Too many pumps

skeety · 05-09-2007, 10:19 AM

okay...looking for input/feedback.

Due to the fact that I just got tired of maintaining two tanks, I've torn down the 75 gallon softie/algae tank. Now I can focus more on the 75 SPS tank.

As a result, I now have a lot of left over pumps, and I'm trying to figure out the best way to incorporate new flow into my SPS tank.

The MAIN goal here is to change the flow in my SPS tank to now have ALTERNATING flow.

Currently, on the 75 SPS tank, I have a Genx PCX-70 pushing through two 3/4" eductors. One on each side of the tank.

Problem is...that it's a constant flow. Its strong...but constant.

I also have a Mag-7 return pump on the SPS tank, but by the time it pushes through the chiller, and back up into the tank, is maybe pushing 100gph. It's horrible. This weekend, I'm replacing it with a Velocity T3 (thanks for the advice G~)

now...the pumps I have that I can replace/add to the PCX-70 CLS pump will be 3 - Mag 7's and or a PCX-55.

My plan is to use two pumps (other than the return) for flow. I'm going to put them on timers and run them each about 6 hours...with a 2 or 3 hour overlap.

Should I use the PCX-70 and the PCX-55? Or maybe just the two Mag-7's? Or something different? Please keep in mind, this is a SSB tank, so too much flow could be a problem.

Ideas? Suggestions? Which pumps? Suggested timer settings? Design issues?

Are there going to be problems with running any of these pumps on a timer? It's not like they'll be going on/off every 10 minutes or anything.

any help would be GREATLY appreciated!

Wiskey · 05-09-2007, 10:38 AM

I wouldn't put pumps like the GenX PCX series on a timer, they don't like to be started and stopped like that.

If it were me I would get one of those spinning drum current diverters like Fly Guy uses on his tank and have 4+ sets of outlets from one pump that stays runnign all the time.

HTH,
Whiskey

Geoff · 05-09-2007, 10:39 AM

if you want to keep the eductors your only real option is to use both PCX's. one on the left and one on the right powering one eductor each. the problem with doing this is that you thought the flow was big before. with each of those pump pushing one eductor water will really be moving?

a mag 7 just would not push an eductor effectively. you would be better off just using it straight without an eductor.

G~

JY13131 · 05-09-2007, 10:41 AM

What about that doo hickee called a "Squid"?

JY13131 · 05-09-2007, 10:42 AM

http://www.northcoastmarines.com/wave_timers.htm
Like half way down the page

theplatypus · 05-09-2007, 10:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JY13131

What about that doo hickee called a "Squid"?

The Oceans Motions units are far superior products.

skeety · 05-09-2007, 11:52 AM

hehehe...while I appreciate the help, the idea here was to not spend more money! hahahahaha

I was hoping to use what I already have, and make do with that.

So the PCX's won't take well to being started/stopped once every 6 hours? That sucks.

And the Mag 7's won't work with eductors, even if they're very little head loss? Meaning, if i put these pumps pretty much right near the tank?

argh. Maybe with the new Velocity, and the current PCX-70 I'll be fine.

But I still won't have any alternating flow.....

looks like I might be looking to get an OM unit....(sigh)

skeety · 05-09-2007, 11:54 AM

btw...Geoff...

I had installed those sprinkler gate valves and put them on timers, but found that whether they were plugged in, or turned off...flow still came out. At exactly the same speed, regardless. So I'm guessing the PCX-70 was pushing too much pressure on them, and as a result, they never worked. Recently took them off, as the only thing they were really doing was restricting the flow. It's a shame, cause I REALLY thought that was a cheap/quick/easy solution....

JY13131 · 05-09-2007, 12:25 PM

"Squid" only costs 60.00

Geoff · 05-09-2007, 08:06 PM

those sprinkler valves are rated up to 60psi. i do not think the pressure was to great. it may have been to low, but not to great. you had them facing in the correct direction?

i am having a bit of a problem with mine, but it is because it is on the outlet of a RO/DI filter. the valve has no idea what to do with that little flow.

sorry about that, it should work on that pump. i may have to play with that on my own at some point again.

G~

skeety · 05-11-2007, 06:23 AM

yeah...I'm positive I had them facing the right way.

no clue what was going on. Guess your right though. If they're used in sprinklers, then they'd have to be rated for 60psi.

wierd. Let me know if you find anything out.

skeety · 05-14-2007, 01:02 PM

I got another related question...(Geoff or anyone else who knows)

Just got my Velocity T3...and realized...the Chiller I'm pushing through
only has 1/2" in/outs. So will the majority of the T3 pump's power be LOST by pushing through this 1/2" plumbing?

skeety · 05-14-2007, 04:07 PM

let me rephrase.

Would I get MORE flow out of the T3 if I used 3/4" plumbing than I would with 1/2" plumbing?

Logically, I would think so.

Given that...if my chiller has only 1/2" inputs and outputs...not much I can do, eh?

Fly Guy · 05-14-2007, 04:12 PM

You would get more flow out of it with 3/4" plumbing, but what you will lose for the application in question doesnt really matter so long as you are providing at least the minimum required flow rate through your chiller.

On one of my tanks I have quite a bit undersized chiller for it. I find that it actually cools better running the minimum amount of water through it. I dont know if its more efficient....doubt it, but it does cool better.

leveldrummer · 05-14-2007, 04:52 PM

take the 2 mag 7's, and build 2 over the top, closed loops, put the mags on a 30 minute timer, your tank will rock!! if not, send them here, id love to try it. like this...