bulkhead / sizing question

[klc317]

Is there some sort of chart or reference that shows what size bulkheads work with what size holes, how to measure the bulkheads, and how much flow capacity can be expected to flow through a certain sized hole and/or plumbing size? I seem to find some hit or miss information here and there about specific sizes but it would be nice to have all the information in one place.

[davidh202]

Calling DaveK, Calling DaveK!

We should have a signal we can flash up like Gotham does for Batman

[DaveK]

This gets tricky.

There are two types of bulkheads generally used in the aquarium hobby.

The first is the standard Schedule 80 bulkhead fitting.

The second is a lightweight bulkhead fitting.

See them both here - Savko Plastic Pipe & Fittings
That page also lists the size holes you need for both types of bulkheads.

The lightweight bulkhead fitting has a thinner wall, and does not require as large a hols as the Schedule 80 bulkheads do. However the schedule 80 bulkhead is a lot stronger, and more expensive.

[DaveK]

Originally Posted by davidh202

Calling DaveK, Calling DaveK!

We should have a signal we can flash up like Gotham does for Batman

Thanks!

To be fair though, no one knows it all, and even beginners can contribute something.

As I've mentioned before, the main reason I know about this stuff is that I've been in the hobby a long time, and durring that time, I have been able to do almost everything wrong. :biglaugh:

[klc317]

Maybe if someone was willing to collect the info and post it up as a sticky this would be a useful resource.

[DaveK]

I'll do the next best thing and make this thread sticky.

[PJSEA]

There's a table to determine flow thru bulkheads on p.93 of The Reef Aquarium, Vol. 3. Do you need permission to post all the information here?
Example. A 24" high, 1" diameter pipe will pass approx. 22.8 gpm.


The hole size is determined by the bulkhead size with some minor variations. It may vary depending on manufacturer and the schedule. (I've seen different hole sizes specified for same size fitting).
Here's one link:
Savko Plastic Pipe & Fittings

Here's another:
PVC bulkhead fittings - PlumbingStore.com

[DaveK]

Originally Posted by PJSEA

There's a table to determine flow thru bulkheads on p.93 of The Reef Aquarium, Vol. 3. Do you need permission to post all the information here?
...

Yes, generally material in books is copywritten material, and can't be posted on the net with out permission from the publisher.

[Gallaher]

In general this is how it works:

3/4" bulkhead = Approx 300gph
1" bulkhead = Approx 600gph
1.5" bulkhead = Approx 11600gph

Hope that is helpful.

[Scooterman]

Standard BH is schedule 40 the hole requirements are smaller the the heavy duty schedule 80.
this is a chart from Marine Depot, you can search for other charts but this one is about as universal as any.:rainbow:

Standard Threaded Bulkhead Fitting (Threaded x Slip)
Item # Size___ Hole Size Price
FT1111 1/2"___ 1 1/8" (Threaded x Slip) $6.50
FT1113 1" ___ 1 3/4" (Threaded x Slip) $7.50
FT1115 1 1/2" ___ 2 3/8" (Threaded x Slip) $8.50
FT1117 2" ___ 3" (Threaded x Slip) $11.00
FT1121 1/2" ___ 1 3/8" (Slip x Threaded) Heavy Duty $11.99
FT1122 3/4" ___ 1 5/8" (Slip x Threaded) Heavy Duty $12.99
FT1123 1" ___ 1 7/8" (Slip x Threaded) Heavy Duty $12.99
FT1125 1 1/2" ___ 2 5/8" (Slip x Threaded) Heavy Duty $15.99
FT1127 2" ___ 3 1/4" (Slip x Threaded) Heavy Duty $17.99