Over the back returns, how to setup?

[fishstix]

I plan to have 3 returns going into my tank. It 72x24x24. The pump is rated at 3100 GPH

I plan to use a a flow sensor on each one. I have a custom made plumbing that fits over the back of the tank for each return. Then I was going to run PVC down to just above the sump which would go into a T for each return then another T would tie in for the return pump.


Will this work, open to suggestions how to best do this?

Thanks

 

[cilyjr]

I used to have 2 for my 180 then decided it was pointless and annoying. The flow will mostly go to the easiest (least resistance) point of escape. So you will need ball valves to adjust flow. And the extra plumbing was always just in the way (I access my tank from both front and rear).

Since I don't rely on return flow (propeller driven pumps are much more effective) as a source of flow I went back to a single return outlet. I still use a high powered return but it now splits to a reactor manifold and a frag tank

 

[steveb]

I plan to have 3 returns going into my tank. It 72x24x24. The pump is rated at 3100 GPH

I plan to use a a flow sensor on each one. I have a custom made plumbing that fits over the back of the tank for each return. Then I was going to run PVC down to just above the sump which would go into a T for each return then another T would tie in for the return pump.


Will this work, open to suggestions how to best do this?

Thanks

Any pic's?

 

[fishstix]

No pictures yet, as it not setup. Just got stand finished and put it in place.

The tank is using herbie drains, that why returns are over the back. The pump is waveline DC 12000. I planned to come out of the pump and go into 1" PVC then into 3/4 loc-line in the tank. One on each side and one in the middle. I don't plan to rely on the return pump for the movement, but need to make sure enough flow to keep the herbies happy. I planned to put 3 apex flow sensors on each return. I was going to have a ball valve on it as well, but it will be a pain as the back of the tank up on a wall. I also plan to have several WAV in the tank for movement, I bought 3, but not sure if I will need all or more.

Feel like the plumbing is getting more complex than I want for the returns. I would I be better of 2 just go with 2 returns, and not 3rd?

 

[beaslbob]

I used three returns on my old 55g.

Besides the reverse syphon issue, I think you will find you have to use valves to balance the output of the returns.

my .02

 

[cilyjr]

So why do you need more then 1 to keep up with the drain?

I use a beananimal drain system (3 pipes instead of 2) and it will adjust to whatever return rate I push in.

Not to dissuade you from your plan I'm just trying to understand the logic. It seems like you are adding work and cost for very little gain.

 

[fishstix]

My plan no way set in stone, I agree I feel like I am making it way more complex than it needs to be. So can I get enough with just 1 or 2 returns, and no need for the 3rd, and still have return flow OK to my sump?

 

[cilyjr]

It's going to return as fast or slow as the pump pumps.

So if you are using a waveline 12000 as stated. Let's assume you're going to have about five feet of head pressure and we will also assume the pump will pump right around 2000 gallons an hour. So long as the drain can accommodate that and a syphon drain should, Your flow through will be about 2,000 gallons an hour. It makes very little difference how many outlets that two thousand gallons an hour comes out at. It might reduce that number a little bit due to the extra turns ect.
The other thing that might slow it is pipe size but you would need to be pretty small to get a significant reduction. You won't see much difference if you're using 3/4 or an inch on the pressure side

 

[fishstix]

It's going to return as fast or slow as the pump pumps.

So if you are using a waveline 12000 as stated. Let's assume you're going to have about five feet of head pressure and we will also assume the pump will pump right around 2000 gallons an hour. So long as the drain can accommodate that and a syphon drain should, Your flow through will be about 2,000 gallons an hour. It makes very little difference how many outlets that two thousand gallons an hour comes out at. It might reduce that number a little bit due to the extra turns ect.
The other thing that might slow it is pipe size but you would need to be pretty small to get a significant reduction. You won't see much difference if you're using 3/4 or an inch on the pressure side

Thanks for the info, It would be much simpler then if I just use 2 returns, which I think that the route I am going to do. Trying to go with 3 will just at a lot of head aches for me.