Estimated flow calc using manifold

[schaNYC]

I have a VarioS-6 return pump feeding a manifold to a carbon reactor first, then a UV sterilizer. finally return line to the display. I have a flow meter just after the return pump and another one just after the gate valve that is T'd off from the manifold, leading to the UV.

If I am getting a reading of 2000 lph on flow meter 1 (just after the return pump) and I'm getting 1000 lph on the second flow meter to the UV, what is my estimated flow to the display and back to sump? I know there is some loss from head pressure and all the elbows/tees int he piping but what is a ball park calculation? Am i losing atleast half the flow rate if the second flow meter is reading 1000 lph?

 

[DCR]

Impossible to say without more information other than the flow to the display is something less than 1000 lph. I would guess the flow through the carbon reactor would be fairly low so probably most of the 1000 gph is going back to the display. You could try momentarily blocking in the carbon reactor and see how the two flow rates change to get a better idea.

 

[schaNYC]

I’m finding it hard to get more flow to the DT when my UV recommends 466-700 gph for 30-45k columns for nuisance algae treatment. Tank is only about 55 gallons net of sand/rocks. I asked BRS about the recommended flow rate on UV and relative to tank size, they said doesn’t matter on tank size and go with the suggested gph flow rate.

 

[DCR]

For that much flow, you might as well just put the UV on the return line to the display. Otherwise I would probably cut the UV flow to about 150-200 gph. You would still get 3X turnover and I don't think the higher exposure in the UV will hurt anything.

 

[schaNYC]

Was just aiming for the higher rate suggested by the manufacturer Aqua UV. New tank, trying to avoid the uglies as best I can. I have the 15 watt version.

Reef Tanks: A UV Rated in the 30,000 to 45,000 columns is ideal for the reef environment. UV’s rated at higher kill rates will destroy the planktonic food supply for the reef. Marine Fish Tanks (No reef or Live Rock): A UV rated in the 75,000 to 90,000 columns will be the most effective at controlling fish disease.