Big tank build question

[James0816]

I am getting ready to start getting the materials to build my big in-wall tank and have a couple of quick questions:

1) The tank is going to be 7' to 8' long. Do I need to add braces to the front of the tank or will braces on the top be enough. I will have three braces on the top every three feet apart.

2) What thickness of glass do I need to get? Definately don't want to get too thin. I guess my concern will be the length. Was thinking 1/2" or 3/4".

Thx

 

[Rbishop]

Braces on the front...?

 

[James0816]

braces on the front of the tank to support the glass.

 

[Notophthalmus]

How high will the tank be? That will determine how much pressure is on the front glass, and therefore how thick it needs to be and how much support it needs.

I don't have any experience with this kind of build, but I would say, get the thickest glass you can afford. Better overbuilt than underbuilt!

 

[James0816]

tank will be 2' high and 2'-3' deep. I'm leaning towards 2'.

 

[Plecosterone]

At 8' long 3/4" (20mm) will be good up to 36" deep - 5/8" (16mm) up to 33" deep - 12" (12mm) up to 27" deep. Just make sure that there are center braces to eliminate any "bend" in the glass.

 

[James0816]

thx plec...for center braces....are you talking about on the front (viewing) area or just the top part of the tank? I am planning on braces on the top every 2' feet apart so not counting the sides, there should be three braces on the top of the top.

 

[Plecosterone]

That should be plenty. I would personally only put 2 top braces in to allow more room for working in the tank but 3 will definately make you sleep easier.

 

[ct-death]

These might help (just sharing)

Glass Thickness Chart: http://saltaquarium.about.com/cs/aquariumdiy/l/blcustomtank.htm
http://www.austinglass.com.au/aquariums.html

Support Link: http://badmanstropicalfish.com/articles/article28.html
another http://www.cichlid-forum.com/articles/aquarium_weight.php

(If going Acrylic): http://www.delviesplastics.com/

A nice How-To: http://www.cichlid-forum.com/articles/diy_acrylic_aquarium.php

 

[James0816]

most excellent. I've done a ton of reading on plywood tanks. getting excited. and the best part of it...the wife is on board with it too. what more could you ask for? lol