Does Removing Baffles Impact Microbubbles or Sump Integrity?

[bubada]

Hi,

I have an Aqua One Mini Reef 215 display tank and its sump. The problem I'm facing is that the sump is too small to fit both a refugium and a protein skimmer (or roller filter). If I remove the glass baffles, would it affect the structural integrity of the sump or its ability to trap microbubbles? Please see the picture below for reference.

Thank you in advance.
Dan

 

[Peace River]

Based on my understanding of your image, removing the highlighted panel shouldn't impact the integrity of the sump nor should there be a concern for micro bubbles returning to the display tank. Good luck with whatever you choose!

 

[bubada]

I

Based on my understanding of your image, removing the highlighted panel shouldn't impact the integrity of the sump nor should there be a concern for micro bubbles returning to the display tank. Good luck with whatever you choose!

Thanks for your reply. Would it still be ok if I also remove the baffles right outside the drain pipe? Note that the ATO glasses are not part of the sump but attached to it

 

[Peace River]

The diagram is a little unclear regarding how the water flows from the drain pipe compartment into the rest of the sump. Based on my understanding, the removal should not affect the structural integrity, but I would leave it in place for functionality reasons.