Drilling Acrylic Tanks?

[sixxer]

Is it really as easy as drilling holes in plywood? Or is much more care needed?

I need to drill some holes in my refugium and am leary of it at this point, I would hate to ruin it!

Any tips?

Thanks

[poedag]

just go slow to avoid chipping the acrylic. if they are larger holes use a forstner bit, or a spade bit for smaller holes. but remember, go slow!

[H20ENG]

Use the holesaw, keep it wet if possible. If it gets too hot, it'll bind up. Keep removing the bit to clear the chips. Once you get through with the pilot bit and are about to break through with the holesaw, try to finish the hole from the opposite side. If you cannot access the opposite side, just hold light presssure as you go through. Its like plywood, but just be a bit more careful. I've drilled hundreds of holes in acrylic:)

[SkiFletch]

Agreed, more careful and slower than plywood. Finish from the opposite side if possible, and cool it with water or safe lubricant.

[sixxer]

Thanks for the tips. I'll let you know how it turns out.