RockWork

eyeman

eyeman

AC Members
Nov 27, 2006
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I recently started setting up a 55 Gallon Cichlid tank and have it on an iron stand. After being re-assured that the gap in the center of the stand where I assumed it should touch the tank is OK, I started thinking about the added weight of the rock.

I purchased eggcrate and 290 lbs of NY Blue Rock. I don't plan on using all 290 lbs but how much do you think I could safely add to the tank. I wanted to almost reach the surface in 2 or 3 spots. Big rock piles.

Is this OK with an Iron stand? I do plan on adding another tank to the bottom of the stand...Probably a 30.

Thanks
 
First, I wouldn't worry about the iron stand - it will be fine. They're designed to easily handle the load.

The issue you need to watch is the rock in the tank. I doubt that the sheer weight of the rock will cause problems (most bottom panels in 55 gal tanks are tempered). What you need to watch out for is two things -
(1) don't lean rocks on sides of the tank (the sides are designed to handle water pressure, not the more localized "rock" pressure); and
(2) make sure they are stable - falling rock may be a problem both for the bottom and/or sides.

I personally would be concerned about stacking rock that high due to the possibility of it falling against a side panel. Some even glue or silicone the rock pieces together.
 
Thanks. I used about 150lbs. Flat and level rocks so they are stable and nothing is leaning on a side panel. I did hit the side a couple of times placing the rock and left littl one millimeter scratch/nicks but it should be OK (tempered glass) correct?

Here is a link to it's preliminary look:
http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=95372
 
Interesting look- I'm sure your fish will enjoy it.

By the way, I'm from NY but have never heard of NY Blue Rock. What exactly is it? :D
 
Tempered glass is only used on the bottom and not the sides. Glass is pretty tough stuff though. As long as you haven't "fractured" the sides in any way you should be alright. Definately a different look for the rocks. I like it.
 
Are sure...I can't see the label now but could have sworn that the lable on the bottom of the tank said "ALL Panels Tempered Glass No Drilling"

Now I wonder. It is a Perfecto (Marineland)
 
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