Gang,
I know this topic is very similar to Flighty's recent questions regarding flow and circulation, but I didn't want to hijack that thread and I have a few distinctions.
I am going to build a closed-loop manifold (ala "Calfo manifold") for my 29G display / 15G sump. I will use a "halo" around the rim of the tank constructed from 1/2" PVC with T's and Loc-Line nozzles (so I can easily direct flow). I am thinking four nozzles to start. At first, I will probably use a SCWD to alternate between the left two nozzles, then the right two. Ultimately, I will build a DIY timer for two pumps to take the place of the SCWD.
My question pertains to selection of a pump. I like the MAG pumps, I have a MAG3 running my skimmer and a MAG5 running my return. I am considering buying a MAG5 to replace the one on the skimmer (to upgrade flow there) and then use the MAG3 for the closed-loop. I know the MAG pumps aren't necessarily pressure rated, but I won't be working against much head - will suck from the display and return to the display. Is the MAG3 sufficient? (Please say 'yes', I will be able to kill two birds with one stone!) Will the SCWD + nozzles equate to too much head for the MAG3? Also, once I build the DIY wave timer, I will buy another MAG3 to power the other half of the loop. (I am weird with my brand loyalties... plus, I only have to worry about replacement parts for one system).
Also, if I do use the MAG3, do I need to upsize the inlet piping from 1/2" (size of the fitting) to 3/4" to prevent cavitation? In my research, that was suggested in not-so-explicit terms - and I couldn't find anything about this on the instruction sheet that came with the MAG pumps.
As always, thanks for reading my long-winded posts.
Jeff
I know this topic is very similar to Flighty's recent questions regarding flow and circulation, but I didn't want to hijack that thread and I have a few distinctions.
I am going to build a closed-loop manifold (ala "Calfo manifold") for my 29G display / 15G sump. I will use a "halo" around the rim of the tank constructed from 1/2" PVC with T's and Loc-Line nozzles (so I can easily direct flow). I am thinking four nozzles to start. At first, I will probably use a SCWD to alternate between the left two nozzles, then the right two. Ultimately, I will build a DIY timer for two pumps to take the place of the SCWD.
My question pertains to selection of a pump. I like the MAG pumps, I have a MAG3 running my skimmer and a MAG5 running my return. I am considering buying a MAG5 to replace the one on the skimmer (to upgrade flow there) and then use the MAG3 for the closed-loop. I know the MAG pumps aren't necessarily pressure rated, but I won't be working against much head - will suck from the display and return to the display. Is the MAG3 sufficient? (Please say 'yes', I will be able to kill two birds with one stone!) Will the SCWD + nozzles equate to too much head for the MAG3? Also, once I build the DIY wave timer, I will buy another MAG3 to power the other half of the loop. (I am weird with my brand loyalties... plus, I only have to worry about replacement parts for one system).
Also, if I do use the MAG3, do I need to upsize the inlet piping from 1/2" (size of the fitting) to 3/4" to prevent cavitation? In my research, that was suggested in not-so-explicit terms - and I couldn't find anything about this on the instruction sheet that came with the MAG pumps.
As always, thanks for reading my long-winded posts.
Jeff
