Algea scrubber and SumP design... tips plz

[TheCanuck]

Well guys i decided i want to remove my current filtration system and build a full size algea scrubber that would run my whole system. Here is a drawing on paint i made.

The demenisons follow 48x16x24 1/2inch acrylic.

Before the ramp that is a filter sock it first enters through the sock. It then hits the "fuge" well live rock with sand then enters to top of the ramp. As its going down the ramp it will be rolling over canvas, my algea scrubber with lights ontop of it. Then it will reach the pump area where i will stuff cermics and other submerged bio media for extra support. Any suggestions?

 

[Greez]

Nope just make sure you document it so I can build one too

 

[TheCanuck]

Nope just make sure you document it so I can build one too

Haha will do!

The pic works if you click on it right?

The only thing i am worried about is the 2400gph going over that screen.... It might make the scrubber less efficiant.

 

[Greez]

Yeah it works just fine

Hmmm cant help you their but if you get stuck and cant find help here remember you can post it up here:
http://www.algaescrubber.net/forums/

 

[TheCanuck]

Yea i am waiting for a reply back from there. Hopefully everything will be dandy.

 

[SantaMonica]

What is the screen size

 

[TheCanuck]

24x16 i am estimating.

It will be over 360cui though, no matter what.

What kind of watts should i run on this screen? And would 2400gph be to much? OR do i just need a rough screen.

 

[SantaMonica]

384 square inches. Way too small. Need at least 800.

 

[TheCanuck]

384 square inches. Way too small. Need at least 800.

800?!

I thought it was 1inch per gallon....

and 2,000 watts of light?


I could hang another screen above the pump. that would bring it to close to 800. Is this all really necessary for a 360 gallon? I just want nitrates to dissipate.

 

[SantaMonica]

1 square inch per gallon for two-sided vertical. 2 inches for single sided like yours. Plus, non-verticals are less efficient per inch, and yours is a high load tank with no skimmer, thus the extra few inches. Really should be 1000.

Lighting is 1.0 watts per gallon, spread out evenly across the screen, which in your case would be using T5HO's or T8's, preferably within 2 inches of the screen, but not further than 4 inches.

Your requirements was "results on your 360 predator". That means zero posphate, nitrate, or nuisance algae in the display. Thus, is has to be built properly.