3/4 Ply vs. 720 Gallons

[CichlaRyan]

Amateur DIY-er here, my question is regarding a project i'm going to slowly put together.

My question is, will 3/4in Plywood be enough to withstand the water pressure of a 8Long 4Wide 3Tall Tank? (Braced of course)

Or

Should I double the panels with two 3/4in Plys?

All input is appreciated, thank you in advance.

 

[CichlaRyan]

Could I get away with the 3/4in ply if I brace the side and back like this? The top would be braced to the back.
View attachment 939870

 

[Mayo]

the thickness of the ply does not matter if the thing is braced enough, im using 3/4 ply to build a 1400gallon.... u will be fine with that design

 

[Drstrangelove]

the thickness of the ply does not matter if the thing is braced enough, im using 3/4 ply to build a 1400gallon.... u will be fine with that design

Agreed.


To me, looking at the build, it seems that the water is primarily being supported by the 2x4's, although the plywood is adding some stiffness and is spreading the load. I think of it this way: the water is pushing against not 3/4" of plywood, but 4 1/4" of wood.

 

[CichlaRyan]

Thanks for the input guys, I see, I'll probably do something like that for the bracing, seems like it would work and be a lot cheaper than going with a special ordered ply thickness.

Per that idea, do you guys think 12in per vertical brace should work with a 4x4 running the bottom of the back or do you think 2x4's would be fine all around.

 

[CichlaRyan]

Here is a little update with the current progress, wood is cut, and picture is of a side panel with the bracing in a temporary position.

 

[sevank21]

I made mind closer than 12". Maybe 8-9" apart

Built like this

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[CichlaRyan]

Great looking build! Thing looks huge 1000 gallons? Looks like you have a lot of height on mine.

 

[sevank21]

Great looking build! Thing looks huge 1000 gallons? Looks like you have a lot of height on mine.

1,020
12x4x40". Inside dims obviously smaller.

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[CichlaRyan]

Very jealous, and thanks for the tips, 8-9in per brace, gotcha. Have you thought about how you're going to find a glass sheet? Or if you're to go with acrylic? This part has been kind of bothering me just because custom sheets run for a good amount of money.