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Unread 05/10/2012, 10:47 PM   #3741
drummereef
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Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: STL
Posts: 14,754
UPDATE:


Sorry for the lack of updates lately... I've been busy but had enough time to finish some long overdue reef projects. A week or so ago my Lawnmower Blenny jumped. I took the hint and moved forward with making mesh tops for the tank. I'm also expecting some new arrivals so it was imperative I get this project done in preparation for my new fishy friends. Mesh tops have been documented in detail over the years but here's how I built mine.


First I gathered the parts for the frames. My tank has 3 openings between the 2 cross braces so I needed enough frame material and corners to make 3 tops. I went with raw aluminum frames so I could paint them to match the tank.




I broke out the Diablo blade on the mitre saw which I also used to make my light rack. It does a great job cutting aluminum.




I measured and cut all the necessary pieces for the frames.




After cutting, I used a flat file to deburr the cut edges.




Clean edge after filing.




Next I gave all the pieces a scrub with a Scotch-Brite pad to remove any manufacturing gunk that was on the frame material.




Lastly I used some Acetone to remove any adhesive and oils to prep for paint.




To be continued...


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-Brett

180g Marineland Starfire In-Wall 278 gallon system

Last edited by Misled; 04/08/2018 at 08:52 PM.
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