Ready for the Test Build

[BigDaddyK]

So I've been creepin tank builds on here for at least 6 months (on Cichlidforum too). I've decided to build a test tank before I go for the true monster build (870 gallons).

This tank will be relatively simple just a 265 but I think it will give me a chance to learn the products I plan to use as well as make less of a mess in my basement should the tank fail

I'm at work at the moment so I can't post any sketchup's at the moment. I plan to do this tank with just plywood no 2x4 structure. Does anyone see an issue with this?? The top of the tank will have a 3" rim that will secure the tank from bowing/deflecting so I can't see a real reason to use additional support. Tank dimensions (exterior) 96"x25.5"x28.5"

Looking forward to your thoughts constructive or positive.

 

[BadOleRoss]

With the right thickness plywood glued and screwed you "should" be OK. I have a 315 plywood and there is no way I would have done it w/o exterior bracing but thats me. Now, if you are planning on testing products on this smaller tank dont you think it would be a good idea to test your external bracing design as well. I am sure you are not going to try a 800+ gallon tank w/o bracing. If you do, be sure to record the fill on video so we can all watch the fun. What are you planning to seal the tank with?

 

[threeguns]

With the right thickness plywood glued and screwed you "should" be OK. I have a 315 plywood and there is no way I would have done it w/o exterior bracing but thats me. Now, if you are planning on testing products on this smaller tank dont you think it would be a good idea to test your external bracing design as well. I am sure you are not going to try a 800+ gallon tank w/o bracing. If you do, be sure to record the fill on video so we can all watch the fun. What are you planning to seal the tank with?

I think u got him tiinking again...

 

[BigDaddyK]

no.. the 870 has a lot of bracing. I've already designed that one but summer is coming and my other obsession is riding dirt bikes so I don't think it's the time to build that one.

I am either going with West Systems or with Pond Armor. I'm not certain which yet. I'm open to idea's there too.

As for this tank I'm thinking I will Glue, Biscuit, Screw. I think the biscuits will add a little extra support from the tank wanting to push out. I checked my sketches and I overwrote some of the tank itself so all I have at the moment is my final pic with dimensions. I think it will suffice for the main plan. anything in black is the side of the ply so all will know which way I'm screwing

 

[BadOleRoss]

Glad to hear you are bracing, sad that there will not be a video! I have never used pond armor or West Systems so I am not going to offer any advice on those products. I build my 315 using pond coat (liquid rubber) and had good luck with that once I figured out what I was doing and it's limitations. I think biscuits, glue and screws is wise grasshopper!

 

[BigDaddyK]

I have seen some concerning threads on folks that used pond coat. I think I'll be more comfortable working with epoxy. I also spent several years working in an autobody shop and my comfort is greater with resin etc. I'm glad your tank worked well with pond coat though!

 

[imusuallyuseless]

Let's start seeing some real pics

 

[BigDaddyK]

Useless... what r u doin over here LOL... The build starts shortly I think... I am considering doubling the plywood though so I can get a little bigger on the volume. same length but deeper and taller.

 

[imusuallyuseless]

I'm everywhere, just like the wind

In any case, how much taller/wider were you planning???

Might as well do the real tank if you're really gonna go much bigger.

I personally try to design stuff to maximize use of the standard dimensions of the wood, dunno if budget is an issue for you though...

Also do we already have glass for this test tank???

 

[BigDaddyK]

I'm only going to go up incrementally. Planning on 96"x30"x28". This is pretty much as big as I can go for the location. It will be replacing my 135. I had built a slate pad for the 135 and the depth of that pad is 29 3/4" so 28 is as big as I feel I want to go to leave a little bit of an edge from the pad. 30" tall is max as there is a window behind this tank and I want to leave it exposed as much as possible (bottom of the window is around the 4' mark tank + stand = 54"). Glass will have to be purchased still. That's going to be the biggest cost. I have purchased most of the supplies (screws, glue etc) but the plywood and 2x4's, epoxy, glass is still to be purchased.