Please tell me more about these rio needle wheel pumps. I have nt heard of them nor do I know what they look like.
This is fairly simple but there are threads specifically on needle wheel pumps...
http://www.barrreport.com/showthread.php/5809-Needle-wheel-DIY-modifications
You just use a normal powerhead such as the rio brand or any other. You then snip/cut/bend the impeller blades and reuse. When c02 is introduced to the INTAKE of the pump, it is chopped up very well before being pushed to the tank. The powerhead flow can be directed where desired and mixed with say the outlet flow from the filters....
Many pumps like the danner mags and the rios have OEM needle wheel impellers for use in venturi setups like skimmers for salt water.
Here is a link to the mag drive:
http://www.marinedepot.com/Danner_M...anner_Mfg.-DN1159-FIWPSBUFPO-DN1161-1-vi.html
I picked these dimensions because the wall in my living room is only 4.5' long. It backs to my laundry room so I can go as wide as I would like and obviously I can go as tall as I would like. I wanted as big of a tank as I could fit and since I only have 4' in length to work with I thought I'd take advantage of the height. I thought about going to 30-36" on the width, but with it in the wall, and not being able to see the sides, I wasn't sure if that would look weird-like looking into a tunnel.
Since it is custom why not go 54" length? It is for you after all....I don't think the depth would look wierd but your height may be a pain to maintain long term....
Are nu-clear filters the same as ocean clear filters? What pump are you using? What are you using for media in the two?
Yes, just a 1" in/out vs a 3/4 for the OC. The OC has a builtin UV model that is not offered by NC. I use the micron cartridge in the mech canister and bio-balls in the bio canister. I use a blackfin 3600 gph pump to run both canisters. My config has a 3rd parallel leg for a mazzei for c02, but I went needle wheel and this flow is now directed back to the tank for surface agitation.
That is also important when using c02. Ensure you have good surface agitation and perhaps additional 02 when c02 is on to be safe.
How are you able to view the tank from all 4 sides? You still have your in and out from the filters hanging over the top lip into the tank plus wires for these "needle wheels"?
I live in an apt. I wanted FUTURE flexibilty in case I had a house and more room...But, I am slim so can orient the tank about 18-24" from the walls so I and others can walk around it easily...It will take a bit more floor space in the room, but I have plenty and it is just me. It is meant to be a focal point after all
I will be using a CPR overflow and a sump. My needle wheel will be IN THE SUMP so no issues there.. I will have to hide the overflow and the two intake tubes and the outlet tubes from the sump, but that can be done tastefully and with the use of emergent plants included for a nicer green look. I think it is easir to hide the overflow and a few tubes than the bulkheads......
What do you think about the size in respect to the wall I have to work with? I haven't ordered the tank yet, so I'm trying to figure all this out with the help of people like yourself
Since it is custom you may as well use what you have.. don't be afraid to go more length. Your ends may be a bit darker if using a 48" light fixture but that can easily be handled with lower light plants on the ends...
I do think that 36" of height will look nice in the wall but will be hard to clean the glass.
What type of critters will you have? If angels or discus, taller is better, but not for schooling fish.....
You may also want to consider that planted tanks appreciate extra flow to carry nutrients and c02 and remove waste products..Since your dims are a bit larger, a small powerhead or two may be needed.