Talk to me about closed loop systems

Nice dimensions! I think with those pumps you should be golden as far as noise is concerned.

 

I'm going to try out a surge system in my next build, which is unfortunately 6 months away

I've never built one, but have heard issues with salt creep and noise are common. I'm simply trying it out for fun and there is some money saving potential, since a surge system would only cost $50-100 (compared to $500 for a single MP40).

First I'll build a test set-up outside since an incorrectly built surge system could result in a big mess. If it works OK, I'll set one up inside.

One specific concern I have is with keeping the water level in my sump constant for easy ATO.

 

With surge systems, there is usually an issue with microbubbles during the surge, which in turn results in lots of salt creep. They are very effective and can be used to cause massive flow. I would use one if it was possible without the microbubbles.

 

what is a surge system?

 

All of the surge devices I know of are manipulations of this basic system, which I think was first made by Carlson, a former director of the Waikiki aquarium:



There is a surge tank placed above the level of the display aquarium. Water is pumped into that surge tank. Once the water level in the surge tank reaches a certain level, a siphon automatically starts and rapidly empties into the display aquarium.

Variations of the design often involve a toilet-flush valve (Borneman), which apparently is quieter.

A major issue is that air inside of the pipe is forced out when the siphon starts, causing micro bubbles.

Other than that, apparently this device does wonders for coral health.

 

This guy also does a good job explaining one example of a surge device. I'd probably make mine like 20 gallons, not 2.5 though. Maybe salt creep becomes unmanageable with larger surges.

Borneman Surge Device - YouTube

 

Thank you for that infobut i dont think that i can swing something to surge enough water for a 300gallon tank lol

But on the other hand a switch surged from below with a over sized pump maybe? with an extra 100gallons of water?

 

http://reefbuilders.com/forums/diy-projects/14746-how-build-carlson-surge-device.html

I have a closed loop on my tank and love it. It is also a lot quieter than my mp40 by far. I have a little giant 3mdqx or something like that with sqwd. One inlet and the sqwd switches between left and right through the bottom and each side is wyed with locline. I have the returns covered up with rock and stuff. I have a build thread some where with pictures.

Edit: here's my thread
http://www.3reef.com/forums/showthread.php?t=104280

 

Awesome thanks im checking it out now and a surge system looks like a bit much for me thanks for all the info everyone on that though