trying to figure out how much flwo overflow has

i acquired a new 54 gallon pre drilled corner tank. is there any way i can figure how much of a overflow rate it has so i can start figuring out what return pump and things like i will need?

 

What size sump? Typical setup is 10x the sump volume. That provides sufficient time for the skimmer, reactors, etc to process the water. Overflows are usually rated much higher than you'll ever need, so there's no danger in over-running the drain and flooding the DT.

 

Ok I kinda figured as much but better safe then sorry. The sump will 20-40g so I will aim for 200gph for 20g to 400 gph for the 40g then
I figured most over flow are higher then I would normally need just wanted to make sure.
It's my first drilled tank.always used the hob over flow

 

Mr. Bill,

I"m not disagreeing with you at all, except that I was on RC a few weeks ago, where one of the posters was very adamant that the sump flow onoy needs to be 3-4 x the DT/hr.
I usually run mine quite a bit higher which is what got us into that discussion in the first place.

As someone said, usually the overflows will flow more than enough to keep from flooding your room.
However, it needs to be set up properly.

You don't want to 'match' the flow from the RP either- that will lead to a fllood, there should be plenty of flow to spare. The overflow keeps the DT at the right hight, and your ATO/manual replacements keep the sump level relatively level.

And remember, you'll need extra space in your sump for a power out, etc.

Good look,
We'd like to see pictures!

 

Yes. Some will suggest that you get a larger pump, then trim the output with a ball valve; either way will be fine, though.

 

Sometimes, 3 - 4x the DT is the same as 10x the sump volume, all depending on the size of both. Also, just because one person is "adamant" about something doesn't mean their way is the only right way.

But yes, one, the other, or somewhere in between will work.

 

What size bulkhead and standpipe? Those are the determining factors on how much an overflow is capable of.

I stay in the 5-7x display volume range for my return pump normally but if the sump is on the small side or does not hold much volume I lean towards 3x to 5x so I do not have microbubble issues and the skimmer is more efficient. I also prefer a sump with more surface area like a long or breeder tank versus a taller tank like a standard 29G since it has more surface for oxygen transfer and more room for equipment. I think they make a better sump all around since you can install chambers or baffles and make the water physically change directions and give up entrained air bubbles.

 

Yes ;D

 

Bulk head size and stand pipe size don't know ill measure when I get home from work. I will also try to get pics of the over flow in question. I plan on building a custom stand I'm currently designing it sketchup right now I was going to set it up to hold at least a 40g breeder
Like I said this is the first tank I've got with a drilled overflow
I'm just in the design, cost analysis phase. Seeing how nice I have to be to my wife before I tell her how much it will cost

 

That will make a great sump! You will love the drilled tank and internal overflow. I've had my current 100G with a custom offfset center overflow for over 10 years now and would never go back sumpless or a HOB overflow again.