PVC Pipe VS Tubing

reefnut

reefnut

Active Member
What are the advantages of running PVC Pipe instead of Tubing? Currently I have everying ran with tubing (sump inlet, sump outlet, fuge supply, fug return, etc.)... I plan to overhaul the tank this weekend and I'm wondering if it would be a good idea to redo everying in PVC.
Any thoughts?
 
reefnut

reefnut

Active Member
Thanks Kip, That is a nice looking setup. I think I'm sold... Did the PVC change the flow rates for your returns? Or at least noticeably change them?
 
tony detroit

tony detroit

Active Member
I think something I read said that every 90 degree bend was like an extra foot of head. As long as inside diameter of the pipe is the same as the tube, flow should remain the same.
 
stumpdog

stumpdog

Member
I just recently (30 minutes) ordered an Overflow from Lifereef and they said that tubing is actually better for overflow and return pumps. They said flow wasn't restricted and it was much more quiet. Is this true?
Thanks-
Jeremy
 
laudluvr

laudluvr

Member
Tony,
Good call! The more bends you have in pipe, the slower the output. Minimize the bends and you will maximize your flow.
Flow shouldn't be changed due to type of material, only inside diameter and pathway restrictions.
Stumpdog,
I would guess that to be true. Tubing has more of a rubber structure which should act as a better sound insulator than rigid pvc. Just an opinion though. No practical experience
 
dreeves

dreeves

Active Member
PVC, vinyl, and flex PVC tubing all have their plus'...
For the less restricted water movement...I believe PVC is the best. For the most part, the inside diameter will remain constant...any tubing, either PVC or vinyl, willl always lose inside diameter once a "T", or a barb fitting is added...The outside diameter of the fitting matches the inside diameter of the tubing..therefore the opening through the fitting will be smaller...
Ideally...I use a combination of both PVC and flex PVC...(braided flexible PVC is less likely to kink then vinyl)...flex at both return and overflow at the top of the tank and both into PVC down and back up from the sump.
As for the 90 degree bends...they will reduce water pressure as they create backpressure by changing the direction of the water...I do not know of any set degree of loss of pressure, ie...gaining a foot of head height per bend as was mentioned earlier...when a 90 is needed, try and break it into to 45's, minimal pressure loss with that...if that isnt an option due to available room...then a 90 has to be used...
Don't really understand how the type of plumbing used would alter noise though...but that dude at LifeReef has been doing that stuff for nearly 20 years...so I am sure he knows...
 
bigmac

bigmac

Member
IMO, PVC looks better and works better. You should always use a small section of vinylflex tubing on the pump side of your plumbing, this will help absorb vibration and keep the joints from breaking loose.
 
tony detroit

tony detroit

Active Member
I'd say laudluvr made the sound call. I have a few friends with tanks and there is a sound issue. Pipe is louder in my experience.
Reefnut, flow issues aside use braided hose for a couple reasons:
1. cheap
2. sounds quieter
3. water makes progressive movements instead of getting shot straight into 90 degree bends. This is in turn easier on your pump
4. It's clear so you can see what's going on if you need to.
5. It's flexible, so you won't need unions like on pvc to move it a few inches to changes filter pads, activated carbon, etc.
6. less chance of a leak because of less connections.
 
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