180 Gallons Stand build

[Alcatraz]

Hi all ,

So i decide to upgrade from 90 gallons to a 180 Gallons, so i bought a used tank without a stand and decide to build one , let me know what you think ....

Here's the final result :

[Original Fin]

Looks nice. How long were you at it? What method of framing did you use. Plan on doing any sort of weight/deflection testing prior to adding water?

[Alcatraz]

for framing we used 2X4 (double glued and screwed in each corner)

it took us 1 week (not full days)

as for testing we put the tank on it and put 25 gallons at a time wait about 15 minute then had another 25 gallons

here's a pic :

[Original Fin]

I'm in the beginning stages of building a stand myself. I have no experience framing anything, let alone aquarium stands, so I've been doing a bit of research. In the pic, is that standing right side up, or is it upside down?

I don't mean to poke holes in your design, but just in case it it saves you from a disaster, I'd like to point out some concerns, and hopefully I'm just not seeing the whole picture yet.

It looks like you could possibly run into weight transfer issues. I see you have vertical supports along the back, but none in front. Maybe you just hadn't got to it yet? Support columns should have symmetry.
The middle supports look like they sit attop a sill plate, but the corner posts do not...this uneven distribution of weight could be a problem down the road as the frame and floor compress and settle. With this type of framing method, the top beams should really be 2x6 to support a tank of that size on a 6' run without a center support.

This has to not only support a couple thousand pounds, but it has to transfer that weight evenly over the entire footprint of the stand. If the weight get's focussed over a few small areas, it will eventually lead to to sinking, twisting/racking, which will expose the tank seams to twisting force as well. The danger is not that the stand will collapse, but that the tank will crack, or the seams will bust open.

It appears as though the corner posts do not rest on the sill, which means most of that weight is going to be focussed on four small points of the floor. If it's going on a slab floor, this might not be that big of a deal, but if it's to go on subfloor which has give, I'm not sure I would trust it.

I suppose instead of starting over, you could check for unloaded square/plumb etc., load the thing up with a ton of sandbags or something, wait a week or so and remeasure. If it did show any signs of racking, then you would know.

Sorry If I'm out of line...I know you must be proud of your work, but I'm also sure you don't want a 180 gallon flood!

[Mad Mead]

So awesome!!;);)

[berrymilan]

WOW, Thats awesome, I am sure you will make a great pond, Curious to see more pics.

[Alcatraz]

Thanks everyone !!!

I will take pics and post as it will progress so far it still in cycling mode but not for long , don't wanna rush anything ...

Thanks again

Eric

[Alcatraz]

Little update

Not much have been done but it's getting there

So far :

Live sand : 270 pounds should be enough
Live Rocks : 171 pounds will add more
Light : so far was only testing my 48 inch 8X54W tek light

Let me know what you think

Oh and i would like to have some idea on a nice Show Fish and maybe some stocking list idea

Thanks again

[Kmoriarty]

That looks awesome! I like the rock that looks like the arch in St. Louis haha.