How much flow in a 240 8ft tank?

[TomToro]

Anybody have opinions on how much flow a person will need a 240g 8ftx2ftx2ft tank? I'm getting some cyano on the rock and am thinking I don't have enough flow, but wonder what other folks think.

I have a mixed reef with LPS, Softies of all types including zoas and shrooms.

So far I have 4 koralia 4's, and 4 maxijet 1200s and my return pumps, mag 24 and a mag 7.

Thanks,

Tom

 

[Ace25]

From the equipment listed, it sure sounds like that would be enough flow for that size tank. Any more powerheads and your not going to see much else in the tank. I am assuming you have played with the powerheads until your blue in the face trying to get rid of any dead spots. The next step would be to replace the powerheads with ones that work on a wavemaker, but that is a very expensive next step, especially on a 8' tank.

 

[Amphiprion]

I'd just phase out a maxijet or two for a prop-style powerhead. For their size and potential capabilities (i.e. easy modding), I recommend Tunze Nanostream 6025s. Otherwise, go with another Koralia or Maxijet mod.

 

[TomToro]

I'd just phase out a maxijet or two for a prop-style powerhead. For their size and potential capabilities (i.e. easy modding), I recommend Tunze Nanostream 6025s. Otherwise, go with another Koralia or Maxijet mod.

Amp,
I plan on re-doing this tank also with a closed loop next year, but in the meantime the maxi mod is a great idea. I've seen them for under $20.

Thanks,
Tom

Ace,
A wavemaker would help, but I'm a little strapped for cash since the other build. Good idea, though.
Tom

 

[TomToro]

I ended up going with a Tunze flow system instead of a closed loop. I have:

6125 constant flow

6100 attached to a 7095 controller

6200 attached to the same 7095 controller on the other side

6100 attached to a single controller.

Not too sure how to work this out, but I would appreciate any suggestions. Here's what I planned:

The 6125 and the 6200 on the same end of the tank aimed towards the center (right side).

The two 6100's on the left side of the tank.

I plan to alternate the flow from one side to another, but of course the 6125 constantly flowing. I'd like to see some sort of wave occur if possible.

Anybody have any ideas on how to set this up?

 

[Amphiprion]

Unfortunately, I don't have too many more suggestions for you. It is very difficult to make recommendations when it comes to flow, since it is so variable. You are going to have to place the pumps and see where it lands you in terms of flow. If you aren't satisfied with it, rearrange them. It is more of an experiment than anything, since there are far too many variables to account for. If you want a wave, though, use the pumps and have at least one oppose another (one must be controllable). If you alternate those with a sufficiently fast pulse, you'll get something similar to a wave. It is similar to what I've done in my tank, actually.

 

[TomToro]

I'm glad to hear it's possible to create somewhat of a wave, Amp. Thanks for the reply.