Ordering New 440/480 any advice?

[pacu mom]

Yes, "rimless" glass tanks for sure (that's what I had previously). The builder for my acrylic (Midwest Customs) advised I needed to use (the pink) foam. I figured if the builder was telling me to do that, then I didn't want to question. I ended up using 1/2" R-Tech insulation foam and he said that should be fine. I find that 1/2" has enough flex and density.

I know Chris recommends foam, but other tank builders do not. I would definitely use marine grade plywood, though. Salesman for our big tank said no foam, put the tank directly on the plywood. It was a conundrum since we had to use foam under the 300 gallon tank.. we went ahead and put foam under the big tank

 

[DN328]

I know Chris recommends foam, but other tank builders do not. I would definitely use marine grade plywood, though. Salesman for our big tank said no foam, put the tank directly on the plywood. It was a conundrum since we had to use foam under the 300 gallon tank.. we went ahead and put foam under the big tank

Yes, I've heard the same about foam not needed for acrylic tanks. I built a tray underneath the tank and also used the same foam that the sump sits on top of.

Marine plywood is a good idea. I talk to a previous builder and did some reading and have used and currently use Medium Density Overlay (MDO) 3/4" plywood. It is made for outdoor applications such as signs and exposed the elements, and so the bonding glue is different from the standard plywood. An added bonus is that it has super smooth (paper) surface for painting. For those with exposed steel stands, paint adds a nice look and protection underneath the stand.

 

[pacu mom]

We had our stand powder coated

 

[DN328]

We had our stand powder coated

Good call, I powder coated as well. Re-read my posts, and what I meant by "exposed" was you can see the platform from underneath the stand and not that to the stand in bare metal ; - ). I would definitely suggest painting at a minimum for sure.

 

[dr exum]

Good Idea with the powder coating... probably more expensive...

he’s charging me $250 for painting...

 

[dr exum]

Got some pics of progress!

Got 2 “ sewer and a 2- 20amp outlets,

I’ve got a total of 5 outlets on 2 circuits...

Need to run the water line did drip... next week...

Should be couple weeks!

 

[dr exum]

Progress! I’ll be going to his shop Monday to help manipulate the tank... and check to make sure things are correct....

been a long journey, ordered and paid 10/19....

guess his build time is 6 months... did not know this upfront, it has given me perspective and patience....

 

[Tj203]

Here is a pic of mine with my 16 month old in it lol
600 gallon with a full c2c that adds 20 gallons and a 80 gallon sump. Cant wait to start to set it up, it has been sitting there for over 3 months.

 

[dr exum]

Here is a pic of mine with my 16 month old in it lol
600 gallon with a full c2c that adds 20 gallons and a 80 gallon sump. Cant wait to start to set it up, it has been sitting there for over 3 months.

View attachment 1410065

Nice! That was FTD?

 

[Tj203]

Nice! That was FTD?

No Acrylic creations.