Fancy returns

[mapster]

I looking for ways to have a return from the sump into the tank in a fashion that would eliminate some powerheads. I was thinking of using a cpr overflow with 2, 1" (or 1 1/2") bulkheads. One would lead directly to the sump the other would be split to lead to the sump and a refugium. With that I could use a pretty powerful return pump, split that and have it return water to both sides of the tank.

Two questions:

1. Does anyone have any pics of methods they have used or ideas for returns, and would something like the picture below (sorry, paint again) be possible?

2. With the two bulheads and strong pump, would the water be moving to quickly to get skimmed properly in the sump? I will have ball valves on the pipes leading to the sump, but I also want enough flow to use a strong pump and use the returns for water movement. The sump wont be too large probably only 30 gallons or so.

TIA

[TroyF]

The water would travel the path of least resistance so without valves to adjust flow to each outlet it would just go out one or two of the holes with any force.

[mapster]

Thats true. Oh well, at least I can get rid of two powerheads near the top of my tank.

[platapus]

Here is something I started using a couple of months ago - it disrtibutes pretty good - the use of a "T" with a plug at the end instead of an elbow creates a little bit of back presure - at least in theary. it dose distribute out of all 3 holes, a little stronger on the last hole though.

[platapus]

..

[platapus]

these heater suctions work perfect for PVC!

[mapster]

Cool, thanks for the pics platapus!