Structural integrity?

[HarleyK]

Howdy, I need a little guidance.

I have a 75 gallon tank, it’s about 15+ years old. It has moved across the country twice with me, seen some action. I just noticed that the plastic frame around the top is showing cracks on several places. The center brace is still intact, the cracks are around the outer perimeter. Should I worry?

 

[kno4te]

I’m not sure but I wouldn’t fill it. wednesday13 may offer some help.

 

[deeda]

Wow that center brace still looks great from the pic you posted!

I think it's just the nature of the plastic trim to degrade a bit and get the micro fractures that eventually turn into small cracks that you are seeing especially after moving tanks over the years.

Sorry but can't recommend whether this is a sign of eventual failure or not. Maybe a replacement trim if you can find one and the tank is worth the replacement?

 

[HarleyK]

I’m not sure but I wouldn’t fill it. wednesday13 may offer some help.

Lol . It’s full of water & fish in my living room

 

[The Morning]

Is there a bow in the tank? If not you are probably fine.

 

[EntoStentor]

^

 

[kno4te]

Is there a bow in the tank? If not you are probably fine.

This is what I’d worry about happening in the future.

 

[Oughtsix]

They make tanks without cracks in the plastic frames? I didn't realize that!

The only thing the plastic frame helps with structurally is the center brace which can be easily replaced with a thick glass strip glued in with silicone. Other than that the plastic just holds the lid / canopy and protects the edges of the glass from chipping.

 

[HarleyK]

They make tanks without cracks in the plastic frames? I didn't realize that!