Thats a really cool idea. Have you though about switching pumps to one of the dc models ? Jebao pumps arent too expensive. It may allow you a little more flexibility in finding that sweet spot (gph)
Plywood overhead sump/canopy
- Thread starter Backfromthedead
- Start date
I have a current usa dc pump on delivery now. 2000 gph model. The canopy still hasnt reached installation because ive been putting together some other stuff for this tank, including a new stand and 45 gallon sump. Ive decided to plumb the tank and run the returns from the sump into the canopy, which should give me the flow i need.
^^Im gonna avoid that using an actual sump tank now and just have plants in the top. Youre right it would be tricky with a heater jammed in there.
Fitting my new stand, sump, and trying the canopy out. Seems to work, but im still having issues with the overflow. Its not creating a steady cascade into the tank, but rather a messy spray.
This is with the garden hose on full blast. Im not sure my pump, even on full go, will create a more uniform flow. Perhaps my waterfall design required more research beforehand.
For now im content to test this one as a prototype, and perhaps i can tweak it or make an improved model if it doesnt function perfectly.
This is with the garden hose on full blast. Im not sure my pump, even on full go, will create a more uniform flow. Perhaps my waterfall design required more research beforehand.
For now im content to test this one as a prototype, and perhaps i can tweak it or make an improved model if it doesnt function perfectly.
To get the perfect sheet of water off the return it needs to be dead level and the water flow would need to approach the ramp evenly .
I doubt that the perfect full cascade is possible with the water returning from both sides or even one side. It will always go off the ramp from the corner as soon as it makes the turn.
I doubt that the perfect full cascade is possible with the water returning from both sides or even one side. It will always go off the ramp from the corner as soon as it makes the turn.
On second thought if there was a lip on the ramp to create a place for water to fill up level and then run over the side it could work. Or is that what you’ve done? I cant tell from the photo.
This makes sense, but i believe the bottom of the ramp is the main issue. Im getting at least a somewhat even sheet across the ramp, but it starts to splatter and deviate at the bottom. Maybe i need to cut a less extreme angle into the bottom. That and its just too wide.
Well the ramp is 3" off the bottom, allowing for 3" water level. From this closeup you can see that the flow is somewhat even, but a little heavy on the one side.
Im thinking that when i raise the water level to the bottom lip that most of this splatter issue will be alleviated. Also i might try to build up a layer of silicone on the lower side of the ramp to make the water level as even as possible.
