Multiple reactors run off a single pump

[fatoldsun]

I've read that several people are running their reactors off a bulkhead set up off their return pumps. I’m thinking about trying a variation on this. I have a Mag 9.5 for my return so I don’t think I can use that but I was thinking about trying something just for my reactors. I can’t really change by setup to an external pump so it has to be something internal and I’m not ready to re-do all of my plumbing (and sump) – something that may be coming down the road but for now I’d just like to eliminate the 4 MJ12s I have running in the tank – they are for GAC, GFO, Bio pellets and I have one adding some flow to my fuge. I know GFO and Bio pellets together is not used but with both I still have some algae which I attribute in part to the amount of unavoidable natural sunlight exposure.
So that said, any recommendations? Anyone try anything like this? If so, what pump/size would you recommend? I’d like to meter flow so I can control the tumble for the different media independently and I’d like to be able to shut them off for maintenance – and not have it adversely affect those left on – in other words shutting of GFO to swap out media shouldn’t cause the Bio pellets to blow around too hard.
I expect that a large pump will be less efficient than the MJs but I can’t imagine dropping from 4 pumps to 1 won’t be a net gain in terms of energy consumption….

 

[mnat]

You need to install a manifold into your plumbing which is essentially a bunch of ball valves in a row. This way you can run each reactor off of a valve and meter the amount of flow going to each reactor. How many valves you have is going to determine which pump you use. I will post a picture later but there is one in my build thread of my manifold that run the frag tank, recirc tank, and my reactors.

 

[fatoldsun]

I don't know why I said "bulkhead" - I meant manifold. Anyway, would that work with a submersible "pond" type pump? I'd have 4 ball valves. The 4th would be just for some added circulation for the fuge and act as a vent if I close a valve for reactor maintenance - so the remaining reactors don't experience an interim shift in flow amount. What size pump should I try for 4?

 

[NyteGTI]

I also have a 90G, and I run a Mag18 and "T" off my return into 2 reactors(biopellet & GAC) and have PLENTY of return left afterwards. I "T" off right at the pump. one side going to my return, the other side going to a line that has each reactor "T"ed off separately from there. The output for the reactors goes right back into my skimmer chamber and any extra flow I have sprays back into my fuge area. because of the way it's setup to take pics would be like a huge 360deg. panorama shot haha.
I know John(Jgraz) did the same thing Im doing but in a much cleaner fashion. I forgot where the pics went, but he's got his setup now.

 

[jgraz]

Its here Ryan

Few changes today.
New pump: Rio HyperFlow32

Manifold installed. Had to go with my first design due to space constraints.

Split my BRS dual. With the upcoming start of bio pellets I'm hoping to not need GFO so I'll only need one.

I have this running my 90RR, a single BRS reactor for GAC, a Reef Octopus BioPellet reactor, and in a few day a 10 gal nano tank.

 

[fatoldsun]

Thanks guys. Looks like I'll be re-doing my plumbing and once I start that I think I should take care of some other issues with my sump layout so my skimmer fits. That's gonna have to wait for summer or fall.
Jgraz - how do you like that Rio pump?

 

[jgraz]

I like it a lot. If it was just a bit more quiet it would be great. Its not loud by any stretch but I do hear it from time to time, which may be from me needing to cushion it better. Plenty of power though. Your welcome to stop by one day to check it out.

 

[Chrisgarrick]

Take a look at my thread. I run everything off my mag 24

 

[fatoldsun]

Chris
having set that up, do you think a 24 is necessary or could I get away with an 18? People seem to sell off the 18s pretty often so that might be a little easier. Planning to run my return and the reactors off one pump may require a 24 but I thought it was worth asking.

 

[Chrisgarrick]

Depends on your return distance and height. Your going to have to figure out head loss etc. I like having one pump running. And I've had conversations with Curt about energy savings etc. you can get a more efficient pump but it prob will cost more. I like the mag cause its a tried and true pump. I'm running 2 biopellet reactors my calcium reactor and my spray bar return from the 24. I have about 6 feet of run to the tank (half inch PVC). And 2 1/2 feet of rise. But my system runs perfectly balanced. I almost wish I had a bigger pump. Remember you can valve it down if need be. I guess I'd rather have too much than too little.

 

[Chrisgarrick]

Ps I also have a glass holes kit installed so I draw 1500 g/hr

 

[fatoldsun]

Alright so I have a std AGA reef ready 90 with the std durso setup so here's hoping I can throttle the 24 back enough. I'm gonna set up 5 or 6 outlets on the manifold. 1)Return 2)bio pellets 3)GAC 4)GFO 5)fuge-flow 6)spare. Not sure I have the patience to wait until I redo the sump and plumbing though. Humph...

 

[fatoldsun]

Its here Ryan



I have this running my 90RR, a single BRS reactor for GAC, a Reef Octopus BioPellet reactor, and in a few day a 10 gal nano tank.

John:
what did you use to transition from the PVC ball valve to the john guest fittings? And are you using 1/2" to 1/4" tees? also, what are you using for your flexible supply line? is it flex PVC? where did you get it? thanks

 

[NyteGTI]

John:
what did you use to transition from the PVC ball valve to the john guest fittings? And are you using 1/2" to 1/4" tees? also, what are you using for your flexible supply line? is it flex PVC? where did you get it? thanks

I used a 1/2” MALE NPT X 1/2" PUSH CONNECT fitting. I couldn't find them locally so I just got them from BRS. here: http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/catalog/product/view/id/2032/

I'll let john chime in here, but it looks like 3/4" to 1/2" tees and then the same fitting I used.

That flex tubing is just black flex vinyl. they sell it at Lowes/Home Depot in the plumbing section.

 

[jgraz]

The fitting is the one Ryan pointed out. And yes the only place I could find it was BRS. Or if you have an extra reactor sitting around you can pull it from there. The tees are 1"x1"x1/2". And I only found the black vinyl tubing in larger diameter at marine depot.

 

[fatoldsun]

I literally just got a small BRS order delivered yesterday - so much for saving on shipping. I swear this hobby is going to bankrupt me

 

[jgraz]

I literally just got a small BRS order delivered yesterday - so much for saving on shipping. I swear this hobby is going to bankrupt me

I completely understand. Everytime I order something I realize there is something I forgot.

 

[jgraz]

Hope this catches you in time. I just saw this at lowes. Not exactly the same pieces but should work for you. This is in by me in Hamilton. Plumbing area

 

[fatoldsun]

Hope this catches you in time. I just saw this at lowes. Not exactly the same pieces but should work for you. This is in by me in Hamilton. Plumbing area

Awesome John, thank you! I may have to take a run over at lunch - is that right off 130 in the Hamilton Square shopping center (with Red Robin, etc..). I'm sure most Lowes are stocked the same but I may as well start with one I know has it....

 

[jgraz]

No problem. I was picking up some stuff eariler and figured I would check.