DIY LED Qs for 48x36x24

[frans07]

I've decided to try my hand at the whole DIY led thing. I recently bought a complete setuo and the guy had a custom 72" fixture that was very nice but it's too long for my tank. He used Cree royal blues, whites, and a mix of greens and reds. I also have quite a few meanwell 60-48d drivers.

I'd like to keep one of my 400w halides on the tank and have LEDs on the sides of the tank. I've run the hydra on a smaller tank and I lost some Sps. Some thrived and some browned out.

A few questions... What size heat sink would be big enough. I really like the rapid led 6"x20" black heat sinks but I'm thinkin maybe 24" would be better. Is there a better heat sink out there?

Also, the previous owner used thermal adhesive to attach the LEDs to the aluminum heat sink. What is the best way to yank these off?

Any feedback would be greatly appreciated! I've watched countless YouTube videos and I will be making another order soon for heat sinks and some violet LEDs.

 

[ReefLEDLights]

I prefer the HeatsinkUSA 18x8.46 Heatsink. Its 7.5lbs and offers enough thermal efficiency to run 66 LEDs at full with as long as you use a fan. Two would be perfect for your tank.

You can go with their T-Slot version specifically for the BJB Solderless Connector or the Regular version.

If you want to remove the glued down LEDs just a quick tap with a hammer chisel works.

As far as loosing SPS the Hydra is only 20 LEDs with a max PAR of only 200 at 24". A 400 watt Radium is 424 PAR at 24" and offers more coverage.

To replicate a 400 watt radium I've found this recipe works really well while only consuming 118watts.

15 Cree XT-E Cool White 7.5K @ 700mA
24 Cree XT-E Royal Blue 450nm @700mA
6 Cree XP-E Blue @700mA

 

[ifarmer]

i wouldn't go with DIY on led light these days.
The premade LED fixtures are so cheap and the DIY parts are not cheap
The DIY have useless resale value

 

[tkershne]

the DIY parts are not cheap

It really depends on your idea of cheap.

What LED fixtures are you comparing a DIY LED setup to? I have a dimmable 48 LED with Cree LED's and built the entire thing for $450. Not a terrible price IMO!