5 Tanks 3 Tiers

[Dylema]

Hi Guys, I have just acquired 5 second hand tanks that I need to build a stand for. I intend to use the setup for breeding of little Plecos and grow out. There is 4 x 2' tanks and 1 x 4'. I want to have the 4' (which measures 1170 L x 445 W x 330mm H) on the top and the 4 2' (which measure 610 L x 455 W x 330mm H) underneath in this sort of arrangement;

BTW I will probably have verticals in the center as well.

I plan on using structural pine throughout, probably 90x45mm for the horizontals but not sure about verticals.

The other part is that I will have to fully insulate this as it will most likely be in my shed which gets very hot in summer (>40C) and quite cool in winter (1-2C)

Can someone help me with the stand design especially joints between vertical and horizontal framing for rigidity and the way to incorporate a good thickness of insulation.

Thanks

Dylan

 

[Szar]

Id go with a steal frame, 5 tanks could mean plenty splashing water that over time might weaken the wood and ruing structural integrity.

Whats the weight of the tanks filled ?

 

[Dylema]

the 4' will hold about 170Lt so plus glass lets say 200-250kg. The 2' hold a bit over 65lt so plus glass they would be about 80kg. total lets say about 600kg (270 lb).

Steel would be good but I am on a budget and I don't have a welder. I can seal the wood really well. I have plenty of polyurethane sealer and enamel paint left from a previous project.

Dylan

 

[5280critters]

I am thinking for doing something similar and I am going to use 2x6 framing boards they should hold up to the weight just fine and then lag bolt them together. I will post a thread when I start construction.

 

[Oughtsix]

I would add vertical front and real supports in the middle of the stand. Should make it sturdy enough.

I don't know how you are going to add enough insulation to deal with those temperature fluctuations.