View Full Version : Yeah Tank Build!!!!
Yeahhhhhhhhh!!!!!:D :D :D :D :D :D
Ok the tank build is ready to start! If you dont want to read all the gunff and just like the pics then go to http://www.ultimatereef.net/forums/showthread.php?t=210142 but leave any comments on this one Thanks!
I’m sorry for the bad drawing but I’m crap with computer drawing as well this was the better (believe it or not)
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/Tank sketch 1.jpg
The small weird triangle thing is all that’s left of the space under my stairs as most of it is taken up with a loo!
I’m planning on knocking 2 bricks through the wall in my lounge, under my stairs at the back of the toilet to go outside. It’s actually 6 bricks in total as the out side wall on other side of stairs is a cavity wall.
This will then have 2 pipes for my chillier, an extractor tunnel and 2 water change pipes (one to drain and one to re-fill)
I’m hoping to one day put a shed out there but for now only the chillier will be out there in a box but I’m trying to plan ahead for the future.
I had a whole new ring main on its on main RCD put in before x-Mas. The wire is there and ready to go see photo.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/empty space.jpg
I’m still not sure on the tank itself, these are my favourite plans but I’m still waiting on a price for the glass so this may change.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/Tank sketch2.jpg
As you can see from the below drawing I’ve pinched some ideas from other members builds. My weir box is kind of like Chris (Maidstone marine) and my plumbing will be generally similar, all being at one end. Also shed Idea was stolen from him too.
I want to adapt the weir to look like this sent to me by John (Zimreef)
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/two pipe.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/Tank sketch3.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/Tank sketch4.jpg
Also I’ve nicked Simon Garrett’s idea about the return pumps being hidden under the rock Islands. I think it’s also likely I’ll make his style of DSB sump too! Tar Si! Thank God for REEF EDEN !!!! (If you know how to put a link in mods, feel free)
Once I know the price of the glass I’ll starts drawing of the stand and sump.
Oh glass is 12mm thick.
So what do you think so far?
instantsquid
19-01-07, 12:16
And so it begins.... :p
I like the angled end nearest the kitchen - should be great to look down the tank from here.
- Ian
Yeah thats the bit that I'm guessing will change the price of the tank it's self from my original £230 for a 5ft X 22" same depths rectangle!
I hate it when I'm right the price has gone up to £760.00
Is it worth it?
MaidstoneMarine
19-01-07, 12:41
wow April. thats gonna be some tank. looking good so far! make sure you keep those drawings and pictures coming!
I can't see how high the tank is going to be above the floor but if you can make the top of the tank above eye level you'll be glad later on! being able to stand and look at a tank without having to crouch or bend down is a real pleasure!
Watching this one with interest!
Bugger!
Just looked at my Fish account's very overdrawn balance (I know I'm that sad I have a fish account!)
The extra £530 will kill my budget. I'm trying to prove Tony B's idea of an uber tank for under 2K, not doing so well already done half that!
Maybe I could get a part time job. Anyone got one going?
Bugger!
Just looked at my Fish account's very overdrawn balance (I know I'm that sad I have a fish account!)
The extra £530 will kill my budget. I'm trying to prove Tony B's idea of an uber tank for under 2K, not doing so well already done half that!
Maybe I could get a part time job. Anyone got one going?
What about buying glass and with some help build it yourself - just a thought. :)
I don’t think I would be confident enough, Where would you buy the glass I'll Start looking into it.
Also would what supports on top/ frames would I need?
Just done drawing of original plan A tank (doesn’t look as nice now:( Funny last week I though it was marvelous :rolleyes:
Excellent start - nice drawings too! Be better with Sketchup though! ;)
Have you got a few quotes re the tank? It sounds a quite ridiculous hike in price for one extra cut on the base and another panel of glass and maybe a bit more silicon!! :confused:
Definitely like the shape though - adds a unique view through the tank, and also doesn't make the tank "intrude" into the room as much as a square corner would.
Watching with interest
John
I don’t think I would be confident enough, Where would you buy the glass I'll Start looking into it.
Also would what supports on top/ frames would I need?
Just done drawing of original plan A tank (doesn’t look as nice now:( Funny last week I though it was marvelous :rolleyes:
A glass merchant would be a good place to start or a local pilkingtons.
IIRC you have some reefers not to far from you - could you bribe them to help (cofffe, sticky buns ect :D ), sure one of them could give guidence.
HTH
PS: Also note that you've specified 12mm glass. For a 22" deep tank I'm pretty sure that 10mm would be fine.
John
I did a drawing on sketchup but cant figure out how to get it on here it keeps sating its incorrect format for the uploader?
Well the idea was that I would get that veiw while sitting at the back door of my kitchen having a fag! LOL
Thanks guys I keep trying!
In sketchup there is a menu option file->export->2d drawing or somat like that. It exports the current view as an image file, a big one so reduce it down in size using mspaint or something like that - the image resizer (http://www.ultimatereef.net/forums/showthread.php?t=169686) is great.
Alan.
Ok so Dad was feeling well enough to bash holes in the walls today and we’ve almost finished knocking the 6 bricks out. We also move the thermostat over a bit so the wall is now clear.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/dad making hole.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/hole to outside.jpg
I’m going to pick my equipment up tomorrow, skimmer, lights, pumps and stuff. So on Sunday I might take the skirting boards off and lift the floor to make a start on the stand. I’ll have to make a decision about the tank itself by Mon, but I’ll be able to work on the sump next week.
mysticwave
19-01-07, 22:24
April looking good! Wow it will be some tank, unfortunately, I've not dont a build of tank myself, so I dont think I will be of any help at all.... but good luck though!
CC
Thanks CC, I might have found a cheaper place to get it made though so dont worry I wont make you eat my meatballs!
I was really happy with the planned square one to start with, so no biggy if I cant have the funky corner!
looks good, if you check out reefvideos.com and look at reefmikes tank he has a bullnose similar to your design. Might give you an idea of what it'll end up like.
Cool Fras thanks for that.
Well I've picked up my 2nd hand kit and now I've had chance to sit and figure out what it all is I need some help with what it does!
The list of goodies follows:
Eheim filter ecco 2236. 300L at 600 L/H
Deltec APF 600 Skimmer with Aquabee 2000 L/H pump
Aqua medic T500 chiller with maxiejet 1000 L/H pump
Aqua medic Ocean runner sump return pump OR350 & OR1203 normal pump
Kent Maxxima 24 Gal a day RO (can figure that out with google help)
Tunze magnet holders 6080.50
Tunze Turbelle 6100.10 with small blue electrical boxes that say 7240.27 on them
Tunze multicontroller 7094 (could someone point me in the direction of some instructions)
Tunze water level controller 5017 (Instructions again please)
This is where I'm stuck
DD Co2 600 gms (havent a clue what this is or does)
Deltec cal rec with aquabee 500 L/H pump (also not a clue)
+ tones of other bits and bobs and a very nice tank with sump and stand that I'll stick on e-bay tomorrow as I dont think I have enough post to put on here.
So thats my new toys, I think I'm going to suffer the money loss with reg to tank shape. Thats why god invented credit cards after all!
instantsquid
20-01-07, 16:20
tones of other bits and bobs and a very nice tank with sump and stand that I'll stick on e-bay tomorrow as I dont think I have enough post to put on here.
You only need 50 posts to be able to advertise in the Classified Forums - you're way past that :)
Ian? come on now do you have a little alarm that beeps when ever I post?
Thanks will take pics and post tomorrow too much reading today!
Ok some questions.
Where do I get that gray pipe work everyone uses from?
What material can I use for my stud wall above tank? I take it MDF is a no no, ply?
Can I just use ply and paint it in polyurethane clear varnish?
This is what I would like it all to look like
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/tank plan1.JPG
My hole under the stairs shouldnt be that big (hopefully the wall wont fall down on me) but its easyer to get an Idea of what I ment about the stairs. I hope!
thats really really REALLY nice..... i'd love something like that in my house! i will definatly be watching this one with intrest!
:)
marc
Thanks Marc, I've bitten the bullet and am going to order the tank it's self on Mon. I'm Starting work on the stand tomorrow,
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/ULR1.jpg
These are the plans for it.
Been working on the sump the last few days, I'm not sure if it will work wheres Si G when you need him?
View from above
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/ULR2.jpg
Looking sideways
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/ULR3.jpg
Wreckfish88
25-01-07, 09:25
Great!! :D
Bugger? just relised I've f***ed up the drawing of the sump!
I've bought all the wood today so the stand WILL start tomorrow so I'll take more pictures!
instantsquid
26-01-07, 23:34
What do you think you've done wrong? Sump looks good to me :)
- Ian
Ok some questions.
Where do I get that gray pipe work everyone uses from?
Not sure if you got a reply on the above ?
The pipework you are referring to is either ABS of more than likely PVC-u. Some of the sponsors stock it if you look at their plumbing section, or do a search on internet for either "ABS Pipe" or "PVC-u Pipe" stockists and have a look around.
Regds
Jay
Reef Keeper
27-01-07, 08:48
cant wait to c the end product.
chris
What do you think you've done wrong? Sump looks good to me
Thanks I forgot about my RO top up! Doh! I've change the stand a bit so I can just do a straight copy of Si G's. Wondering where everything goes is the next step. Chiller and UV main problems anyway back to the stand!
Thanks for the plumbing info and nice comments!:D
instantsquid
27-01-07, 22:23
UV??? UV???? Haven't you learnt anything???? :p
Sorry :o Anyway, seriously - what has made you decide to add a UV to your main tank? Keep it for the quarantine setup!
- Ian
Reef Keeper
28-01-07, 01:02
does a uv damage stuff on the main sys, i thought it was a nessasary pieace of equipment ?
Well I hate the idea of a Uv (yes I did learn a bit!) But I'm sh**ing myself about White spot, marine velvet and Brooklynellosis! So I had thought about running a uv off of ONE of my return pumps. So only 50% goes back into the tank food laiden. Bad Idea?
I had such a run of bad luck with the last lot one bad purchase and then two begginers errors.
I've found its a 50 -50 argument! How do you deal with poorly fish then? I know you dont medicate!
OHhhhhhhhh I just dont know!!!!
Do you also think an UGF is a bad idea for the QT? I had really bad problems with amonnia in the one I've got now.
instantsquid
28-01-07, 08:33
Okay, here's my take on it - whilst a mega-monster-commercial UV unit will destroy the free-swimming stage of most parasites, it will have no effect on the parasites that are attached to the fish, or encysted within the substrate. The best way to keep parasitic diseases out of your tank is, yes you've guessed it, a quarantine tank!
You mentioned a quarantine tank in your previous post, so I would simply keep the UV unit to run on this system. You also mentioned an UGF in your QT - ideally you shouldn't have a substrate in a quarantine/hospital tank anyway. I use an Eheim external filter, but depending in the size of tank, one of the foam, internal filters can be just as effective.
- Ian
My Qt is a 2ft Tank with a Fluval 2, I did put my filter floss from my main tank in the fluval but it just couldnt handle it one I used copper. I ran UGF for years and never had any problems so I think I'll have more chance of making it work that way.
As for the UV in the main tank I think you've convinced me! I might put one one but not use it unless I have a problem. What do you think to that Idea then?
Ok so the build is a go and here are some pics to prove it!:D
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/Start of stand.jpg
thats from the lounge
Great bit of wood work there, Dad helped:p
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/From Kitchen.jpg
from the kitchen, Ok so me and dad did this together!:rolleyes:
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/Light supports.jpg
and the supports for my lights!
OHHHH alright I just passed him the screwdriver and a pencil now and then and he did the rest, but I'm still proud of it!:o
You can actually see how big the tank is going to be now and its making my old tank look tiny! Sooooooo excited!!!!!!!!!!!!:D
Wow! I see now what you were talking about on Sunday! This looks like a future tank of the month!
Hope it all goes well and I will keep a look out for those "finsihed job" pics!
Mode
Wow! I see now what you were talking about on Sunday! This looks like a future tank of the month!
Yeah right I wish!!!!!!!:rolleyes:
Thanks for the comments, Like I said sunday I will look out for your new nano soon! (Sorry to your lovely wife!) Did you get your money off your son?:D
Looking really good - love the shape of the tank :)
Where on the sump should I attach the chillier? (I Know Ian did answer me this but I can't find it now)
If I attach the uv to one of the return pipes where should I put heaters?
I have an inline heater kindly donated by Mode (Keith) Should I put this on the other return pump? I know that when I run the UV it will heat the water up but I'm not intending on using it unless I have problems. Will they (chiller, in line heater and UV) work against each other?
Also is there anything else other than polyurethane clear varnish that I could use to paint stand and new walls above the tank. Ideally something that comes out white?
or could I just gloss the lot?
Yeah right I wish!!!!!!!:rolleyes:
Thanks for the comments, Like I said sunday I will look out for your new nano soon! (Sorry to your lovely wife!) Did you get your money off your son?:D
Not all of it!!!
The paint question - I used an eggshell paint finish on my stand and reckong you could use this on the walls above the tank as well - it is waterproof and can be wiped clean, good when you need to wipe of the dried salt etc etc!!
Mode
Thanks mate,
I read a few other ppls threads and I think I'm going to use B&Q own seal, prim and undercoat all in one and then yacth varnish over the top. There are a few screws and a metal bracket above the tank (Couldnt be helped) So I'll have to just give them a good coating and keep my eye on them.
Hi April,
Just caught up with your thread. Looking good - glad your keeping to the cut-off shape.
Agree with instandquids about the UV - more sense to keep it to run on the quarantine tank IMO.
When you get to the stage of looking round for live rock and sand give me a pm. I've a 50gal container of live rock you can have cheap and a pile of white oolitic sand currently in my DSB which you can have for free.
Regards,
Keith
Thanks Keith,
I'm actually ok for live rock, I have a 4ft tank thats full of it! I bought a second hand complete system with about 105kg of it so its all packed into my current system. Good job I've only got two fish!
Might well take you up on the sand though! Swap it for an hours tea making skills!
Ok Stand and frame above tank is nearly finished now to pain it as above. Pic later!
Any thoughts on this yet?
Where on the sump should I attach the chillier? (I Know Ian did answer me this but I can't find it now)
If I attach the UV to one of the return pipes where should I put heaters?
I have an inline heater kindly donated by Mode (Keith) Should I put this on the other return pump? I know that when I run the UV it will heat the water up but I'm not intending on using it unless I have problems. Will they (chiller, in line heater and UV) work against each other?
instantsquid
02-02-07, 11:29
I run my chiller outside, from a seperate return pump sat next to the sump. The return goes back into the tank. You could run it into the sump - many people do this. It depends what will work with your setup.
I thought you were leaving the UV for your quarantine setup?
Still not sure about UV? I was thinking of putting it on but running it for a few weeks when I first put my LR in and the leaving it off incase I have a problem. :confused:
My thinking is its better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it?
I'm going to run my Chiller outside also (hadnt thought about it coming back direct into the tank but this is pos!) I dont know where in the sump to position the pump going in to the chiller? Is there any benifit to putting it B4 or after the DSB?
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/ULR2.jpg
What skimmer are you going to run?
I believe you are using the Si G sump deisgn, have you thought about gravity feeding the skimmer, saves on ther elec. and pump heat?!!!!
Jon
I'm going to be using a Deltec APF 600 Skimmer with Aquabee 2000 L/H pump but I will probably upgrade when the fish bank account is re stocked! LOL!
The skimmer is going on a 6" platform so that the return pipe goes down hill is that what you mean? I dont think I would be able to feed it with gravity for that reason?
I'm doing the same as you, but I am not using a seperate pump, i'm teeing off a wier. Saves money on the pump and elec.
The APF 600 only needs 800l per hour, at the moment I feed mine with an ehiem 100 compact and that is plenty any more and it pour water over the cup...
Jon
Ummmmm just when I think I got it all sussed out some bugger comes up with a better idea!
Could I also run the chiller this way too? I mean if I t-off my tank to sump pipe (40mm) twice one could go to chiller and other to skimmer leaving the rest to go into DSB? Would that work?
My sump returns are 2 x Eheim 1060
instantsquid
03-02-07, 19:43
Could I also run the chiller this way too? I mean if I t-off my tank to sump pipe (40mm) twice one could go to chiller and other to skimmer leaving the rest to go into DSB? Would that work?
My sump returns are 2 x Eheim 1060
In a word, no. The chiller needs to have water pumped through it - if you gravity fed it, you'd get almost no flow through it and you'd empty your sump.
Put one of the sump returns through the chiller.
- Ian
Ok so I've order the glass again! but this time I've paid for it and told them a definate GO!!!!!! Yipeeeeeee!!!! I got it for a very good price in the end and hopefully I'm picking up the sump from reefworks tomorrow!
full steam ahead!!!!
You're going to have to keep me going with your build whilst mine has slowed down -
Keep up the hard work and remember the human body can survive with out sleep.....your solvent joints will leak (:mad: )but who cares just drags the build out a bit longer....:D
Reef Keeper
06-02-07, 17:33
anymore pics ?
Ok so taking advantage of the fact that hubby couldn’t get to work this morning and flatly refused to help me make a snowman I got him filling holes and sanding the frame that’s going above the tank.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/FRAMEULR!!!.jpgSorry about pics I cant get them to spin around!
The stand is finished but we took it apart so we could finish the top.
I have my sump from Clayton (Reefworks) Thanks!
Once I’ve finished tinkering with it we can put it in and build the stand around it.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/SIMONULR.jpg
This is going to be my feeding door ( or place for the fishes mail to go) As the main door on the front is to heavy to lift up everyday (girly wusss I know)
Look no glass, no water but still my common clowns are doing well!
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/WallysULR.jpg
Look no glass, no water but still my common clowns are doing well!
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/WallysULR.jpg
LOL :D
matt lowndes
09-02-07, 23:56
looking good mate can't wait to see it wet
Thanks Matt, I cant wait to get glass, let alone water!
OK so Tank is comming on Monday so I need to get a shift on:D
The top part of the stud wall is nearly finished and the lights are up, I've played around with some gas stays, to hold the large door at the front as its very heavy.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/Lights from front.JPG
This how it looked at tools down tonight, just the coving to put up and re-paint.
This is the view from the kitchen
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/lights from side.JPG
Tomorrow I have to drill another hole in the sump this is the first one, I think it went very well.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/cutting glass.JPG
I've ordered some pulmbing bits to start so thats tomorrows project for hubby;)
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/plumbingbits.JPG
Dad and I built a giant bird box today to house the chiller and extractor fan.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/Birdhouse.JPG
Its all comming along nicely, just cant wait for the tank to arrive.:p
instantsquid
16-02-07, 22:17
Wow, April - that's all looking awesome! :applause:
Don't hang around do you? :p
Looking good - keep us posted!! :)
John
Thanks Guys:D
John I think its moving at a snails pace:bored:
Today was a rubbish,
Got up nice and early as we need to crack on this weekend cos my dads going into hospital on Monday. Darrens works long hours in the week so It'll be all on me. I'd like to have it all done by the time Dad gets out, so he can watch it while he recovers.
Anyway trip to B&Q took forever, our saturday breakfast haunt was packed and I couldnt find the bit of paper with all the measurements on it when we finally got there.
So work didnt start till 2.30pm and then after lots of faffing about and a few arguments we managed to stick the tank connectors in the sump. (I think that has to be the best days work ever:applause: ):banghead: :banghead: :banghead:
Up early again tomorrow so Hopefully more pics
petergillett
18-02-07, 00:20
It's always a snails pace! You have good intentions but nothing ever goes quite according to plan. I dropped the missus off at 6.45 on Friday eve, nipped to B&Q for electricals, PC World for USB extension for Aquatronica, Morrison's for a pizza, then got cracking. All I'd managed by 11.20 when I picked her up was pump some RO in to sumps, mix some salt, and put plugs on my ballasts.
You can write the day off with trips to DIY stores!
Still, it's taking shape and you've not been at it long!
Much better day today, Darren sorted out the electrics cupboard,
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/plugs.JPG
Dad made a start on the plumbing and finished the stand
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/stand1.JPG
And I got covered in silicone making the messiest sump in the whole word.
Neeer nicy neeeer :p !!! to all you “what neat silicone” people out there!:rolleyes:
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/Me and sump.JPG
Tanks Comming tomorrow!!!!!
OHHHH I could weee I'm so excited.
Canny wait to see this one unfold mate...this should be super smart, think the design and proposed layout is great...
Niko
Thanks I canny wait either!
MaidstoneMarine
19-02-07, 20:56
april,
looks like you're making some cracking progress there. it looks very impressive.
just had a thought though about your plug sockets - are you having timers? with the plug bars that close you'll overlap plugs if you don't leave enough space between them.
keep the pics coming
chris
OHHHH I could weee I'm so excited.
:o
Its a good feeling isn't it! its looking very good at the mo! keep up the good work!
Thanks Guys:thanks:
just had a thought though about your plug sockets - are you having timers? with the plug bars that close you'll overlap plugs if you don't leave enough space between them.
Ah har! I thought of that, the timers fit (Just) on the furthest right bar. the lights have them built in and I have the tunze stream thingy that turns them down on a light sensor. So I only need two. One at the top and the other at the bottom. :dance:
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/Plugssss.JPG
Also the bars are offset slightly.
I'm doing a you and having some in the shed (next year) to deal with water changes and the chiller.
Yeah its here!!!!!!!!!! :ohyea: :yahoo: :ohyea: :yahoo: :ohyea:
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/tank in box.JPG
Opened the box and boy does it smell :yucky:, not going to be sticking my head in there for a while!
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/unpacked.JPG
Its soooooo big, I was a very happy girl until I saw this, (Bearing in mind I’m only 5’4 and the tank is just shy of 2’6 deep) :doh:
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/jokers sticker.JPG
Its on the inside bottom of the tank, bloody jokers! It’s gonna take me an age to get it off.:laugh: :ponder:
Throw a bit of water on the label and let it soak a bit.
Glad the tank has arrived, great project :)
Excellent news!! Looking good too!
You're going to be waiting a while if you follow the advice on the label though :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: !
John
PS: The holes for the drain to the sump seem quite far from the edge of the tank though - how are you configuring your weir??
Nice looking tank set-up you've got there, cant wait to see it with livestock etc in it!
However judging by the date on that label you won't ever be able to put water in it :D :D :D
dont we all love the waiting game...he he he he...this is gonna be good....
Niko
Thanks for all the comments guys:thanks:
Just realised that the 30th of Feb will NEVER come EVER!:scratchhead:
I'm guessing it really means the 2nd March but I was hoping to wet test on Sat but till you guys pointed it out I had'nt noticed the date :surprise:
PS: The holes for the drain to the sump seem quite far from the edge of the tank though - how are you configuring your weir??
ummmm I'm glad you mentioned this as I have had my elbow twisted that I dont need a weir.
It's changed quite a lot from MY original plan (Hubby and Dad know best!)
I'm now going to have two pipes on there own (one taller than the other) but surrounded by rock? Sorry for crappy pic but I couldn’t explain it in words
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/weir1.JPG
On top of the pipes in the tank I’m going to have foam squares that will be washed out weekly.
I’m not so sure this idea will work but the men folk are sure it will?
Wanna place your bets?
On top of the pipes in the tank I’m going to have foam squares that will be washed out weekly.
I’m not so sure this idea will work but the men folk are sure it will?
Wanna place your bets?
It may - not the way I'd do it, but men will be men. Every man always knows better (including me ;) ).
My only concern with your configuration would be the seal at the bulkhead - if that goes due to accidentally putting pressure on the (now unprotected) standpipes then you have to empty the tank to fix it - behind a weir the same circumstance is a pain, but not such a major issue and not as likely to happen. Saying that it may never be an issue anyway!
Obviously need to think about preventing the squares of foam disappearing down the pipe?
Watching with interest!! :whistling: :)
John
It may - not the way I'd do it, but men will be men. Every man always knows better (including me ;) ).
My only concern with your configuration would be the seal at the bulkhead - if that goes due to accidentally putting pressure on the (now unprotected) standpipes then you have to empty the tank to fix it - behind a weir the same circumstance is a pain, but not such a major issue and not as likely to happen. Saying that it may never be an issue anyway!
Obviously need to think about preventing the squares of foam disappearing down the pipe?
Watching with interest!! :whistling: :)
John
See now thats a much better arrgument than the one I use.
"Dont like this idea" in a stroppy teenage way!
re: the squares disapearing down the pipe
in my old tank i made my pipe covers using a fine mesh material istead of sponge...
It doesn't clog as much as sponge will and will be easier to clean...
i had a lathe at my disposal so i turned a round disc to house the mesh that sat on the lip of the pipe.... just another way round it...
Thanks Stu1210 thats a cracking idea!
petergillett
20-02-07, 23:54
Not sure I'd have an unprotected standpipe. I suppose there's no reason you should have a problem with it any more than the chance of smashing a glass weir, but as John said if it does crack the joint from weight of rocks against it etc. it means strip down, and a small force at the top would put quite a bit of pressure on the bottom with a pipe this height. More to the point, if it breaks it'll force you to strip down as the tank starts draining.
You'll need spare foam squares to use while you wash the others. A fish would definitely go for a slide in the 2 minutes per week you had the foam out!
I'm not entirely sure how the standpipe will work for surface skimming. I have them in my sumps - their fine but noisy as they gurgle air. Tap them back to eliminiate the noise and they don't take from the surface.
I’m not so sure this idea will work but the men folk are sure it will?
Wanna place your bets?
Don't commit if you're in doubt. You'll regret it if it doesn't work, and it's a big headache (that usually involves expense!) to change once it's finished.
I've was lying re my only concern ;) - I agree with Peter. Surface skimming may be an issue but it's not too clear from your diagram how the top of the pipes are orientated as to whether the surface water is skimmed.
You may also have a problem with turnover i.e. the height that the water needs to rise above the top of the pipe in order to facilitate the flow (particularly through any sponge etc) of the water back to the sump. Generally you'd be aiming for a system turnover of between 5-10x system volume through the sump, which on a tank that size is no small amount.:confused:
If you do sort out that potential issue, the amount of water that would return to the sump in the event of a power cut will also need to be accommodated. As the standpipe will have to be at least half an inch (probably more) below the surface of the water, that's quite a volume of water to drain into the sump.
Nothing that can't be catered for or overcome, but just some things to watch out for!!:eek:
John
April,
Not sure if I missed it but why don't you have a weir????
(mine will be getting wet soon!!!!/sorry not rubbing it in)
Jon
John and Peter, Help!:unsure: What would you do then? Make a stand alone weir that goes all the way around.:dontknow:
Could you point me in the direction of anyone who’s done it this way?:ponder:
I really liked the idea of doing it like Chris (MM) but it would of meant leaving 10” space to the right making my tank 10” smaller. I could have put it in the back corner but I would never have been able to reach it.
I don’t really know why I let them bully me into changing it really? It made since at the time, but I know your both right and at the end of the day any headaches will be mine to deal with!
mine will be getting wet soon!!!!/sorry not rubbing it in
Thanks Joni (you bugger you!) I’ll keep my eye on yours then.:boxing::D
Hi April,
Options:-
1. Stay as is, and just bear in mind the points that have been raised - as I've said nothing is insurmountable, but you may end up with an unsightly hotch potch arrangement at the top of the standpipes once all the issues have been addressed (and still have the potential of failure at the bulkhead, however small that chance may be). I know some people do have unprotected standpipes in this fashion but personally I wouldn't risk it, and certainly not on a tank with a 30" water depth.
2. Build a standalone weir around the standpipes - would work, but will certainly take out a lot of space in your tank.
3. Build a weir with the top in the correct place, but the base of the weir projected out over the existing holes in a kind of L shape. Pipework will then come through the base, horizontally along the base to the side of the tank then up to the top of the weir. Bit off the wall but a potential solution with some thought I think.
4. Get a big bit of 10/12mm glass and seal over the holes already drilled - makeshift but once you have the substrate in you'll never notice it. Get some more holes drilled in the "correct" place for the weir as originally discussed. Would this invalidate any warranty?
If it was me, I'd go for the last mentioned (warranty aside). I'd also think seriously about having the weir in the rear RH corner. Once set up you very rarely have to get to the weir at all so aesthetics over function wins for me. It would make sense particularly with the main viewing area focussed on the LHS of the tank.
HTH
John
Cool thanks again john,
I quite like the sound of 3. Not thought of that, it may work a treat.
Re-drilling is out of the question. If I did it the old way now with the new tank, 10" of it would be through my kitchen door. I really have used every available mm!
anyway will mull it over the weekend I'm not in any rush now as it can't get wet till 2nd March and I'm back a forth to hospital anyway.
I don't see why the tank would be moved in relation to where it is now for option 4. :confused: My proposal would still be to have two holes in the base, just much closer to the end than they are now and have a full height weir around them. I understand you could not have the "external" overflow as Chris (MaidstoneMarine) has on his setup.
Option 3 does have the disadvantage though that if a fish did get into the weir (it happens occasionally) I think it would be virtually impossible to get out. It would also need to have the "cover-plate" for the horizontal L bit well protected e.g. perspex/egg-crate as it is not supported by anything and itself may be a potential weak point. :(
Look forward to seeing what you eventually decide. ;)
Regards
John
PS: Having thought about it a bit more, maybe going with a central weir with the subsequent "loss" of tank space wouldn't all be bad news. With a bit of thought it's a structure that providing it's well disguised you could create some unique aquascaping e.g. arches and overhangs. Depends how artistic you (or anyone else that wants to "help" :whistling: :D ) is!!
instantsquid
21-02-07, 13:20
How much space are we talking about here? Would it really be a disaster to have a conventional weir around the holes going all the way up? Sure it'd be bigger than it has to be, but so what? As John says, a bit of creative aquascaping, and a few months coralline growth over it, you'll have forgotten all about it!
Just my two pennies worth.
First I have to win the "having a weir" point:annoyed: I dont think a straight up one would loss me any space I could just build rock in a U shape around it.
The chris (MM) idea would nick 10" as its a tank conector and 2 90deg elbows, against a wall. I've only left 3" to get all the plumbing (returns and stuff) back to the tank in the right hand corner. moving it would put the tank in my doorway as it can only move left. (said wall)
Sorry if this makes no sence!:eek:
Depends how artistic you (or anyone else that wants to "help" :whistling: :D ) is!!
Fancy a drive from Exeter then John?;)
Fancy a drive from Exeter then John?;)
:laugh: :D
I put the "help" in inverted commas just in case your hubby or dad wanted to "help" again! :hammer: :D
You obviously haven't seen my aquascaping, but quite easy to use my method - it's kinda chuck it all in, if it's acceptable, that's fine!! :eek: ;) A little more care may be needed with yours though!
John
Wow, what a fantastic build :dance:
FWIW, a friend of mine just had standpipes as per your original idea (much to my horror:laugh: ). To be fair though, they took up very little room and he never had a problem. The tanks been stripped now as the cabinet started to collapse and he's built some weirs but it did work fine.
He also used some lumps of very coarse foam poked in the top of them to keep fish out, also quitened it down a huge amount :shades:
I wouldn't trust it personally, but then I am paranoid :shutup:
You may find you dont need to upgrade your skimmer, the APF600 is superb and IMO skims well above its size. Its a top piece of kit :worship:
Anyways, great build thread, keep it coming :dance:
greta read April keep it coming & keep up the good work:applause:
What do you get if you leave a brand new squeeky clean tank in the garden (planning to paint back today) Overnight and lock your cat out for being a pain????
Cat pee in your tank!
Bas**** I hate that cat (love him really just not his friend today)
Should help with the cycling though!!! :)
John
Yah Thanks! I was thinking about the smell!
I've got to get in it tomorrow!
Ok so a bits and bobs day today,
I finished the bird box (Chiller / Fan house )and connected my Aqua medic up with flexi hose. Had great fun sticking the pipe to a broom handle to pushing it through the gap under my stairs.
Painted the back of the tank with Lapis from Homebase,:thumbsup:
Cut the hole in the top of the stand for the pipes to go through
Got the extracor fan working (tested by smoking under the stand) smoke goes through like lightening!:p
worked out that between the three of us we have hit our heads on the top frame 78 times! will post pic of dads bald and bashed head tomorrow!:banghead:
and thats about it, tomorrow I need to give the tank another coat and then I can move it into place!!!!!!:dance: :banana:
What do you get if you leave a brand new squeeky clean tank in the garden (planning to paint back today) Overnight and lock your cat out for being a pain????
Cat pee in your tank!
Bas**** I hate that cat (love him really just not his friend today)
You - :mad:
Me - :laugh: (cause I've got cats and know what they're like)
Other Cat - :devil:
Your Cat - :whistling:
:laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
You - :mad:
Me - :laugh: (cause I've got cats and know what they're like)
Other Cat - :devil:
Your Cat - :whistling:
:laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Totally!:D
yours is looking nice:thumbsup: , when are you going to get a thread going on here so we can pass comments?
I've got a blog going, but I think starting a thread on here will be better - it will be easier for people to post comments.
Hmmmm, I think I'll start tomorrow. :yes:
Good idea, I keep having to search around to find your blog to see how your doing, I should just add it to favs really!
Anyway
Well the tank is in its hole!
It took 5 of us to move it and the top frame is mm perfect!
I had a bit of a bummer with the sump as my silicone is neither neat or as it happens water tight! I’m going to have to completely re-do it, never mind.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/Tankin1.JPG
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/tankin2.JPG
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/tankin3.JPG
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/tankin4.JPG
Lookin really good..like the idea of the angled corner..The shape is interesting..
Niko
looking very nice! canny wait to see it full
he he he he plumbing it in tomorrow but I'll have to wait till the 2nd march for the wet test!
Oh and I now have 6 green chromis in my QT so in 6 weeks time I'll have fish!!!!! (hopefully)
Looking good April - gives some idea of the size!
Keep the pics coming!
John
petergillett
25-02-07, 23:04
Looking good April. Bet you can't wait til get water in it? Only a few days!
What was up with your siliconing? Did you make the whole sump or just the baffles?
Thanks Guys:D :thumbsup:
What was up with your siliconing? Did you make the whole sump or just the baffles?
No just the baffles,
I'm a girl :o :rolleyes: (what can I say!) I've never even held a silicone gun before and I stupidly did it all in one go and couldnt get the angle on the gun right for the bottom of the last baffle as it's only 3" away from the side. I think I can just "Teddy up" :whistling: (Bodging to normal ppl) the DSB bit as its only a little bit thats leaking, but it's such a mess I'm tempted to start again.
Manxy_Reefer
26-02-07, 12:56
hi April,
been reading and watching with interest, noted your "issue" with silicone.. I have a possible tip for you to achive a clean finish. Its as simple as masking tape!
If you are going to have to dismantle the sump again put a run of masking tape a CM or more higher than the edge to be covered, do this around all joints. Then attack it with silicon.. use a wet finger to smoother the silicone out onto the masking tape.. wait for 20 mins ish.. till it starts to go tacky/set on your fingers, jeans, jumper, tea cup, ciggie lighter etc. then remove the tape carefully making sure you dont get it stuck on the glass.
You can then wet your finger again and re-smooth if necessary, this gives a very professional finish as it removes all the excess and leaves a clean line.
Good luck!
Thanks for that, I got covered from head to toe in it last time so I might let hubby do it this time (he's a neat freak!)
Its a pig to get out of your hair, good fun thought!
I like it. I wish I could encase the lights etc - i like it when the tank is the main eye catching element not the lights above.
..oh and i'm way ahead!!!!!!
John and Peter, Help!:unsure: What would you do then? Make a stand alone weir that goes all the way around.:dontknow:
Could you point me in the direction of anyone who’s done it this way?:ponder:
I really liked the idea of doing it like Chris (MM) but it would of meant leaving 10” space to the right making my tank 10” smaller. I could have put it in the back corner but I would never have been able to reach it.
I don’t really know why I let them bully me into changing it really? It made since at the time, but I know your both right and at the end of the day any headaches will be mine to deal with!
Thanks Joni (you bugger you!) I’ll keep my eye on yours then.:boxing::Dapril just a thought about the stand pipes,i would be concerned about the pressure issue on the pipe,my idea is get a piece of 10mm glass big enough to reach from the side of the tank to an inch past the stand pipes get two holes drilled to same distance apart and size of the stand pipes and place ot over them and silicone the glass to the side of the tank thus supporting the pipes but still alowing the rock work:confused: i hope you see what i mean as i think i may have had my first good idea:dance:
hope you see what i mean as i think i may have had my first good idea:dance:
I do! and I likey:D Thanks!:thumbsup:
..oh and i'm way ahead!!!!!!
:tomato::rasberry::ner:
[QUOTE=BWC615;1628867]I do! and I likey:D Thanks!:thumbsup:
:shocking: i have just spent 45 mins trying to sketchup this:confused: and now she tells me she knows what i mean:doh: good job really cos i cant bloomin up load said sketchup thingy:o glad you like:thumbsup:
Sorry I can pretend not to get it if that would make you feel better?
its a Great Idea, I got out voted on the weir so I'll have a go at putting this to BWC615 board members (Hubby and Dad) when the Forman (dad) gets back!
Isn't it nearly filling day for your tank April?? Looking forward to seeing some water in that bad boy!!!
Esme
Thanks but Its on hold for now. :(
I'm not great with silicone as said before and dont want to be responsible for the tank connectors going in:eek: :whistling: !
Will try to get Darren to put them in at the weekend so maybe I can wet test the weekend after.
ahhh ok!! Probably my mistake for not reading properly!! I'd be getting well impatient by now!!!
ahhh ok!! Probably my mistake for not reading properly!! I'd be getting well impatient by now!!!
LOL :D you and me both hun!
OH COME ON.....April have you not learnt anything from my thread....don't worry about the silicone, use superglue works fine, any leaks milliputti works a treat but only if you wrap it with cling film.....
as for the water, just put tap water in..........it speeds it all up..ok you might have some water quality issues, but goldfish will look great in a tank like that!!!!!!!:D :D :D
:laugh: :laugh:
well i havent checked back on this thread for a while, and im really impressed girl! looks bloody lovely! im not jealous honest :(
Keep up the good work! and one question.....
How, does your fella manage to take charge? my misses runs rings round me, i dont have a say in anything! he must be doing something right! :)
If i wanna do anything to my tank, i have to use the.... "but if i dont do it the fishes will be unhappy" guilt approach! :o
marc
How, does your fella manage to take charge? my misses runs rings round me, i dont have a say in anything! he must be doing something right! :)
If i wanna do anything to my tank, i have to use the.... "but if i dont do it the fishes will be unhappy" guilt approach! :o marc
Hay hay, lets not forget this is MYYYYYY baby, The only reason he's going a long with it is that buy building this one and gettting rid of the old one he can have a big TV. ;)
I always find the best way to get what I want is to make it look like it was his idea, hence I bought him a 40" TV before I put the idea of a bigger tank to him.:thumbsup: :whistling: (Dont tell him by the way)
I dont think this tack works on women though (we're too smart!):p
Joni, :bored::asleep::yawn: I hate waiting for anything this is killing me so you have no idea how tempted I am!
April, i'm sure you won't but NEVER use tap water it will ruin lots of hard work by giving you loads of problem algaes ( diatoms/cyano etc)
listen to the muppet! :)
no offence mike!
:o
April, I'm sure you know, that I was joking......not sure if Mikew does, so just to let everyone else know...I was joking!!!
All good things come to those who wait.
Jon
I know you were joking about the Tape water mate, LOL Panic!!!!!
The superglue Ideas looking more appealing today though! (Joke)
mysticwave
01-03-07, 12:56
April, have not checked on this thread a while now, wow, the tank is in!! Well done, looking forward to see the finished product! :-)
Thanks CC your welcome to come over anytime.
Yeah, I have something to play with!:D
A very nice UPS guy just bought this to my door
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/reefbone1.JPG
I opened it and its 10kg of reef bone, Very very stinky!
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/reefbone2.JPG
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/reefbone3.JPG
So what do I do with it? I'm guessing I have to wash it and then leave it to soak. Can I just bung it in a bucket of RO for a few weeks? How do I get all the nasties out?
Have a look at this post - it's SCOOB's ideas on what to do with the aquaristic reef bones.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/forums/showpost.php?p=1630711&postcount=15
instantsquid
01-03-07, 15:38
Well, firstly I'll tell you what I did... and then what I should have done!
As I was in no rush to move stock from my old tank to my new one, I added 30kg of reef bones straight into the tank once the water was salted and heated, along with 20kg of live rock that I had cured myself. I then left the tank to "cycle". It took a few weeks for Ammonia and Nitrite to peak and drop down to zero. I then waited a couple more weeks before moving all my old tank's contents over in one go (including another 10-20kg of very mature live rock).
The tank went through the usual diatom/cyano/algae blooms, admittedly mostly on the new sand bed, but also over a lot of the new live rock and reef bones. Eventually it all died back and started to look good. Then after another few months, I'd get another sudden outbreak of cyano on just one lump of reef bone. This would last a few weeks and then die again.
If I was doing it again, I'd jet-wash the reef bones. Then I'd chuck them in a bucket of old tank water with a powerhead and leave them for a couple of weeks. Only then would I add them to the tank.
As Ian said, defo give them a good jet wash before anything.
I was thinking of may be getting a few kilo for my new tank. One thought I had was to blast them with the jet wash.
Put in to a temp tank or container with old tank water with a heater and powerhead and then may be after two weeks throw all the water out, put another batch of old water in a some pieces of live rock or even some coraline shavings all blended up as well as per SiG's idea and then leave for another couple of weeks before putting them in to the tank.
Just found this thread. Looking very good but come on....
....more pics for us visual learners !
I'm missing something? Why jetwash reefbones? :confused:
Thanks Jobr & Ian as always, Jet wash and old water it is then. I think I'm going to try the si G pink milkshake idea too, I'll let you all know how it goes need to find a coraline sourse first.:D :thanks:
Good point Mike!:o
Thanks Nav jam I'm going as quick as I can!:wave:
I'm missing something? Why jetwash reefbones? :confused:
Cos its reeeeaaalll dirty :winky:
Cos they're just like you, dirty and old
He's not old! I'm even more disapointed in the German car thing now at least when I though he was 60 it could have been a mid life crisis:laugh:
Come on Tony buy a Jag!
any more pics yet any water going in yet cmon i grow expectant and impatient:D i do like the look of this tank,i will post some of my 8x2x2 when i get the green light for the house move:annoyed:
,i will post some of my 8x2x2 when i get the green light for the house move:annoyed:
Some :smartass: has always got to go one better:D "ohhhhh look at me with my 8X2X2:laugh:"
I think there might be a longer wait for water, :( trust me, it'll be done asap!:thumbsup:
need to find a coraline sourse first.:D
You'd be welcome to have some of mine.
Keith
cool, love ya Keith!!!!!!
Looking forward to meeting you.
Looking forward to meeting you.
Poor child :crazy:
:D
Some :smartass: has always got to go one better:D "ohhhhh look at me with my 8X2X2:laugh:"
I think there might be a longer wait for water, :( trust me, it'll be done asap!:thumbsup:
:o :upset: no oneupmanship intended april yours is a stunning tank better than a plain rectangle:worship: lol look forward to seeing it full :thumbsup:
:o :upset: no oneupmanship intended april yours is a stunning tank better than a plain rectangle:worship: lol look forward to seeing it full :thumbsup:
I was only pulling ya leg mate, LOL:laugh:
I'm not at all bothered as there are tones of ppl on here who will always have better tanks and at the mow its just glass and wood. I'll except praise if I end up with a nice reef. Thats the hard bit!:thumbsup:
OK The tank connectors are in, sumps been re-done and I'm just about to wet test it again to see if it leeks! :)
GOOOOODDDD I want watttttttttteerrrrrrr!:mad: :mad:
Why oh why are there no aquarium plumbers in the yellow pages!!!!!!!
:banghead: :bored: :banghead: :bored:
:banghead: :bored:
:banghead: :bored:
:banghead: :bored:
:banghead: :bored:
Fingers crossed for you ......
Thanks Joni, I know you feel my pain!:cheers:
well???? any wet bits....
I hate silicone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
:mad: :disgust: :annoyed: :banghead: :angry::furious::rant::mad: :disgust: :annoyed: :banghead: :angry::furious::rant::mad: :disgust: :annoyed: :banghead: :angry::furious::rant::mad: :disgust: :annoyed: :banghead: :angry::furious::rant::mad: :disgust: :annoyed: :banghead: :angry::furious::rant::mad: :disgust: :annoyed: :banghead: :angry:
I hate silicone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
:mad: :disgust: :annoyed: :banghead: :angry::furious::rant::mad: :disgust: :annoyed: :banghead: :angry::furious::rant::mad: :disgust: :annoyed: :banghead: :angry::furious::rant::mad: :disgust::angry::furious::rant::mad: :disgust: :annoyed: :banghead: :angry:
Should of got your hubby to do it!!!
LOL :D
Advise taken, Darren fixed it for me so We'll be plumbing at the weekend! Yipeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
Although Darren would like me to point out (before any reefer inspection) That (Darrens words) "You cant polish a turd!"
Yes you can, you just end up with a shiny turd;) ;) :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Trust you!:laugh:
Darren says he wants to see evidence of a shiny poo. (Get one ready for him mike it looks like he's coming as well on 24th)
MaidstoneMarine
08-03-07, 19:53
Trust you!:laugh:
Darren says he wants to see evidence of a shiny poo. (Get one ready for him mike it looks like he's coming as well on 24th)
april... please don't encourage him. it's bad enough as it is.
glad to hear you're both coming on the 24th.
I'm just worried you all think my husband is strange!:wacko::D
any more pics/updates april we are waiting:D
MaidstoneMarine
15-03-07, 19:18
yeah come on April we want an update... hows it go?
I said give me a "U" :dance:
gimmi a "P" :dance:
a "D" :dance:
a "A" :dance:
a "T" :dance:
an "E" :dance:
UPDATE UPDATE. Come on girl get a picture or two up!!
Yessss welll I unlike SOME have a very good reason. :rolleyes:
Yes I'm doing it again, I'm pulling the "GIRL" card:whistling: , now I know you will argue that Chris (MM) could also use this, :ermm: but I think the wonderful vision of him and Mike in cherleaders outfits that I now have is enough.:banana::banana::banana::banana::banana:
In truth I have not done a thing on the tank since the last update, I've been way tooo busy harrassing you!:thumbsup: :ner:
oh I wish I had photoshop!
Reef bloke
16-03-07, 00:31
:D :laugh: UPDATE!:laugh: :D
Lucky Eddie
16-03-07, 17:24
Yeah, get on with it woman !
simon garratt
16-03-07, 17:36
christ allmighty...:rolleyes:
If it takes you this long to get some steam on doing a tank build, your fella must be either permanantly knackerd or a world famous bloody indurance althlete....:p
cmon....... we want progress....:applause: :applause: :applause:
Si.
arrrr Si you grace me with your presents at last:wave: and there was I think you just wanted to speak to me through Joni:( :laugh:
christ allmighty...:rolleyes:
If it takes you this long to get some steam on doing a tank build, your fella must be either permanantly knackerd or a world famous bloody indurance althlete....:p
cmon....... we want progress....:applause: :applause: :applause:
Si.
Now by this do you mean its been done quickly up till now or slowly????:confused:
To be fair my Mr is Fab :wub: but he works long hours so I don’t have too. Bless him:wub:
So the work has mainly been done by Dad, who is a bl@@dy hero:applause: :applause: :wub: That also explains why its slowed down the last few weeks. As I have been told not to even think about doing anything relating to water after the sump incident :annoyed: :whistling:
April,
I've just cleared up the 'build' tools and now i'm already bored....don't rush, it's almost an anticlimax....well worth it though!!!!
Jon
Chris, i don't remember posing with in cheerleader outfits,:confused: :confused: was i drugged, or are we letting a woman with a rather weird imagination in to our county:eek: :eek: :scratchhead: :scratchhead: :shock: quick, blow the bridge, fill in the tunnel, run away :( :(
oh I wish I had photoshop!
Decision, play with photoshop or do work :ponder:
Oh why not lets play with photoshop, just hope I got the pics of people right :unsure: :)
http://i69.photobucket.com/albums/i73/Azazel_Shadows/comedyCheers.jpg
hahahahahahaha:applause::roflmao: :hysterical:
Reef bloke
20-03-07, 16:12
here ya go,fixed the link,chortle.
http://i69.photobucket.com/albums/i73/Azazel_Shadows/comedyCheers.jpg
MaidstoneMarine
20-03-07, 16:27
you could've at least flipped my face and twisted it slightly so i didn't look distorted... and yes - I'd die for a body like that :D
Reef bloke
20-03-07, 16:31
You wouldnt be able to leave yourself alone Chris,come to think of it have a shave and i bit of lippy and......bbbrrrrrrrrr no thats wrong very wrong.
Oh I cant see it!!!!!:( :( :( :(
Stop having fun with out me. I only went away for a day!:D
simon garratt
21-03-07, 09:02
Reefbloke..
If you ever do that to a picture of Eliza Dushku again..
I'll hunt .....you ......down............:annoyed: :annoyed: :annoyed:
Si.:p
Halfsleeve
21-03-07, 09:05
But if you want to post a piccy of Eliza Dushku minus an edit please do:thumbsup:
Ummmmmmmm Eliza Dushku ummmmmmmmmmmmm:wub:
Ummmmmmmm Eliza Dushku ummmmmmmmmmmmm:wub::confused: who?:confused:
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/3528814049.jpg
Does that help.....:eek: :eek: :eek:
:confused: who?:confused:
Faith from Buffy, True from True calling?
Very sexy girly who is on my list of 5 "allowed to sleep with it chance arrises" people who hubby wouldnt mind!:D
Before any of you lot go off on one:rolleyes: I know she's a girl :annoyed: the other 4 are men, I have never been gay and dont intend on becoming gay but come on! Its Eliza Dushku! Ask your WAGS if they would!:thumbsup:
Thanks Joni for the pic!
Alweays a pleasure..posting her ?!!??
MaidstoneMarine
21-03-07, 23:05
whos the other four then?
I figured that no hero type was going to come and do my plumbing for me and thought "bugger it, how hard can it be!:whistling: " I finished it yesterday. :thumbsup: :applause:
I have T'ed off one of my main tank to sump pipes in two places. both with ball valve taps. One to the DSB and the other to feed my skimmer.
I did wonder about this when I was doing it as the remainding water that is'nt taken buy either T then flows into the first part of my sump.
It then goes over a baffle, under the DSB, over another baffle where its meet with water from the DSB, under a baffle with egg crate at the bottom, up and over the last baffle and into the sump return pumps. ie it has a nice long journey but isnt filtered anywhere??????? :oops:
What Si has said below makes total sence to me NOW! This was taken from Joni’s build thread.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/forums/showthread.php?t=194218&page=11
Righto.. This is where your having your problems then..
That desighn was never meant to have the skimmer fed from 'one' of the overflows, otherwise your shunting nearly 50% of your 'untreated' water strait past all your filtration and then back to the tank. (hence your climbing N03)..
What you need to do.
Dissconect your skimmer from the overflow, and feed it from a feed pump in the first compartment of your sump where your left hand weir is dumping..(this means your skimming one weir as the water passes the pump). then feed the RH weir to the DSB with a 'tee off' to that 1st compartment as well, to take care of any exess flow. The skimmer outlet, goes to your DSB to increase 02 levels.
Simple rule of thumb... If it aint going to the DSB, then it goes past the skimmer feed pump..
regards
Si.
Only I'm a bit kippered as my first Baffles is not wide enough now to take the pump for my skimmer.
I thought since I was Gravity feeding it I could make my DSB bigger and the gap between baffles smaller.:confused:
Any Ideas Guys!:confused: :please:
Pictures???
How much room have you outside the sump could you drill the sump and mount the pump externally??
Why can't you put an end cap on so the water goes either to the skimmer or the DSB - then both gets filtered?
whos the other four then?
Brad Pitt, Bruce Willis, Sean Connery, Paul Betteny:D
Pictures???
How much room have you outside the sump could you drill the sump and mount the pump externally??
Why can't you put an end cap on so the water goes either to the skimmer or the DSB - then both gets filtered?
I'll post pictures up tomorrow as I'm hoping it'll be wet:applause:
I'm hoping to tunr the beast on and see what happens........leak probably!!!?
Ohh god dont say that I'll die if it leaks, I wouldnt know where to start!:laugh:
Good luck with yours though bud!:thumbsup:
Sorry April, I ment my new pump and plumbing - not your tank.....
You'll be fine.
Good luck and enjoy the fruits of your labour.
wheres the updates then? please! im really bored! need new pictures to look at!:p
humm yes I get up at 6am and before I have a wash, eat breakfast or have a poo. I get on with building my tank and taking photos for you lot!:rolleyes:
Please I'm keen but not 7.30am keen!:D
April,
I just woke up and I've just sat down to UR.....I can't have a cup of tea cos I used all the milk up last night, I stink, and my bowels too are a little pressurized, but I wanted to get on to see these pics.......
JOn
humm yes I get up at 6am and before I have a wash, eat breakfast or have a poo. :D
i was eating when i read that! :( :eek:
I'll post pictures up tomorrow as I'm hoping it'll be wet:applause:
Blokes need stuff to look at, WE WANT PICTURES!!!!!!!:dance: :dance: :dance:
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/3528814049.jpg
Does that help.....:eek: :eek: :eek:hmmmm shes no kelly brook:wub: hubba hubba:bouncy: :drool:
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y24/mikkscoob/kelly_brook_120.jpg:worship: :worship:
Halfsleeve
22-03-07, 20:07
Nurse the screens:D
Nurse the screens:D
lol.
oh any updates april on a side note:D
and its not a screen im nursing
sorry guys was side tracked today by hubby saying "wanna go away for your birthday?":thumbsup: :worship: (thats why I love him!):D
So I spent most of the day looking a red sea deals. I will be off to the travel agents tomorrow and I'll post picks then.
Sorrry:o
Matthew5664
22-03-07, 23:28
Luck you would love to go out to the RS the Rels have gone a cople of time but so far haven't invited us
:sad:
(with lots of wine and beer inside me) - and...where are these photos...,i thought you loved me(us) A[pril.....surely your husband know by now that us UR people take priority!!!!!!(took me 5 attempts to write trhat|)
simon garratt
23-03-07, 08:39
sorry guys was side tracked today by hubby saying "wanna go away for your birthday?":thumbsup: :worship: (thats why I love him!):D
So where is he going whilst your down the pub with Eliza...?:D
Regards
Si.
So where is he going whilst your down the pub with Eliza...?:D
Regards
Si.
LOL trust you!:D
I'm booked and going to Sharm El Sheikh in two weeks! yipeeeeeee!!!
Will take photos now, OK!:laugh:
LOL trust you!:D
I'm booked and going to Sharm El Sheikh in two weeks! yipeeeeeee!!!
Will take photos now, OK!:laugh::drool: :bounce:
For those of you I've spend a fab day with (Thanks guy I really enjoyed myself:worship: ) I did say it would be fixed by 2am D :D :D :thumbsup:
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/Treat1.jpg
No I didnt get home and start work on it. I came home to find it like this. :surprise:
How much of a hero is my dad!!!!!!!!!:applause: :worship: :thumbsup:
FIXED!!!! :dance: :dance: :dance:
For those of you who I havent seen today, my wet test went a bit wrong.
The sump got filled, we found a small leak on one of the connectors. I drained down the last compartment of the sump unscrewed the leaky connector and took it nto the kitchen to try and figure out what happened, when I came back there was water everywhere.
The other two ballist had leaked, as had the DSB compartment all the water had gone into the last compartment and through the unscrewed tank connector! OH bugger!!!!!:( (Darren has now banned me from every using silicone again:o !) Anyway all my new plumbing was undone, the sump was returned to the garden table and I was well and truely in the dog house.
I've been out all day and come back to the above photo, after moaning about to all the muppets and others I'm chuffed to say the least!
One cos my sump worrys seem to be over but more because it means my dad must have felt better today, I cant wait to speak to him in the morning.:wub:
I see water:party:
Yes yes you do!:dance: :dance: :dance:
instantsquid
25-03-07, 09:40
Excellent! :applause:
The other two ballist had leaked, .
oopsey! tell your hubby it could be worse! my misses goes mental at me because my skimmer is always overflowing (and thats not nice fresh clean water!) my response normally works: well i didnt ask it to do it did i?
:laugh:
Nice - we like it when it gets wet......keep going, just a little way to go now....
Jon
MaidstoneMarine
25-03-07, 12:35
water at last... and it's staying in the tank.... woohoo. Won't be long now. Come on Darren - time to start picking out those fish you want :D
Lucky Eddie
25-03-07, 13:20
Right, no excuses now.
Get your finger out !
NO PRESSURE !!!!!!!
:D
YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!! water:dance: :cheers: nice one daddy lol,glad to see you dont bow to the pressure april ;)
YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!! water:dance: :cheers: nice one daddy lol,glad to see you dont bow to the pressure april ;)
narr I edit him out in my mind!:laugh:
plus being a girly means we like to keep people waiting!:cool:
:laugh: OK OK you waited long enough and even Mikes getting shirty (you do realise that those letters above are bigger than you, dont you!:p ), time for an update.
Sorry for the pic heavy post but I know you’ve been waiting for me to get snapping!
The elecy cupboard!
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/2603elec.jpg
After the sump leak and it had al been taken out again.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/2603sumpless.jpg
my top plumbing. Meaning its on the top, not that is good!
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/2603topplumb.jpg
I have change my mind with regards to solvent weld and decided that I like it and its like building model airplanes (not that I’ve ever built a model airplane in my whole life?)
This is the bit that feeds my DSB
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/2603dsb drip feed.jpg
And………:dance: :dance: :dance:
The water!!!!!!!!!! Tap ATM, I’m waiting for you all to point out errors before I do the RO fill which after 3 hours of filling with a strong hose is going to be painfully slow, 1 gal an hour
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/2603first water.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/2603firstwater2.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/2603water.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/2603nearlyther.jpg
The weird angle looks, well weird now it has water in it. Like my island are sticking through the glass and into the lounge??? Hummmmm going to be some Timmy fish from that angle me thinks!
Nice, well done April et al,
Do you feel all warm inside and think all the pain and hassle was actually worth it in the end???!!!!
I hope so...
Jon
Thanks guys,
Warm inside and fuzzy!
Good news is no leaks from my plumbing bits.
stupid AM ocean runner seems to be spitting, I'll have to take it off today and swap it for the Ehiem, but no biggy.
Cant get the Tunze to work? I'll have a fiddle today probably something stupid again.
Next job is to drain, clean, then figure out the DSB and fill with RO.
Sorry for the pic heavy post
what a stupid thing to say! :p but on a serious note, thats looks frickin awesome, im very impressed, your electrics look nice and tidy to.... i may pm you about the electrics if thats ok to pick your brains? confuse the crap outta me! :o
pat on the back to all involved!
marc
MaidstoneMarine
27-03-07, 07:44
wahey... progress! Looking good April.
I have hit a hurdle, and need to send out an SOS!
Does anyone happen to have a 4ft tank laying around that I could by off them?
My sump return pumps are leaking and because I rushed the sump, I dont have space to run them internaly.
Tony B's words from saturday are ringing in my head and I think I might be caving in and doing a total sump re-design.
Now I've seen some other systems running I can see I've made myself a load of work.:annoyed:
now that Darren's back on board he's willing to splash some cash.:thumbsup:
Oh sky pm away mate!
well really I'd like a 4ft6" x 18" x 20"deep. But beggers cant be and all that, I was going to see if anyone came back and design it around that.
I'm going to get A quote for a custom built on tomorrow but I think it will be pricey!
instantsquid
28-03-07, 07:55
Where are the leaks, April? At the tank connectors or is it the pumps themselves?
The pumps themselves. I have 3, need 2, 2 leak! Just my luck really.
instantsquid
28-03-07, 11:12
What are they? Eheims? OceanRunners? I've had this with mine, but they can be sorted! It's got to be easier than replacing the whole sump!
Both, I have 2 Eheims and 1 OceanRunner. I was going to use one of each and have the other Eheim spare.
I agree that it would be easier to fix the pumps but I think I've made life hard for my self with the sump in manyways.
1) I want to have a large DSB and so I've made the gaps inbetween my baffles really small.
2) Because of this it means I'll only be able to pump out 10gals of water, making water changes a pain in the butt!
3) This is the 3rd leak now diffrent place but all caused by me running the pumps externally.
4) should the pumps fail, my sump would only take another 2" of water from the main tank before its on the floor.
5) I have a 6" gap that is waisted space at the right hand end of the sump and also if I fun my skimmer and pumps wet I would get aload more on the left side too.
6) I forgot about the RO top up and was planning on putting it on a shelf above the sump.
All these mistakes would be easier to fix now as (Tony B said) for the sake of a new sump. I wouldnt be able to replace it at a later date without a complete drain down because of the bracing bars on my stand.
I'm sticking with the basic SG design and DSB, just going to change it a bit to suit.
Should have done this in the first place but I was in a rush and so didnt think it through.
Its going to take me ages to make up all the RO anyway so I can fix my problem while I wait for that anyway.
instantsquid
28-03-07, 12:51
Well if you put it like that! :laugh:
It does sound like there are a number of issues to sort out. As I said (or tried to say) at the weekend, you've got to be happy with your design - there's nothing wrong with stealing someone else's ideas, as long as you understand why they've done what they've done - and if you deviate from their design, you need to have done it for the right reason.
Plop up a drawing when you've come up with your revised sump plan - a 4' tank, even new from a LFS wouldn't be silly money - I bought one as a frag tank a little while ago and it was well under £100. Failing that, look on eBay. There's loads of second-hand tanks around, and you don't really care too much about the condition (i.e. a couple of scratches won't matter).
April,
My old tank is 48 x 24.5x 18???? I have told someone they can have it for free, but they haven't got back to me.
It has a hole drilled top right already (?why you need it there but it's a good tank and would make a good sump.
Bit higher at 24.4 but let me know.
jon
Thanks Joni, but I think I'm just going to re-do my old sump again. Hay its a girl thing. I hope to start filling with RO Sunday. Shopping tomorrow, so tank can wait!
instantsquid
30-03-07, 21:51
What's the plan, April? (And no, I don't mean the shopping!)
Hows the build going april? you've been a little quiet recently making me think, you've either; not came back from the shopping spree or you've done that much work on the tank you haven't had time to be on here!!!!
madam................. i demand an update :)
atb
marc
I'm sure she said she was going away on holiday this week but i might be wrong!
Hi April,
How's the tank coming along? I'm planning a new one now:eheheh:
Deadline: end of May :what: :D
Hi April,
How's the tank coming along? I'm planning a new one now:eheheh:
Deadline: end of May :what: :D
LOL, that kent lot have a lot to answer for!:laugh:
Well I spent a crazy week in Sharm El Sheikh looking a real reefs and all I can say is Wow!!!!:applause: :thumbsup: :worship: :wub:
We had a really fab time and I'm hoping to return in October as I only did one bit of snorkling.
The reason for this is that due to small earth quake at time of snorkling on Jacksons reef the current changed very quickly and I was dragged under water about 1.5km the zodic came to resque me (not that I was in trouble in anyway but the waves were now 9ft) I got back on the main boat and was laughing with everyone else when I realised my sholder hurt. Than I later found out it was because I'd dislocated it!:o :(
I will post some pics when I get them back.
Meanwhile at home tank sitting, Dad has filled it up with salty water and the first few bits of live rock have gone into the new basic, very easy sump. A few more days of fiddling and we should be ready to move the rest of the rock and my new fish in.:dance: :dance:
MaidstoneMarine
16-04-07, 09:19
chuffin nora... sounds like you had an excellent holiday :D:D In all seriousness though I'm glad to hear you're ok. welcome back :D
The reason for this is that due to small earth quake at time of snorkling on Jacksons reef the current changed very quickly and I was dragged under water about 1.5km the zodic came to resque me (not that I was in trouble in anyway but the waves were now 9ft) I got back on the main boat and was laughing with everyone else when I realised my sholder hurt. Than I later found out it was because I'd dislocated it!:o :(
Wow dude..what a rad move (in best surf dude voice) :cool:
I'll think you'll find it' Gnarley.. dude
Told you Sharm was excellent!!...
A dislocated shoulder is no excuse not to post pics!
Nice to have you back April. :)
when you say you got dragged under 1.5km, i assume you meant out? i'm still trying to work out how you didn't implode :D
seriously tho, hope you are alright, you dislocate a shoulder, mj32 has just gone away and wrapped himself round a tree requiring stitches, i'm never going on holiday again :D
thanks all, Its not as bad as it sounds as it all happened in the space of about 5mins. I was only snorkling so didnt have any gas Scoobs and yeah I meant along as aposed to down. At the time it was funny, only after when they showed me on the map where they had dropped me of and picked me up did I realise it was a bit on the scary side.
I bought a disposable camera so I need to take it to tescos and get them printed then scan them.
Sharm was wicked and was just what we needed. On friday I took loads of pain killers and forced myself to go in the sea by the hilton as I'd been told they had a fab shallow reef and I'm so glad I did. It was ace!
was even nicer to come home and see how much dad had done whilst we were away.
simon garratt
16-04-07, 13:45
Bloody hell April. you really like living on the edge..
Hope you get well soon and we see some stunning pics..
Good luck with the rest of the tank build Im sure it will look stunning once its all up and sorted.
Regards
Si.
Hope your shoulder gets better soon - lucky escape!
I was just thinking, 1500 meters down, crikey talk about de-compression stops on the way up, that would be like around 34 stops! :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Glad you enjoyed the rest of the holiday :wave:
I was just thinking, 1500 meters down, crikey talk about de-compression stops on the way up, that would be like around 34 stops!
not to say a large spade or even better a digger as its only 79m :laugh:
Ok some pics at last!
The red sea, not me tank!
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/redsea1.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/redsea2.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/redsea3.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/redsea4.jpg
Me this morning, looking crappy with stupid un-designer sling!
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/mearm.jpg
The tank updates
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/plugs.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/sideshot.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q4/sump22.jpg
:applause: :applause: :applause:
MaidstoneMarine
17-04-07, 18:47
looking good april. like the pics both here and away. see you've got a nice simple sump now. way to go.
cool pics, thanks for sharing...........ya nutter!
oh, and why isn't that shed/garage behind you being turned into a fish room!?!?!?
why isn't that shed/garage behind you being turned into a fish room!?!?!?
Because its Darrens room for bike stuff and he's said that if it ends up being a fish room he'll start fixing bikes in my kitchen!:eek:
Why isnt your big shed a fish room?:laugh:
Why isnt your big shed a fish room?:laugh:
yet :cool:
yet :cool:
Only a matter of time by the sound of it :D
Reef bloke
18-04-07, 17:34
Glad your o.k April,things seem to be coming along nicely!
im lucky april my father in law is moving back out to egypt on friday and he has sorted us a holiday already,plus some free diving in the red sea(he has a few contacts):thumbsup: i want t go with him,but the tank is taking up all my time at the minute:whistling: yours is coming along very nicley,more pics are needed tho.regards mikk
HA good holiday i take it! glad to hear your safe and sound! i was wondering where all the updates had gone!
Tanks looking ace now, bet your well happy, Keep the updates and the pics coming.......... :)
:wave:
Marc
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