acrylic thickness for small frag tank ? also drain/ return size

acrylic thickness for small frag tank ? also drain/ return size
question #1
I'm doing a 24x18x12" tall frag tank which will be plumbed to my main tank was wondering if I do it in 3/8" can it be rimless with no bow at all or if I do a euro top would 1/4" work pr 3-8" better ?

question #2
what size drain would should I do 1" and 3/4" return or other ?

question #3
should I increase my main return pump to run rough the main tank and two frag tanks or run a separate return pump just for two small frag tanks ?

thanks in advance

 

My opinion:
#1- Total volume is about what 22 gallons? You said tall... (24X18X12) (LXWXH)? 12" doesn't seem tall. 3/8" seems PLENTY in thickness. There are calculators online that can tell you if you need it braced. It gets confusing especially when you have to input the "Safety Factor". I highly doubt you're going to notice a bow with 3/8". I am not an expert on this one.

#2. You need to ask your self whats your goal on flow. Do you want all your flow through your drain + return w/o powerheads? or mixed with both. I like a 3x to 5x turnover rate through a sump/filters. But i like total flow anywhere to 10x to 40x. All depends on what you are keeping in there. I hate the look of power heads so I usually do closed loops. Also, check out a "Race Track" style. THAT would definitely maximize flow through just Drain + Return.

#3 See answer to #2 depending on what you want to do.
See flow chart for PVC gph rates.

 

I have been reading a bunch about return and drain piping. Certain pumps need certain size of piping to get the maximum flow rate and this is all dependent on the size of the pump. The return if piped with with 3/4" pvc will move approximately 400 GPH.

Just my thoughts: (not sure if this would really work out)

As Likeajeenyus said, you can maximize your flow by connecting all your tanks together and depending solely on drainage. Your pump would only have to pump into the first tank and the other tanks would be lower in-line to allow the water to drain into them, and then a drain line to the sump from the last one.

 

thanks for the info will check