• We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo

Correct me if I'm wrong

C

Cole Million

Feeder Fish
Hey guys I'm new, like really new. I've been reading everything I can find on diy tanks. So my understanding is that volume of water doesn't really factor in to force on the sides of an aquarium. So my question is this if I have a 55gal aquarium that's 20 inches tall and I cut it apart and use the individual panes of glass side by side divided by wooden structural components is this safe. I plan to use plywood for back ends and bottom but essentially triple the volume so I'm concerned about the 1/4" glass being strong enough. Approximate tank dimensions 10'x18"x20" deep 187 gallons.
 
The water height is what determines the thickness necessary. As long as you don’t go higher than the original 55 was, you should be fine if it’s properly braced. Keep in mind that the 55 was braced in the middle. You will need to brace the middle of the panes when you build your diy tank.
 
Thanks for the confirmation. I actually just found 40x80 1" thick glass for $50 and 4 sheets of 4'x8' 1.25 bullet proof glad for $200 for all 4 so I may go one of those directions
 
I wouldn't trust it. I've built several well braced DIY tanks which were on the brink of failure due to not using thick enough material. As the length and/or width of a tank increases, so does it's deflection and the amount of bowing. Think of a pencil. The longer it is, the easier it bends, and the easier it breaks. Also, the safety factor for a 55 gallon tank with 1/4" glass is minimal. 55 gallon tanks probably fail more often than most other sized tanks. Whether it's due to weak flooring, tank busting fish, cheap particleboard stands getting waterlogged, or any other stress risers. 187 gallons is a lot of water. Accidents happen. Overbuild everything.
 
I will keep that in mind, the span of each panel will actually decrease by 3 inches in each direction as well. But I'm trying to find someone to cut one inch glad right now lol like you said it's a big risk
 
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