Adding 6055 Pumps

[crs751]

I have a 75G SPS dominated tank. I run (2) Tunze 6055 pumps for flow controlled by my Apex. These pumps are bulletproof and i've had them on my tank for several years. I am thinking I need additional flow in the tank to support SPS growth and am toying with adding (1), maybe (2) more 6055 pumps to the tank. Looking for opinions on whether or not this is overkill for this size tank. I appreciate everyone's time in responding.

 

[herozero]

What's your current programming for the existing 6055s?

This is in additional to flow from a sump or no?

Are you exhibiting poor growth? No growth? Colors?

What are the tank dimensions? I've got two older 6095s (no controller, just small black box for power and VDM cable) and anything over 50% at the same time is a near sandstorm in my 48x24x15, I mention it because that's with the narrow flow guard off, so it'll all depend on your rockwork. Does the 6055 come with the optional narrow screen too?

 

[crs751]

48x18x18 deep. Coral are ok, colored up and seem healthy. The 6055’s don’t have wide flow ability, the nozzle is fixed on the end of the pump. I was just thinking there would be a benefit to add more flow.

 

[spsick]

Yeah you’re right on the edge of needing more flow. I have the same size tank full of sps and 2x 6055 wouldn’t cut it.

 

[crs751]

That’s what I wondered. Growth is slow but color is good.

 

[rvitko]

For SPS, I generally found 2 6055's is kind of maxed out at a 3ft tub type tank, like 45-65 breeder. You could try 1-2 more 6055's or even just a single 6095. The 6095 has less reach but is a much wider flow and the combination may well be ideal.

 

[crs751]

I never thought about going with the 6095 but that gives me something to consider. Thanks for the response.

 

[crs751]

My tank has (2) rock islands, one on either side of the center brace. Looking at the tank, I'm thinking about adding (2) 6095's. One on each side of the brace on the back of the tank pointed at each island. Does this sound like a feasible placement for added flow?

 

[rvitko]

In general it is best to not aim the flow directly at an obstacle, the bounce back creates a lot of turbulence rather than a directional flow, if they can be placed so they pass by the rock islands, or over or even under through a opening, that would be more effective, generally it is safest to have the pump high about 8" from the surface to avoid vortexes and a slight upward angle to increase surface agitation/gas exchange. I think I might start with just one placed behind one island so the flow is angled to come out between the two islands.

 

[crs751]

Good info. Thanks