Will this be strong enough for a stand?

[Swull]

Building a stand for a 78 gallon tank. I need it to support a 1000 pounds to be on the safe side. Will 2" steel square tube handle this or should i get a larger diameter tube? The top and bottom sections will be a complete square with a middle support square tube. These will sit on the top and bottom of the uprights. There will be four corner uprights and one middle upright on the two sides and back. I want to leave the front open for easier access.

thnx

 

[OrionGirl]

Yes, it will be strong enough.

Why use metal instead of wood? 2x4's are very sturdy, and easy to work with. I would worry about it getting corroded by the water--but that's just me. You'll need to have a really good sealant, and make sure it doesn't get scratched.

 

[lee914]

The compression weight of even MDF will support the stand if built correctly. Go look at any stand you would pay $400 for in your lfs and it is all either mdf, partical board or plywood. Oriongirl is right, 2x4 are enough. Steel is overkill as well as 4x4's.

 

[Swull]

I decided to go with 2"x2" 1/8"angled steel. It seems to be plenty strong. Im in the progress of putting a couple layers of primer on before the epoxy paint.

 

[mickey]

NICE JOB

 

[M-pire]

Very impressive! post pics after the paint too!

 

[MisterFixIt]

stand strength?

I've built a stand for a 90 gal with 3/4 in black walnut your stand is really sturdy.My tank is set up and running with about 1300 pounds or so and no creaks/groans etc.Got pics too!!

Marc

 

[Swull]

Thanks for the info.

Post some of your pics. Here is the stand after 2 coats of primer and 3 coats of epoxy paint.

 

[M-pire]

Looks great! That'll be one heck of a stand!

 

[mickey]

Looks the part, sound job.