~ DIY 90 Gal Reef ~ [Archive] - Reef Central Online Community

friendtothefish

04/03/2006, 08:36 PM

So after a lot of planning and thinkingI have decided that I am going to do a 90 instead of a 120. There are lots of reasons I changed my mind. My largest tank is a 40gal, I didnt really feel like jumping to the 120. I want to have some more reef experience before I go that big.

Heres my rough sketch:

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90Gal/90standsketch1.jpg

It is going to be a white antique finish.

I started building the frame this past weekend. Here are some pics of it. I got so excited about getting started after months of planning that I forgot that I wanted to take pictures of the steps... so I just have pics of the finished frame. Well the last one is "Finished".
I used doubled 2x4's and I am a little bummed with the space inside the stand...
Well at least I know it will be strong!

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90Gal/stand1.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90Gal/stand2.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90Gal/standfin.jpg

Thats it for now!
Friend

Siklid

04/03/2006, 09:17 PM

looks like your off to a good start

are you diy the tank as well ?

friendtothefish

04/03/2006, 09:25 PM

Nah, I will be getting an allglass. But I will be doing as much else as I can.

Siklid

04/03/2006, 09:27 PM

sounds good

friendtothefish

04/09/2006, 06:59 PM

Alright, I worked some more this weekend and finished the first door!

Heres some pics...

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/doorfront.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/door45.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/doorback.jpg

Four more months to go!
Friend

horkn

04/09/2006, 09:35 PM

looking good.

4 months to go;)

SkiFletch

04/09/2006, 09:48 PM

Lol, lookin real good. You've got some excellent carpentry skills there. Looks professional :)

grendl

04/10/2006, 06:55 AM

Why opt for no support along the front beam???

Thats a legit question, not a criticism. I have been considering tryin to DIY a stand, but have been stuck on the middle vertical support beam.

Also, did you gain or lose space in the cabinet with your build, over a stock cabinet?

20 20

04/10/2006, 08:49 AM

With no middle support it's much easier to work inside the cabinet, moving the sump in/out, etc.

grendl

04/10/2006, 08:57 AM

Oh, I know that, I mean is the lack of a center, vertical brace not a concern? Just seems like ALOT of weight to be worried over.

JHReef

04/10/2006, 11:16 AM

That stand is plenty hurky. Looks like it's not a very long tank, so the load should easily distribute to the legs, which should handle twice the load it will probably ever see.

Nice! :D

friendtothefish

04/10/2006, 11:16 AM

I will be adding a center brace in the front after I get all the equipment in the stand. It will not be attached, it will be removable for future work that may need to take place.

As for the inside of the stand. I think I went a little overboard with the doubled 2x4's, but it will not come down!

Plus, since I knew I would be building the sump myself, I knew I could make it wrap arount the stand where needed...

So far I am pretty happy!

Friend

grendl

04/10/2006, 12:51 PM

I hope to see some more pics of the removeable brace, thats a cool idea.

friendtothefish

04/16/2006, 09:49 PM

Alright, I got the other door done. My biggest worry was the doors looking the same, well you tell me what you think.

This is a rough mock up. nothing is attached to the frame yet.

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/roughdoorsfront.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/roughdoors45.jpg

Any and all comments are welcome...

Friend

horkn

04/16/2006, 10:51 PM

looks really good.

i just picked up my 90 this weekend. the aga modern series stand and canopy that came with it are noting in substantiality like your 90g stand is, (nor my DIY stand for my 35g) but it is designed to hold the weight of the 90g. there are no real big supports on the AGA stand, yet, they hold up. btw, there is no center brace on the aga stand, so if the AGA stand can hack it, yours will too, with or without the brace.

AnnArborBuck

04/17/2006, 09:58 AM

Are you going to have enough clearance on the bottom to open the doors once everything is in place?

friendtothefish

04/17/2006, 04:40 PM

Ann: There will be 4" x 4" x 1/4" feet on the four corners of the stand lifting it 1/4" off the ground.

horkn: I might have to re-think the center brace, although it is just going to be a 1" x 1" cut to wedge in tightly. So I might just do it anyway!

Thanks
Friend

friendtothefish

04/18/2006, 05:26 PM

Thought Id post my parts llist...

I am currently shopping pricing before I dive into buying it all.

Parts list
Tank
90Gal Tank w/ Megaflow -

Sump
Acrylc

Lighting
2x MH dualend (7200k-250w)
Ballast
Bulbs
2x PC Actinic 96w
Ballast
Bulbs
Moon Lights
Sump Light

Heaters
2x Titanium Heaters

Protien Skimmer

Power Center Stuff

Plumbing
Flow Heads
Fans

Sand
Rocks

Friend

friendtothefish

04/24/2006, 10:53 AM

Didnt do too much that is visible this weekend. I iadded the rails that cover the bottom of the tanks frame. And I cut the whole for the plumbing and mounted the part the tank will sit on.

My goal was to get it ready to hold the tank which I will be picking up tomorrow.

I recieved my Plexy on Friday, and will probably start the sump this weekend...

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/stand_w_rim.jpg

Friend

cougaraug

04/25/2006, 03:48 PM

hey friend- how do you like that table saw? It's on of the ones I'm looking at.

friendtothefish

04/25/2006, 04:07 PM

Its been great for two years! I love it. for a garage situation its perfect. not too big, but it can handle anything I have thrown at it...

It has a breaker built in that pops every once in a while but you just wait a minute and reset it... The first time that happened I thought I broke it. but It was just the breaker...

DaveG99

04/25/2006, 08:29 PM

If your getting an AGA you dont need the bottom of the tank fully supported. You only need the perimeter of the tank frame supported. Its looking really good. I am in the process of building one for my 125.

friendtothefish

04/25/2006, 09:05 PM

Thanks Dave.

Just got the tank tonight. I also picked up most of the plumbing as well.
Heres the pic with the tank...

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/stand_w_tank.jpg

Unfortuntly the front left corner of the trim sticks up a little bit. i think I am going to glue a thin strip of wood to the rim of the stand and then sand it down. It is going to be finished white with spray, so I dont think you will be able to see it...

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/corner.jpg

Over all it fits great!

Friend

mikeadams1985

04/26/2006, 04:36 AM

looks very good,
instead of adding wood and then sanding it down, why not add a decorative bead to the lip all the way round?

Like this?
a little smaller and maybe more plane?
http://www.maplecraftusa.com/IMG2005/SpecialtyPrdts/Mouldings/Crown1621.jpg

friendtothefish

04/26/2006, 09:15 AM

Good Idea, but I dont think it will go with the finish I am trying to achieve... I am trying to do a white antique farmish look... So elaborate trim wouldn't really look right, IMO.

Thanks,
Friend

springer275

04/26/2006, 09:19 AM

nice design

MaximusUSG

04/26/2006, 12:07 PM

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7149422#post7149422 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by friendtothefish
I will be adding a center brace in the front after I get all the equipment in the stand. It will not be attached, it will be removable for future work that may need to take place.

As for the inside of the stand. I think I went a little overboard with the doubled 2x4's, but it will not come down!

Plus, since I knew I would be building the sump myself, I knew I could make it wrap arount the stand where needed...

So far I am pretty happy!

Friend

Friend, With the beef you have on the corners and that middle support in the upper frame, there is really no need for the center support. It will only get in your way... Nice craftsmanship, I am going to watch this one all the way to completion (sp)..:smokin:

friendtothefish

04/26/2006, 12:20 PM

Thanks a lot!

hairymushroom

04/26/2006, 01:14 PM

loookig great, what size sump you going for?

friendtothefish

04/26/2006, 09:10 PM

I am not sure what the gallons on the sump will be. I will be posting the dimensions soon. Im going to try to get it done this weekend. I did a water test tonight, just to make sure the stand was all good. Everything went well.

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/testfill1.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/testfill2.jpg

I am trying to figure out some of the electrical.
Thread (http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=829117)

Any help would be great.
Friend

friendtothefish

04/27/2006, 09:21 PM

Alright, so i made the overflow plumbing tonight. Here is a pic of the return piping and the drain pipe.

Seems to fit perfect.

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/overflowplum.jpg

I built a mock up of the sum out of cardboard, but it came out kinda crooked...I hope the real sump doesnt come out that way!!!:lol:

I really have to get the measurements perfect before I start cutting!

Measure twice, cut once. Right!

Friend

MaximusUSG

04/28/2006, 08:34 AM

Looks like you will be moving some serious water with that design. You are going to use a mag pump right? I use a pump I got a LFS, called a quiet one. Works real well and moves 795 gph. I have been thinking about splitting my return up llike you have it...

friendtothefish

04/30/2006, 07:19 PM

Hello again,

I mocked up the plumbing and built the sump. I still need to put the deviders and bubbletraps in. I am hoping the flow will work as I plan. I added valves to everything, just in case I need to adjust any of the flow...

Also I currently was going to use a tube from the Return pump to the return plumbing. I dont see another way to do it and still be able to get the sump out if I need to.

Any Ideas?

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/plummock.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/plumsump.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/sumpin1.jpg

Friend

Atticus

04/30/2006, 11:48 PM

Nice looking design. I also went with a removable center brace on my 90. Tank has been on that stand for 2-3 years with no issues and the removable brace has been the best thing I have ever done.

friendtothefish

05/02/2006, 10:26 PM

So I am contemplating the engineering of the sump. This drawing is what I am thinking of doing. I would really like some advice and thoughts from all of you.

I am trying to figure out how a auto top off would work in this sump. Or how it would be set up.

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/sumpdraw.jpg

Please any advice and criticism would be great.

Friend

TheVillageIdiot

05/03/2006, 08:10 AM

if it where me, i'd put something on the corners of your sump to help brace it... some simple acrylic right triangles should do the trick.

I don't know how thick that plastic is or how deep you plant to fill, or even if you've already got plans to add them... but i like to see myself type... :-)

friendtothefish

05/03/2006, 02:33 PM

I defiantly plan to have triangle braces.

I am just hoping I get some feedback about the flow of the sump design and how to implement an auto top of...

jasonj90

05/03/2006, 06:25 PM

very nice looking setup. i DIY'd my canopy and stand and was in the same spot that you are in now, last summer. its really fun to build your own stuff. my only question is why did you not build the stand the same width of the tank??? i think i would miss the extra space under the tank. anyway nice looking so far!

friendtothefish

05/03/2006, 09:33 PM

So I have changed the design a little. I have decided to put make a cut out on the bottom of the second divider so the second two chambers are at the same level. That way I can put the ATO in the skimmer chamber. when the water starts to evaporate, that chamber should start to get low... I think it will work...

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/sump.jpg

Friend

friendtothefish

05/04/2006, 10:05 PM

So here is a revised sump design. I am planning on using a berlin skimmer. i think i would have the output of the skimmer go to some sort of diffusing box (with a sponge or bubbletrap) and then into the fuge portion of the sump.

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/sump2.jpg

What do you all think?

Friend

MaximusUSG

06/05/2006, 06:09 AM

By far, better than the first. I am new to the whole refug. setup but everything I have ever seen or read says to skim first like your second design. I just have a question about having your return tee off with the option of flowing back into the fuge? What would that be used for? I would be affraid of overflowing your sump with something like that.

friendtothefish

06/05/2006, 09:06 AM

So its been a while. Had a lot of busy weekends.

This weekend I was able to finish the bottom of the stand. I also have finished the sump since then. I am a little worried about the thickness of the acrylic that I used. I am worried it just might bust... I am thinking of redoing it in 1/4 in soon. Its 1/8in right now. I did lots of bracing, but I am still worried.

Anyway, Here are the pics of everything right now. On to the Top!

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/stand_front.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/STAND_BOT_45.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/plumb_with_sump.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/stand_bot_open.jpg

Ill be starting the electrical soon as well as the Top. More to come!
Friend

friendtothefish

06/11/2006, 05:49 PM

Heres an update! Everything is coming alon about as planned.

At this point there are three big things left.
1. Finishinig the top including the lighting.
2. Do a final finish and fit.
3. Prime and paint.

I will hopefully finish 1 & 2 next weekend. I also have to silicone the sump and make some plexi platforms for the return pump and the skimmer.

Alright, here are the pics from this weekend!

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/withtop45.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/withtopopen.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/powercenter.jpg

Questions and comments always welcome...
Friend

Ehgemus

06/11/2006, 06:32 PM

Nice work on the electrical, My next tank will have somthing like that!

base569

06/13/2006, 10:47 PM

What type of timers did you use and how did you hook them up to multiple outlets? I checked you're electrical thread but it kind of trailed off.

Nice set up, by the way.

-Greg

friendtothefish

06/14/2006, 08:55 AM

base569: You can see the timers in the last pic above. They are Intermatic Outdoor 24hr timers. Thay have 6 outlets per timer! They are used for stuff like holiday lighting... The ratings were much higher than the normal 24hr timers. (Ratings: 1800watts resistance, 15amp)

The two outlets below the switches are connected to the switches, and the two below that are always Hot!

I cant say if it will be a great solution because I am not up and running yet. But I think it is the best for my situation...

Hope this helps,
Friend

base569

06/14/2006, 09:12 AM

Thanks for the info. I'm looking to replace my coralife piece of **** timers. I'll definitely check those out.

friendtothefish

06/18/2006, 09:15 PM

Alright, so I am almost done! Got the front door and the side pannels for the top.
I have a lot of finishing to do before it can be painted...And I have a wedding to go to next weekend, so I wont be able to do anything :mad:.

Anyway, I went to home depot so buy Liquid glass to seal my sump, and they didnt have it. I was told to go there, but oh well, Ill have to get it online.

Ok, so here ware the pics.

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/fullstandrough45.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/fullstandrough.jpg

Thats all for now,
Friend

friendtothefish

06/29/2006, 11:44 AM

So I have decided to Rebuild my sump from scratch...

I am not happy with the construction with the 1/8th inch plexi.
So I am going to buy some 1/4 inch at HD and start over.

As far as the stand goes. I am ready to complete the Top. I still need to mount the hinges for the front door, and do some finish sanding.

After that, I am ready to paint!

Just thought I'd give an update before I get to work on this long weekend!
Friend

MaximusUSG

06/30/2006, 08:06 AM

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7652119#post7652119 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by friendtothefish
So I have decided to Rebuild my sump from scratch...

I am not happy with the construction with the 1/8th inch plexi.
So I am going to buy some 1/4 inch at HD and start over.

As far as the stand goes. I am ready to complete the Top. I still need to mount the hinges for the front door, and do some finish sanding.

After that, I am ready to paint!

Just thought I'd give an update before I get to work on this long weekend!
Friend

Have you filled your sump with water to see how much, if any it really bows? Seems a little silly to rebuild if you don't need to. Unless you actually have that much time hanging around to go through all the cutting and gluing again. Just my thoughts. ;)

Maximus

friendtothefish

06/30/2006, 09:19 AM

I have had it filled... Its doesnt look good. It doesnt bow either.

But it looks scary. I put a bunch of bracing. I am not worried that it will just bust open. I am more worried about a small leak leading to a BIG problem down the line... You know!

Well I have already bought the 1/4 in and i will be doing it this weekend...in 100 degree heat! Woo Hoo!

Friend

jeffreylam1132

07/20/2006, 06:18 AM

Awesome thread. Nice details.

friendtothefish

07/20/2006, 09:49 AM

Thank you,

I have been in and out of town recently, so I havent had time to rebuild the sump... But I think I am going to have the stand Finished by the people that we are going to have Refinishing the Cabinets in our new house.

That will save me some time!

I didnt want to do it. But I think it will be better if it matches.

Will post the new sump once I start it...

Thanks again,
Friend

thor32766

07/20/2006, 09:54 AM

sweet setup and nice work

friendtothefish

08/07/2006, 01:05 PM

Time For an Update!

So I sent the stand away on Sunday to be "Finished". I did not want to do this but it made sense. We are having all the cabinetts in our new house custom finished and I figured, "Why not have the tank match?"

I should be getting it back on Wed. I hope it is to my liking...

Here it is before they took it away... :wavehand:

http://www.definitivecars.com/posted_pics/stand_almost.jpg

I painted the back of the tank black and now I just have to finish the Sump and install the lighting and fans!

Almost there!!!

Friend

Steeltowndubber

08/11/2006, 09:08 AM

Any updates?

Jester

08/11/2006, 11:16 AM

Looks good... and I think it was a good idea to get the stand finished at the same time as your cabinets... I know how it feels to want to do something yourself, but you'll like that the two match perfectly in the long run...

Jester

friendtothefish

08/11/2006, 11:29 AM

I agree 100%!!! I should be getting the stand back tomorrow...

I am about 30% done with the New 1/4in Sump. I should finish that over the weekend.

Since that wont be done yet, I am going to buy a big hang on filter to start the Cycle... I just cant wait for the silicone to cure. Ive got to get water in it this weekend!

Does anyone have any advice on Sealing the bulkheads in the overflow? I tightened them as tight as I could, but they still leaked. I am going to silicone them and use a wood wrench, I am going to fabricate. But I am worried they will start to leaqe...

Any thoughts?

Friend

RicGio

08/11/2006, 05:44 PM

Hey Friend? Is that a standard AGA overflow? I'm ordering a 90 and was hoping to get a corner overflow. (If that is an option).

Which side of the glass do you have the gasket on? Correct way is on the water side of glass. Make sure gasket seating surfaces are ultra clean. One little bit of grit can cause a leaker. Don't over tighten, the plastic threads are pretty wimpy and overtightening can cause the gasket to "squish" out from the fitting.

CoralFiend

08/11/2006, 06:20 PM

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7920591#post7920591 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by friendtothefish
I am about 30% done with the New 1/4in Sump. I should finish that over the weekend.

Since that wont be done yet, I am going to buy a big hang on filter to start the Cycle... I just cant wait for the silicone to cure. Ive got to get water in it this weekend!

I am a little surprised that no one has pointed this out to you yet, but you can't use silicone to bond acrylic together. It will adhere for a while, but it is not permanent. Acrylic has to be fused with a solvent type of glue called Weld On. It melts the acrylic together and makes a permanent bond. You are asking for a serious structural failure of that sump, if you use silicone. Just trying to help you keep from ruining your carpet / floors.

Great work on the rest of the project though.

CoolUsername

08/12/2006, 12:28 AM

CoralFiend is right. I missed this reading this thread the first time. The good part is silicone peels right off of acrylic so it's easy to prep for using the correct solvent. Try weld-on 3 or 4. You may be able to use the peices you have cut as they are.

There is no question whether the sump will fail. It won't be very long either. Using silicone to glue in baffles in a glass sump works since small leaks beteen compartments aren't a big deal. The glass aquarium keeps everything inside.

newreefbishop

08/12/2006, 07:31 AM

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7920591#post7920591 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by friendtothefish
I agree 100%!!! I should be getting the stand back tomorrow...

I am about 30% done with the New 1/4in Sump. I should finish that over the weekend.

Since that wont be done yet, I am going to buy a big hang on filter to start the Cycle... I just cant wait for the silicone to cure. Ive got to get water in it this weekend!

Does anyone have any advice on Sealing the bulkheads in the overflow? I tightened them as tight as I could, but they still leaked. I am going to silicone them and use a wood wrench, I am going to fabricate. But I am worried they will start to leaqe...

Any thoughts?

Friend

Silicone will seal small leaks, and withstand the pressure. Make sure you dont overtighten. You may also look into getting another gasket. In anycase silicone will do the trick. Just wait 30 min or so before you fill tank.

CoralFiend

08/12/2006, 07:45 AM

Personally, I would try another gasket - maybe even another bulkhead, before using silicone. I have had bulkheads that had slight imperfections in the plastic or gaskets that allowed drips. Also, make certain the surface where the bulkhead is to seat is very clean.

If you use silicone to seal them, you might create other problems down the road. If the bulkhead is ever twisted after the silicone cures, it might separate from the rubber gasket (which it doesn't really adhere to anyway) and allow a drip (or worse) to get through the rubber / silicone seal. Just my two cents worth...

friendtothefish

08/12/2006, 01:49 PM

Thanks for all the advice!

I will clean the surface really well, and just tighten them good.

Im glad I saw this before I used the silicone!

Friend

CoralFiend

08/12/2006, 02:08 PM

If you are not comfortable with trying to use the acrylic and the Weld On glue, you could take your cut list to the local glass shop and get them to cut you some panels out of 1/4" plate glass. Then you can use the silicone sealant to put it together and it will be very strong and durable. One thing I always liked about a glass sump. They almost always clean up to look good as new. Can't always say that about acrylic.

You are doing a good job overall. Just needed a pointer or two to help ensure long-term success! :) I like what you are doing and will be sure to tag along to the end!

oceanscurve

08/12/2006, 05:30 PM

oh wow great job!

oceanscurve

08/12/2006, 05:32 PM

I'f you dont mind me asking how much did it cost for all of the wood?

friendtothefish

08/14/2006, 12:30 PM

Update on the Build:

I got my stand back. It is not exactly what we expected, so we are going to have some more work done to make it exactly what we want... But over all, it is great!

Now to finishing the sump and mounting the lights!

So here are some pics from the weekend...

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/setup1.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/setup2.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/setup3.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/setup4.jpg

Thats all for now,
Friend
http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/setup5.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/setup6.jpg

edwardw771

08/18/2006, 08:14 PM

Great looking tank. When I saw your drawing I thought I was looking at my tank. We built a stand and hood just like it.
For our 90 gallon. Here is a link to some pics.

http://photoshow.comcast.net/edwardw771

CoolUsername

08/19/2006, 03:21 AM

Nice job. I like the contemporary styling. The white works well.

daddavis1

08/19/2006, 07:57 AM

I have a Hundred Gal I'll be going from Scratch. Great Pics
How heavy is that light hood. And is it going to get in the way when you want to work in the tank.

Versus

08/19/2006, 01:35 PM

Looks like they just painted it white? ...

friendtothefish

08/20/2006, 10:41 PM

Alright, Got a lot done this weekend. Installed the MHs and the fans. Before I built this tank, I heard a bunch of people talking about the black support piece across the center of the tank. Well I didn’t think it would be very bad, but it is… Now I am trying to figure out if I should try to replace it with a ¼ acrylic piece. What do you think?

Got some rock (although they are a little too big) That’s what you get when you buy a box wholesale... Anyway, I also added some damsels and chromises (or is that Chromi):rollface:

I also water tested the sump, and it looks good. No leaks so far. So the question is, do I add an extra seal of silicone? Some people were saying that Silicone doesn’t seal to acrylic? Does it not stick? Or does it not adhere at all?

Ok so time for the pics.

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/firsttankfull.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/2MHs.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/Firstfish.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/Bigsnail.jpg

I thought this was cool, weird, and just plain funny!

I guess I got some hippie snails!!! :smokin:

I think I already know (KAKA), but can some one confirm what they are doing???

http://www.definitivecars.com/fttf/images/90gal/smokensnails.jpg

vdubfiend

08/20/2006, 11:42 PM

the silicone will peel off in due time.... i know ;)
is the tank setup in the garage?? and where in so cal are you located? :) looks great btW!!!

CoolUsername

08/21/2006, 01:50 AM

Is the rock you bought already cured? If not your fish likely won't make it. You will have to watch the ammonia very closely. Maybe several times a day. When I cured my bulk box shipped rock my ammonia "relatively" (in curing terms) low like 1 ppm one day and then it shot to 8 ppm in one day. I don't think anything could have lived throught that. The only possibility is lots of water changes and watch test your water several times a day.

CoolUsername

08/21/2006, 01:59 AM

The silicone peels very easily off of acrylic. I built a sump using a glass aquarium and acrylic baffles. I made a few unintended dabs while applying the silicone on the acrylic. After curing when I was cleaning up, they peeled effortlessly off the acrylic in one piece. I came to realize that the baffles are held in place because they span the width of the aquarium and the silicone adheres to class so well. I basically have a silicone slot that is holding my acrylic panels from shifting.

Your sump will leak and very soon. The good part is the pieces - if well cut - would be easy to weld together. You won't have much extra work to do. The silicone cleanup will be a snap. It should all come off very easily and in one piece. Plus the resulting sump will be extremely tough and last you for decades. Good luck.

I like the finished stand color/design. What is the finish on it?

CoralFiend

08/21/2006, 05:49 AM

Like I and others have already mentioned to you, the sump is a time bomb waiting to explode. YOU CANNOT BOND ACRYLIC WITH SILICONE SEALANT. No matter how strong it looks right now, it WILL in short order blow apart at the seams and you will have water everywhere. I find it odd that you would not heed this very critical piece of information when numerous people have told you the same thing. Wishful thinking is not going to make that sump hold together.

I wouldn't touch that black center brace. It is there for structural support. There is a lot more force on it than you might think. It keeps the front and back glasses from bowing outward - and from possibly pulling apart. While it could be replaced with another material, to be sure it functions as designed (and not void your warranty - if it is a new tank), I would leave it alone. That was a decision made early on that you will probably just have to live with. You might try moving your lights a bit to get better coverage. I had the same center brace on a 45 that I had and I saw no visible shadow of it in the tank.

Unless all of that live rock and sand you put in the tank is precured, all of those fish and animals you have put in there at once will likely be belly up soon. What's the rush? Very difficult to start up a salt water tank the way you appear to be doing it. Patience is key to start up. I might suggest you do some more reading before you make some more costly mistakes.

friendtothefish

08/21/2006, 08:31 PM

CoralFriend And CoolUsername -

Im sorry that you guys wasted your breath...:hmm2: I dont want to sound mean or arrogant, but I am an experienced aquarist. This is the 10th tank I have set up. All salt water. Currently have 5 tanks including a 40gal reef and a 150gal display tank at my office. I have also built a 8”x12” Cylindrical nano reef from scratch, with a tiny 2”x3” sump in the stand.

As I said, I have a little experience. Anyway, my sump is already welded with Weld-On 16. I was just thinking of using silicone as an extra seal. But I guess it woulden’t help much… (I have not built anything as big as this tank from scratch.)

As far as the rock goes. I have used this same brand of rock for every set up and never had a problem. I always put some damsels and some other life in it as initial Bio-Life.
I know I will lose some of them, but the tank will cycle faster. Also, in a month when I move into my new house, I will be transferring the contents of the 40gal reef into the new 90 gal.

There is no exact science of cycling a tank, but what I have done for the past 4 years, has seemed to work well for me.

Hope that wasen’t too bad…

Friend

CoralFiend

08/21/2006, 09:43 PM

Sorry if I ruffled your feathers. Like I said, I do like your stand and canopy. I just knew you had never built anything this size when I saw that you used 1/8" acrylic on the sump - possibly glued together with silicone (that's how I understood it anyway). I was just trying to help. Glad you redid the sump with 1/4" and WeldOn. That should be much stronger. I will keep my advice to myself from this point on. I will continue to tag along, because I would like to see the finished project. I do wish you luck.

CoolUsername

08/22/2006, 12:09 AM

Sorry too. Not trying to sound preachy. Just trying to save your floor and your fish. I misunderstood your level of experience as well as your sump assembly method. I was hoping to keep what looked like a start-up experience a good one. Keeping motivated in this hobby is key. Success is key to keep motivated.

If you had used weld on in the sump why didn't you say so? I thought we "alarmist" :) were clear about the adhesive concern. You didn't address us. It appeared to me that you were trying to dodge the issue to get support for the silicone method. I think it was just a misunderstanding.

I still believe firmly that when cycling a tank with live rock that has been shipped won't be benefited by adding fish earler. The rock has to cure. Your right cycling a tank is not an exact science. Adding fish to a tank fish only tank is one of the best methods to get the cycle started.

But curing rock is not a place for fish or any other creatures. It least in my own experience and in what I have read . I went from ammonia 1ppm to 8ppm in one day. Concentrations as low as 2 parts per million have been shown to be deadly to fish. It isn't even realistic to be able to control that with water changes.

My tank completely cycled in 9 days (NH4=0, NO2=0, NO3=0). That is the time to add the fish etc when the biodeversity will have a chance to survive. Again if you bought cured live rock locally you should be ok and I'm being an alarmist again :).

I really do like your tank and stand. I always will love to watch a new system set up. It's obvious that you are a skilled craftsman and have a love for the hobby. I didn't mean to offend.

friendtothefish

08/22/2006, 09:04 AM

I went a little overboard as well... (I had a really bad day) Sorry guys. I guess I just felt misunderstood, which it looks like that was the case.

I do respect everyones opinions and experience. Most people on RC have a lot more experience than I do.

Anyway, glad we could kiss and make-up!!! :love1:

I need all the support I can get... :D

Friend

impur

08/22/2006, 10:20 AM

Don't you feel bad knowing that putting those damsels in there will ultimately kill a few? This method bothers me as you are knowingly killing fish that are imported for the hobby.

You can accomplish the same thing by using a piece of raw shrimp.

That said, nice job on the contruction, especially the stand/canopy. Looks like the beginning of a great tank.

friendtothefish

08/22/2006, 10:27 AM

Well. I do feel bad if they die. But that is not the plan.

The plan is that when they eat and poop, they will be fast forwarding the Cycle. I forget where I read it. It was around 3 years ago. But I read an article about what actually happens in the cycle process, and it talked about how adding some hardy fish will help speed up the process.

So far I have done this in many of my tanks. The chances are high that you loose a few of them, but the ones that make it help the tank cycle...

Just my opinion.

Ive added Fish to a tank that has been running for 2 years and some still don't make it. And Ive added some damsels to a cycling tank and had them all live.

So I guess there is no rhyme or reason.:confused:

Friend

CoolUsername

08/23/2006, 12:42 AM

We ought to be more specific. Your right. The adding damsels is a very typical way of cycling a tank with an all dead setup. Meaning no live rock.

On the otherhand if you have live rock that needs to be cured, the amount of dead rotting material that the rock has on it (sure you try to scrape off as much as you can) will far and away make any fish waste insignificant. The ammonia spike on a tank with curing rock is also far worse than cycling a dead tank with damsel poop.

Basically when curing rock you typically already have too much decaying material for a "normal" cycling process. Why add more on top of that? Especially when the lives of fish are at stake. I don't believe it speeds it up. When curing my live rock on my 100 gallon, it took 9 days for my tank to cycle. (NH4=0ppm, NO2=0ppm, NO3=0ppm)

energy_crisis

08/23/2006, 01:58 AM

Question about silicon and acrylic:

If acrylic and silicon don't mix how do people attach acrylic overflow boxes to glass tanks? Do they use something other than silicon?

Thanks.

Versus

08/23/2006, 05:29 AM

? , They are hang on

CoralFiend

08/23/2006, 05:51 AM

CoolUsername

08/23/2006, 06:44 PM

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7994856#post7994856 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by energy_crisis
Question about silicon and acrylic:

If acrylic and silicon don't mix how do people attach acrylic overflow boxes to glass tanks? Do they use something other than silicon?

Thanks.

A better question might be - knowing that silicone doesn't adhere well to acrylic - why do people attach acrylic overflow boxes (and sump partitions/baffles) to glass tanks.

I believe the answer is two parts.

First Acrylic is easy to shape with wood working tools which more people have. It's easy to cut teeth, holes and other shapes.

Second what is the worst that can happen if it fails. Small leaks are insignificant when its running. The water is moving so fast over (or under/around in the case of a sump baffle) that a tiny leak doesn't mean much. For total failure, the main level will drop slightly to the top of the stand pipe or drilled hole. In the case of a sump the bubble trap stops working orthe water level in the sump levels. You don't get a flood. And worst case is you have to drain some water reapply the silicone, and wait for it to cure. No really big loss.

That's my opinion at least. That is why I chose acrylic baffles in my glass sump. It was in the short term easier and cheaper than building a completely acrylic sump. And I was at the time less farmiliar with glass baffle cutting availability and cost. I would have had to pay someone to do that.

I couple of caveats. Silicone should only be used in full length "calfo" style overflow boxes or a one piece vertical overflow box with a stand pipes.

In most cases someone will build the acrylic box and bond the separate acrylic pieces together using acrylic solvent to make a complete box before siliconing it the the glass.

friendtothefish

08/29/2006, 10:45 AM

Just a little update.

I have finished welding and siliconing the sump. I know the silicone will peel off in time. I am just hoping that it will add an extra layer of seal for a while...

I have to drill the holes and kut some teeth, and then its going in!

Its been 4 days since I did the silicone and the smell is just starting to go away.

Once I add the the sump, I just have to add the PC lights and some small stuff like something to block light from coming through the gaps.

I cant believe Im almost done!

Also a fish update; 15 days and I've only lost two Chromises...

So far so good.

Friend

CoolUsername

08/29/2006, 11:15 PM

Sounds good. I've read that even in a fully cycled tank that some chromis for some reason just don't make it. How are your water parameters. Is your Nitrites 0 yet?

MaximusUSG

09/14/2006, 09:00 AM

any new news?

lcdd

09/14/2006, 09:42 AM

nice job on the stand! Have you resolved the issue with the black brace. If not, I saw where someone replaced it with an acrylic brace and it looked good. I can't see where it would be structurally weaker than the original brace. I think it will affect resale value of you tank later though.

friendtothefish

09/14/2006, 09:48 PM

Sorry Guys,

I have been so busy recently that I have just been letting the tank run. It coold down a little, wich is great, since the tank is in the garage still. I am moving to a new house in about a week. In a new house, so I have been crazy planning with contractors and packing...

Anyway, I will take some pictures this weekend.

The sump/fuge is in and running. So far so good! I have been so busy and havent even tested the tank yet. Other than water changes I cant get it to cycle any faster anyway. I will start my testing this weekend. Ill post the info then.

So on a side note, This is my new house!!! :dance:

http://definitivecars.com/posted_pics/new_house.jpg

Friend

friendtothefish

09/14/2006, 09:48 PM

friendtothefish

02/22/2007, 12:57 AM

I cant belive its been 5 months. I have no excuse for not finishing my build post. :p

Maybe the new house and all!

Ill cut to the chase... Here are some pics.

http://www.definitivecars.com/posted_pics/reef 2-21-07/Tankandstand.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/posted_pics/reef 2-21-07/Full_tank_actinic.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/posted_pics/reef 2-21-07/Full_tank_both.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/posted_pics/reef 2-21-07/Sumparea.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/posted_pics/reef 2-21-07/Ballasts.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/posted_pics/reef 2-21-07/fugeclose.jpg

As you can see I really haven't had time to really finish it off. But I am getting real close.

I've got to crash. Ill post some more tomorrow.

Night,
Friend

MaximusUSG

02/22/2007, 08:45 AM

Friend, the only thing I can see is you may want to put a fan or something below to keep your ballast's from over heating.
Nice setup, I like how you did the sump area!!

Jeff

friendtothefish

02/23/2007, 11:17 PM

Hey guys,

As promised I have some more photos to post. Also I have not been testing the water because everything has been so perfect. I wanted to see if I was crazy so I finally tested it. Everything is pretty good...

These are the #'s.

PH---------------8.1
Alk---------------3
NO3(Nitrate)---2
NO2(Nitrite)----0
Ammonia-------0
PO4--------------0
Ca----------------375
Temp------------78F

And here are the pictures. Ill apologize ahead of time, but the pics didnt come out that great...

The lights are 2x96w actinics, and 10,000k 175w Metal Halide.

http://www.definitivecars.com/posted_pics/reef 2-21-07/lightsactinic.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/posted_pics/reef 2-21-07/Lightsall.jpg

These are my Marron Clown Pair. They go back and forth between the two anemones. These are my oldest fish, I've had them for almost three years.

http://www.definitivecars.com/posted_pics/reef 2-21-07/BTA.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/posted_pics/reef 2-21-07/Carpet.jpg

Corals

http://www.definitivecars.com/posted_pics/reef 2-21-07/Stars.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/posted_pics/reef 2-21-07/Frogspawn.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/posted_pics/reef 2-21-07/Longstars.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/posted_pics/reef 2-21-07/Bigshroom.jpg

Fish

http://www.definitivecars.com/posted_pics/reef 2-21-07/Firefish.jpg

http://www.definitivecars.com/posted_pics/reef 2-21-07/Starypurp.jpg

More to come!
Friend

rnhrtfan

02/24/2007, 10:22 AM

Wow!!!! this is a great Project!! I am currently looking at updating my 38 to a 90 RR (much like you did) and was debating a very similar project. What a wonderful find. I do have a question though??? How did you wire the electrical stuff (i.e. outlets, switches, timers and lights)? are they hard wired into your houses electrical system or have you managed to wire them in a way that the whole unit simply plugs into an existing outlet in the wall????? Please help me on this as I am extremely interested in this type of a build.. Thanks!! Scott