Acrylic tank question

[Dan J. S.]

I just had my 110 acrylic tank delivered. It came with an oak stand, and
cover. Now, when I filled it up, I noticed the back was arched. Is this
normal for acrylic tanks? Thanks!

Dan

[Vicky & John Taylor-Hood]

Did you make sure that the stand and tank were absolutely level before
you filled the tank? If it's not level, nasty things can happen.
Of course, it may be perfectly normal for your brand of tank. By
"arched", do you mean bent outwardly as in bowed?

Whip out your trusty level and check the tank now. You may also wish
to put a piece of cork or some such between the tank and stand to
absorb any slight imperfections in your levelling job.
Good luck!
Vicky

_____________________
Vicky Taylor-Hood
fibre artist * quilter
St. John's, NF, Canada

http://www3.nf.sympatico.ca/vickyth/

[Dan J. S.]

Vicky & John Taylor-Hood wrote:
> Did you make sure that the stand and tank were absolutely level before
> you filled the tank? If it's not level, nasty things can happen.
> Of course, it may be perfectly normal for your brand of tank. By
> "arched", do you mean bent outwardly as in bowed?
>
> Whip out your trusty level and check the tank now. You may also wish
> to put a piece of cork or some such between the tank and stand to
> absorb any slight imperfections in your levelling job.
> Good luck!
> Vicky
>
> _____________________
> Vicky Taylor-Hood
> fibre artist * quilter
> St. John's, NF, Canada
>
> http://www3.nf.sympatico.ca/vickyth/

Thanks for answering! Yes, it is perfectly level. The tank has a slight bow
out, in the back (the painted black panel is bowed).. When I was a kid (20
years ago) I remember owning another acrylic tank and I thought it bowed a
bit too (because I would always be scared it would pop)... so maybe its
normal for the backs of acrylics to bow out?

[Boris]

A comment appreciated on my tank.

I have a 55g acrylic tank. It has been up for about a year. It is NOT
level. It leans about 1/4" forward. All 4 sides are bowed, with the
front bowed about 3/4". Think of a water balloon sitting on a desk. I
constantly worry that it will explode.

I had an air stone in it and I believe that the bubbles breaking the
surface bowed the part of the top where the bubbles burst. Anyone verify
this. (stone has long been removed)

It's my opinion that acrylic is good for smaller tanks, but for 55g and
up it should be glass. And thick glass at that :)

Waiting to be evicted :)


"Vicky & John Taylor-Hood" > wrote in
message ...
> Did you make sure that the stand and tank were absolutely level before
> you filled the tank? If it's not level, nasty things can happen.
> Of course, it may be perfectly normal for your brand of tank. By
> "arched", do you mean bent outwardly as in bowed?
>
> Whip out your trusty level and check the tank now. You may also wish
> to put a piece of cork or some such between the tank and stand to
> absorb any slight imperfections in your levelling job.
> Good luck!
> Vicky
>
> _____________________
> Vicky Taylor-Hood
> fibre artist * quilter
> St. John's, NF, Canada
>
> http://www3.nf.sympatico.ca/vickyth/

[Justin Boucher]

I have a 240 gal acrylic custom tank and it doesn't bow. At all. Granted,
I ordered the acrylic to be thicker than the recommended thickness, which
has everything to do with it. It is not uncommon for acrylic tanks to bow
due to the weight and stress of a filled tank. Glass doesn't bow, it breaks
instead. If you're concerned about the amount of bow in your acrylic tank,
get the tensile strength numbers from the manufacturer. They will show you
the stress limit for the acrylic in your tank.

I did not want mine to bow at all and requested the specific acrylic to be
thicker as well as a specially designed top plate for additional support.
Justin

"Boris" > wrote in message
news:GRAPb.47506$XD5.15324@fed1read06...
> A comment appreciated on my tank.
>
> I have a 55g acrylic tank. It has been up for about a year. It is NOT
> level. It leans about 1/4" forward. All 4 sides are bowed, with the
> front bowed about 3/4". Think of a water balloon sitting on a desk. I
> constantly worry that it will explode.
>
> I had an air stone in it and I believe that the bubbles breaking the
> surface bowed the part of the top where the bubbles burst. Anyone verify
> this. (stone has long been removed)
>
> It's my opinion that acrylic is good for smaller tanks, but for 55g and
> up it should be glass. And thick glass at that :)
>
> Waiting to be evicted :)
>
>
> "Vicky & John Taylor-Hood" > wrote in
> message ...
> > Did you make sure that the stand and tank were absolutely level before
> > you filled the tank? If it's not level, nasty things can happen.
> > Of course, it may be perfectly normal for your brand of tank. By
> > "arched", do you mean bent outwardly as in bowed?
> >
> > Whip out your trusty level and check the tank now. You may also wish
> > to put a piece of cork or some such between the tank and stand to
> > absorb any slight imperfections in your levelling job.
> > Good luck!
> > Vicky
> >
> > _____________________
> > Vicky Taylor-Hood
> > fibre artist * quilter
> > St. John's, NF, Canada
> >
> > http://www3.nf.sympatico.ca/vickyth/
>
>

[Gail Futoran]

"Justin Boucher" > wrote in message
...
> I have a 240 gal acrylic custom tank and it doesn't bow.
At all. Granted,
> I ordered the acrylic to be thicker than the recommended
thickness, which
> has everything to do with it. It is not uncommon for
acrylic tanks to bow
> due to the weight and stress of a filled tank. Glass
doesn't bow, it breaks
> instead. If you're concerned about the amount of bow in
your acrylic tank,
> get the tensile strength numbers from the manufacturer.
They will show you
> the stress limit for the acrylic in your tank.
>
> I did not want mine to bow at all and requested the
specific acrylic to be
> thicker as well as a specially designed top plate for
additional support.
> Justin

I have a glass Nature's View 30 gallon long tank that bows
slightly (perhaps 1/4") on the center top edges (back &
front), enough that I am now bracing the Emperor 280 on the
bottom (so it doesn't drag on the top of the glass, if that
was even the problem) and keeping the water level about 1"
down (ditto). Perhaps bowing shouldn't be a problem on
standard tanks, though. ::shrug::

Gail

[Boris]

Mind a few questions? Next time I move I'm going to disguard the present
tank and go for a bigger one, 120g. I _like_ acrylic as opposed to glass
and I am going to set up a fish only salt tank with halogen lights.

I have a plastic shop near me that makes custom fish tanks, so there is
no problem getting what I want.

What thickness do I want for _no_ bow?
What about surface overflow circulation with the return plumbed into the
overflow tower?
Can you 'ballpark' me a price for just the tank?

I presently have drilled a plumbing connection 20% down the back side.
Water changes are nearly connecting a hose now. Good idea for a salt
water tank?

Thanks


"Justin Boucher" > wrote in message
...
> I have a 240 gal acrylic custom tank and it doesn't bow. At all.
Granted,
> I ordered the acrylic to be thicker than the recommended thickness,
which
> has everything to do with it. It is not uncommon for acrylic tanks to
bow
> due to the weight and stress of a filled tank. Glass doesn't bow, it
breaks
> instead. If you're concerned about the amount of bow in your acrylic
tank,
> get the tensile strength numbers from the manufacturer. They will
show you
> the stress limit for the acrylic in your tank.
>
> I did not want mine to bow at all and requested the specific acrylic
to be
> thicker as well as a specially designed top plate for additional
support.
> Justin
>
> "Boris" > wrote in message
> news:GRAPb.47506$XD5.15324@fed1read06...
> > A comment appreciated on my tank.
> >
> > I have a 55g acrylic tank. It has been up for about a year. It is
NOT
> > level. It leans about 1/4" forward. All 4 sides are bowed, with the
> > front bowed about 3/4". Think of a water balloon sitting on a desk.
I
> > constantly worry that it will explode.
> >
> > I had an air stone in it and I believe that the bubbles breaking the
> > surface bowed the part of the top where the bubbles burst. Anyone
verify
> > this. (stone has long been removed)
> >
> > It's my opinion that acrylic is good for smaller tanks, but for 55g
and
> > up it should be glass. And thick glass at that :)
> >
> > Waiting to be evicted :)
> >
> >
> > "Vicky & John Taylor-Hood" > wrote in
> > message ...
> > > Did you make sure that the stand and tank were absolutely level
before
> > > you filled the tank? If it's not level, nasty things can happen.
> > > Of course, it may be perfectly normal for your brand of tank. By
> > > "arched", do you mean bent outwardly as in bowed?
> > >
> > > Whip out your trusty level and check the tank now. You may also
wish
> > > to put a piece of cork or some such between the tank and stand to
> > > absorb any slight imperfections in your levelling job.
> > > Good luck!
> > > Vicky
> > >
> > > _____________________
> > > Vicky Taylor-Hood
> > > fibre artist * quilter
> > > St. John's, NF, Canada
> > >
> > > http://www3.nf.sympatico.ca/vickyth/
> >
> >
>
>

[Justin Boucher]

Here's a few specifics for my custom 240 tank:

72" L x 24" W x 30" H
Black back/ non-rounded front corners
Center overflow drain. (12" x 6" )
Top, bottom and Black Back panels are 5/8" thick
Sides and front 3/4" think
One piece, triple access for top plate (cross supports at 24" and 48" at 6"
wide each) NO right angles! (It creates a weak spot in the acrylic.)
Water drains through the overflow and two 1" lines to Sump.
Water returned to tank through 1 pump into two 1" lines through Sea Swirls
with access holes drilled through top plate.

When I was considering a tank this size, glass quickly became a definate no
no. Acrylic weighs less than glass by volume and is an average of 7 times
stronger. Acrylic can withstand impact shock at a much greater rate than
glass and is also clearer than glass when cared for properly.

As for price, I paid $1200.00 for mine through a marine specialty store with
a custom acrylic tank professionalist. Other stores were asking a range
from $1500 to $1800 for a similar set up. Similar because some would not
even honor the "no right angles" request for the top plate. I feel that I
got an incredible bargain for my price and do not expect to have it
duplicated!

As for any tank bow, I have no measurable bow in my filled and running tank.
At least not measurable by a 48" level.
I have 3 MH on two separate timers for lighting (250 watt ea for fish only
tank)
BTW, I know this is a freshwater forum, however this tank is set up for
marine. I also have two freshwater tanks (20 and 100). The 240 marine is
my only acrylic tank and when it comes time to replace my 100gal (which
might be sooner than I like) I am definately going acrylic.

Justin



"Boris" > wrote in message
news:DrWPb.51835$XD5.21148@fed1read06...
> Mind a few questions? Next time I move I'm going to disguard the present
> tank and go for a bigger one, 120g. I _like_ acrylic as opposed to glass
> and I am going to set up a fish only salt tank with halogen lights.
>
> I have a plastic shop near me that makes custom fish tanks, so there is
> no problem getting what I want.
>
> What thickness do I want for _no_ bow?
> What about surface overflow circulation with the return plumbed into the
> overflow tower?
> Can you 'ballpark' me a price for just the tank?
>
> I presently have drilled a plumbing connection 20% down the back side.
> Water changes are nearly connecting a hose now. Good idea for a salt
> water tank?
>
> Thanks
>
>
> "Justin Boucher" > wrote in message
> ...
> > I have a 240 gal acrylic custom tank and it doesn't bow. At all.
> Granted,
> > I ordered the acrylic to be thicker than the recommended thickness,
> which
> > has everything to do with it. It is not uncommon for acrylic tanks to
> bow
> > due to the weight and stress of a filled tank. Glass doesn't bow, it
> breaks
> > instead. If you're concerned about the amount of bow in your acrylic
> tank,
> > get the tensile strength numbers from the manufacturer. They will
> show you
> > the stress limit for the acrylic in your tank.
> >
> > I did not want mine to bow at all and requested the specific acrylic
> to be
> > thicker as well as a specially designed top plate for additional
> support.
> > Justin
> >
> > "Boris" > wrote in message
> > news:GRAPb.47506$XD5.15324@fed1read06...
> > > A comment appreciated on my tank.
> > >
> > > I have a 55g acrylic tank. It has been up for about a year. It is
> NOT
> > > level. It leans about 1/4" forward. All 4 sides are bowed, with the
> > > front bowed about 3/4". Think of a water balloon sitting on a desk.
> I
> > > constantly worry that it will explode.
> > >
> > > I had an air stone in it and I believe that the bubbles breaking the
> > > surface bowed the part of the top where the bubbles burst. Anyone
> verify
> > > this. (stone has long been removed)
> > >
> > > It's my opinion that acrylic is good for smaller tanks, but for 55g
> and
> > > up it should be glass. And thick glass at that :)
> > >
> > > Waiting to be evicted :)
> > >
> > >
> > > "Vicky & John Taylor-Hood" > wrote in
> > > message ...
> > > > Did you make sure that the stand and tank were absolutely level
> before
> > > > you filled the tank? If it's not level, nasty things can happen.
> > > > Of course, it may be perfectly normal for your brand of tank. By
> > > > "arched", do you mean bent outwardly as in bowed?
> > > >
> > > > Whip out your trusty level and check the tank now. You may also
> wish
> > > > to put a piece of cork or some such between the tank and stand to
> > > > absorb any slight imperfections in your levelling job.
> > > > Good luck!
> > > > Vicky
> > > >
> > > > _____________________
> > > > Vicky Taylor-Hood
> > > > fibre artist * quilter
> > > > St. John's, NF, Canada
> > > >
> > > > http://www3.nf.sympatico.ca/vickyth/
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
>
>

[Justin Boucher]

Addendum. Sorry. I just reread your post.

You mentioned water changes by nearly connecting a hose and wanted to know
if this was a good idea for a marine tank.
If the hose is a freshwater supply, it's a bad idea. I installed an RO unit
to my water supply that also controls the water level of my tank. As water
evaporates (freshwater evaporates leaving the salt behind) the RO
replenishes with clean pure water. I still check the SG regularly. Any
large water changes I plan to make are premixed and heated at the tank's SG
and temp for a minimum of 7 days. Newly mixed sal****er can be stressful to
your livestock. If you plan on having a premix resevoir nearby, you can
pump your mixed/heated/aged sal****er through the hose you mentioned. That
would be ideal. If your hose was planned to maintain water levels similar
to how I'm using my RO, then it's workable. I would still be cautious about
any unfiltered water I introduce. Well water is worse than Municiple
because of many hard minerals and other unfiltered elements (i.e.: phosphate
and nitrate) but Municiple water has added chemicals as well that need to be
addressed (i.e.: fluoride, chloramines, copper, etc.)

Do some brousing in the marine forums to get some info and checkout the
FAQs. rec.aquaria.marine.misc

The drilled hole 20% down the back side may become a problem with backflow.
Especially in a power outage. Be sure to use a check valve in lives that
can siphon your tank out and put your sal****er on the living room floor.
120 gallons of water can cover a hell of a lot of carpet!

Justin

"Boris" > wrote in message
news:DrWPb.51835$XD5.21148@fed1read06...
> Mind a few questions? Next time I move I'm going to disguard the present
> tank and go for a bigger one, 120g. I _like_ acrylic as opposed to glass
> and I am going to set up a fish only salt tank with halogen lights.
>
> I have a plastic shop near me that makes custom fish tanks, so there is
> no problem getting what I want.
>
> What thickness do I want for _no_ bow?
> What about surface overflow circulation with the return plumbed into the
> overflow tower?
> Can you 'ballpark' me a price for just the tank?
>
> I presently have drilled a plumbing connection 20% down the back side.
> Water changes are nearly connecting a hose now. Good idea for a salt
> water tank?
>
> Thanks
>
>
> "Justin Boucher" > wrote in message
> ...
> > I have a 240 gal acrylic custom tank and it doesn't bow. At all.
> Granted,
> > I ordered the acrylic to be thicker than the recommended thickness,
> which
> > has everything to do with it. It is not uncommon for acrylic tanks to
> bow
> > due to the weight and stress of a filled tank. Glass doesn't bow, it
> breaks
> > instead. If you're concerned about the amount of bow in your acrylic
> tank,
> > get the tensile strength numbers from the manufacturer. They will
> show you
> > the stress limit for the acrylic in your tank.
> >
> > I did not want mine to bow at all and requested the specific acrylic
> to be
> > thicker as well as a specially designed top plate for additional
> support.
> > Justin
> >
> > "Boris" > wrote in message
> > news:GRAPb.47506$XD5.15324@fed1read06...
> > > A comment appreciated on my tank.
> > >
> > > I have a 55g acrylic tank. It has been up for about a year. It is
> NOT
> > > level. It leans about 1/4" forward. All 4 sides are bowed, with the
> > > front bowed about 3/4". Think of a water balloon sitting on a desk.
> I
> > > constantly worry that it will explode.
> > >
> > > I had an air stone in it and I believe that the bubbles breaking the
> > > surface bowed the part of the top where the bubbles burst. Anyone
> verify
> > > this. (stone has long been removed)
> > >
> > > It's my opinion that acrylic is good for smaller tanks, but for 55g
> and
> > > up it should be glass. And thick glass at that :)
> > >
> > > Waiting to be evicted :)
> > >
> > >
> > > "Vicky & John Taylor-Hood" > wrote in
> > > message ...
> > > > Did you make sure that the stand and tank were absolutely level
> before
> > > > you filled the tank? If it's not level, nasty things can happen.
> > > > Of course, it may be perfectly normal for your brand of tank. By
> > > > "arched", do you mean bent outwardly as in bowed?
> > > >
> > > > Whip out your trusty level and check the tank now. You may also
> wish
> > > > to put a piece of cork or some such between the tank and stand to
> > > > absorb any slight imperfections in your levelling job.
> > > > Good luck!
> > > > Vicky
> > > >
> > > > _____________________
> > > > Vicky Taylor-Hood
> > > > fibre artist * quilter
> > > > St. John's, NF, Canada
> > > >
> > > > http://www3.nf.sympatico.ca/vickyth/
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
>
>

[Boris]

Thanks for all the answers. It sounds like you have a very nice set up.
Way too expensive for my budget (poor). But I'll put it on my 'wish
list' if I ever hit the lottery :)
Boris


"Justin Boucher" > wrote in message
...
> Here's a few specifics for my custom 240 tank:
>
> 72" L x 24" W x 30" H
> Black back/ non-rounded front corners
> Center overflow drain. (12" x 6" )
> Top, bottom and Black Back panels are 5/8" thick
> Sides and front 3/4" think
> One piece, triple access for top plate (cross supports at 24" and 48"
at 6"
> wide each) NO right angles! (It creates a weak spot in the acrylic.)
> Water drains through the overflow and two 1" lines to Sump.
> Water returned to tank through 1 pump into two 1" lines through Sea
Swirls
> with access holes drilled through top plate.
>
> When I was considering a tank this size, glass quickly became a
definate no
> no. Acrylic weighs less than glass by volume and is an average of 7
times
> stronger. Acrylic can withstand impact shock at a much greater rate
than
> glass and is also clearer than glass when cared for properly.
>
> As for price, I paid $1200.00 for mine through a marine specialty
store with
> a custom acrylic tank professionalist. Other stores were asking a
range
> from $1500 to $1800 for a similar set up. Similar because some would
not
> even honor the "no right angles" request for the top plate. I feel
that I
> got an incredible bargain for my price and do not expect to have it
> duplicated!
>
> As for any tank bow, I have no measurable bow in my filled and running
tank.
> At least not measurable by a 48" level.
> I have 3 MH on two separate timers for lighting (250 watt ea for fish
only
> tank)
> BTW, I know this is a freshwater forum, however this tank is set up
for
> marine. I also have two freshwater tanks (20 and 100). The 240
marine is
> my only acrylic tank and when it comes time to replace my 100gal
(which
> might be sooner than I like) I am definately going acrylic.
>
> Justin
>
>
>
> "Boris" > wrote in message
> news:DrWPb.51835$XD5.21148@fed1read06...
> > Mind a few questions? Next time I move I'm going to disguard the
present
> > tank and go for a bigger one, 120g. I _like_ acrylic as opposed to
glass
> > and I am going to set up a fish only salt tank with halogen lights.
> >
> > I have a plastic shop near me that makes custom fish tanks, so there
is
> > no problem getting what I want.
> >
> > What thickness do I want for _no_ bow?
> > What about surface overflow circulation with the return plumbed into
the
> > overflow tower?
> > Can you 'ballpark' me a price for just the tank?
> >
> > I presently have drilled a plumbing connection 20% down the back
side.
> > Water changes are nearly connecting a hose now. Good idea for a salt
> > water tank?
> >
> > Thanks
> >
> >
> > "Justin Boucher" > wrote in message
> > ...
> > > I have a 240 gal acrylic custom tank and it doesn't bow. At all.
> > Granted,
> > > I ordered the acrylic to be thicker than the recommended
thickness,
> > which
> > > has everything to do with it. It is not uncommon for acrylic
tanks to
> > bow
> > > due to the weight and stress of a filled tank. Glass doesn't bow,
it
> > breaks
> > > instead. If you're concerned about the amount of bow in your
acrylic
> > tank,
> > > get the tensile strength numbers from the manufacturer. They will
> > show you
> > > the stress limit for the acrylic in your tank.
> > >
> > > I did not want mine to bow at all and requested the specific
acrylic
> > to be
> > > thicker as well as a specially designed top plate for additional
> > support.
> > > Justin
> > >
> > > "Boris" > wrote in message
> > > news:GRAPb.47506$XD5.15324@fed1read06...
> > > > A comment appreciated on my tank.
> > > >
> > > > I have a 55g acrylic tank. It has been up for about a year. It
is
> > NOT
> > > > level. It leans about 1/4" forward. All 4 sides are bowed, with
the
> > > > front bowed about 3/4". Think of a water balloon sitting on a
desk.
> > I
> > > > constantly worry that it will explode.
> > > >
> > > > I had an air stone in it and I believe that the bubbles breaking
the
> > > > surface bowed the part of the top where the bubbles burst.
Anyone
> > verify
> > > > this. (stone has long been removed)
> > > >
> > > > It's my opinion that acrylic is good for smaller tanks, but for
55g
> > and
> > > > up it should be glass. And thick glass at that :)
> > > >
> > > > Waiting to be evicted :)
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > "Vicky & John Taylor-Hood" > wrote
in
> > > > message ...
> > > > > Did you make sure that the stand and tank were absolutely
level
> > before
> > > > > you filled the tank? If it's not level, nasty things can
happen.
> > > > > Of course, it may be perfectly normal for your brand of tank.
By
> > > > > "arched", do you mean bent outwardly as in bowed?
> > > > >
> > > > > Whip out your trusty level and check the tank now. You may
also
> > wish
> > > > > to put a piece of cork or some such between the tank and stand
to
> > > > > absorb any slight imperfections in your levelling job.
> > > > > Good luck!
> > > > > Vicky
> > > > >
> > > > > _____________________
> > > > > Vicky Taylor-Hood
> > > > > fibre artist * quilter
> > > > > St. John's, NF, Canada
> > > > >
> > > > > http://www3.nf.sympatico.ca/vickyth/
> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
>
>

[Justin Boucher]

Thank you.
I've been planning this tank for over 5 years. It took me 2 years just to
save up enough money to get the tank and equipment.

How does that saying go? "If you want something bad enough, you'll find a
way to get it."
My way just took a couple years.

Justin

"Boris" > wrote in message
news:m%gQb.58392$XD5.52019@fed1read06...
> Thanks for all the answers. It sounds like you have a very nice set up.
> Way too expensive for my budget (poor). But I'll put it on my 'wish
> list' if I ever hit the lottery :)
> Boris
>
>
> "Justin Boucher" > wrote in message
> ...
> > Here's a few specifics for my custom 240 tank:
> >
> > 72" L x 24" W x 30" H
> > Black back/ non-rounded front corners
> > Center overflow drain. (12" x 6" )
> > Top, bottom and Black Back panels are 5/8" thick
> > Sides and front 3/4" think
> > One piece, triple access for top plate (cross supports at 24" and 48"
> at 6"
> > wide each) NO right angles! (It creates a weak spot in the acrylic.)
> > Water drains through the overflow and two 1" lines to Sump.
> > Water returned to tank through 1 pump into two 1" lines through Sea
> Swirls
> > with access holes drilled through top plate.
> >
> > When I was considering a tank this size, glass quickly became a
> definate no
> > no. Acrylic weighs less than glass by volume and is an average of 7
> times
> > stronger. Acrylic can withstand impact shock at a much greater rate
> than
> > glass and is also clearer than glass when cared for properly.
> >
> > As for price, I paid $1200.00 for mine through a marine specialty
> store with
> > a custom acrylic tank professionalist. Other stores were asking a
> range
> > from $1500 to $1800 for a similar set up. Similar because some would
> not
> > even honor the "no right angles" request for the top plate. I feel
> that I
> > got an incredible bargain for my price and do not expect to have it
> > duplicated!
> >
> > As for any tank bow, I have no measurable bow in my filled and running
> tank.
> > At least not measurable by a 48" level.
> > I have 3 MH on two separate timers for lighting (250 watt ea for fish
> only
> > tank)
> > BTW, I know this is a freshwater forum, however this tank is set up
> for
> > marine. I also have two freshwater tanks (20 and 100). The 240
> marine is
> > my only acrylic tank and when it comes time to replace my 100gal
> (which
> > might be sooner than I like) I am definately going acrylic.
> >
> > Justin
> >
> >
> >
> > "Boris" > wrote in message
> > news:DrWPb.51835$XD5.21148@fed1read06...
> > > Mind a few questions? Next time I move I'm going to disguard the
> present
> > > tank and go for a bigger one, 120g. I _like_ acrylic as opposed to
> glass
> > > and I am going to set up a fish only salt tank with halogen lights.
> > >
> > > I have a plastic shop near me that makes custom fish tanks, so there
> is
> > > no problem getting what I want.
> > >
> > > What thickness do I want for _no_ bow?
> > > What about surface overflow circulation with the return plumbed into
> the
> > > overflow tower?
> > > Can you 'ballpark' me a price for just the tank?
> > >
> > > I presently have drilled a plumbing connection 20% down the back
> side.
> > > Water changes are nearly connecting a hose now. Good idea for a salt
> > > water tank?
> > >
> > > Thanks
> > >
> > >
> > > "Justin Boucher" > wrote in message
> > > ...
> > > > I have a 240 gal acrylic custom tank and it doesn't bow. At all.
> > > Granted,
> > > > I ordered the acrylic to be thicker than the recommended
> thickness,
> > > which
> > > > has everything to do with it. It is not uncommon for acrylic
> tanks to
> > > bow
> > > > due to the weight and stress of a filled tank. Glass doesn't bow,
> it
> > > breaks
> > > > instead. If you're concerned about the amount of bow in your
> acrylic
> > > tank,
> > > > get the tensile strength numbers from the manufacturer. They will
> > > show you
> > > > the stress limit for the acrylic in your tank.
> > > >
> > > > I did not want mine to bow at all and requested the specific
> acrylic
> > > to be
> > > > thicker as well as a specially designed top plate for additional
> > > support.
> > > > Justin
> > > >
> > > > "Boris" > wrote in message
> > > > news:GRAPb.47506$XD5.15324@fed1read06...
> > > > > A comment appreciated on my tank.
> > > > >
> > > > > I have a 55g acrylic tank. It has been up for about a year. It
> is
> > > NOT
> > > > > level. It leans about 1/4" forward. All 4 sides are bowed, with
> the
> > > > > front bowed about 3/4". Think of a water balloon sitting on a
> desk.
> > > I
> > > > > constantly worry that it will explode.
> > > > >
> > > > > I had an air stone in it and I believe that the bubbles breaking
> the
> > > > > surface bowed the part of the top where the bubbles burst.
> Anyone
> > > verify
> > > > > this. (stone has long been removed)
> > > > >
> > > > > It's my opinion that acrylic is good for smaller tanks, but for
> 55g
> > > and
> > > > > up it should be glass. And thick glass at that :)
> > > > >
> > > > > Waiting to be evicted :)
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > "Vicky & John Taylor-Hood" > wrote
> in
> > > > > message ...
> > > > > > Did you make sure that the stand and tank were absolutely
> level
> > > before
> > > > > > you filled the tank? If it's not level, nasty things can
> happen.
> > > > > > Of course, it may be perfectly normal for your brand of tank.
> By
> > > > > > "arched", do you mean bent outwardly as in bowed?
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Whip out your trusty level and check the tank now. You may
> also
> > > wish
> > > > > > to put a piece of cork or some such between the tank and stand
> to
> > > > > > absorb any slight imperfections in your levelling job.
> > > > > > Good luck!
> > > > > > Vicky
> > > > > >
> > > > > > _____________________
> > > > > > Vicky Taylor-Hood
> > > > > > fibre artist * quilter
> > > > > > St. John's, NF, Canada
> > > > > >
> > > > > > http://www3.nf.sympatico.ca/vickyth/
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
>
>

[Boris]

I live on disability. I could save for the 20 years and not even come
close. Gotta find a rich girlfriend and build a nice tank 'for her' :).


"Justin Boucher" > wrote in message
...
> Thank you.
> I've been planning this tank for over 5 years. It took me 2 years
just to
> save up enough money to get the tank and equipment.
>
> How does that saying go? "If you want something bad enough, you'll
find a
> way to get it."
> My way just took a couple years.
>
> Justin
>
> "Boris" > wrote in message
> news:m%gQb.58392$XD5.52019@fed1read06...
> > Thanks for all the answers. It sounds like you have a very nice set
up.
> > Way too expensive for my budget (poor). But I'll put it on my 'wish
> > list' if I ever hit the lottery :)
> > Boris
> >
> >
> > "Justin Boucher" > wrote in message
> > ...
> > > Here's a few specifics for my custom 240 tank:
> > >
> > > 72" L x 24" W x 30" H
> > > Black back/ non-rounded front corners
> > > Center overflow drain. (12" x 6" )
> > > Top, bottom and Black Back panels are 5/8" thick
> > > Sides and front 3/4" think
> > > One piece, triple access for top plate (cross supports at 24" and
48"
> > at 6"
> > > wide each) NO right angles! (It creates a weak spot in the
acrylic.)
> > > Water drains through the overflow and two 1" lines to Sump.
> > > Water returned to tank through 1 pump into two 1" lines through
Sea
> > Swirls
> > > with access holes drilled through top plate.
> > >
> > > When I was considering a tank this size, glass quickly became a
> > definate no
> > > no. Acrylic weighs less than glass by volume and is an average of
7
> > times
> > > stronger. Acrylic can withstand impact shock at a much greater
rate
> > than
> > > glass and is also clearer than glass when cared for properly.
> > >
> > > As for price, I paid $1200.00 for mine through a marine specialty
> > store with
> > > a custom acrylic tank professionalist. Other stores were asking a
> > range
> > > from $1500 to $1800 for a similar set up. Similar because some
would
> > not
> > > even honor the "no right angles" request for the top plate. I
feel
> > that I
> > > got an incredible bargain for my price and do not expect to have
it
> > > duplicated!
> > >
> > > As for any tank bow, I have no measurable bow in my filled and
running
> > tank.
> > > At least not measurable by a 48" level.
> > > I have 3 MH on two separate timers for lighting (250 watt ea for
fish
> > only
> > > tank)
> > > BTW, I know this is a freshwater forum, however this tank is set
up
> > for
> > > marine. I also have two freshwater tanks (20 and 100). The 240
> > marine is
> > > my only acrylic tank and when it comes time to replace my 100gal
> > (which
> > > might be sooner than I like) I am definately going acrylic.
> > >
> > > Justin
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > "Boris" > wrote in message
> > > news:DrWPb.51835$XD5.21148@fed1read06...
> > > > Mind a few questions? Next time I move I'm going to disguard the
> > present
> > > > tank and go for a bigger one, 120g. I _like_ acrylic as opposed
to
> > glass
> > > > and I am going to set up a fish only salt tank with halogen
lights.
> > > >
> > > > I have a plastic shop near me that makes custom fish tanks, so
there
> > is
> > > > no problem getting what I want.
> > > >
> > > > What thickness do I want for _no_ bow?
> > > > What about surface overflow circulation with the return plumbed
into
> > the
> > > > overflow tower?
> > > > Can you 'ballpark' me a price for just the tank?
> > > >
> > > > I presently have drilled a plumbing connection 20% down the back
> > side.
> > > > Water changes are nearly connecting a hose now. Good idea for a
salt
> > > > water tank?
> > > >
> > > > Thanks
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > "Justin Boucher" > wrote in message
> > > > ...
> > > > > I have a 240 gal acrylic custom tank and it doesn't bow. At
all.
> > > > Granted,
> > > > > I ordered the acrylic to be thicker than the recommended
> > thickness,
> > > > which
> > > > > has everything to do with it. It is not uncommon for acrylic
> > tanks to
> > > > bow
> > > > > due to the weight and stress of a filled tank. Glass doesn't
bow,
> > it
> > > > breaks
> > > > > instead. If you're concerned about the amount of bow in your
> > acrylic
> > > > tank,
> > > > > get the tensile strength numbers from the manufacturer. They
will
> > > > show you
> > > > > the stress limit for the acrylic in your tank.
> > > > >
> > > > > I did not want mine to bow at all and requested the specific
> > acrylic
> > > > to be
> > > > > thicker as well as a specially designed top plate for
additional
> > > > support.
> > > > > Justin
> > > > >
> > > > > "Boris" > wrote in message
> > > > > news:GRAPb.47506$XD5.15324@fed1read06...
> > > > > > A comment appreciated on my tank.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > I have a 55g acrylic tank. It has been up for about a year.
It
> > is
> > > > NOT
> > > > > > level. It leans about 1/4" forward. All 4 sides are bowed,
with
> > the
> > > > > > front bowed about 3/4". Think of a water balloon sitting on
a
> > desk.
> > > > I
> > > > > > constantly worry that it will explode.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > I had an air stone in it and I believe that the bubbles
breaking
> > the
> > > > > > surface bowed the part of the top where the bubbles burst.
> > Anyone
> > > > verify
> > > > > > this. (stone has long been removed)
> > > > > >
> > > > > > It's my opinion that acrylic is good for smaller tanks, but
for
> > 55g
> > > > and
> > > > > > up it should be glass. And thick glass at that :)
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Waiting to be evicted :)
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "Vicky & John Taylor-Hood" >
wrote
> > in
> > > > > > message ...
> > > > > > > Did you make sure that the stand and tank were absolutely
> > level
> > > > before
> > > > > > > you filled the tank? If it's not level, nasty things can
> > happen.
> > > > > > > Of course, it may be perfectly normal for your brand of
tank.
> > By
> > > > > > > "arched", do you mean bent outwardly as in bowed?
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Whip out your trusty level and check the tank now. You may
> > also
> > > > wish
> > > > > > > to put a piece of cork or some such between the tank and
stand
> > to
> > > > > > > absorb any slight imperfections in your levelling job.
> > > > > > > Good luck!
> > > > > > > Vicky
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > _____________________
> > > > > > > Vicky Taylor-Hood
> > > > > > > fibre artist * quilter
> > > > > > > St. John's, NF, Canada
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > http://www3.nf.sympatico.ca/vickyth/
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
>
>

[Eric]

I have a custom-built tank that is about 100g (97, to be exact). The
tank is 48" x 24" x 19.5" and I had them use 1/2" acrylic for it so that
it wouldn't bow. It worked. No visible bow.

The tank cost a small fortune ($1600) but has three rounded corners
instead of the usual 2, a custom-sized overflow, custom top, and custom
holes drilled. Part of that cost was that they had to weld a seam in
the back because of the three rounded corners. (The seam is in one of
the walls for the overflow, so isn't visible.)

Eric

Boris wrote:
> Mind a few questions? Next time I move I'm going to disguard the present
> tank and go for a bigger one, 120g. I _like_ acrylic as opposed to glass
> and I am going to set up a fish only salt tank with halogen lights.
>
> I have a plastic shop near me that makes custom fish tanks, so there is
> no problem getting what I want.
>
> What thickness do I want for _no_ bow?
> What about surface overflow circulation with the return plumbed into the
> overflow tower?
> Can you 'ballpark' me a price for just the tank?
>
> I presently have drilled a plumbing connection 20% down the back side.
> Water changes are nearly connecting a hose now. Good idea for a salt
> water tank?
>
> Thanks
>
>
> "Justin Boucher" > wrote in message
> ...
>
>>I have a 240 gal acrylic custom tank and it doesn't bow. At all.
>
> Granted,
>
>>I ordered the acrylic to be thicker than the recommended thickness,
>
> which
>
>>has everything to do with it. It is not uncommon for acrylic tanks to
>
> bow
>
>>due to the weight and stress of a filled tank. Glass doesn't bow, it
>
> breaks
>
>>instead. If you're concerned about the amount of bow in your acrylic
>
> tank,
>
>>get the tensile strength numbers from the manufacturer. They will
>
> show you
>
>>the stress limit for the acrylic in your tank.
>>
>>I did not want mine to bow at all and requested the specific acrylic
>
> to be
>
>>thicker as well as a specially designed top plate for additional
>
> support.
>
>>Justin
>>
>>"Boris" > wrote in message
>>news:GRAPb.47506$XD5.15324@fed1read06...
>>
>>>A comment appreciated on my tank.
>>>
>>>I have a 55g acrylic tank. It has been up for about a year. It is
>
> NOT
>
>>>level. It leans about 1/4" forward. All 4 sides are bowed, with the
>>>front bowed about 3/4". Think of a water balloon sitting on a desk.
>
> I
>
>>>constantly worry that it will explode.
>>>
>>>I had an air stone in it and I believe that the bubbles breaking the
>>>surface bowed the part of the top where the bubbles burst. Anyone
>
> verify
>
>>>this. (stone has long been removed)
>>>
>>>It's my opinion that acrylic is good for smaller tanks, but for 55g
>
> and
>
>>>up it should be glass. And thick glass at that :)
>>>
>>>Waiting to be evicted :)
>>>
>>>
>>>"Vicky & John Taylor-Hood" > wrote in
>>>message ...
>>>
>>>>Did you make sure that the stand and tank were absolutely level
>
> before
>
>>>>you filled the tank? If it's not level, nasty things can happen.
>>>>Of course, it may be perfectly normal for your brand of tank. By
>>>>"arched", do you mean bent outwardly as in bowed?
>>>>
>>>>Whip out your trusty level and check the tank now. You may also
>
> wish
>
>>>>to put a piece of cork or some such between the tank and stand to
>>>>absorb any slight imperfections in your levelling job.
>>>>Good luck!
>>>>Vicky
>>>>
>>>>_____________________
>>>>Vicky Taylor-Hood
>>>>fibre artist * quilter
>>>>St. John's, NF, Canada

>>>>http://www3.nf.sympatico.ca/vickyth/
>>>
>>>
>>
>
>

[Dan J. S.]

Eric wrote:
> I have a custom-built tank that is about 100g (97, to be exact). The
> tank is 48" x 24" x 19.5" and I had them use 1/2" acrylic for it so
> that it wouldn't bow. It worked. No visible bow.
>
> The tank cost a small fortune ($1600) but has three rounded corners
> instead of the usual 2, a custom-sized overflow, custom top, and
> custom holes drilled. Part of that cost was that they had to weld a
> seam in the back because of the three rounded corners. (The seam is
> in one of the walls for the overflow, so isn't visible.)
>
> Eric

Eric, so you do not scratch it, what do you use to clean the outside of the
tank? (paper towels and glass cleaner ok?) and inside? sponge? Thanks!

Dan

[Justin Boucher]

I'm not Eric, but I would never use glass cleaner materials to clean
acrylic.
Acrylic scratches easy, but those can be buffed out. There are special
acrylic cleaning materials for polishing the outside and a simple plastic
edge will clear out any algae from the inside (old credit cards anyone?)

If you use glass materials on acyrlic, it will cloud up and/or scratch as
well.

Justin

"Dan J. S." > wrote in message
...
> Eric wrote:
> > I have a custom-built tank that is about 100g (97, to be exact). The
> > tank is 48" x 24" x 19.5" and I had them use 1/2" acrylic for it so
> > that it wouldn't bow. It worked. No visible bow.
> >
> > The tank cost a small fortune ($1600) but has three rounded corners
> > instead of the usual 2, a custom-sized overflow, custom top, and
> > custom holes drilled. Part of that cost was that they had to weld a
> > seam in the back because of the three rounded corners. (The seam is
> > in one of the walls for the overflow, so isn't visible.)
> >
> > Eric
>
> Eric, so you do not scratch it, what do you use to clean the outside of
the
> tank? (paper towels and glass cleaner ok?) and inside? sponge? Thanks!
>
> Dan
>
>

[Boris]

You clean the outside with a product called "Brillianize". And the
inside with a plastic pad made especially for acrylic. Each cost abut 5
bucks and should both be available at your LFS


"Dan J. S." > wrote in message
...
> Eric wrote:
> > I have a custom-built tank that is about 100g (97, to be exact).
The
> > tank is 48" x 24" x 19.5" and I had them use 1/2" acrylic for it so
> > that it wouldn't bow. It worked. No visible bow.
> >
> > The tank cost a small fortune ($1600) but has three rounded corners
> > instead of the usual 2, a custom-sized overflow, custom top, and
> > custom holes drilled. Part of that cost was that they had to weld a
> > seam in the back because of the three rounded corners. (The seam is
> > in one of the walls for the overflow, so isn't visible.)
> >
> > Eric
>
> Eric, so you do not scratch it, what do you use to clean the outside
of the
> tank? (paper towels and glass cleaner ok?) and inside? sponge? Thanks!
>
> Dan
>
>

[ThangFish]

Justin Boucher wrote:

<snip>
> tank. Glass doesn't bow, it breaks instead. If you're concerned
<snip>

Glass DOES bow. Lay a good straight-edge lengthwise across any
commercially made, retail type, glass 55g, full of water.
You'll be surprised at just how much it does bow... without breaking.

--
TF

Put my handle in front of the domain name to email.

[Justin Boucher]

Perhaps is does bow and my statement was an oversimplification.

For clarification, I would like to submit that glass does not bow nearly as
much as acrylic.
So much so that it would not be incorrect to say that glass does not bow
comparatively to acrylic.

Sorry about the mis-statement.
Justin

"ThangFish" > wrote in message
...
> Justin Boucher wrote:
>
> <snip>
> > tank. Glass doesn't bow, it breaks instead. If you're concerned
> <snip>
>
> Glass DOES bow. Lay a good straight-edge lengthwise across any
> commercially made, retail type, glass 55g, full of water.
> You'll be surprised at just how much it does bow... without breaking.
>
> --
> TF
>
> Put my handle in front of the domain name to email.
>
>