Internal Eurobracing

[reef keeper]

almost there on the build. For those that missed it the dimensions are 84 long x 28 wide. Bottom is 1/2". I'm at the point because of a lousy job by the tank builder of replacing the 4 side panels. Im getting quotes tomorrow for either 1/2" or 5/8" glass. Luckily I can get an old 180 gallon and have the sides cut from that and polished out.

I'm torn between 22" and 24" height. I've talked to a lot of people who say 1/2" is fine. Others say it will bow.

I'm going to do do eurobracing on top as well as a rear bean animal external overflow. The rear overflow will provide the bracing for the back glass.

I'm also going to internally eurobrace the tank at the bottom to give additional surface area for the silicone. I will be using rtv 103 (black) or rtv 108 for the build.

Any advice on how to euro the bottom? And thoughts on the rear box acting as a rear brace.

 

[teebone110]

I would over build it at least with 5/8" with internal eurobracing along the top and bottom.
Also, I would really consider cutting your losses and just get a custom tank built by a reputable builder.
I know you will be doing your best, but if that lets loose, it will be a disaster.

Just my 2 pennies.

 

[reef keeper]

I'm really thinking 5/8 might be a whole lot better lol. I just can't flot 3000 to 4000 for a custom tank.

 

[scubasteve]

The thinner the glass the easier things can go wrong.... the bottom euro brace isnt the easiest to do properly and other than e-mailing a manufacturer good luck on getting proper details.

 

[reef keeper]

I've been looking for the right way to do the bottom eurobrace and you are right. Nothing on line. What I was going to do would be to assembled the tank and while the silicone is still wet silicone in the bottom euro. That or wait until everything is dry and clean the inside bottom edges with a razor and install it then. Any ideas?

 

[Jewel]

I always think of Flavio at Advanced Reef in Milton, The guy has been building tanks for years, I'd contact him. I know that he was using a 1 piece Euro Brace for the top. You could do that for the bottom and have it sit on the inside bottom of the tank BUT to get a 1 piece would be very expensive. If it were me I'd go 3/4 on the bottom and have it floating. Then it acts as a Full brace. Just a thought. Good Luck with the build.

 

[curiousphil]

I don't think there is a lot of tank building experience here, sadly. Certainly not fancy work like bottom eurobraces, that's for sure.

That's scary stuff, building your own tank. I know I certainly wouldn't attempt it unless I had a professional coming to my house and directing the process. And in that case I think would still be hesitant to offer even my strength. Best to leave some things to the professionals... especially when it comes to big time tanks like you are discussing.

As for the rest of the build, I've got more than enough confidence to try things myself and do some experimenting. But when 200+ gallons of water is at risk of ending up on the floor, and the life of who knows how much livestock is dependent on that water staying in the tank.... eeep! I'm not taking the risk.

 

[BIGSHOW]

I always think of Flavio at Advanced Reef in Milton, The guy has been building tanks for years, I'd contact him. I know that he was using a 1 piece Euro Brace for the top. You could do that for the bottom and have it sit on the inside bottom of the tank BUT to get a 1 piece would be very expensive. If it were me I'd go 3/4 on the bottom and have it floating. Then it acts as a Full brace. Just a thought. Good Luck with the build.

Flavio doesn't actually build tanks.

 

[BIGSHOW]

You should build the tank first and then do the internal brace after. You need to make sure the silicone is cured in the main tank before doing any bracing. Build the tank, let it cure then put in the internal braces.

 

[Jewel]

Flavio doesn't actually build tanks

Not in the past year But he has or had for many years, Example Spyd 180 tank with the one piece Euro Brace that is currently for sale at a terrific price if not already sold. He built that tank 2 years ago.

 

[Jewel]

Building a tank isn't really all that hard, Bin There, done that. I mean most of it is glass, It's just the seams that you've got to worry about and the bigger the tank or should I say the thicker the glass the easier it is. The Sealants that are used these days are amazing. If you're doing it for your self, it's great. But when you do it for some one else then sell it then the head aches begin. Then you have to guarantee it. Lots of Aquarists are building their own tanks these days. Cheaper for sure. That gives me an idea LOL

Keep us posted Reef Keeper, Nice to see that you're building your own.

 

[Salty Cracker]

Thread cleaned up, don't be offended if your post(s) were removed, just trying to keep everyone happy-in-the-hobby.

 

[Reef Hero]

Dang! Looks like I missed all the good posts!


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[reef keeper]

YA what got deleted?

 

[jeffopentax]

Just some name calling got deleted i believe.


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[Salty Cracker]

Meh, very mild nothing of interest, honestly.

 

[Jewel]

Thanks for cleaning that up guys, I'm sorry anyway I hope you know you're going to have to post some pics of the build. Gotta love the DIY aspect of this hobby.