Metal tank turned into outdoor pond ?

[kokosnood]

I was thinking of just grinding out the worst of the rust and then coating it.

But sand blasting the whole inside might make the coating adhere better; not sure.

Spray on coating sounds like a great idea. I'd have to rent a sprayer, but it might be worth it.

 

[aquaponicpaw]

So where do you stand on this? Any thoughts of proceeding?

 

[kokosnood]

That is a good question. I would like to do a large outdoor "aquarium," but I am wondering if it might not be better to sell this tank and build the pond in concrete.

 

[seedubs1]

Coating:
-Use the stuff they use for water towers. It's safe for potable water, and aquarium life. Doesn't leach anything into the water. There's a ton of companies that make it. You'll just have to research online.

Other option:
Cut the drum in half, and bury both halves. 2 instand ponds. And you'd have to use pond liner or something to seal it.

 

[yogurt_21]

would need several holes cut in it, 1 for the viewing window, small ones for plumbing the filtrations system, and another larger service hatch. 3/4" steel doesn't cut so easily. Imo it would be easier to sell it and do a pond. Expense wise too when you combine tool rental, the cost of the viewing pane, cost to sand blast it out, cost to coat it, etc. A pond would be quicker and easier.

 

[kokosnood]

Yea, but what about a pond with a viewing window and roof? That is the type I'd like to build.

The metal tank might be cheaper; but the pond would also be a better size/shape (built to suit)

 

[Andyroo]

Modify it (add frame & glass), fill it and run a very low voltage current through the steel. Electricity will reverse the rusting- it'll still be weird & pitted, but will be clean, silver/black raw steel. May be able to achieve the same/similar with martyr anodes, but the water may get a little toxic with zinc and you won't be able to force the reaction as well. Then add peat or plants to keep the pH relatively low-ish and rust will never be an issue. It'll just stay black, and will get a crust of algae very quickly. At 1.5" thick it will last longer than you.