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...