Stand space

[the_bandit]

My 55g reef sits under a wierd stand. I would like to add a 20-30g sump/refugium to it but that is not possible. This is a middle brace that sits inside the stand that seperates the two compartments. I would like to avoid drilling into my wall into another room so I can put a sump. Is there something I can do to modify the stand or possibly my sump/fuge? a 10g tank can sit inside each side.

 

[chrisnif]

Maybe 2 10 gallons and a "bulkhead - flex pipe - bulkhead" connection between them, i've seen that done a few times

 

[the_bandit]

Is there any way you can illistraight that for me? Id really appreciate it.

 

[chrisnif]

I drew a picture in paint

 

[chrisnif]

so basically you have the 2 smaller tanks under your stand. Put a bulkhead (you'll have to consult elsewhere on height of the bulkhead, but I'd probably put them both about dead middle) in each tank and hook them to each other with flexible tubing (easier to work with, just keep in mind the reduction in flow)
I've got it displayed here how id do it, skimmer in the first sump then use the second as a fuge. you may have to tap a small hole in the cabinet from compartment to compartment to do this but I doubt a small hole would change its strength.

 

[the_bandit]

Hmm. I think I may just make a 10g fuge instead. I really dont mind seeing equipment. I have a HOB skimmer too. Dont feel like searching for a in sump skimmer. Think a 10g fuge is good for a 55g reef? And where would I find a HOB overflow?
Thank you for your effort.

 

[scsinet]

Originally Posted by Chrisnif
http:///forum/post/3188578
so basically you have the 2 smaller tanks under your stand. Put a bulkhead (you'll have to consult elsewhere on height of the bulkhead, but I'd probably put them both about dead middle) in each tank and hook them to each other with flexible tubing (easier to work with, just keep in mind the reduction in flow)
I've got it displayed here how id do it, skimmer in the first sump then use the second as a fuge. you may have to tap a small hole in the cabinet from compartment to compartment to do this but I doubt a small hole would change its strength.
Yeah you can do this. I've done it before. I'd put the bulkheads near the bottom.
Keep in mind that because the effect of gravity on this system is going to be much less than that of a overflow, you need to create a very large pipe junction between the two tanks if you expect to get full flow through this. I'd use a 1.5" bulkhead to connect the two together.

 

[handbanana]

Originally Posted by The_Bandit
http:///forum/post/3188486
My 55g reef sits under a wierd stand. I would like to add a 20-30g sump/refugium to it but that is not possible. This is a middle brace that sits inside the stand that seperates the two compartments. I would like to avoid drilling into my wall into another room so I can put a sump. Is there something I can do to modify the stand or possibly my sump/fuge? a 10g tank can sit inside each side.
I think i have the exact same stand as you. Mine has a brace, more like a wall that actullay divides the stand in two. only have about 17 inches of height to work with too. its kinda frustrating

 

[the_bandit]

Its extremely frustrating. Its causing me to upgrade if I want to get a sump and fuge.

 

[handbanana]

Its a weird stand. Im going to make a ten gal fuge for the opposite site from the sump and either branch off from my overflow or my return to feed into the fuge. The stand has no room for my ballast and another ten gal.

 

[the_bandit]

Well goodluck to you. I get nervous thinking about drilling my tank and an overflow box is not something I want. Thats why im just going to buy a 75g or 90g. 55g has alot of limitations

 

[handbanana]

Dont blame you. Id like to move up to a bigger tank but this is my first tank so Ill see what happens. good luck!