 gph so if your pump is rated for 2600 to 3000 gph you are golden.
Sorry my link wouldnt post Goggle PVC pipe flow chart
I checked the chart and it said 1500 gph for 1.25

KingTriton · Dec 13, 2015

Why do you want to do a dual herbie instead of a bean animal?

Enzman · Dec 13, 2015

A herbie will give me more water movement with smaller pipe than I can get with a bean animal. At least that's how I see it.

KingTriton · Dec 14, 2015

I would go with one overflow box. Two boxes use up a lot of room. How do you plan on plumbing it on a 72"? Herbie works best with it main pipes going straight down into the sump without any movement.

Why do you want your return supplying 75% of your flow?