600g Acrylic reef

[pwhitby]

Just wanted to share a couple of pics of the fabrication on my 600g acrylic. Dimensions are as shown below:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/tankdimensions2.jpg

it will be set into a wall, but not as an "in wall" the basic idea is shown below:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/roomlayout-tank.jpg

and here are a few of the work in progress.

The back, with the overflows cut out:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/tankpic3.jpg

the top, being cut
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/tankpic6.jpg

and almost finished
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/tankpic7.jpg

Ill post more as I get them.

Paul.

[wetWolger]

wow, quite the setup you got there

[PAULNOTB]

Paul, how deep is it going to be? Are you having it done locally here in okc?
Paul Buckley

[pwhitby]

Hey paul welcome to Reefcentral.

It being fabricated in Dallas. I went through Gary at ART for the purchase of the tank.

Its going to be 30 inches deep.

Did you know we have a pretty good sized club in OKC ?
paul.

[PAULNOTB]

Thanks for the welcome. I will look into the club online. Paul

[pwhitby]

you can access it in RC.

Heres the forum link:

There are more details of my tank in there as well.

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?s=&forumid=109

[Cgamer]

What are the tank dimensions?

[pwhitby]

8 feet long 4 feet deep 2.5 feet tall.

[snowroach]

I think this is going to be one to watch!

[mwood]

Great dimensions! I have a 96*48*15. What is flow going to be comprized of? Tunze's? Closed Loop?

Marcus

[pwhitby]

Tunzes and closed loop. Im debating a 2 tunze wavebox.

Paul

[sonofgaladriel]

Wow! That is going to be a beauty!!! This is an exciting time I'm sure. Can't wait to see more pics.

[sixxer]

I'll be following the thread as well. That's the exact size of the tank I orderded!!!!

[pwhitby]

wow...we should start a "600 club"

[sixxer]

:lol:

Have you seen the thread posted showing two 96x48x30's being set-up side-by-side in a sunroom?

[pwhitby]

dont think so....can you send me the url.

Thanks
P.

[sixxer]

Here you go

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=615196&highlight=600+and+gallon

[pwhitby]

I just received a second round of pictures:
heres the front, cut, ready to be added.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/DSCN0133.jpg

here are partially assembled pics of the front:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/DSCN0132.jpg

the side:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/DSCN0130.jpg

and the back panel showing the detail of the overflow. The overflows are on the back, and are to be added.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/DSCN0131.jpg

Regards,

Paul..

[Chrisrush]

Paul,
Who's manufacturing the tank in Dallas?

Thanks,
Chris

[pwhitby]

Im not sure of the name, I am going through an LFS here in Oklahoma city, their name is Aquatic Resources Technologies. They have lots of experience with MEGA huge tanks....this ones a baby for them.

Paul.

[old salty]

Wow, CNC machined aquariums. What will they think of next?? That's gonna be awesome when you get it going!! Gonna keep my eyes on this thread.

[pwhitby]

well.....my plan is to get it here early November and begin on the stand design at that time. That gives me a few weeks to play with it and get the design just the way I want it.

So you can see whats moving into it....heres some pics of my current 225g:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/wholetanksept82005.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/tanksidesept82005.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/pinkmonti-2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/fulltank.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/pinkrimmonti-unknownacro-acronana.jpg

So as you can see....its definitely time to move up a size....the SPS I have are crowding each other way too much.

Paul.

[Chrisrush]

Looks good Paul. I'll have to check it out sometime when I'm up in OKC.

I'll contact that LFS to see who they are using, might be an option down the road if it works out for you.

Chris

[alien9168]

WOW! Nice job on the 225.
I look forward to seeing your new tank!

[sixxer]

Paul,

Your current tank looks great, now imagine that times 3!:D

By the way, how long have you had your Clown Tang? It's one of my favorites, but it seems like none of them survives are LFS's long enough to bring one home.

Thanks

Aric

[pwhitby]

The clown I have had for about a year. he eats really well. Funny story regarding the clown, I had wanted one for a long time and was at the LFS when a delayed shipment arrived. It was over 24hrs in shipping (probably more like 36). As they opened the boxes it was clear there was many DOAs. Well, they pull out a bag with this tang in it....and he swimming around not looking stressed at all. The owner of the LFS knew I wanted one, but thought this one would also die, so she said take it...half normal price, if it does die, ill replace it.

It went into a quarantine tank, no lights, lots of PVC pipe to hide in. Stayed there for 3 weks while I trained it to eat stuff besides nori. Then into my main tank.

It has done fine ever since. Hes definitely growing.

I think the main issue is not keeping them alive, but getting them healthy.

Paul.

[Julio]

nice tank, i can't wait to see the new tank stocked.

[pwhitby]

neither can my bank manager! (j/k)

[onetrickpony]

great tank 96-48-30-
how thick is the acrylic
thanks
ken

[pwhitby]

3/4 thickness.

[NexDog]

Nice, I'm jealous!

[pwhitby]

next decision is the stand. Two options: Steel, or wood. Wood I can do myself. Still getting quotes on the steel option. 2 inch steel tube powder coated 12 adjustable feet with a 3/4 inch ply top.

[Chrisrush]

Go with steel. Much more space under the tank and if you skin it right, it looks just like a wood stand.

Chris

[pwhitby]

im not too interested in space under the tank, since I dont plan on anything being there. I will skin it identical to a cabinet, from the front anyways.

P.

[pwhitby]

here is another pic I just received. The top and bottom are on, just waiting on the overflows.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/completetank-nooverflow-2.jpg

im getting excited.

[NexDog]

Yea, you're at the stage I'm at where the tank builder is teasing me with pics. That looks huge!

[pwhitby]

I would love to see the builder stood next to this, just to get a sense of perspective.

Hopefully it will be at my house in 2 weeks.

I think I am going with a steel stand. Found a local guy who will do the work for me.

P.

[pwhitby]

Hey NexDog, I see you are into Aikido. I own a JuJitsu and Kempo school.

[NexDog]

Yea, not training as much as I should these days but hope to be back to 2-3 times a day next year. Work so bloody hectic but I need to focus there so I can retire by the time I'm 40 ( :D ). All I want to do is tend to reef tanks, do Aikido and spend time with my kids. :)

Must be awsome to own your own schools. I would go that route if I was back in the UK.

[pwhitby]

Back in the UK ? Where are you from. I grew up in Nottingham. Where are you now? I have been in OK for 11years.

[NexDog]

I grew up near Southampton so a southern boy here. :) I left the UK in '96 and been in Japan since '98 except for one year that we had to go to Australia. I'm settling here now (Japan) and building a house as in the other thread (http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=664086) of mine. :)

[pwhitby]

ahhh, I remember reading that thread. Very nice.

[pwhitby]

Well.....guess what I will be doing this thursday??????

[NexDog]

Great! And you beat me too. Mine was supposed to be here today but there was some kind of mixup and shipping was delayed, blah, blah, blah. Hopefully it will be here next week.

[mmd]

Paul your current tank is incredible

[pwhitby]

Thanks Michael,

Im hoping my new one will be even better.

Cant wait to actually have it at my house.

Paul.

[CTS]

I cant wait to come back and follow this thread. Very nice!!

[oach]

Paul,

When you move the inhabitants from you current tank to the new are you going to move the sand also? If so, how much? I am going to be doing a tank upgrade next summer (just parting together now) and I was wondering how much of my sand would be ok to "bring" over?

[surg_xero]

8'x4' very nice footprint. Are you planning on implementing a DSB or BB?

[surg_xero]

If you don't mind me asking... What was the final price on the tank? And which company did you choose?

[jnb]

do you know much about the sheets - in two pics there seems to be two different products spartech polycast and on another cyro something, something

or is it just front and back of one sheet has different labeling

very curious as I design my next tank

i will be watching this thread - your reef life is gonna love you for the extra room


Originally posted by pwhitby
I just received a second round of pictures:
heres the front, cut, ready to be added.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/DSCN0133.jpg

here are partially assembled pics of the front:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/DSCN0132.jpg

the side:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/DSCN0130.jpg

and the back panel showing the detail of the overflow. The overflows are on the back, and are to be added.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/DSCN0131.jpg

Regards,

Paul..

[prostaff]

Hi Paul
Love your 220 tank. That is the idea I had for my mixed reef but I wanted to know if you have a problem with the zoas or mushrooms overtaking or stinging the sps. Do you have to constantly prune them back?

[pwhitby]

Yes....the mushrooms are a problem. The zoos are just fine, but kept much lower.

[pwhitby]

Well.....I actually got to see my new tank today.....and I have to say WOW. Its big.....much bigger in real life than the pictures show. The workmanship is awesome...im really impressed.

here are a few pics:

This is it sat on the dock waiting to be moved, from the back, showing the rear overflows.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/mynewtank.jpg

a better idea of the size can be had from this pic, the person in the forklift is the fabricator and the person at the tank end is Gary, the owner of ART from Oklahoma City who is supplying the tank.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/garytankforklift2.jpg

Ill post more later,

Paul.

[pwhitby]

heres a few more:

Gary From ART, waiting to move this beast
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/garydoorwaytank.jpg

Moving on out
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/garytankforklift.jpg

The team needed to offload into my grage (excuse the mess....)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/movingcrew.jpg
From left to Right: Tanner (non-reefer) TimV (vice president of COMAS), Chris (another non-reefer...but soon to be one), Gary, Doug (lazyreefer) and me.

And for size.....My tank and I
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/metank1.jpg

and my wife.....who has no problems with this beast entering our home....
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/lynntank1.jpg

Thats all for now.....
Paul.

[asnatlas]

Very nice looking, I can't wait to get mine here soon as its the same size, I know how big it will be as I made a mock up to make sure it would fit, but I still think I will be shocked once I see in person... Only mine is glass, but only planning on moving it once more after this time, and I will not be moving it, I am having the pros do it...

Shawn

[pwhitby]

6 of us moved this no problems whatsoever. Infact, probably 4 could have, but it would have been heavy.

It will be interesting getting it into the house.....
First I have to build a stand.

P

[NexDog]

The 30" tall doesn't seem so bad when you look at this pic:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/garydoorwaytank.jpg

That pic with you next to the tank really puts the monster into perspective. I've now decided that this is the most perfect size. In a few years I'll have to extend my office out an extra metre to fit one in. :)

[asnatlas]

Originally posted by NexDog
The 30" tall doesn't seem so bad when you look at this pic:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/garydoorwaytank.jpg

Wait until you have it up on a 30"+ stand with Lighting hanging over...

Shawn

[asnatlas]

Originally posted by NexDog
I've now decided that this is the most perfect size. In a few years I'll have to extend my office out an extra metre to fit one in. :)

Don't wait a few years, do it now :)

About 6 wks before I talked to Will about building my 600gal, I bought a used 220gal, got it home and then decided I wanted to go bigger... So right now I have a 220gal sitting in my garage that I have been cleaning up... I have decided that I will setup it up as a FOWLR plumbed into the same system as the 600gal for a total water vol of close to 1k if not a little over...

Shawn

[NexDog]

Shawn, just wont fit right. I would need to extend the tank room I built and the office. Even then the width would cause a squeeze....

As for the 30" tall, I'm building a swingdown rack that I can jump on and work on the tank and a sliding light rack.

[Red Sea Purple Tang]

There's just something sweet about a forklift carting a tank around!

[pwhitby]

My current tank is 30 tall on a 30 stand. No problems with lighting at all. This one is going to be much easier.

[pwhitby]

Originally posted by jnb
do you know much about the sheets - in two pics there seems to be two different products spartech polycast and on another cyro something, something

or is it just front and back of one sheet has different labeling

very curious as I design my next tank

i will be watching this thread - your reef life is gonna love you for the extra room

What you can see in the picture is the top of my tank (3/4 thickness) and sheets of much thinner stuff that has nothing to do with my tank. The entire tank is made of Spartech with the overflows made of the thinner material.

Does that answer the question?

Paul.

[pwhitby]

Originally posted by surg_xero
If you don't mind me asking... What was the final price on the tank? And which company did you choose?

Surg, I went with a custom unit based in Dallas. They dont advertise or take on private orders, they do however have distributors. They make the HUGE acrylic setups you see in public aquaria and the kind of setups you see in hotels etc....basically, they know their stuff. Plus the machinery they have is outstanding. As for price, they were really reasonable, I had a lot of quotes, they werent the cheapest, but they were certainly not the highest. As for quality to cost, I didnt think they could be beaten.

If you are looking for a quote on a tank, I would suggest you contact the supplier of my tank, Gary Walker at Aquatic Resources Technologies. My price included delivery to my home plus some other special concerns I had.

Gary's Contact info is: 405 491 1301

[pwhitby]

well....
One step closer. 4 dedicated 20 amp circuits were ran today.

Next job....the stand.

Paul.

[NexDog]

Sweet, did mine yesterday but decided on 2 30A circuits. I wanted 3 20A really but the electrician had already wired the fusebox with only 3 outlets to the tankroom.

When/how you building the stand? I got some sheet metal guys to do mine out of that tube steel stuff. hey are coming this afternoon to assemble and weld it. :D

[pwhitby]

im waitin on the quoite for the steel work. If its high, I will build from 4x4 wood. I have done a numer of large stands, so Im easy both ways. The only difference is that I would not have to do the steel stand myself.

One of local club members helped out on my electrics. He did a great Job, Thanks steve.

Paul.

[hoot214]

man nice tank pics

[asnatlas]

Originally posted by pwhitby
im waitin on the quoite for the steel work. If its high, I will build from 4x4 wood. I have done a numer of large stands, so Im easy both ways. The only difference is that I would not have to do the steel stand myself.

One of local club members helped out on my electrics. He did a great Job, Thanks steve.

Paul.

You will not need 4x4, that is really OVERKILL... I mean if you look at dgasmd stand, his was built from 2x6's and as you can see its very solid... Mine only has two 2x6s and the rest of it is 2x4s... Mine does not look at "soild" as dgasmd's, but I think it will be fine...

http://www.kpdg.com/alberto/750g%20tank/Stand/08.jpg

dgasmd thread (http://www.reeffrontiers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=5253)

Shawn

[asnatlas]

Forgot to state that dgasmds tank is also (120"x48"x30") 750g...

Shawn

[pwhitby]

Thanks Shawn,

Thats food for thought.

Here are a couple of pics of stands myself and TimV (the VP of our club in Oklahoma have built).

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/DSCN0770.jpg

and the inside was baraced all the way with 2x4s in the corners, a single 2x4 on the front middle and 2 2x4s in the mid back. The top and bottom are 2x4 frames as well.....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/DSCN0767.jpg

so you can see.....I have a tendancy to overbuild.


Having just had the new 4 20A circuits ran for the new tank....I wonder why I had never done this before..........I already have 2 of them connected to the old tank to remove a couple of cables I had snaking across the floor.

Regards,

Paul.

[asnatlas]

Originally posted by pwhitby
Here are a couple of pics of stands myself and TimV (the VP of our club in Oklahoma have built).

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/DSCN0770.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/DSCN0767.jpg

Nice looking stand :)

Shawn

[pwhitby]

heres another.....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/tank-final.jpg

a little too dark for my tastes, really, but looked really nice when it was installed.

The basic idea for the stand I have in mind is for it to be built into the wall, but protrude by about 6 inches from the wall. Then I will face the tank front and sides with cabinetry, that way I get the "in wall" with storage space underneath the stand. (that will keep my wife happy).

The tank will sit on a ring of 4x4 with 2x4 cross bracings. Each end will have 3 legs, one one ach corner and one middle. This will be repeated across the center of the tank, to give 9 main supports. The legs will sit directly on a structure same as the top.

The top will have a 3/4 ply layer which will be sealed and a styrofoam layer glued down onto that.

Overall the stand will be 30-32 inches tall.

Paul.

[surg_xero]

what livestock are you planning on stocking with 4' of width to work with?

[pwhitby]

I just answered that In another thread.....

let me copy and paste....

My Fish List:
this is what I have and what I would like to add.

Already have:
Regal Tang
Whitecheek-Powder brown
Yellow Tang
Clown Tang
Purple Tang
SaIlfin Tang
10 Damsels (varying blues and yellows)
Mandarin
Six Line Wrasse
4 Line Wrasse
Yellow Wrasse
Mated Percs
mated tomatoes
bluethroat trigger
pearlscale butterfly

Would like to add:
4 Purple tangs
4 yellow tangs
30 green chromis
2 snowflake eels

That should pretty much do it I think.

[surg_xero]

quite impressive, I would enjoy seeing the yellow and purple gangs strut by eachother.

[PalmTree]

Looking good! Just wanted to say what a great job you're doing!

[surg_xero]

paul,
What kind of equipment is in planning? Are you trying to lean more towards livestock or reef? I'm interested in your choice of main circulation pump(s), skimmer, cal reactor? I'm new to the large reef forum and am unfimiliar with some of the larger volume equipment companies. Would you consider ASM for a skimmer, or this that considered a tiny tank company?

[pwhitby]

Well....

I already have an arctica 1/2hp chiller
Large Deltec Skimmer
Knop calcium reactor, so I am set up on equipment. I plan on a single closed loop, undecided on pump as yet, maybe through an oceans motion unit (4 way). Ill probably use a Tunze wavebox and several tunzes inside the tank as well.

Ill run 400W XMs (4) and maybe 250W 10K hamiltons as supplement.

I plan on reef and fish....so well see how it works out.
As for the ASM, Im not familiar with them to b able to answer that, sorry.

P.

[pwhitby]

well, no new pictures.

But just to give an update......I did chat with a custom steel fabricator today regarding a steel stand. Probably 2 inch steel tube, powder coated. I have to go visit with them and work through some designs, but its another step forward. The basic design is as shown below:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/standsm.jpg

I have decided to change a couple things though....I may do away with the adjustable feet and increase the heigh to 34 inches. My door way is 35, so that the limit.

Once the 3/4 ply and styrofoam is on that will add approx 1 inch more.

Paul.

[Bishop]

Paul, looking good... I keep missing the damn meetings, I'll have to set a reminder for the next one.

[pwhitby]

Next one is at TimVs house...he has a really nice tank, one well worth looking at.

paul.

[onetrickpony]

Looks like it is all coming together
On the stand
I would put adjustable feet on the perimeter only
I would think the ones in the center would be very hard to get too
If you could just go with 4 or 6
You could build the sides like roof trusses to carry the weight
Can’t wait to see more
Ken

[Ixthys]

Aren't the purpose of the adjustable feet to level the stand before putting on the tank? So why wouldn't you want them at all points of contact with the ground?

[pwhitby]

Ixthys. Yes thats correct. the more adjustable feet you have, the better. It allows leveling and weight distribution.

Paul.

[pwhitby]

well....I ordered the stand today. Steel with a powder coated finish. I was tempted to go with the "shocking fluorescent yellow" but decided on black. Made from 2 inch square steel tube.

10 more days and ill be good to go!!!

Im guessing the stand will weigh a fair amount.

[TheCoralReef731]

Wow, this is one amazing thread. 600 gallons is a lot. Do you have plans to get more live rock, or are you going to make a live rock stand/rack? Can't wait to keep seeing the progress.

[dustin Combs]

p,

glad to hear you are going with the steel tube stand. We are going to need a forklift to move it though. keep us updated when the big move is.

[pwhitby]

TCR..

I already have about 1,000lbs rock. My 225 has over 500 lbs and I have a huge vat with cured rock in it.

I intend to build racks and make shelves to allow fish to move throughout the tank, both in front and behind the rockwork.

[NexDog]

Paul, got any shots of your 225? Want to see what 250kg of rock looks like as I'm trying to gauge how much LR to order for my 340.

[NexDog]

Also see that you also have a clown tang in your 225. There has been a few threads about this fish lately in the Reef Fishes forum so maybe you could add your experiences to this (http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=719255) thread. I really want one but the case against them seems so strong. Be interested to hear how you've fared with one.

[pwhitby]

sure.....
How about these?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/wholetanksept82005.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/tanksidesept82005.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/lhssept82005.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/speckledcroceasept2005.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/fulltank.jpg

this ones from over a year ago, you can see the corals have grown a lot since then. (compared with 2nd picture in this set...taken a month or so ago)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/tanksidecopy.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/midtankfeb2005.jpg

hows that?

Paul.

[NexDog]

Not bad. ;)

:p

So that's what 250kg of LR looks like?

[pwhitby]

Pretty much. I dont know the exact amount, but I am guessing around 500lbs.

I also have some beach rock I bought back from a recent trip to Hawaii. It is legal to collect so long as it DEAD and bleached. I asked the customs agents and the USDA people at the airport if it was OK to take....I bought over 120lbs of that.

heres the pile:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/rocks.jpg

it doesnt look much but that pile is about 3 feet by 2 feet wide and about 2 high. It is incredibly light since it has been drying on the top of the beach for probably months. This rock is now in a 100gal vat with old tank water to build up the bacterial population.

Over the last month or so I have been performing lots of water changes on my 225, the water from there goes into my 100g frag tank. The water from the frag tank goes into the rock tanks. The water from there is discarded. Have to recycle!

Paul.

[Black71gp]

where did you find all that rock just on the beach? i have a good friend in the navy out there and i have been trying to get him to get me some rock.. hes really busy but i though if i new where to tell him to look..... i have been folowing your post for a while. i cant wait to see the tank go up. when i build my house i am getting a 600 want to be in the club..lol perfect size tank i would say.. cant wait to see it keep us updated

[pwhitby]

Just lying on the beach. all over the beach....everywhere.

[asnatlas]

Originally posted by pwhitby
Just lying on the beach. all over the beach....everywhere.

How did you bring back 120lbs of rock ??

[pwhitby]

80lbs in bags (2 people 2 bags each) shipped 40lbs.

costs bout $1 per pound to mail.

[nickb]

Looks like dinosaur bones :)

[Black71gp]

i think i need to make a call today and send him 100 bucks and have him ship me 100 lbs..lol...

[pwhitby]

I just went to visit with the guys building my stand....I have to say...I was really impressed.

They have already begun the welding. Modified my design slightly to add extra supports, but looking really good. here are a few pics. It was dark in there and the flash didnt really pull all the detail out, but you can get an idea.

Heres what its being made from
2 inch 11 gauge material.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/2inchtubesteel.jpg

and heres the progress to date.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/stand1a.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/stand4.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/stand3.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/stand2.jpg

they are hoping to get the powder coating done tonight!

The stand was manufactured to within 1/32 tolerance. Cant beat that.

Paul.

[JazzMan]

Paul - How did you find these people to make your stand. I am trying to do the same in NJ, but can't find anyone to make the stand.

[Bishop]

Paul,
Powdercoaters Plus in the city is probably one of the best in the region and they have the capacity for such things... I've used them for stands in the past and always been very satisifed...

I've used others in the area and always have pinning problems a month or two after setup.

[pwhitby]

Bishop,

Gilmores came with a high recommendation from people that have used them in the past.

Thanks for the info though,

Paul.

[pwhitby]

Jim,

I had them recommended to me, but ask you local LFS who they use for large tank installs.

P.

[Bishop]

Just make sure and specify a thickness; on the order of 20thou or so...

[asnatlas]

Very nice looking stand :) Do you know about how much it will weight ??


BTW, you have an e-mail from me...

[pwhitby]

bout 300-350lb

replied Shawn

[cmulawka]

How much for the stand????

[pwhitby]

a lot....but worth it

[cmulawka]

whell i was thinking of getting a metal stand for my 540 should i just build one out of wood? i really doint want to pay that much for a stand was it over 500 because i can do a wood one for that amount

[Carman34L]

aahh, that stand should have cost no less than $200.00 My family has owned a metal fab shop for decades and the supplies were probably under $100.00, and another $100 for time and labor. anything more than that you paid the "oh it has to do with a saltwater aquarium" price.

[pwhitby]

Carman. The purchase price of the steel is approx $1.50 per linear foot....I have 120 linear feet. The welding took approximately a day. The powder coating was in excess of your $100 estimate for supplies.

I actually know the fabricators. The "oh saltwater " factor was not a factor. Maybe if you can supply stands like this for 200 you should be advertising them. Im sure you could make a great deal of money.



Cmulawaka, yes it was over 500.

[chetm2]

Any new pictures? Sounds pretty incredible.

[pwhitby]

I wont see the stand again till thursday, Ill try and get some pictures then.

P.

[asnatlas]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=6280440#post6280440 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by cmulawka
whell i was thinking of getting a metal stand for my 540 should i just build one out of wood? i really doint want to pay that much for a stand was it over 500 because i can do a wood one for that amount

Are you talking about a totally finished wooden stand ?? I hope so as I only have maybe 150 to 200 in my stand (96x48x30) but that is just the main framing, I still need to get molding and skin it...

[cmulawka]

whelll look at the 240g in my gallery it cost 500 for stand and canopy I was just interested in how much a steel one would compare to it I think I am going to go wood stand and just paint the frame to protect it asnatlas do you have any pics of your stand so i can maybe get some ideas? Phil sorry about the hijack.

[pwhitby]

I have built a number of really nice stands all from wood. The "stand" part is relatively cheap......the skinning can get expensive. Heres a few pics of my previous stuff.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/DSCN0770.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/DSCF0642.jpg

and finally......cmulawka....dont hijack my thread....or this could be you:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/2.jpg

Just kidding.....I just found this picture of my other hobby.....fortunately I am the guy in the blue.

Ill post more on my stand as I get more pics. Feel free to discuss the stands on this thread.
Paul.

[cmulawka]

hahaha you win no more talk about stands this thread is all you

[pwhitby]

I noticed you posted about wood stand design, you should add the dimensions you are thinking of, I saw some pictures this morning in a thread by Sixxer I believe. Lots of construction pics, but unsure of the size he is doing.

Paul.

[JackRent]

I think we should start an "8 footer club" my new tank will only be 450 gallons but i still want to be included in this elite club !
LOL

[pwhitby]

Hey Jack,

I cant wait to see my tangs swim that 8 feet.

[BrianPlankis]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=6282672#post6282672 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by pwhitby
I have built a number of really nice stands all from wood. The "stand" part is relatively cheap......the skinning can get expensive. Heres a few pics of my previous stuff.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/DSCN0770.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/DSCF0642.jpg

Paul.

Paul,

A question for you, how did you cut the wood for the trim at 45 degrees? What equipment did you use? I built my own stand and canopy and the 45 degree angles turned out terrible:

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y45/garagebrian/DIY/place02.jpg

When I build my bigger tank, if it isn't in wall, I want to do the 45 degree angles correctly.

Thanks,

Brian

[pwhitby]

I used a dewalt compound miter saw.

[asnatlas]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=6282703#post6282703 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by pwhitby
I noticed you posted about wood stand design, you should add the dimensions you are thinking of, I saw some pictures this morning in a thread by Sixxer I believe. Lots of construction pics, but unsure of the size he is doing.

Paul.

Paul is right... A link is below to sixxer's thread, Mine is similar, a little different, I will have pics on my thread here soon I hope, have been some delays :(

sixxer's thread (http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=6282094#post6282094)

My thread (http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&postid=6282198#post6282198)

[asnatlas]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=6282865#post6282865 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by pwhitby
Hey Jack,

I cant wait to see my tangs swim that 8 feet.

I am with you, I can't wait to see how the fish act in an 8x4...

BTW, remind me not to make you mad at me :)

[pwhitby]

update time.

The stand is finished and is light enough for two people to move easily enough. I estimate around 300lbs.

Here are a few pics:

First off the full thing:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/finishedstand2.jpg

and

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/finishedstand1.jpg

the top:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/finishedstand4.jpg

and i tried to get a pic to show how flat the finished tube work was...you can get the idea from this I think.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/finishedstand3.jpg

Hope to get this to my house next week ready for the tank to sit on.

Paul.

[JazzMan]

Are you putting this tank on a slab foundation?

[pwhitby]

yes. Its on a 3-4 inch slab

[pwhitby]

Im really glad I went steel, sure it was more expensive but I didnt spend a day or two building it and its light weight. Gives a lot more space underneath as well.

I dont have to worry about my wooodworking being perfectly flat on top nor about the wood flexing over time. I understand that not all can afford to go this route, not sure I can....but all in all...Im happy.

[Kent E]

Can you give a ball park figure on this type of stand? Not trying to pry, just curious if the benifits of this style out weighs the cost.

[hdtvguy]

Now that is a nice stand. Looking good:)

[pwhitby]

700

[KEEPERZ]

pwhitby- I suggest you either weld
those open ends shut or at the very least
get plastic end caps, it is a small chance,
but the last thing you need is for the metal
to rust from the inside out- just a thought. What thickness tubing is used on your stand?

[pwhitby]

the tubes are 2 inch 11 gauge and I am capping them.

[NexDog]

Paul, sure you can get it into the house? :D

I had my steel stand assembled on site. It was nut and bolted together rather than welded.

[pwhitby]

Funny how many people ask me that.

My door is 35 inches.
the stand is 32 tall. Turn it sideways and in she slips.

P.

[NexDog]

Yes...but. How about corners? :p

[pwhitby]

my house is very open plan. I have doorways between rooms that are 6 feet wide. Its no problem really.

I posted this a while back, but shows the room layout. Its not to scale but the tank comes the door into the hallway. Then into the lounge and through the large opening in to the dining room.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/roomlayout-tank.jpg

Paul.

[NexDog]

Sweet. So you building the wall around the tank. Gotcha.

[asnatlas]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=6295548#post6295548 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by pwhitby
Funny how many people ask me that.

My door is 35 inches.
the stand is 32 tall. Turn it sideways and in she slips.

P.

LOL people ask me about the same thing with my tank... If it's 8x4, how are you going to get it into the basement LOL, well it's only 30" high, Turn it sideways and once you get to the bottom of the stairs it opens up into almost 14' wide room... Now a 300lbs stand is a little easier then a 1000lb tank LOL...

[pwhitby]

Hi Laurence, yes thats exactly the plan.

P.

[Gwalker]

So Paul, do you plan on putting a 3/4" (or so) thick deck on the stand then topped off with a styro or pink insultation foam??

Gary

[pwhitby]

Thats my plan....someone told me to glue the styrodown to ensure it doesnt slide as well.

[sixxer]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=6302421#post6302421 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by pwhitby
Thats my plan....someone told me to glue the styrodown to ensure it doesnt slide as well.

Paul,

I just strapped my styrofoam down with duct-tape and then tore it off after the tank was set, no sliding issues with the foam.

[asnatlas]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=6303060#post6303060 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by sixxer
Paul,

I just strapped my styrofoam down with duct-tape and then tore it off after the tank was set, no sliding issues with the foam.

I did the same; I just used duck tape to secure the pink foam to the top of the stand... I also used two layers of 6mil plastic over the top of the stand for that extra layer of waterproofing...

[pwhitby]

i like the idea of the plastic sheeting. The top section of wood is going to be painted with a waterproof paint, but the more waterproofing, the merrier.

P.

[asnatlas]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=6305422#post6305422 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by pwhitby
i like the idea of the plastic sheeting. The top section of wood is going to be painted with a waterproof paint, but the more waterproofing, the merrier.

P.

I agree... I painted mine, then put some duck tape around the edges, then covered that with a layer of 6mil plastic, then taped down the 1/2" pink foam then over that another layer of 6mil plastic...

[pwhitby]

Im in the process of figuring water flow options....I was thinking of a sequence 4200 pump connected to an OceansMotions 4 way. Each of the outlets would be split to give 8 returns in total. Two of thse would be at the front of the tank...the rest on the sides and back. Heres the basic idea.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/flowcopy.jpg

add to that a couple tunzes on a controller or a wavebox....I think im set.

Any comments?

Paul.

[steve68]

Sweet!!!

[chetm2]

What about a couple of you closed loop returns coming up thru the bottom of the tank, maybe thru the rock work to keep junk from accumulating around your rock? I like how your splitting the OM to get a total of 8 returns. Does this affect the OM any doing this?

[pwhitby]

It doesnt affect the OM at all.

I prefer to have my water flow over the corals. The returns from the sump will probably drop down below the rockwork.

Paul.

[sixxer]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=6310919#post6310919 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by pwhitby
Im in the process of figuring water flow options....I was thinking of a sequence 4200 pump connected to an OceansMotions 4 way. Each of the outlets would be split to give 8 returns in total. Two of thse would be at the front of the tank...the rest on the sides and back. Heres the basic idea.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/flowcopy.jpg

add to that a couple tunzes on a controller or a wavebox....I think im set.

Any comments?

Paul.

I like your idea about the 4-way.

I am now thinking of running a closed loop of a Seq. Hammerhead with the eight nozzles coming up thru the bottom of the tank.

One hammerhead to run returns down right side of tank which will be broken down to 4 nozzles.

Same thing on the left side of the tank.

All with directional nozzles giving me 16 nozzles in total to adjust flow.

Then add one or Two Waveboxes and I am set.

[pwhitby]

Sounds like a plan!

Paul.

[asnatlas]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=6316845#post6316845 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by sixxer
I like your idea about the 4-way.

I am now thinking of running a closed loop of a Seq. Hammerhead with the eight nozzles coming up thru the bottom of the tank.

One hammerhead to run returns down right side of tank which will be broken down to 4 nozzles.

Same thing on the left side of the tank.

All with directional nozzles giving me 16 nozzles in total to adjust flow.

Then add one or Two Waveboxes and I am set.

sixxer, I know it would be a little more, but maybe use 2x 4-ways and 2x Darts ?? That way if something happens you still have 1/2 of your CL working... You can set it up so that 2 outlets from each 4-way is supplying both sides of the tank...

[asnatlas]

Wait, just re-read what you typed and it sounds like you are going to do what I said but with 2x Hammerheads and 2x 8-ways ??

[chetm2]

I think it's just one 4 way split into 8 returns.

[pwhitby]

mine is one 4 way...split

[pwhitby]

This is my basic layout for the fish room. This will be in my garage, the pipes to and from the tank will go through the wall at floor level. In this diagram they appear to go straight up, but that was just easier to draw.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/fishroom.jpg

My stand arrived today, so Im ready to begin.

[Gwalker]

Paul,

Your going to have to put a little more detail in you layout. I mean man, you don't have any numbers on the Co2 pressure guage. Hows anyone going to know whats going on here?? Seriously though, can I get you to do my plumbing layouts from now on!?

Gary

[asnatlas]

I see some of us have way too much time on our hands :) I like it, How about you make one for me now...

[JEFFR0]

thats some nice corals you got there but my tank is bigger and better

p.s. i have a nano

[Untamed12]

Could you elaborate on the lighting you have planned for that tank? One of your super diagrams would be perfect! I'm interested in placement and wattage, particularly of the MHs.

My simplistic view says you put one MH every 2 sq.ft.....that would be 8 bulbs located nicely above the 4 openings in the top. Is that basically the plan?

[pwhitby]

pretty much.

I plan on a row of 400w 20K xms located tp the rear and a row of 250W 15K or 14K in front of those.

I run 4 400w over my 225g, and with just two on it is still pretty bright, So I think this configuration will work well.

Paul.

[pwhitby]

My Bulkheads arrived today, 16 1.5inch bulkheads and 2 strainers.

The larger Sc80s have come from Savko ready for the overflows. I still need to order the OM 4 way and a reef flo pump, but Im guessing it will be a few weeks before they are needed.

The next step is to mark out my dining room and get the edge of the tiles cut ready to take up. I had laid tile in this room a while back not thinking that i would be doing such a large tank.....Im glad I hadnt grouted them in. I hate grouting and I would be mad if I had wasted my time doing that.

Here is a shot of my dining room, as it stands right now:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/diningroom1.jpg

As you can see, it is quite long. The chest thing on the left side is the housing for my current sump. That will be going. You can see the window on the right which is where the flase wall will be going.

As I said, next job is to mark the tiles where the stand and false wall will be and get them up.....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/diningroom4.jpg

thats my task for the weekend.

Paul

[Bebo77]

dang this will be something to see!!!!!!

nice tank...

[pwhitby]

Thanks Gabriel, if its not "something to see' I do believe my wife may castrate me.

P.

[Bebo77]

LOL i am sure with the all the hard work and time you are putting in there wont be any worries of that happening.....

unless she finds out what the true cost of everything is.....;)

[polywise]

pwhitby,

I was looking at your pictures, and wonering if you are going to have a issue with the HVAC supply that is mounted in the ceiling?
It will be enclosed in your new room behind the tank. I hope it is not the only one for that zone of your house. Do you plan on moving it?

[DerekW]

Why are you taking the tile up?

[pwhitby]

the AC vent is going to be moved inot the room in front of the tank. The old vent will be left open to the loft. A window fan will draw air through the vent and out the window, keeping heat and hmidity in the "behind tank" are to a minimum.

Derek: I have to remove the tile so the stand rests on concrete and doesnt shatter the tile and become unstable.

Paul.

[okinawafish]

Don't forget about the fire alarm :D

[DerekW]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=6447601#post6447601 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by pwhitby Derek: I have to remove the tile so the stand rests on concrete and doesnt shatter the tile and become unstable.

Paul. [/B]

I wouldn't think the ceramic would ever crack under the weight, assuming it is installed correctly and has good thinset coverage, alot of people purposely install tile before putting their tanks in.

I would be worried that it would be more uneven if you can't get the tile mortar off all the way to the bare cement. Plus...it's just alot of freakin' work! :)

[juststartingout]

Interesting tank, nice job. I was curious while reading this thread, if you were on a beamed wood floor and what your plan was for support. You mentioned the stand resting on concrete, I assume you are on a slab then?

[pwhitby]

yes its a slab.

Derek, I laid the tile. What you say is fine in a perfect world, however, one small area of the stand that may sit proud will certalinl crack a tile. Ceramic tiles are not really pressure rated. Once one tile cracks it becomes a chain event.

I lad these tiles. Taking them and the mortar up underneath is not a major problem.

P.

[pwhitby]

Well...i did the task I set myself this weekend:

Some pics for those photo junkies out there.

I laid out the wall and the base of the tank in painters tape on the floor. I dont have tile laid where my sump currently sits (on the LHS) do only one side of the wall and the tank are laid out.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/outline2.jpg

The tank sticks out from the false wall by 6 inches.

So....tile saw in hand I cut the line at the front so I dont need to re-lay those tiles. Then, 14lb hammer in hand and a cold chisel and pry bar....i began stripping tile.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/having_fun2.jpg

Next job, layouit the base struts of the stand and remove every tile that touches the stand.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/leg_positioning.jpg

then clean up....(I hate that part)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/finalcut-floor.jpg

If anyone is wondering why I left some tiles down, it makes it easier to realign the tile on the day I come to re-lay the tile when I may sell my home. Hopefully not for a while.

Next step....Get the current sump for my 225 moved and then get the stand in and positioned.

Paul.

[cseeton]

Hope you kept some tiles from the original batch if you want to re-tile down the line! Otherwise, color and texture will be impossible....

[pwhitby]

Yes, I have BOXES.....lol

[pwhitby]

Well I finally managed to find time to strip the cabinet out that housed my sump for the 225 and get the satnd in and in position.

As I expected there is a bow in the floor under the stand so I will be shimming it out.

Next step is to move the sump so I can work on the stand a little better. Here are a few pics:

In this one you can see the stand central to the room,

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/stand-diningroom.jpg

as you can see I will have plenty of room to move about the tank, even after the false wall is installed.

This picture adds perspective, my wife, Lynn is stood behind the stand.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/stand-lynn-1.jpg

Paul.

[NexDog]

Paul, you think that's alot of space but you'll soon wish you had an extra metre. I have the same kind of space and it's just not enough. Good luck!!

[asnatlas]

Looks like about 3" from the back of the stand to the wall ?? I think that should be a good amount of space... I am sure he prob wants alot more :) but have to work with what you got... I am finding out on my fish room that the 150gal poly tubs are going to be taking up a little more room what I would like, but I have to work with them or look into something custom…

[pwhitby]

there is just under 4 feet behind and 22 inches either side. I think that gives me room to move round the tank. There will be no equipment on this side of the wall, it will all be in the garage the other side of the back wall.

Paul.

[OCDep]

WOW...thats going to be impressive.....cant wait till its up and going.

[pwhitby]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=6554230#post6554230 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by OCDep
WOW...thats going to be impressive.....cant wait till its up and going.


Neither can I....however, its progress will be delayed a little. I discovered a water leak today under my slab in another part of the house. Time to chop concrete up!

Paul.

[asnatlas]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=6554481#post6554481 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by pwhitby
Neither can I....however, its progress will be delayed a little. I discovered a water leak today under my slab in another part of the house. Time to chop concrete up!

Paul.

DOH, I am sorry to hear... Hopefully it’s not too bad...

[pwhitby]

we shall see.......i know its blowing 50g day through the leak.

[baggedcrewcab]

Awsome looking setup.My question is did they powder coat inside the tubes where they did not cap the ends off. If not they could rust from inside out.Tubing is more suseptical to rust from the inside.Salt in they air could cause unseen problems inside the tubing.

[asnatlas]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=6562280#post6562280 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by baggedcrewcab
Awsome looking setup.My question is did they powder coat inside the tubes where they did not cap the ends off. If not they could rust from inside out.Tubing is more suseptical to rust from the inside.Salt in they air could cause unseen problems inside the tubing.

Salt is not in the air unless it splashes... That is why if you have Salt water that evaporates, your SG will go up as the % of salt to water is increasing due to the decrease of water... I am not saying he does not need to seal those ends, just pointing out that salt does not enter the air unless it sprays / splashes...

[pwhitby]

while im not overly concerned about the open ends i will be sealing them. Im inserting a square of sponge foam and the filling the open hole with black silicone to match the stand.

P.

[pwhitby]

Yeah Shawn has the right of it, im nor concerned about splashes, the coating goes pretty well inside the tubes. Im doing it more for the aesthetics....and because i dont like the ends of the tubes being open.

P.

[pwhitby]

wellthe leak was in excess of 100g/day...but its fixed. Made a big hole in my kitchen floor tho....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/hole4.jpg

once i fix the ac duct that was corroded i can backfill, seal and lay concrete, then its back to the tank work!!

P.

[Kent E]

Don't understand was the leak from tank plumbing or is it totally unrelated?

[pwhitby]

Totally unrelated. Just one of those things that crops up to slow you down from doing the jobs you want to do.

Paul.

[Tava176]

Now that you have the kitchen floor dug up, you might as well put a floor drain in. Might save your butt if the tank ever leaks.....


Plus, you can always put a tile over the drain if you ever sell the house.
:)

Great thread by the way! Can't wait to see the rest!

[DerekW]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=6589058#post6589058 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by pwhitby
wellthe leak was in excess of 100g/day...but its fixed. Made a big hole in my kitchen floor tho....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/hole4.jpg

once i fix the ac duct that was corroded i can backfill, seal and lay concrete, then its back to the tank work!!

P.
We're always looking for laborors to do crappy work like removing ceramics and floors...You have a job waiting for you if "Scientist-ing" doesn't work out for you.
:)

[DerekW]

What gave the leak awy? You're water bill?

[pwhitby]

Actually...I could feel the heat under the kitchen floor.

[pwhitby]

For anyone following this thread........I will post all further updates on my Clubs forum....

You can pick the updates up from this link:

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=665314&perpage=25&pagenumber=12

that way I dont have to post everything twice. Feel free to come tag along and ask any questions in that thread.

Thanks,

Paul.

[NexDog]

I'll tag along over there. :)

[downlimit]

Well it looks awesome so far, looking forward to see the final pics of your setup.

[alien9168]

did the water damage put a serius rut in your plans for this project?
-alien

[pwhitby]

Sorry for taking so log to reply Alien, yeah it really did. It took 2 weeks out of my time schedule....but things are back online again.

I just did the first part of the drilling,

I aded all the updates in my other thread on our clubs forum.
if anyones interested, take a look and feel free to ask questions, make comments. This pics up from where I left off on this thread.

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=665314&perpage=25&pagenumber=11

if anyones interested, take a look and feel free to ask questions, make comments.

Paul.

[alien9168]

That stinks, glad your back on track! :D

-alien

[Reef Man]

any update?

[asnatlas]

Click on the link below for his "main" thread...

LINK (http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=665314)

[pwhitby]

Well....heres an update, its been a while. Most details are in the thread linked to above
I finally managed to get time to work on my new rack working:

The problem was the rock was too intrusive and not at all natural looking. Ultimately it came down to rushing the job and not spending the time to do it properly. I corrected one side (left side) this weekend.


The old rack work was a two tiered piece that extended 30 inches forward and was about 18 inches tall: When the rock was laid on top it just looked like a big hump:





so........

I wanted to create a more open and natural looking structure. I alos wanted to take advantage of the way the lighting falls on the sand. Heres what i did.

I stripped the rock out, removed the rack. I then made a nbew rack that was only 10 inches tall. This was tall enough to go over the top of my CL returns. The rack was 10 inches wide, and extended around the LHS back corner to come forward by 12 inches. The idea was to make a tunnel extending from the LHS corner to the middle back.

I then made two PVC holders to support two pillars of rock:

First off I drilled a bunch of the flatter pieces of rock i had. I did this one end where possible. Then I made the holder:



to show how it assembles, here a couple more pics:




one of the pillars was placed at the back near the rack and the other in the middle of the LHS. The rock was added to them and then rock jumbled about the base to make canyons and hide the opening of the cave.

Corals were placed on and around the pillars, some holes were bored into the LR to make space for frags.

Here is the LHS middle pillar:


the LHS in total




Unfortunately, pictures dont capture the depth that re-scaping has made. I am very happy with the improvements. Now I need to work the same ideas on the RHS.

P.

[pwhitby]

this may help visualize it a little better:

http://www.flowinghand.net/images/dscf0303.avi

http://www.flowinghand.net/images/dscf0302.avi

its slightly blue since i cant white balance with my digital camera in movie mode.

Hopefully, you get the idea.

P


__________________

[purpletang26]

hey paul i would like to see a diagram of the lighting on the tank when you get a chance. trying to figiure something out for my 857gallon thanks chris

[pwhitby]

I have 6 400w bulbs at present. On the LHS of the tank the5re are 4 bulbs ( 2 over each opening) and on the RHS there are 2 bulbs, 1 each central to each opening. I added 2 T5s last night to the front of the RHS and will add another 2 T5s to the back soon.

I am experimenting with MH-T5 combos.

Paul.

[ReefWaters]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7900553#post7900553 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by pwhitby
I am experimenting with MH-T5 combos.

Paul.

Im sure you've seen it already but have you checked out the lighting on the current TOTM? I would definately say he is running a combo of T5s and MH. ;) :D


Also, I definately like the new aquascaping better. It's much more dynamic and interesting. You will get a lot more enjoyment out of it IMO.

[pwhitby]

If you didnt notice..........my aquascaping mimics Ralf's. He and I have spoken with each other a couple of times. His tank is more open than mine, so that lighting works well for him. I am trying to go with a row of 4 MH down the middle supplemented with 2 rows of T5s (one in front and one behind) each of which has 2 or 3 T5s in.

So far, I like the color of the two T5s I have infront of two of the 400w halides.

I now have to work on rescaping the other side....but all in its own fair time.

P.

[olemos]

What thickness is the acrylic on your tank ? and is there a particular name for the type of acrylic you used?

[pwhitby]

it is I believe cell cast.

Its 3/4 inch

[olemos]

Im looking to build something similar and was under the impression that for a tank that size you would need to use thicker material, but if 3/4 works, that makes a big difference in the price of the materials.

thanks and keep up the good work you doing a awesome job :)

[pwhitby]

Olemos

click on the red house, there isa lot more information in that thread.

Paul.

[pwhitby]

Hi all.........

well the left side is pretty much done. I made two more pillars same as the last two, did a wrap around ledge across the far left side corner. The wrap around ledge allows fish to move from the left corner of the tank to the right back corner without becoming visible. There is also an entrance/exit in the midle. The fish do seem to like that extended tunnel.

Anyway:
here are a few pics;

The new pillar narest the middle of the tank
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/pillar2.jpg

the two pillars:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/2pillars.jpg

and a really crappy, but fast loading mini video of the layout.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/th_DSCF0374.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/?action=view&current=DSCF0374.flv)

the tank still needs to clear a little after the rearranging. Once it does so i will take more pictures.

Paul.

[pwhitby]

The other side (RHS)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/9.jpg

and the first pillar I made:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/8.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/6.jpg

[dcook]

Hey is that a Pearl scale butterfly fish I thought they werent reef safe?:confused:

[pwhitby]

Mine is 2 years old. It touched one coral, an LPS brain. It devoured it in a day.

other than that, they are fine (in my experience). They keep aptasia at bay. It eats flake food and pics at rocks all day long.

Paul.

[pwhitby]

Well, I think I am finally done with the main part of the aquascaping. All that remains to be done is fill in a few spots that still have PVC visible, but that pretty easy to do.

Here is the finished product:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/wholetank.jpg

the right side:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/rhstank.jpg

the left side:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/rhs.jpg

the view down the length (from left side)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/rightpanel.jpg


and the view from the right side:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/rightpanel2.jpg


Im pretty happy with how this now looks. I cant wait for the corals to start covering the rock and getting my corals out of quarantine and into the tank.

I have my next 4 fish in quarantine (2 six lines and 2 christmas wrasses). Once they come out I have to decide on the next set of fish. Im debating anthias or a large shoal of chromis, thens its a naso and a blue throat trigger. That may do for a while.

Hope you like,

Paul.

[Walter Costa]

Hi Paul;

I don't need to say that you have my(and most every one :-)) dream reef.

Very well project and done.

I don't know if I've missed something but would be nice to see some picts of your final setup. like sumps, pumps and equipment

[pwhitby]

walter, many thanks for the kind words.

Details of the equipment and stuff can be found by clicking on the redhouse....it links to a thread in my clubs forum.

I havent posted pics of the sump since I am still working on what will become the fish room....or the room formerly known as my garage.

Paul.

[Sanjay]

paul:

are you rock pillar "glued" or being held by cable ties ?

I am starting to think about aquascaping and looking for ideas.

sanjay.

[pwhitby]

Hi Sanjay,

No my pillars are purely balanced on top of each other with a pvc pipe running up through a hole drilled through each piece of rock.

The base/load is supported by a cross brace and two "T"s. See the pictures below:

the bare base/support
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/pillar1copy.jpg

loading with rock, at random,

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/pillar2copy.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/pillar3copy.jpg

then the rock was removed, space made in the tank and the pillar reassembled and corals wedged/glued in place.

and then the finished product in the tank:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/8.jpg

and after 6 weeks with T5s over this pillar:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/top_of_pillar4.jpg

[Sanjay]

Thanks, this is very much along the lines I was thinking.... but I was also planning to use Thorite to glue the rock formation together.

sanjay.

[pwhitby]

i didnt do that since i was building them underwater in a stocked tank. Plus I just knew I would be moving them, or adjusting etc.

Either way works well.

paul.

[pwhitby]

I took a picture of my tank earlier as the lights were coming on, I thought I would share.

The pillars have worked out extremely well, especially as the corals are now beginning to grow up and over them.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/tank10-15-02800pix-3.jpg


Ill take some more later once the lights are all on.

Paul.

[UnderwaterExotic]

Beautiful tank, i might of missed it but who built this tank?

[pwhitby]

the acrylic was done by a company in Dallas, cant remember the name. They mostly do stuff for public aguariums/hotels etc.

[pwhitby]

here are a few more:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/tank101506-6.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/tank101506-4.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/tank101506-3.jpg

and one of my favorites:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/tank101506-5.jpg

Paul.

[gws294]

Paul,
In a picture you posted in another thread, I saw you have a butterfly in this tank. Any nipping problems? Or is everything so large that it gets kind of spread around? LOL

[pwhitby]

pearlscales are considered reefsafe-ish. She did nip at a closed brain, thats all.

Paul.

[gws294]

I love the manner of butterflys, but I had a couple reefsafe-ish ones that seemed to like my clams after several months of being introduced into the tank. I had to move them out, but they did add a lot to the reef-like appearance of the tank.
I really like what you've done with yours...

[pwhitby]

Thankyou.

Ill be adding some new corals in the next few weeks 9currently in QT).

this bad boy:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/monti_10-18-02-3.jpg

and

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/acro_10-13-02-2.jpg

and

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v112/paul-w/frags%20available/monti_10-13-02-3.jpg

Paul.

[serenity]

very nice build!

[pwhitby]

Thankyou.

Its now time to begin framing the wall out and begining the cabinet construction.

[Lordhelmet]

i havn't checked in this thread in ages. AMAZING! I didn't see maybe you posted it but I'll ask anyway. What did you use to drill out the live rock. a great big Masonry drill bit?

[pwhitby]

nah, a really cheap hole saw bit.

I stopped posting here since i was also posting in my club forum (click the red house for details)....

The hole saw was probably $15.

Paul.