Drain and Return Flow

[Scubado63]

I was wondering the best way to determine max amt of flow a return can be based on drain size and number... I have 2 (1") inch drains and 2 (3/4") returns ...looking to see what the max volume of water it can supply to sump . Trying to determine what size pump to use...Thanks

 

[mfinn]

What size tank is this on?

 

[ReeferBob]

The below calculator will tell you your maximum flow.

http://www.beananimal.com/articles/hydraulics-for-the-aquarist.aspx

 

[Scubado63]

Thanks for info...Tank size is 200, sump is 90

 

[mfinn]

Thanks for info...Tank size is 200, sump is 90

When I do a build and start looking at equipment, I don't base my choice of return pump on what the maximum the drains and returns can handle.
I base it on the idea of doing 3x to 5x the tank volume through the sump. Then I make sure the volume of water isn't going to be a problem going through the sump ( don't like turning the sump into a river rapids).
So for a 200 gallon I would look for a pump that would give me 750 gph low end to 1000 gph high end.
Then make sure I had plenty of wiggle room on the drain capacity.
I try and stay back atleast 25% of the total drain capacity for safety.

 

[Scubado63]

Thanks, that helps...

 

[Scubado63]

Is there any disadvantage to having both drains connect and empty into a single sock instead of 2 different socks, maybe using a larger size pvc where they connect to handle water volume, other than having to clean more often...also one drains into to the refugium

 

[mfinn]

Is there any disadvantage to having both drains connect and empty into a single sock instead of 2 different socks, maybe using a larger size pvc where they connect to handle water volume, other than having to clean more often...also one drains into to the refugium

I wouldn't think there would be a problem as long as the single sock could handle the flow and it was cleaned often enough so it didn't become clogged and overflow.
I would stay with double pipes.
I'm assuming the chamber where it comes in is where the skimmer is.