Manifold Build (1 Viewer)

[BeltwayBandit]

So I'm looking to build a manifold for my sump return line. Initially I'm looking at 3 outlets. 1 to a refugium, 1 to UV and 1 bypass. My plan is to take 3 3/4" T fittings and solvent weld them together with a pvc stub so they are butt to butt. For the blanked off end, I will have a threaded cap so I could in theory expand the manifold at some point in the future. For the 3 outlet lines I was looking at the valve below. It is rated for 125 PSI (well more than I neeed). For the U/V and bypass it will only be used in an on/off configuration. For the refugium line I will throttle with it. I know it isn't the 'right' valve for throttling but it should work given the low operating pressure of a return line. Has anyone used this valve in their systems before? I also like that it is threaded which makes them replaceable in the event of failure, but my biggest draw to this particular valve is the small footprint especially at the manifold. I will likely use standard valves for the isolation valve off the pump, under the tank and after my U/V.

 

[soymilk]

I did a manifold on my previous tank. when i setup my 200gallon tank, i just ended up using two seperate return pumps. gives me redundancy, and also makes it so I don't have to worry about adjusting flow as much.

imho the problem with that valve you have pictured is the reduction in size at the actual ball. it looks like it goes from 3/4 down to 1/2 or even less. that'll restrict your flow and make your pump work much harder.

 

[BeltwayBandit]

Good point on the throttling effect. My intent with the design is that I'm not counting on the flow through the sump for much circulation in the tank, I'll do that with wavemakers. So, this will be a relatively low flow system which would reduce the impact on the pump. I'd love to have dual pumps, but I am somewhat space limited. At this point this is just a thought exercise. I'm spitballing a ton of ideas to try to get this setup as close to right the first time so I don't have to rebuild too much of it over time. I made that mistake the last time I set up a reef tank 20 years ago.

 

[soymilk]

keep in mind two small pumps might take the same space as 1 large one.

the current meta is to use powerheads to achieve proper flow in the display and just enough flow thru the sump to keep the water clean. So you're tracking good there.

 

[Cody]

I did a manifold on my previous tank. when i setup my 200gallon tank, i just ended up using two seperate return pumps. gives me redundancy, and also makes it so I don't have to worry about adjusting flow as much.

imho the problem with that valve you have pictured is the reduction in size at the actual ball. it looks like it goes from 3/4 down to 1/2 or even less. that'll restrict your flow and make your pump work much harder.

I second this. I made a manifold for my display and I wish I hadn't. The moment you use any of them then you're effecting your return rate and thus you need to spend time tinkering with the gate valve on your overflow to dial it in too. Plus, you can't isolate individual pieces or chambers that you're directing flow to because once you turn something off and try to turn it back on, it's impossible to get it exactly where it was before, and then you have to perform the whole overflow return tinkering dance again. I would highly recommend against using a manifold and use an individual pump for individual functions.

Just to reiterate, I currently have one and will not only advise anyone else against using one, but I will never use one for myself again either. They're useless.