Closed loop system idea

[pbuck]

I want to make a closed loop system on my reef. I have thought of an idea. Could I mount a regular external overflow box on my tank and put a plug in the bulkhead that would normally lead to a sump. Then I would place a pump (mag 7) in the overflow box that sits outside of the tank and run some pvc to return the water from the pump (inside of the overflow box) to the tank. Would this be a good idea? The benefit of this design is that I don't cause any head pressure because the pump only has to pump the water 4 inches vertically and 10 inches horizontally. The only problem I can see with this is that most overflow boxes might not allow for a mag 7 to fit inside of it. I will shop around for a while to find one big enough and if I cannot find one then I will make my own. Any suggestions will be appreciated

 

[pbuck]

I was wondering how well it would prime itself if I had to shut it off. What kind of pump is that? Are there any drawbacks to that design? It looks more simple than my design.

 

[pbuck]

thanks for the info, my mag 5 is on the way. I will put all of this together and let you know if it works.

 

[dolciflyer]

why not just use a powerhead that you place inside the tank if it will be used only for circulation???

 

[pbuck]

I don't like the looks of powerheads in my tank. And, with a closed loop system I can place the outputs from the pump anywhere I want in my tank. For instance, I want to put an output in the front of my tank to make for more water movement. I could not place a powerhead right in the front of my tank, it would look stupid. With a closed loop, I can use pvc to route the outputs (under the canopy) from the pump(s) to where ever I want.