180g needs help with Standing Wave Flow Using MP's

terri_ann · Mar 4, 2016

I need help with setting my Master pump (MP60) and slave pump (MP40-opposite end of tank and on back wall) to get a standing/resonant wave for the flow. Do I tune it by using the Short Pulse mode? How do I determine that I have the standing wave? Is it where the corals with long polyps sway side to side/back and forth?

AllSignsPointToFish · Mar 5, 2016

If the powerheads are near the surface of the tank, you can actually see the standing wave on the surface of the water. Corals and macroalgae swaying back and forth are signs of alternating flow.

terri_ann · Mar 5, 2016

Thanks AllSigns!! The powerheads are near the surface. So what does a standing wave look like? Sorry, but I'm just not understanding:9( I Really want to create it in the 180. Alternating flow is what I have been using then and it's not doing the job like I'm wanting...

AllSignsPointToFish · Mar 5, 2016

A standing wave looks exactly like a normal set of waves with the exception that the crests/troughs do not move with respect to the ends of the tank.

terri_ann · Mar 5, 2016

Thanks again AllSigns!! That's helpful I think so now I will see if I can get it. I wish there was a video showing it, top-down:D Then I would know for sure if I have accomplished it! If you have a video, I'd LOVE to watch it!

AllSignsPointToFish · Mar 5, 2016

Check out this video. Notice how the crests don't really move.

If you check out this aquarium video, you can see the standing wave set up at the water line around the 5:23 mark:

Hope this helps!