water movement

Hey guys,

I was reading about water movement within a reef aquarium and it said that I should strive for turbulent water movement within my tank. They also said that the best way to do this is, is to get Oscillating powerheads. What i want to know is, how do you determine what strength,.. as far as gph,.. powerhead do you need to get that turbulent movement. I have a magdrive 1800 return pump, I split the return line so that water is pumped into the main tank on 2 sides. One line comes in by the corner over flow and the other from the back corner of my tank opposite the other. The mag drive pumps 1350 ghp into my tank, how much more movement do I require to get turbulent conditions in my tank. I realize position is key, but I don't want to buy a powerhead that's 2 strong.

I want to buy 2 of the following powerheads:
Power Sweep

I plan to keep SPS, LPS, Clams and Inverts. Any suggestions and ideas are appreciated, thanks.

 

Save yourself PH head problems...

Check out:

SCWD—Squid—Wavemaker

The SCWD (pronounced "squid") Wavemaker is a revolutionary device designed to provide alternating currents without the use of electricty. The SCWD mounts inline with 3/4" tubing, the two ports alternate the output, the bottom port is the input. A great alternative to expensive electronic ball valves. The SCWD will run on any pump with a minimum output of 50 GPH and a maximum output of 1400. The switching speed and current duration is dependent on the volume of water flowing through the SCWD. You can control the duration by controlling the flow going through the SCWD. Can be submersed for use with large power heads or used externally. Provides alternating current between two ports. connects to any pump up to 1400 GPH with 3/4" vinyl tubing.


Works great in my 125 gal. Can supplement with a small koralia PH to get at any low flow areas...


I have used for years. They do appear to wear out over time...My first lasted 5 years.

Can be modded to increase flow.

Love mine.


Scott

 

The best way of determining what strength(gph) is by the numer and type of corals you have! Different types of coral require different water flow intensities!

 

I'd love to crack one open and see the guts! Moving parts tho...

 

Omar: How did you mod yer SCWD?

 

with sps alot of flow is required. a pressure washer type flow isnt recommended, but a firehose flow is.

 

Okay not fair! "can be modded" and no details...

Can you explain this in a little more detail please? I was thinking about buying a couple of these but would like to push a little more water through them.