Need some tips for a build. 8x3x3

[M.Carfi]

Projected size will be 8x3x3 which should be about 500 gallons with a built in 30 gallon overflow.

I'm going to weld a thick angle iron frame for the tank to be lifted into when done in an effort to create stability. Then I'm going to tack a bar over the top when the tank is in. What are your feelings about this.

I'm a bit nervous using glass for this project but my buddy works for a glass company so he's gonna cut the glass for dirt.

Here are a few things I need help considering:

1. I'm going to ask them to make tempered glass 1/2" thick

2. What is the best way to assemble this tank, build a wood frame around it while the sealant cures?

3. I'm going to put this tank up on cinder block (on padding), because I want it to look real raw.

4. I'm gonna do 2 40 gallon sumps with submersible pumps in them, what should the GPM be on each pump, I do want to create pretty strong current in the tank.

5. They are going to drill the holes for the plumbing, should I do 2 15 gallon corner overflows or a 30 gallon in the middle. I was planning on doing the 2 on the ends because I was worried about making the bottom of the tank weak in the middle. But I'm also concerned about the pitch of the floor, even a hair off could throw it out of whack on one side.

Please feel free to bring up anything I'm not thinking about, please agree or disagree with the plans so I can hear some good feedback.

 

[Pharaoh]

Projected size will be 8x3x3 which should be about 500 gallons with a built in 30 gallon overflow.

I'm going to weld a thick angle iron frame for the tank to be lifted into when done in an effort to create stability. Then I'm going to tack a bar over the top when the tank is in. What are your feelings about this.

I'm not sure if this would be needed. I would worry about heat from welding near the glass.

I'm a bit nervous using glass for this project but my buddy works for a glass company so he's gonna cut the glass for dirt.

Here are a few things I need help considering:

1. I'm going to ask them to make tempered glass 1/2" thick

I would make it out of 3/4. That is what my 540 is. (8x3x3) You would have no real benefit to using tempered vs plate glass, just FYI.

2. What is the best way to assemble this tank, build a wood frame around it while the sealant cures?

clamps would be the way to go.

3. I'm going to put this tank up on cinder block (on padding), because I want it to look real raw.

Should be OK, but a better description of how this would work might help. just to be safe.

4. I'm gonna do 2 40 gallon sumps with submersible pumps in them, what should the GPM be on each pump, I do want to create pretty strong current in the tank.

I would just do one sump. having multiple sumps could potentially lead to an overflow and a huge mess. 3-5 time turnover is pretty good number. you could go higher, but the flow inside the tank would depend on the type of fish you were wanting to keep

5. They are going to drill the holes for the plumbing, should I do 2 15 gallon corner overflows or a 30 gallon in the middle. I was planning on doing the 2 on the ends because I was worried about making the bottom of the tank weak in the middle. But I'm also concerned about the pitch of the floor, even a hair off could throw it out of whack on one side.

I would do two separate overflows, but it doesn't really matter either way. If drilled correctly, it should not affect the structural integrity of the tank. My tank has two overflows.

Please feel free to bring up anything I'm not thinking about, please agree or disagree with the plans so I can hear some good feedback.

See above in red.

 

[yogurt_21]

 

[M.Carfi]

Thanks for all your feedback, did you build that tank?

What did you use around the top perimeter, the black piece? That stand looks pretty crazy, is that concrete on the bottom?

 

[M.Carfi]

I took a closer look, its wood on the bottom. Looks sturdy though.

 

[Pharaoh]

I bought the tank. I believe that it is a Glasscages tank, but I can't be sure. It is 100% glass, but it is resting on foam and a sheet of plywood.

The top piece is just trim. I have already trashed it and won't be getting replacement. I will build a canopy for it instead.