View Full Version : Dream tank
I have a chance in a lifetime of moving into a house with a 'study/office' adjacent to a large garage... and getting a new tank (which will be my final upgrade). This is a one shot as all my hard-earned brownie points will be used up, so I'm shooting for the ultimate system. "Chance of a life time" because I'll be a dead if I try this again! http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif
Scenario one ( 6'x4'x2.5' ) :
Large deep (front to back) tank in the garage, with hole cut in the wall as viewing window from the study/office. All the support systems will be in the garage.
Scenario two (most likely) (7'x2.5'x2.5' ) :
Long but narrower tank in study. Front to back size limit to doorway if pre-built, or have it built onsite (max 2.5ft). Small hole in the wall to hold sump and all the support systems.
Here's my plan of the systems:
Main tank
- will have 5" DSB, with zones of rubble and larger gravel size to provide diversity and allow keeping of deep substrate animals.
- lighting will be 2x400w 10kk (maxilight & blv) at one end, and "lower light" end with T5s.
- LR arranged into 2 cliffs
- close loops to provide 7-10x circulation.
- "optiwhite" glass for viewing panel
- black silicone sealant
- drilled at back for overflow and close loops
- design to allow use of centrifugal pumps for additional directed circulation if necessary
Sump tank
- the final stage taking input from all support systems, supplying the external return pump, fed from main overflow and water change sump.
Refugium
- which overflows into main tank, fed from small proportion of the return flow.
- Will have DSB and macro algae.
- Lighting by T5s on reverse cycle.
Water change sump
- optionally fed from main overflow, with outlet to drain through valve.
- can be disconnected from main system, and have heater & powerheads for making up fresh SW.
- should hold about 15-20% of volume
- canister filter with carbon & polyfilter.
- can be used as quarantine tank when disconnected.
- when connected will be fed from main overflow to provide a certain amount of 'settlement' to remove some sediments.
Frag tank
- connected to main system
- has "rubble" to allow attachment of softies
- split into 2 halves, with fast & slow flow.
- lighting by 150w MH & T5s.
- possible plenum bottom to allow detachment from main system
Filtration
- Deltec 902 skimmer
- skimmer fed from one of the overflow from main tank
- DSB/LR and macro algae/mangrove for nutrients export
Cooling
- fans for main cooling
- passive cooling via heat exchanger
- Teco RA680 to support at higher temp range
Supplements & Food
- KM500 kalk stirrer to handle all topups.
- Korallin 1501 Calc reactor (upgrade with Watson Marlow peristaltic pump to drive). Possible upgrade to Schuran Jetstream later if needed.
- Automatic continuous feeder into refugium (overflows into main tank).
- Live phyto reactors
- Rotifier reactors
- Brine shrimp/artemia breeders
Monitor/Control
- IKS to monitor pH/temp etc...
- control fans for temperature
- linked to PC (server) to allow remote monitoring via webserver
Electrical
- sub-main power fitted in garage
- RCD fitted as standard
- all tanks will have earth probe
- UPS/inverter to run circulation pumps
Now then... when you've finished swearing/thinking I'm mad etc... I can really use a lot of inputs and suggestions at this stage. Most of the ideas so far are based on a year's worth of asking lots of stupid questions and reading on this BB. This is a huge leap from my current 75gal, but if I go slow on stocking, then the basics hasn't change except for a lot more space for the fish to swim in.
I'm still pretty vague on :-
- who can build tanks at affordable rate but high quality
- suppliers for lots of stuff.
- good pumps to use for a system of this volume
- close loop designs (ideally i'd like one powerful pump driving more than one loops, with motorized valve to redirect the flow instead of switching pumps on/off).
- how to support the refugium tank securely high up on the wall.
Phew, now that I've typed in all this, I'm begining to think I'm mad too! *http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/crazy.gif
Thanks v.much for reading this far! *http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rolleyes.gif
Fish stocking plans:
current:-
- yellow tang
- kole tang
- flame angel
- oc. clowns pair
- scooter
wishlist:-
- pyjama / six line wrasse
- sail fin tang / lipstick tang
- copper band
- mandarin (long term)
- purple fire (pair)
- anthias x 6
- cleaner gobies
- royal gramma/dotty back
Last edited by tuan at Oct. 24 2002,10:26
That's not fair!!! I want one!!!
Go for it. But only if we can all come around to have a look http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif
Tim
what will the nutrient export mechanism be when you go skimmerless?
Sounds like a great project, very jealous http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote </td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">what will the nutrient export mechanism be when you go skimmerless[/b][/quote]
I'm leaning towards macro algae/sea grass/mangrove in the refugium as nutrient export. Hopefully some of the algae will be recycled too as food for tangs etc.
As the overall system volume will be quite large (no idea what yet) - the pollution from dead animals will be relatively low so not to crash the whole tank immediately. The skimmer will be connected with water flowing through constantly, just without the venturi pump on, so that I can turn it on if needed to.
Tuan,
I would go for the viewing window option - it'll be so much easier to maintain.
I hope to be doing something similar in the next year or so - currently, I run a 6x2x2 with all the support systems in the garage and a hole in the wall for the run from tank to sump. The next tank will be something in the region of 9x3x2.5 and will be 'framed' with the tank in the garage and a (large) hole in the living room wall. It'll cost you (apparently) about a grand to have the work done and an RSJ inserted.
The good thing about this option is you retain room size - a 7ft tank will up out a fair portion of your study.
James.
Jamesc,
I would prefer this option too. However, from my initial queries, cutting a hole into the garage will need to follow building regulation for fire/smoke resistant. (the garage is considered to be a fire hazard).
The first requirement is that the 'window' is non-openning. Easy!
The second, which I'm not 100% sure of yet, is that the 'glass' needs to be 'fire resistance'. The only glass I've found so far that are viewed as 'fire guard' seem to be UV sensitive, and so would be affected by the lighting system we use.
I'm considering another alternative - building a little room inside the garage to seal it off from the garage altogether. The walls would then act as a fire break.
However, another consideration is that I want to make the system 'transportable' in case we move. A small hole in the wall to fill in is easy, a huge window and bricked up walls in the garage will cost lost of £££ to build, and extra £££ to remove.
all that water and they're worried about fire http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif
</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote </td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">all that water and they're worried about fire *[/b][/quote]
he he - I know it sounds crazy, but, I would say fire risk is quite high considering all the crazy electrics we have.
Even though there is a lot of water around and lots of CO2 too - you'd think that the fire will not be a problem... oh NO!
Murphy's law state that all that water will not put out the fire, but probably starts it... something like a crack in the tank, water cause a short circuit (Sod himself intervenes at this point to make sure that the RCD will not trip), and fire started. The house starts to burn down till all the structure weaken, then as a final straw, the huge CO2 cylinder explode and shoot across the corridor just as we're running out and kill us all.
Oh crumbs!
ps. sorry, i've been reading the R.Shimek thread and all the prophets of doom stuff!
http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif * http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/crazy.gif *http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/cry.gif *http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif *http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif *http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif *http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/devil.gif
yet you convinced the other half to let you set this up! http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif
now thats a 'who's ya daddy' tank if ive seen one, i'm deffo looking forward to the pics of this bugger, go tuan ! go tuan ! , cheers, lee http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Tuan
You could section of the tank area and acheive a fire rating in the garage using stud wall (plasterboard) with a fire rated door on it. This would be relatively cheap and easy to disassemble should you move again.
Thanks Paul,
I didn't know "plasterboard" stud walls are fire rated? Thought they were "paper". I've been thinking along the same route actually, as it will make it safer if there are kids around too, so no one can tamper with all the equipments.
Tuan, Sorry mate for even mentioning building regs and planning permission. LOL not. http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif You know it makes sense http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif One day you might just be thankful you didn't just dive in http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rolleyes.gif Les.
Hi tuan,
Platerboard can be used as a fire break,you just need to doule tack it,2 layers each side rather then 1,i do allot off timber framed houses and thats what they do.you can get 1" thick plaster board which is same as 2 sheets but is properly very expensive.
Tank sounds very inpressive, would like to see some pics when you start the project.
Good luck! http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Andrew
</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (tuan @ Aug. 15 2002,22:23)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">Thanks Paul,
I didn't know "plasterboard" stud walls are fire rated? Thought they were "paper". I've been thinking along the same route actually, as it will make it safer if there are kids around too, so no one can tamper with all the equipments.[/b][/quote]
Stud walls are used more than you would belive now in industrial applications, so there would be no probs for your garage
</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (les @ Aug. 15 2002,22:41)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">Tuan, Sorry mate for even mentioning building regs and planning permission. LOL not. http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif You know it makes sense http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif One day you might just be thankful you didn't just dive in http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rolleyes.gif Les.[/b][/quote]
Les m8! No need to be sorry! Exactly the kind of info I need to stop me making a real hash of it! This ONE has to be just right so the more info the better.
I'm still waiting to hear someone tell me don't be stupid! http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif
Just do it! And don't spend forever planning or you'll never start. Knock the hole in the wall now just to make sure you're committed and the missus can't change her mind!!http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif
My ideal setup is to have a sectioned-off piece of garage making my own little tank back office, with a window in the wall of whatever room the garage backs onto.
I was lucky enough to see Martin Lakin's (Acropora on this site) tank once and his setup is like that, with a skylight as well for natural light supplement. The "fish room" was a design masterpiece - all plugs were racked, marked etc, the 2 huge skimmers were easily accessible, the RO top-up was well-automated. The whole thing was awesome.
If you get the chance have a look. http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif
Good luck http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif
mattbeaman
20-08-02, 00:18
Hey m8
beat me to it http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif the current house search will be determined by the same requirements for a room backing onto the garage to take a tank the same http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif.
I would certainly go for the 'window' type if possible - also because of the depth for access and daily 'messing' etc. far more practical......mines 8x2x2 and I'd really like a deeper tank front to back, it makes a huge difference to whether it ends up looking like a section of reef or just a tank IMO. - personally I don't think 2.5ft is enough.
The only thing that strikes me is how little light you are planning? Two halides and some t5's isnt a lot over a 6 of 7 ft tank if you are going with more depth front to back.
I've more or less decided on building a "little" room in the garage mainly for the safety aspects (no one can get injured for example from all the open water and electrical bits). This room will be lockable to prevent kids etc.. hurting themselves and the fish!
This means the tank will probably be 6'x4' to give the desired depth. Will also enable me to build valeys and cliffs following "vanishing points" angles to give the impression of even more depth!
The hole in the wall is neat as it will hide the top/sides and bottom of the tank, so the whacky 5" in-tank DSB wont look unsightly as well as hiding all the pipeworks etc...
Matt, I take your point about lighting. I want to have a "low light" zone and so the 2x400w will actually be right next to each other giving 800w over 3'x3' square area. This is not a major concern as I can always add more lights http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif Being in the garage the lights do not need to look pretty - so a whole gang of maxilights together is easy *http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif
Thanks "aliaird" for a sneaky idea - I'll knock through the hole as soon as we move in so there's no possibility of changing minds etc.. http://www.ultimatereef.net/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif
'Draft' design:
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/build/tankdesign.jpg
The two grey boxes on the top are surge tanks using Borneman's design.
Thw water change tank can be isolated and then emptied to the drain. Then autofilled with RO so that a fresh batch can be prepared. Once done it is simply relinked into the system.
No more excuses for not doing water changes!
Just a quickie... Why is the skimmer not sat in the sump? Is it a height issue? I notice its still fed from other pipework though....
And how are you going to handel top-up with the surge dumps? Now there's a challange...
Cheers,
Tim
I want to avoid re-skimming some of the output from the water (if the skimmer sits in the sump). I'm also thinking of using a separate pump taking the water from inside the weir to drive the skimmer - which means the flow rate through the skimmer is independant & i get even more water overflowing into the weir to increase the surface skimming effect.
Some of the highly oxygenated water from the skimmer will feed the refugium as well by tee'ing off the outlet.
Top ups shouldn't be a problem because:-
- for large volume of water a few gallons evaporation won't make that much a change
- the surge tank may be driven off another pump, and so will be turned of at night to allow the topup operation
- even with rising and falling levels, there is still a 'minimum' level where the float switch can sit and control the top up.
- in the worse case, I'll use a conductivity meter to measure the salinity and control the top up that way.
Paul-woodcock
29-09-02, 23:17
A Garage is only a garage if you call it a garage and use it as a garage.
Redefine its use & call it something else!!!
Call it a pantry - and keep a crate of beer in it http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Any one got a better idea?? http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif
Paul W
What do you call a garage that houses a large reef tank and has room for a small car then? http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif A motank? http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif
As plans go, my plans are changing... sort of!
Here are some initial pics
This is the "hole in the wall", the otherside will be my "office", still under constructions with the props securing the structural integrity.
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/build/hole.jpg
Now, the base holding the tank, is made from cast reinforced concrete, about 100" length, 58" width, supporting a 7'6 x 4' tank base, with a 9" walk way around the outside so I can stand on for maintenance.
The pic shows the base still in its mold - when removed will reveal an inverted U base of concrete, still to be rendered.
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/build/base.jpg
Two sumps, a high level refugium and a long frag tank will also be built behind the tank.
Lighting spec has changed a little too - 3 spiderlights reflectors, fitted with 2x10kk and 1x20kk 400watt will 'focus' on a 4'x4' area, with the other part of the tank under relatively low lighting.
The lights will probably come on in a sequence, with the 20kk first, then the 10kks later on during 'mid day' time period. T5s Narvae blues and some 6.5k tubes will come on/off to provide supplemental lights in low light zones and dawn/dusk effect.
Circulation will be handled by 2 main Sequence pumps - taking output from 65mm holes near the bottom of the tank, then up and over the edge via 50mm piping (hidden to the side), and directed to generate lots of current.
The main work horse pump will also be a mega Sequence, to feed the skimmer, the ref tank and back to the main tank. In the main tank the return will be piped to the bottom, rising up behind and inside the rockworks to flush the system from the bottom up.
More to follow... watch this space!
The mold has been taken off. The first layer of rendering on as well as the wooden base
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/build/rendering.jpg
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/build/watford.jpg
Tuan,
Looking good! Tell Danny not to throw the wooden mould away.. he'll be needing it again soon http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
James.
Quick update - the tanks have been built. With the main tank still away from the wall for now, waiting until the sealant has cured properly before being pushed back right against the wall.
Picture show 5 tanks.
Main - 90"x48"x30" holding 467 gallons/2123 Ltrs
Sump - 60"x30"x18"
And a rack of tanks, starting from the top:-
Refugia - 84"x26"15"
Frag - 60"x26"9"
Second sump - 89"x 22"x24" (holding 18% of total volume for water changes).
Total volume before displacement approximate to 900 Imp gallons/ 4200 Ltrs.
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/build/roomrack.jpg
simon garratt
06-12-02, 21:39
Hi tuan....
Gotta say.......very impressed m8.......well.....stunned is more appropriate....... http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Si.
Stunned! Me too!
The sheer scale of it is still shocking - heres a pic from an angle to show how big the other tanks really are.
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/build/rack1.jpg
reefkeeper
06-12-02, 23:41
you may be stunned! i'm knackered, wife has forgotten who i am and the dog attacked me tonight as he though i was a burglar!!!!!!
danny
(knew i had left my fags somewhere(lol)
Last edited by reefkeeper at Dec. 06 2002,22:43
Where did you get that rack from that the tanks are on? Is it a custom job?
Looks stunning, though. So, when are you going to get the lorry load of salt delivered http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Tim
oh my god must have cost a fortune.Where did you get the tanks made up for you, would be interested to know.Oh tuan just out of interest we sitting in the £3000.00 mark for that setup or am i way of the target here.However admire what your doing it looks more impressive than my tank and yours has nothing in it yet.LOL> http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
bunglehaze
07-12-02, 14:26
i think it looks awful!<he says with a touch of the green eyed monster> http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif
seriously though Tuan, looks excelent m8 cant wait to see some water and general life in it. I bet the mrs is gonna be glad when she can just look at it thru the living room wall and it is looking all nice!
cheers
leigh http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Tuan,
It's not big enough! http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif
Regards
Lisa
Tuan,
Superb, well jealous now, just wished we hadn't knocked the garage down to build an extension for more rooms a couple of years back, but hey, could always commandeer them back *http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif
Seriously though it looks brilliant, like Matt I've got an 8x2x2 and would love the extra width.
Last edited by ziggy at Dec. 09 2002,14:49
I'm jealous *http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/blush.gif
Can't wait to see some picts of the setup with some water in it. What's the timescale Tuan?
Cheers
Alex
http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif *http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/cool.gif
Probably won't see water in there till Jan ( it'll take at least a couple of weeks just to fill it! http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif ) - then at least another month before the rocks are finished. I guess first fish in (the main tank) at around Feb time.
Tuan.
You may want to have look at this tank on reefcentral
http://www.reefcentral.com/vbullet....=500gal (http://www.reefcentral.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?s=&threadid=51139&highlight=500gal)
Please post lots of pictures of you progress
http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Thanks for that thread - nice looking tank. Naturally when I finish mine will be better ! http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif
I'll indeed post more pics - so much so I will bore people to tears! http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif
[QUOTE]I'll indeed post more pics - so much so I will bore people to tears!
I doubt that the biggest prob you may have is people popping over to have a look at such a tank. Even if i empty I think there would be a lot of people happy to see the techy side of it http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
So when its stocked you could possibly sell tickets. http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
More progress... plumbing mayhem!
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/build/plumbing.jpg
Jaysus
If the Americans see that, theyll have a Un Inspectors team down on you in no time !
http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Where do you dispose of the "spent" Nuclear material ? *http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
So the Beer enters from the L/H End............ http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Brian http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif
Wooooooooooooooooo
Just backtracked on the previous page and saw the tank pics for the first time.
Congrats Tuan. http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif
Will be an " AWESOME" System.
Ok . so my next move is to get another Ryanair flight for some time next Spring armed with frags and containers http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif
Brian.
Damn you got me - I'll confess now, the whole thing is just one big distiller!
Tuan,
Looking good... I'll be very interested to know how well the heat exchanger and cooling system works, so keep us up to date with that aspect, please.
James.
James,
Ofcourse it will work! We have to make it work... and anyway, by the time the whole system is really stress tested, your tank should already be well under way!
Put it this way - if it doesn't work, Danny won't get time to start on your tank! http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif
Oh what a day... Disaster!
I had someone here building my office (which is also the viewing room) - imagine the scenario, newly painted walls, brand new wooden floors... and then the drill went straight through the central heating pipe! http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif
Luckily - Super Danny was already on his way, and performed his magic and fixed it all! Phew... it could all have been a long freezing night!
Then he continued with the tank - so now I have the luxury of having the RO unit in the fish room, RO water in the kitchen (keep the mrs happy), a sink unit with hot and cold water in the fish room, with drainage and everything. Not only that - there's even a connection to let me hook up the skimmer's cup to drain straight out. 5 star fish room or what!
It's getting so close that I have stopped calling it a garage now - it looks like a fish room!
simon garratt
14-12-02, 00:54
Tuan.......
Sounds like your having a fun time m8........ http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Wishing you all the best of luck m8.........damn good job....And that goes to Danny as well... http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Si.
Hi Tuan,
Looking good http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
I presume the RO unit is hooked up to the new pipework? One precaution I took when I moved to a new house with brand new copper piping was to add a Polyfilter to the container that I used for the RO water. It didn't change colour but I felt it a precaution just incase some made it through the RO/DI.
reefkeeper
14-12-02, 10:03
simonh no it could not be that simple oh no way its tuans tank water feed is from house before water softner. but good point for people adding ro's after new pipework flux and solder could find its way into the unit and cause all sorts of mayhem.
normal procedure is too flush all new pipework thoroughly to remove this.
danny
Tank got wet today :)
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/build/test.jpg
It is half filled with tap water - with both close loops running and all the outlets open.
There are lots of control taps - almost one for every outlet. Picture shows one half of the tank's plumbing for flow, with the lower bank of taps controlling the return pump outlets at the bottom, and the top bank of taps for the outlets from one of the close loop pump.
The outlets seen here are 32mm and 25mm! Lots of flow.
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/build/taps.jpg
Lighting rig is half completed - with the T5s on (the MHs at the back connected but no lamps in). Reflectors still to be added for the T5s (which provides light for the low-light end of the tank).
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/build/lightrig.jpg
The whole rig is hung with chains from a light rail - so can be adjusted up/down as well as pull right across the tank to provide access. Can also be pulled right up against the ceiling too.
Certainly the year for a 'hole in the wall'. The inspiration is simply to tempting. Will power is strong, I'll hold out until June. http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif
Want, need, Want need,I need a bigger set-up.
Please keep us posted on your thoughts on the design that you have followed, particularly with regards to any tuning that you make.
This kind of experimentation makes for better system all round. A bigger contribution that you realise.
Tuan i'm very envious of your new setup..just the plumbing looks fantastic...and well it must have a cost a bob or too..but worth every penny....i had a guy today who took a 10k Home improvement loan (work for bank) just for his new setup i said on condition i could have some frags and that he sent some photo's just wish i could setup such a tank but theres time...my new tank at the mo is my project and although smaller than your sump i still aim to make it a tank to be proud of...but all credit to you your tank looks like its going to be a winner and with such a good fish room.. i hope everything works out and hopefully you'll keep us updated on your tank....look forward to it.... http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/thumbs-up.gif
Nic http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Tuan,
Woweeeeeee!! Look at all that piping. http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/crazy.gif
Regards
Lisa
fishmuffin
09-01-03, 12:28
Hey Tuan,
WOW! That looks absolutely fantastic mate - the pipework is incredibly neat.
Please please show us some (read LOTS) more photos! http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
V. impressed.
Tuan,
Bloody hell!!!
And I was going to do the pipework myself - I think I'll leave it to Danny after seeing that!
James.
James, Chikin! http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif
Does the lighting rig pic help? If you need to see more let me know!
fishmuffin
09-01-03, 16:28
YES MORE! Lots more! http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
tuan i like the plumbing did you not help on the tank nothing like getting your hand dirty otherwise you might as well call it danny's tank as i know you've paid but he's done all the hard work or did you help also how may gallons is that beast you could put a baby shark in that...hey why not go for white tips http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/confused.gif?nic http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif
Tuan even the water will get lost in that pipe work ! http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Is that a new Calcium reactor i see ? Whats happening to your old Korallin C1501 out of interest ?
Yep - brand spanking new Jetstream 2 waiting to fire up proper! Right now the trusty "boring" 1501 already have many greedy pairs of hands ready to grab it - however, if things don't go to plans then I'll let you know!
simon garratt
21-01-03, 23:49
Tuan........
Youve exelled yourself there m8........ http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/thumbs-up.gif
Give Danny a big pat on the back for me.......lovely job on the plumbing. (and people think im bad for exuberant pipework).......Still, at least you can have a whale of a time fiddling with all those knobs. http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/blush.gif(did i really say that)
superb m8, cant wait to see some shots with it all up and running.
Kind regards
Si.
A milestone was reached today - not every exciting but.... RO water is now filling up the first sump tank! http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
The plan is to rig up this tank temporarily to transfer my livestock into it whilst I clean up the old system for selling.
anymore progress piccies tuan.
enquired about all my new goodies today, and is looking good.
cheers,
lee
http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Tuan,
I demand a photo of "The Beast".. come on, let's see it http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
James.
Not yet - it has to be "operational" first. Got to fill it with some serious white powder.
However, here's a snippet of news to keep you interested:
After 4 days worth of RO production, and 5 buckets of Reef Crystal later.. its ready! Yippeeeee!
The sand goes into the refugium next - and then seeding it with content of old tank's refugium.
Meanwhile, the frag tank is being turned into a huge phyto vat - about 200 ltrs worth. Yikes.
Then we go live rock hunting!
tuan, sounds good to me, i'll take up an invite to see it if offered. I'm quite close to you i believe.
I am ordering, or have now ordered, coolpix 5000 for loads of piccies, iks, probes, calc reac, de nitrator, lighting, dosing pumps, reefclean pipings, iks big display unit x4 readings, computer link cables.
I ordered a jetstream 1 which is rediculously big for me, but hey one day when i can go bigger it'll all fit. Nearly as rediculous as my ap600. http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
I'm also running a reefclean system too, bare based and all.
cost me a fortune, my tanks tiny too.
I have a second 27x12x15 tank to work on dry, to fit my weirs and probes, and TF05 powerheads.
the most costly frag tank ever !!!!!!
cheers,
lee
http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
hi tuan,
tell ya what, this sounds great what your doing.
I'm rellay interested in the salt buckets you've used, have you any spare, i can remember a while ago, you posted your area, but i cant remember where now.
If you have any buckets spare, i would pick them up from you if your not too far from me.
Im resetting soon, so any buckets would help me out loads,
look forward to your reply, and if i can have them, will give me a "cheek" to check ya monster project out (hehe).
cheers chap,
maybe youd email back,
lee http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (LEEWINK @ Feb. 01 2003,22:03)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">iks big display unit x4 readings[/b][/quote]
Don't get too excited on the 'big' bit http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif If you haven't already I'd suggest taking a look at one and deciding if you will be able to read it from whatever distance you are from the tank.
the big bit is only a word to describe it over the single read one, as long as i can see it, like say the wordings in these threads size, that'll do me,
cheers,
lee
http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
oh, and if i cant see the readings, i'll see them all on my 21 inch monitor with the aquanova software !!!
cheers agn,
lee
http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Tuan,
Bloody Awesome.....that's all I can say really!
When it's time to pay you a visit remind me to bring my snorkelling gear! http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif
Cheers
http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Suk,
You're welcome m8 - bring the full dive gear, you might be under longer than expected!
http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif
Any more pics yet tuan,
My electronics and other goodies should be here tomorrow, I think danny's delivering them personally.
Yippee, and ive just picked my manufactured weirs up from my local stortford engineer, made out of d****c 5mm plastic, just gotta glue and sillicone set in the tank, coming on slowly but surely now.
have fun chap,
cheers,
lee
http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Which stortford engineering firm?
I've got a couple of designs in acrylic I'd like to get someone to build !
drop us an email, i cant do yours.
cheers,
lee
http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
just uploaded a shot to webshots of one of them, click the link below.
cheers,
lee
http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.ultimatereef.com/ibv3/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
I'm updating the entire ReefHaven website dedicated to the new setup - which is still under construction.
Meanwhile, for those who have requested, a few pics have been posted to Gallery: Early days... (http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/gallery)
Next on the the list is to paint the back and sides - still pondering between dark blue or black. Ho hum...
DemLotCrew
11-03-03, 11:07
tuan the tank is comming along very well, any chance for a visit? I dont live that far away and i would like to have a little nosy?
Patience grass hopper! :lol:
I'm not quite ready for a public viewing just yet!
DemLotCrew
11-03-03, 13:37
:(
Well i hope i can come round one day.
Went to see Robins tank last weekend and wow, blew me away hes made a real good setup, looks very neat too.
I just want to see yours, because my dad is interested in a big tank, (but all he would do is provide the money) and it will be my tank so i am trying to look around to see what people have done.
Well give me a shout if you can.
Tuan
You must also be a man with great patience - I bet you can't wait to stock up that ocean of yours - its gonna look great!
Like to rockscape!
Mode
Originally posted by Mode@Mar 11 2003, 14:19
You must also be a man with great patience - I bet you can't wait to stock up that ocean of yours - its gonna look great!
Hah ha ha... nearly fell my chair laughing! Me? Patience? No way!
I can't wait - nope, NOW NOW NOW for me. Unfortunately I just don't have the time to get everything done and have learnt hard lessions in the past when I rushed things.
Thanks for the nice comments about the rock scape! Its a more 3D design with lots of holes and space... ok ok - I'm just covering the fact that I can't afford any more rocks! :lol: :lol: :lol:
Tuan,
Nice to see it is coming along (which is more than can be said for mine - work and wotnot has put me back a little).
Interesting rockscape - and there's you telling me you just dropped them in! Go on, you employed a little boy to swim in there for you, didn't you ?
One thing I have done though - turned on the heat exchanger .... WOW! impressive bit of kit that is.
One more thing - I expect a picture of your kalkstirrer to appear soon :-)
James.
more pictures Suffering withdrawl over here need more pictures :D
How are thing comming along? Any water shortage warnings if the tanks full
Originally posted by blgreef@Mar 12 2003, 11:09
more pictures Suffering withdrawl over here need more pictures :D
How are thing comming along? Any water shortage warnings if the tanks full
More pics? You must have seen the gallery (http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/gallery/) already?
Things are coming along "swimmingly"! Need to get a LOT more snails to clean up the rocks from the first algae phase to make room and allow me to transfer the corals over.
Meanwhile - here's a pic of the latest addition to the grazing crew
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fish/emperor_tang.jpg
mattbeaman
12-03-03, 11:41
Tuan - Very nice m8 - can I ask how much you paid for him (they always seem to be around £55+ ? )
James - any info on any threads about the heat exchanger? (ive been away for a while and im looking for cooling options for the new setup)
Matt, the heat exchanger James used is the same as mine:
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/build/plumbing.jpg
It has a titanium coil and is very efficient! Hooked up to my boiler and I can bring the tank's temp up 1degC in a few minutes! I'm also using the same heat exchanger to run the cooling loop (copper coil under ground) by directing the flow via 3-way valve, under control of the IKS.
DemLotCrew
12-03-03, 16:21
Can i come and see it yet???
mattbeaman
12-03-03, 18:04
Tuan
Cheers - can you direct me to more specifics (schematics or explanation of the underground bit you've used etc ;) ) on this - I couldn't see it earlier in the post (except for the piccie) nor could I find it in a quick search - though i'll keep looking. :)
reefkeeper
12-03-03, 22:48
matt,
it really is simple the heat exchanger can either be used to heat or cool the water.
heating is via a boiler in most circumstances this could be as in tuans case a specific boiler just for heating the tank and some hot water to the sink (flash git) or using some motorised valves the central heating in your house can be used to heat the water.
cooling is achieved by digging a very big and deep hole in the ground at least 60" or until you hit ground water and using copper pipe (10mm or 15mm) this is then set up as a "closed loop" using a normal central heating pump to circulate the water inside the pipe underground and through the heat exchanger.
costs about the same as a good chiller and as tuan said will seriously heat or cool any amount of water (ok to a point the limit is about 3,000 gallons) running cost are a pitance in regard to chilling as the pump is about 30 or 40 watts.
danny
mattbeaman
13-03-03, 01:34
Danny
Many thanks - own boiler !!! (just for the tank :lol: ) :wacko:
Ok - just one question - and I KNOW im missing something VERY obvious here - how can you circulate tank water through copper piping (without toxic effects)? or do I assume that the water in the copper piping is separate and cools in the ground to be circulated within the tank water (within titanium or the like) to in turn cool that?
Finally - what components are needed? and whats the cost? (plus do we order from you - and have you got another in stock :D )
Cheers
Matt,
Silly question mate - but since it was 1:37AM when you posted :P
The heating (or cooling) water from the boiler pass through titanium plates inside the heat exchanger - this is the only point of contact with the tank's saltwater. The copper piping connects to the boiler to the heat exchanger "looks like" a radiator to the boiler. This loop is also extended to an underground coil ( we used 10mm micro-bore copper pipes ) for cooling, which is isolated by the 3-way valve.
Yeah - I had a 80,000 btu boiler fitted for the purpose, its more powerful than my house's one! OTT perhaps, but it was simpler than messing about with house's boiler, and I wanted independance. e.g. for when the tank needed heat and the house does not/ or vice versa. Another issue is the house RCDs are likely to be tripped by little accidents and the boiler/pumps/controller would stop working if connected to the house.
Also save having messy pipeworks running about and holes drilled everywhere - just doesn't look so good! :)
Danny supplied the boiler and the heat exchanger - everything in fact!
mattbeaman
13-03-03, 07:35
Thanks m8 :)
Yes it was too late (and too much wine) :) and now its too early :wacko:
Respect due :D I'll be very interested to hear how well it works. Out of interest what are you using to control the heat exchanger? IKS?
My boiler in the new house will b in the garage already which might be handy if I can work out a way to separate or T the water/radiators/tank rather than adding a new second boiler too.
So this means a long run of piping along out of the garage to the garden then?Roughly how much piping have you used? Does one not have to worry about freezing wherever it might be exposed (especially being micro bore - though I know it should be ok where it is set deepest)
My boiler in the new house will b in the garage already which might be handy if I can work out a way to separate or T the water/radiators/tank rather than adding a new second boiler too.
Matt,
Unlike Tuan (flash git), I have mine running through my single central heating boiler (I did use the opportunity to replace my aging one, though) - just T'd off and using motorised valves... I'll let you know how it stabilises once I have it running in earnest.
If you are ever down Aylesbury way, then drop me a PM and you are welcome to give it a once over.
James.
I did not have any problem with the pipe freezing during this winter - even when we had more snow than I can remember. Anyway - I did have a contingency plan in place, very simple, just switch over to cooling mode during the night for a few minutes and the pipe should be warmed above freezing point.
Flash git? Moi? Cheaper than buying a few kilowatts of heaters! And way way cheaper than running electric heaters! You can pick up a nice combi boiler for a 300-400 quids so I'm a cheapskate long term! :)
Tuan thanks for the pictures,
However, you have done a great job on the tank but looking at the sink picture you seem to have not plumbed in the sink :D :D :D
Talk about getting your feet wet when pouring waste water down the sink :rolleyes:
The tank must look fantastic with so much depth to play with.
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/build/plumbing.jpg
DemLotCrew
13-03-03, 17:12
see below.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/plumbing3.jpg
Take it its not finished?
Oh dang - I've been found out. All of this was a dream and I knocked up all those pics on photoshop! So sorry to mislead. Oh well... might as well post the last pic I just assembled.
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fish/tangs.jpg
:D
DemLotCrew
13-03-03, 17:34
well tuan it was three simple questions, and if you cant answer them then ill make up my own conclusions.
But thanks for your effort.
:D
ops just worked out what the three way valve is for.
But still dont see where the output of the exchanger goes??? unless its been connected to the tank.
Perhaps when it's finished it will look like this!
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/tank/sump.jpg
On the left are the twin Deltec 902 skimmers - with the drain fitted to empty.
Left bucket is my temporary RO bucket - which is also a "bucket reactor for Kalkwasser"
Right bucket is the holding tank for pre-mixed salt water made up for phyto and rotifier culture. It is sterilized by ozone.
The blue tank is a glass-lined pressurized tank for RO so we have drinking water on tap in the kitchen.
And I might use the 3-way valve to direct the flow into the ground copper coils instead of the boiler when its in cooling mode.
The PVC pipe will also be connected to outlet of the return pump - with the other end feeding the skimmer, the refugium and the main tank. Hence tank water would pass through the heat exchanger.
Oh well - roll on 2005 when it's all done eh?! :)
DemLotCrew
13-03-03, 17:44
sorry tuan, its the new picture i was getting at.
That pic was taken (and posted) ages ago Andrew - during construction, to show the heat exchanger before I cover it all up with the gubbings!
DemLotCrew
13-03-03, 17:50
what do you have controlling the three way valve?
I know what i would use for a two way but a three way not so sure about ???
The IKS unit control two sockets, one for heat, and one for cooling.
I've fitted some mains heavy duty relays - to fool the boiler into thinking there's a request for heat, and switches the 3-way valve over to the heating loop (which isolate the ground loop as I didn't really want to grow tropical plants outside in the midst of winter :) )
In cooling mode - the valves allow the flow through the ground coil. Another relay control this, plus provide the power to the pump inside the boiler to circulate the cooling water loop. In this mode the cooling water also pass through the boiler but the boiler does not see a request for heat so the flames are not on (or I'll have cactus growing in the summer).
Heating mode:
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/tank/heat.gif
Cooling mode:
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/tank/cool.gif
Tuan
GREAT to see its nearly complete. :)
Lets see lots of updates and pics. I have just had the same cooling system installed, in the form of a heat exchanger, and will soon be testing it out.
Danny and a Pal of mine , Pat Downs , installed it, so looking forward to getting the whole thing up and running :)
When are you transferring all the corals across ?
Brian
PS: How are the frags I left you doing ?
Hi Brian,
Your frags are doing well and already taking up prime positions (on trial basis). The red monti cap is no longer a frag - its about 4" across with many folding layers! The pink hystix is recovering from the stress of being moved about so many times. Its a light pink at the moment, but I will be putting it almost under the light so it should get very pink soon.
I've already transferred most of the corals (all the ones I wanted anyway) into the new tank - still have lots of space everywhere though. When's your next trip ? ;)
DemLotCrew
14-03-03, 17:09
Hi tuan, sorry ive not been able to reply sooner ive been away on a course,
Anyway excelent design, it seems to be very efficient. And so the iks is able to do all this ???
I think i will need to be getting one of these !!!!
I also like the fact that your not using/wasting any water to cool the tank. :D
Keep us updated. :thumbsup:
Thanks for keeping us all updated on the tank, already looking jaw dropping
I think I am starting to suffer from major tank envy
now lets go talk to the wife about nocking a hole into the lving room :wacko:
jaw dropping
Having just today seen Tuan's new set-up. :o :o :o Its already amazing.
Tuan's even got a little Jawfish in there :wub:
envious doesnt come into it.. just make sure you do loads of frags ready for visits best of luck with it m8 .FISHMAN... :rolleyes:
any new piccy's tuan on the addition front.
lee
:D :D :D :D
Originally posted by tuan@Mar 12 2003, 13:29
Matt, the heat exchanger James used is the same as mine:
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/newtank/plumbing.jpg
It has a titanium coil and is very efficient! Hooked up to my boiler and I can bring the tank's temp up 1degC in a few minutes! I'm also using the same heat exchanger to run the cooling loop (copper coil under ground) by directing the flow via 3-way valve, under control of the IKS.
Danny did talk to me about this method a couple of years ago I had so many other things to sort out at the time and I am very limited in space.
I did this winter get a tempory inline 6kw titanium water heater that I am not looking forwards to seeing how much it cost me to run over winter but then again none of the hundreds of frags where lost from falling water temps.
I have all summer to decide how to heat my water for next winter I will likely go for a 1kw inline titanium heater as they are compact fit inline above my main pump and no mass plumping and digging, drilling, pulling up slabs and relaying etc etc to do.
Long term will likely cost me more for heating than tuan and james systems but then I am saving long term with upgrading all my lighting too two hydroponic units over tanks from three units on all the 6ft tanks and reducing the water heater to a 1kw from a 6kw.
Cooling in summer has never been a problem on my system and I don't need any water heating in the summer.
Tuan
Looks good hope to visit some day when fully stocked etc I am sure it will be stunning.
Regards
Martyn
hi tuan any update on the pics of the tank would be nice to see some recent pics....nic :rolleyes:
Coming up to 3 months young, a full shot as viewed from my desk! :)
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fulltank.jpg
Wow, looking fab Tuan - I'm jealous! That cuke is enormous.
Is that a Cerianthid I spy - where did ya get it?
Fish stocking to date:-
Emperor Tangs (2)
Yellow tang
Kole Tang
Red sea Sailfin Tang
Flame angel
Algae Blenny
Canary Wrasse (3)
Green chromis (10)
A. Occelaris clowns (1 pair & 4 juveniles)
Orchid Dottyback
4 Okinawa gobies
Neon cleaner goby
Psychedelic mandarin
Yellow headed jawfish
Inverts:
8 colonies/frags of Acropora sp.
Montipora digita frags (green, red and purple) & orange capriconis
Tubinara reniformis & pellata
Red open brain
Euphyllia
Anemones:
Green bubble tip
Rose bubble tip
Ceranthid (2, orange & brown, with green centres)
Tuan,
Very nice.... Good to see the Ceranthid survived the journey.
James.
Originally posted by Preds@May 27 2003, 10:05
Wow, looking fab Tuan - I'm jealous! That cuke is enormous.
Is that a Cerianthid I spy - where did ya get it?
Just in case you missed it. :)
Originally posted by Preds+May 27 2003, 11:24--></span><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td>QUOTE (Preds @ May 27 2003, 11:24)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'> <!--QuoteBegin--Preds@May 27 2003, 10:05
Wow, looking fab Tuan - I'm jealous! That cuke is enormous.
Is that a Cerianthid I spy - where did ya get it?
Just in case you missed it. :) [/b][/quote]
I didn't miss it - just trying to grab a shot for ya:-
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fish/anemone/ceranthid.jpg
I picked it up on the midlands tour, in CW. They had 4/5 of them!
Cool, it's a very nice one! :)
What other colours did they have?
(P.S., wasn't being pushy, just thought you may have missed it since it was between your posts.) :)
Can't remember the colours of the other ones - mostly dark brown tentacles with green centres I think. I was rather focused on this orange beaut so didn't really let the eyes wonder!
Some more pics
Left side
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/tank_left.jpg
Middle & right
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/tank_right.jpg
Hi Tuan
Shame I missed you and Lisa at Haydns on sunday, tanks looking good, the cerianthids cool.
I was in clearwater tonight and they got a shipment in with some good stuff and there was about a dozen more cerianthids and 2 of the biggest plume rocks with massive worms that i've ever seen! They each filled a kent salt bucket!
Hopefully see you at the next meet.
Cheers
Mark.
hi tuan the tank looks so good an i guess can only get better, very impressive.nic
Tuan,
:) :D B) :wub:
Regards
Lisa
simon garratt
02-06-03, 18:28
Hi Tuan.
looks like things are settling down nicely..........(aaaaaah, that wonderfull tufty stuff we seem to go through)
Seriously though..........i cant wait to see this set-up in a years time when its well matured and grown out..........Very impressive.
kind regards
Si. :)
Looks good Tuan. I see your are going down the groups / pairs of fish route. How are the 2 purple tangs getting along? I keep wondering whether to add another.
SiG, thanks! My tangs are very happy with the green stuff so I'm leaving as much as I can bear!
SiH, the purple tangs gets on just fine now. The smallest was added first. After a few weeks I took a risk and bought home the larger one, riddled with HLLE and already very weak after being confined to a tiny tank at the LFS for a couple of months. It recoverred in a week and soon became the boss - but they don't fight much apart from the odd sparring here or there.
And yes - going for groups/pairs whenever possible now! ;)
Looking Good Tuan. :)
As for the fish pairs, what pairs have you established in the main tank, are trying to establish and plan in the futre to establish.
Likewise I am going down the same route and so far plan to establish pairs of the following.
Flame Hawks.
Flame Angels
Copperbands
Gobiodon Okinawae ( prolly 3 or 4 pairs )
Damsels ( small Guy's, prolly again 3 or 4 pairs )
Percula Clowns
Clarkii Clowns
Anthias ( Shoal maybe 8 )
Then Tangs which is a different " Kettle of Fish " :)
4 Yellows
2 regals
and the loners :)
A.Olivaceus Orange Shoulder Tang I think its called
Purple Tang ( now you have me thinking of trying two, though my 3 Year old one is quite big now )
Have you still the Rose BTA in the sump ?
How is the heat exchanger performing ?
Thats the first batch of queries :D
Cheers
Brian.
craigandsimon
07-06-03, 16:31
looking good m8 - cant wait to see it when its grown out..
Hi Tuan
Your Fish Tank is looking great :D
Regards
Martyn
As we discussed at the meet at my place- wait till the cerith bites your hand off or eats the fave fish :o
P.S. the tanks looking v.good -- glad you'r going for groups of fish
Haydn
Originally posted by Martyn@Jun 10 2003, 20:24
Hi Tuan
Your Fish Tank is looking great :D
Regards
Martyn
Ouch... hopefully my "fish" tank will be a "reef" tank soon after visiting for some frags! Just gotta find the time now! :rolleyes:
Get yourself up there Tuan, it comes thoroughly recommended by me. ;)
Went up there today (well, yesterday now.) Very impressed, with the livestock, and Martyn's great knowledge and experience on the subject. :)
DemLotCrew
16-06-03, 12:00
looking good, when will be the open day? or have i missed it?
Tuan
Ok time for some questions on how its progressing.
What fish have you got in there ? Any luck with pairing up ( Not you the fish :) ) ?
Are you getting a good flow rate ?
The Rose BTA is it still banished to the sump ?
Thats just to start with :)
Brian.
5061litres
20-06-03, 08:03
oh... and some updated pics would be nice... :D :D
Sorry Bri, didn't see your questions earlier..
The Rose BTA has been in the display tank for a couple of months now, fully recovered and growing. Unfortunately it is right at the back of the tank and so my camera doesn't cope too well:-
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fish/anemone/rose_190603_1.jpg
Hopefully you can see that it has very strong flourescent reddish orange tips and quite bubulous.
Flow rate: I would estimate in tank circulation is at about 40-45x volume, so quite strong flow in most area. Though there are a few dead spots. There are a few 'lagoon' spots which shelters the flow too for my LPS. As you well know though, there is never enough flow! So I'm still thinking about adding more flow to the tank, perhaps a bit more focused and directional to hit certain spots.
I've posted the fish stocking list a bit earlier on this thread - about a couple of pages back. I have some 'interesting' plans though for the next major fish purchases, including a pair of CBBs :)
As I only have small frags now and I'm hopeless at taking photos further away from the glass, there aren't many new pics to show. Hopefully a pro will visit soon and take some real decent photos ;)
Excellent Tuan :)
Great to hear all is going well. Re: The Rose BTA, do you feed it daily, every couple of days, with what ?
Mine I feed daily, and it eats well, taking small amounts of Mysis .
Mine is as yours, arent they STUNNING
Re: The C.Bands , how do you plan to pair them up ?
Brian.
I feed mines less regularly - some food mix every couple of days or so. Also some meatier morsels of cockles/white baits or squid. It'll eat what it wants (usually all of it).
To pair up the CBBs - you first open your wallet and then ask someone to order you a pair! :)
To pair up the CBBs - you first open your wallet and then ask someone to order you a pair!
Ok, Im with you up untill the " open the wallett " bit.
Ok smarty pants, do you know of a supplier that can source you a pair, I was planning on placing a few together in an isolated 5' tank ( connected to main system ) and trying to pair them. YKnow candlelight, little Barry white music
:wub: :wub: Letssss getttt itt oooooooooooonnnnnnnnnnnnnn OOOOOOOooooooooo Letssss Getttt iiiiitttttttt Oooooonnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn :wub: :wub:
:D
Brian
5061litres
22-06-03, 14:09
Tuan,
Lookin through ur pics i noticed in the pic 'TANK is getting wet' the tank is half full of water, i can see glass partitions on the base of the tank.. i am correct, is the water playin tricks on me?? Wot are they for??
There are no glass partitions - I see what you mean though, water playing tricks!
5061litres
22-06-03, 21:32
Wierd that innit... Can't wait to get it started..
Now a question on circulation... Could u list the parts needed for the circulation on ur tank.. pipes/pumps/bulkhead fittings...and also how and where the pipes enter/exit the tank?? all info appreciated..
tony B)
Parts? Good grief... I dont even know what was used to build the pipeworks!
And as you're going to be over there... better to use the parts readily avail, which I must say is a lot better than over here. All you need to do is get to one of the big Home Depot and you can pick up a truck load of everything you need in Sched 40 or Sched 80 piping. All in old money measurements!
For my tank there's two holes drilled at each side, near the bottom, fitted with a huge 63mm bulkhead. Each then have a massive valve connected, then feeds a big pump each. We used Sequence 1000 for the close loops.
From the pump theres another valve (so the pump can be isolated and removed for maintenance).
Now the fun begins as the outlet pipe is divived into many branches, using Ts, each branch fitted with a valve, routed back into the tank to an outlet where ever you want them.
I have outlets from each corners, some in the middle of the sides, a couple over the top along the wall and back down in the middle of the tank. Some outlets runs down the corners and along the bottom of the tank (covered by the sand) to come out again at the bottom in the middle of the rocks. Basically lots of them to generate circulation.
All the outlets are piped up & over the edge of the tank (from the side).
Some pics of the tank at about 4 months old.
This is the left end of the tank, with lots of bare rock surfaces still, ready for me to mount acro frags. At the bottom is a piece of pipe that my newly introduce randalli goby has taken up refuge in. It will be a while before I feel it has gotten used to the tank enough to remove the pipe and let it find another home under a rock somewhere.
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/tank/tankjuly03/left.jpg
Mid-section, at the edge of the acro cliff, with table-acro freshly mounted. Other corals include red branching monti at the back, strong green/blue acropora, a couple of clams, brown acro with blue tips and a piece of pavona frag.
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/tank/tankjuly03/mid.jpg
Right hand end of the tank, this is the lower light zone dedicated to mainly LPS. Corals seen here are red montipora cup-shape, euphylia anchora (green hammer), orange/red gorgonian, red open brain, pearl bubble, red gorgonian, green tubinara and a couple of ceranthid anemone.
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/tank/tankjuly03/right.jpg
Looking really great Tuan.
In the second pic, what the bloomin' 'eck is that big fish on the left?
Its a 'squiggly rabbit fish' - the great devourer of algae! It has nearly doubled in size since I introduced it, about 6 weeks! This pic was taken when I added the fish, notice the green algae at the back then.
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/tank/tankjuly03/rabbit.jpg
Very nice fish, haven't seen one before. :)
Hi Tuan,
Wow, looks fantastic and I love your aquascaping, so important to get that right. Can just imagine what it's going to look like in a few months B)
Very Very Nice Tuan :)
I see a Red Goniopora there, lovely, also the brown Acro with Blue tips was the frag I gave you when I was over , Yes ? ( If so, watch that sucker grow, gave a large frag to a friend and he now has a colony the size of a football, and it grows in a most beautifull branching form ).
How are you finding the flow in the tank, less / more than you expected ?
Brian B)
Maybe it's the lighting but I think I see tissue loss in parts of the A.lokani or elegans or whatever you call it?
Now why did I see that comment coming?
Tuan, Top mate, no more needs to be said. Except maybe can I have it all :lol:
As I'm about to leave the tank for a couple of weeks, in the middle of the heat-wave, these pics may be the last :o
Left side: with many SPS colonies finally mounted
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/gallery/leftank_31jul.jpg
Middle:
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/gallery/midtank_30jul.jpg
Right:
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/gallery/righttank_31jul.jpg
Almost fully stocked with frags (allowing room for growth), and the back finally painted a strong dark blue colour.
Reefs looking good as always Tuan :D
What is the species of Acropora just left of the clam ? Is that one of your new corals from last week ?
Mark
Sorry Mark - I have no idea what the species is, except that it's lovely :)
Here's a close up:
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/gallery/acro_white_blue.jpg
It came from Martyn, and the mother colony looks like this:
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/martyn/slides/DSC02672.JPG
JasandJules
06-08-03, 09:01
Looks effing great.....
Damn that acro's nice :D I feel a future visit to Martyn's on the cards :lol:
craigandsimon
06-08-03, 09:52
looking gr8 now m8 - cant wait to see it in real :D
Just re-read this whole thread start to finish..Its been an adventure hasn't it, a great read!
it's a lovely tank Tuan, how is your fancy heat exchanger cooler thing working in this weather, I like the idea of the buried coils very simple chilled coolant...
The cooling loop is struggling a bit to keep up in this weather. It has worked fine for most of the year providing (almost) free cooling power, but during this prolonged heat wave it is not enough.
I think the problem is that it relies on the ground water dissipating the heat - and it hasnt rained for so long that the water hole where we burried the loop must be dried up.
I'm using some fans during this period to help cooling the tank, and a more powerful extrator fan to remove the hot air from the fish room. Since I was expecting high temperatures, I've been running the tank at 28C for a while now so even for today with the tank running at 30-31C range, so everything is OK so far, touch wood!
Looks superb Tuan love the idea you've put so much forward planning into your tank...a real work in progress...nic
Hi Tuan
Mine is doing the job, though it has to be said it is greatly aided by the fact that the two tanks in the " Outhouse " help heat dissapation.
Like you though I am thrilled with the performance of said Heat Exchanger. Have managed to keep below 29 Degrees , even in this incredible weather.
Brian.
Hi Tuan,
Tank looks great! a big change since I last viewed this epic post :lol:
I love the Red Goni & would love to add one to my system, how hardy do you find it? they're supposedly easier to keep than the more common varieties. Where did you pick it up as I've yet been unable to find any?
The Cerianthids look awesome too. Will have to visit soon ;)
Cheers
:D
tuan,
what job do you do, or have you ever won the lottery??
bet that set up cost more than my house.
if only.
cheers shaun (jealousy is a curse)
Just a splash of colour :)
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fish/rainbow.jpg
Nice Pic Tuan!!
Strangely enough, I have 7 of the 9 species of larger fish in the photo !
James.
Great pic Tuan!
I take it that is feeding time?
Mode
Thanks.
It wasn't feeding time... they just do that sometimes, sort of having a social chin-wag kind of thing. The tangs tend to follow each other everywhere - all that space and they still try to squeeze in just that spot. Weird fish!
The poor things probably have agrophobia compounded with feelings of social isolation....
:ph34r:
kim
JasandJules
02-10-03, 12:59
Ours tend to do that sometimes too..
5ft worth of space and they all squeeze into the same 1ft cube of water.
Just like to be sociable !
Garry thomas
02-10-03, 19:27
Tuan what spcs of fish is that above the flame angel?
Tuan,
Wonderful :wub:
Garry... it's rabbit, a Scribbled Rabbitfish, Siganus spinus, to be precise. :D
Regards
Lisa
Hi Tuan,
Even more beautiful fish :wub:
I think you got them to shoal over there to try and hide the beautiful green ??? coral under them :D
Hows your jawfish and shoal of little pseudochromis doing ?
Mark
:rolleyes: why not go the whole hog!
bigger the better.
you will regret later if you go for the small one,
just think that extra fish they haven't discovered yet
that every body must have.you would have the room,
p.s buy the mrs free currys for a year that did
it for me :lol: :lol: :lol:
More colours...
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fish/rose_clowns.jpg
On arrival, in frag tank, 17th May
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/sps/acro_2.jpg
Today, 10th Oct (under evening lighting - its more blue during the day under 14KK lamps)
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/sps/acro_3.jpg
A different shade
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/sps/acro_4.jpg
Courting couple...
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fish/mandarin_couple.jpg
Tuan,
excellent pics :) those clowns in the pink bubbletip(?) are tooooooooooooooo cute :wub:
Anna
Being privileged to see this tank in the flesh I can confirm the pictures just can't do it justice :wub:
Thanks for the buckets Tuan just the job ;)
Can't wait for the house move now :P I wonder what will get finished first the wifes new kitchen or the new tank :lol:
hi tuan,
she looks super now, i take it the algae's settling off too,
superb again,
lee
craigandsimon
03-11-03, 13:06
tuan, fantastic as always - must visit soon.
Mark, u not moved yet whats wrong with u!! :P
lee, where ya been m8.
<excuse me tuan>
hi si,
been around, just admiring this cracker here, ive watched it all through, sweeeeeettt
mine, well, still trying, long story, same probs, blablabla
<scratches head now>
lee
Tuan,
Looking good! - Nice that it's a bit chillier in the air these days too.. my heat exchanger is coping well.
James.
Tuan,
BTW - Found a good supplier of some real good SPS colonies, so drop me a PM and I'll let you know ;)
James.
Originally posted by jamesc@Nov 11 2003, 22:36
Tuan,
BTW - Found a good supplier of some real good SPS colonies, so drop me a PM and I'll let you know ;)
James.
Oh cool - not sure how I'll add them to the tank though, must wait for Preds to teach me the art of cramming them in :D
SPS zone filling up
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fulltank/nov2003/spscorner.jpg
Full tank pic ( 'xcuse the coralline algae! )
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fulltank/nov2003/full.jpg
Centre zone - with lots of movement in the wind :)
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fulltank/nov2003/centre.jpg
Tuan,
Very nice - your rockwork is even lower than mine!!. Some nice acros too.
James.
Oh my! :o
Regards
Lisa
P.S. What's the blue thingy (bottom left hand corner, last pic)? Flattie eating nudi??
Thanks for the complements guys! :D
Lisa, well spotted!
Indeed it is a Velvet Sea Slug - Chelidonura varians. And oh boy does it eat them!!!
The only problem I have so far with it is it quickly gets bloated, and goes to sleep for a day before going hunting again, thought it was dead first time I saw this!
During acclimatisation, I added a few FWs into the holding container to see, and you can see how it gets excited and slurp them down. Run FWs run... :D
T,
Nothing gets by me. :lol:
That's great news, how did you manage to track one down? They are pretty hard to locate over here. B)
Regards
Lisa
They do come into TMC now and again.
I happened to come across it during an impromtu visit to a LFS, and it was labelled as a "blue slug". Somebody nearly bought it because... erm, it was cute!
I wonder how many are sold my LFS who has no ideas what these slugs are to their demise - ironic when some of us search the country over for them. I've started a search for them now and will try to see if its possible to breed them as I can probably provide a continous food source for them.
Suffolk Reefer
19-11-03, 11:53
Beautiful looking tank Tuan,
Personally, Im a big fan of the Chromis, love to see them in large numbers like that :)
Tuan
Progressing really nicely. Excellent.
See the BTA Rose is thriving, Is it just me or does it look like its about to split :)
brian
BTW
Luuuurvvve the Orange Montipora !
Must get a couple of shots of the Pink Acro I got from you back then, growing really well.
Brian
It's looking good Tuan. I see that coralline algae is really taking over the walls of the tank now.
JasandJules
19-11-03, 15:42
Very nice indeed.
Really does look amazing now tuan, coming together perfectly.
ant
Tuan,
forgive me if I'm being dim (or this has been answered before) but........
what's the large blue fish in the first picture?
ta
Anna
P.S. Your tank looks amazing :wub:
:D
Paul,
I like lots of Chromis too - think they're under rated and overlooked. Aiming for a big shoal eventually but allowing the kiddies to buy them for me as pressies ( since they're cheap and easy! ).
Brian,
I'm doing my best to stuff that rose bta with shrimps/lance fish/squids. It eats better than I do - so hopefully soon it'll oblige and split :). And totally love the monti cap too - a real centre piece.
Simon,
Yep - coralline totally covered all the glass! The only spots not covered on the glass are where the urchins have been grazing of bits have flaked off. Can't hardly keep up with cleaning the front glass either - bane of my life at the moment!
Overall I quite happy with progress. 'Tis was about this time last year that we started the building work. The tank is approximately 7months old now. As predicted, the cyano phase started at around 6months, and disappeared after about a month just as I hoped.
Looks like it's going into the 'sit back and watch phase' now - at last! B)
Anna, i thnk its a birdmouth wrasse, not sure if its male or female though. ;)
as i said again great tank.
Anna,
Its the male bird mouth wrasse, one of the pair I have. A striking fish, full of character, which spends more time looking at me than I looking at it.
Have a pic of the pair somewhere - will post that up later.
How do you manage to keep 3 species of zebrasoma tang m8.
Tanks looking good Tuan
Andy
Not fair.
I can see the "SPS" photo, but the last two just won't resolve on my screen - I just have fuzzy blurs (nice colourful fuzzy blurs ! ). Anyone else have the same problem ?
kim
Originally posted by Jevs@Nov 19 2003, 18:23
How do you manage to keep 3 species of zebrasoma tang m8.
Tanks looking good Tuan
Andy
Started out with one YT and one Kole from my old tank.
Added the first emperor (small) tang first, then the two tangs above.
Added another emperor (large) - it was large enough not to be bossed around by the existing crew.
Added 3 tangs at the same time, one small YT, one lipstick and a sailfin (small). All three shared the attention so no one was harmed. The small YT suffered the most - but quickly found a small rock crevice that it can get away. It quickly learned to play hide and seek for a couple of days. Day 3 it came out with the others..
The boss now though is the sailfin - it has quickly grown larger than any others. All the tangs sort of school together most of the time, no real squabbles as they all have their own sleeping areas.
Originally posted by kim@Nov 19 2003, 18:39
Not fair.
I can see the "SPS" photo, but the last two just won't resolve on my screen - I just have fuzzy blurs (nice colourful fuzzy blurs ! ). Anyone else have the same problem ?
kim
Kim,
Try these links instead:
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fulltank/nov2003/full.jpg
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fulltank/nov2003/centre.jpg
wow :o
what a stunning reef tank, well designed and now looking brilliant,
real colourful a credit to you
Andrew
Many thanks.....sorted it. I recently updated my browser software.....it had defaulted back to "compress graphics".
Hmmm. Okay. Gorgeous.
:wub:
:)
kim
Bit blurry - but it's near impossible to catch these two in the same pics as they're faaast!
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fish/birdmouth_wrasse_pair.jpg
Hi Tuan,
The tanks looking fantastic :wub: Are the Wrasses still cuddling up ?
For Brian (Irish)... many thanks! :D
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/sps/orange_monti_cap2.jpg
Hi Tuan,
Fantastic progress on the tank, everythings looking in place now & growing well. That bubble-tip is a stunner hey... Hope you do manage to breed those nudi's, could be a profitable enterpise....
Will have to see the tank in the flesh one day....
Cheers
:D
Tuan,
Glad to see everything is turning out just as, I think, you'd hoped all that time ago.
Still plenty of room for more frags too !
James.
tuan i am thinking of in the future setting up a larger tank in the wall that will be 6 foot by 6 foot by 2 foot. going into the garage, but i was wondering with your set-up is there much noise from the tank in the study?
There is some noise as my set up involves some pretty big pumps - but much less noise than a tank in the house/room. The other advantage is there's no smells!
Since I'm posting anyway, here's a pic of the SPS zone with a bit of colour:-
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fulltank/jan2004/DSC03519.gif
More colours
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fulltank/jan2004/IMG_0528.jpg
What can I say, but :wub: :wub: :wub: :wub: :wub:
Tim
some great colours in there very nice
si ;)
Wow Tuan your setup is coming along very nicely. Excellent colours on those corals. :)
Superb as always!
Any new full tank piccies?
Mark.
Sorry Mark - no recent full pics. I'll try to take some soon...
Fishy pics - taken by mridley with Canon D30
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fish/lipstick.jpg
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fish/copperband1.jpg
About 12 months on from adding salt into the water for the first time!
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fulltank/IMG_0175_2.jpg
The star of the show!
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fish/jawfish/CRW_0240_RT16.jpg
I said FEED ME!
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fish/rabbit/IMG_0041.jpg
Mountainman01
09-02-04, 09:50
WOW :wub: :o
What else is there to say?! I bet you could spend hours staring at that and not get bored! :lol:
V.V. impressive, well done Tuan.
Paul.
Acro
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/sps/acro/CRW_0317_RT16.jpg
Great pics Tuan......but it's much better in person!
Many thanks for having me on Saturday :D
:o :wub: :wub: :wub: :D ;)
The above says it all
Sorry, just got to add to the posts here.
Tank - ...don't know where to start... :blink:
Photos - simply stunning :wub: :wub:
I'm amazed. Well done.
Ever thought of opening your place up as "SeaLife Herts"? ;)
Ian
craigandsimon
17-02-04, 13:35
very nice m8 :)
:D hi tuan :D
what can i say, been away for a while, looks ....... can't think, just speechless !!
its all comin together now for you, the wait is your reward now, well done.
if theres any softie frags kickin about email us, leewink7@aol.com
mine has been a headache, i did loads of water changes to what i thought may help, did it wiv ro/di water, algae everywhere.
left it totally alone for 4 mths or so and its cleared somewhat now, still got my gadgets on it, but stopped the calc reac, its still in the circuit but no gas is on there.
have fun and enjoy
cheers
lee
:D :D :D :D
Cheers guys.
Still have a few months wait to get some real growth - no doubt you'll be bombard with more photos soon till you're bored.
Lee, isn't it time you strap all the equipments onto the appropriately sized tank? :evil:
simon garratt
19-02-04, 10:44
As usual Tuan............
Stunning. :)
Tanks looking superb.........I really must arrange a visit sometime if your happy........
regards.
Si.
yeah tuan I know what you mean, all in good time, i'll just hang on till I can better my situation.
Such a shame, but hey, the day i can i will and i'll have mi gear to do it wiv.
must say agn super job to ya.
:cheers:
lee
:) :) :) :)
Recent wide angle shot, stitched together in a amateur'ish way!
http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fulltank/stiched_0404_web_800.jpg
>>> Larger shot (big download)<<< (http://www.reefhaven.co.uk/fulltank/stiched_0404_web.jpg)
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