stupid question: what are bulkhead?

[kanvas]

I head of them whenever i search for used tank on craigslist and know that they are usually DIY with PVC pipes but what are they for (seem like they used more in salt than in FW tanks.)
:newbie:

What are bulkhead?
What is the benefit of a tank that has a bulkhead compare with one that doesn't.

Thanks

 

[bgcoop8784]

bulkheads are pipe fittings to connect pvc through holes drilled in the glass. tanks with bulkheads are drilled and open up a lot of filtration options without having to run pipes over the rim of the tank and lets you have a sump without having a overflow box, personally i would rather have a drilled tank than one that isn't depending on price.

 

[Hebily]

Everything he said is effectively correct.

It is actually short for 'bulkhead penetration' wherein a bulkhead is any of the walls of the tank. They are used more with salt than fresh, but they are used most times that someone wants to use a sump filtration system. If you plan on using a 'standard' hang on back or canister filter, they are not needed, and may leak.

 

[kanvas]

so if i buy a tank with a bulkhead, is there an effective way to "plug" the hole up yet still leave an option for opening it up later?

 

[Star_Rider]

yes, you can use an expanding plug

 

[bgcoop8784]

or just a bulkhead with a cap if you can't find the plugs. buying the tank with buikheads is a good idea if you think you'll ever want to upgrade filtration or if you just get a good deal.

 

[Hebily]

:iagree: You can use an expanding rubber plug, or a screw on cap with an o-ring. With either solution, be careful to make sure they're not leaking at all. They should be able to go a very long time without developing a leak, as long as it is good to start with. I would also check them to make sure they're not leaking at least every 6 months or so.