Acrylic tank build question

[tcav88]

If I were to build a 96x 48x30 600 gallon aquarium with 3/4 inch cell cast acrylic would weld on 4 work as a bonding agent on a tank that big using the pin method? or would I need to use a higher power weld on?

 

[millerkid519]

Dieselhybrid
wednesday13

 

[wednesday13]

If I were to build a 96x 48x30 600 gallon aquarium with 3/4 inch cell cast acrylic would weld on 4 work as a bonding agent on a tank that big using the pin method? or would I need to use a higher power weld on?

#3 or #4 weld on solvent will work using the pin method yes... most def. pick urself up some scrap pieces and learn the process before u go diving into the build. Get comfortable with a router and flush trim bit also. The router is the best way to clean up all the edges afterwards. If youve never built a tank before id stick to the #4 and pin method.... If youve already done that and understand how to clean up a tank after by routing/sanding/polishing then id use weld on #40 a 2 part epoxy. I prefer the #40 myself.... but theres def. a learning curve when it comes to "finishing" the tank which is just as important as putting it together i.m.o. and this step is often overlooked. Acrylic is pretty sharp when cut. u need to be comfortable with a router to clean up all the edges and make them smooth to the touch. Not fun working in a tank and getting cut up.

 

[tcav88]

How do the higher weldons work? Are they similar to a silicone or are they liquid based like #4?

 

[wednesday13]

How do the higher weldons work? Are they similar to a silicone or are they liquid based like #4?

#16 is junk, do not use that for anything. Its more for crafts. Its actually just #4 with pieces of acrylic melted into it to make it thicker. It is a weak glue and dries very brittle. and #40 is a 2 part epoxy with syrup like consistency. I do not recommend the #40 if this is ur first build. If your seams/joints come out terrible with the #4 you can then use the #40 kinda like silicone to reinforce the inside of the tank and create a good seal. Unlike silicone it will not stick to the upright seams and you need to tip the tank at 45 degree angles puddling the glue into the seams one joint at a time. I don't know how to do links or id post the write up I did on weld on products for ya. Maybe someone else here can help me with that lol... Or you can try searching "weld-on" in this sites search bar and look for any threads that come up with my name on them.

 

[tcav88]

I'll start with a small build maybe a 100g

 

[Dieselhybrid]

Great advice from Wednesday13. I would recommend upping a thickness to 1" material. I recommend Arkema Plexiglas G, Arkema PMACS, and Polyone Polycast brands. Second tier includes Acrylite and Chemcast. I personally wouldn't touch anything but the first 3.

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