Plumbing return lines

[Keith P]

I'm working on plumbing my return line from an in sump up to my tank.

Along with the return outlets, I want to make a manifold to distribute water to a small UV sterilizer, phos reactor, and a chiller. I also want a drain spigot to help with water changes.

Here are the diameters of the parts I want to fit in:
Mag-7 - 1/2" MPT
Tank bulk head for return - 3/4" barb
Chiller - 1/2" or 5/8" barb
Reactor - 1/2" barb
UV sterilizer - 1/2" barb

I'm building an order from Savko. Which items should be on true union ball valves and which ones can I cheap out on with single or non union ball valves? I was thinking ture unions all around!

I'm working on a drawing of my flow for you guys to critique.

 

[Keith P]

<Saved for flow drawing to come>

 

[pmoneyt]

hey keith i am doing the samething planing to order tomorrow. i plan on having them help me with with i need. but i am pretty much in the same boat as you.

 

[autoponicz]

how big is the tank/?

well...to save some $...the return can use a single union ball valve..
add a union near the pump so its easier to remove for maintanence..then you got the manifold where you put a union too for maintenence or if you ever want to change it up..

 

[autoponicz]

heres a pic i posted on another thread..
adjust the plumbing size to your needs..

 

[Keith P]

So what are the advantages of true-union ball valves? I could see myself using 6+ true-unions, which could add up in $$ quickly...
Are single unions enough for valves (maybe to clean them?)

I want to make maintenance as easy as possible. Maybe I should add a few cam and groove fittings..

 

[autoponicz]

yea true unions are easier to clean...its up to you...single unions are the cheaper route and you can still take apart the plumbing if needed...after you planned out your plumbing...there wont be many times that you'll take them apart again...unless you happen to not like how the plumbing was run..