Custom sump construction

[Ltspd]

I am considering constructing a custom sump for my system. This would allow me to incorporate a refigium and a sump in the same space, and allow me to place my skimmer in the sump itself improving the overall performance of the skimmer. The idea is that higher flow area would be straight thru while the refuge area would have a lower flow. I can also incorporate calc reactor effluant area's and ph probes into variuos areas.

I would construct this from 1/4" glass all around. I have a question about the glass size for the bottom. I am considering also using 1/4" here. There would be a aluminum or steel (painted) angle fram on the bottom. Made from atleast 1x1x1/8 angle. The whole tank would sit on a 3/4" thick plywood stand supported underneath by blocks, just like my current sump. Do you think 1/4" is ok for the bottom? There will be NO holes drilled in it.

Basic layout.

[organicreefer]

i dont think 1/4 is thick enough for a tank that size (36x36)you probly need closer to a half inch(3/8?).what about a top brace?how tall?ive wanted to try to build a tank out of 1/4 glass,inside a wooden box for a long time,i just dont know if it will work or not.have you ever built a tank before?

[Ltspd]

My current sump that is 18 x 36 x 18 high is made from 3/16 glass.

I am also considering 3/16 with some doubled top bracing. 1/4" bottom with a spacer to keep the "bow" out from the 1/8 angle framework.

I think I need to talk with a tank builder, Better safe than sorry.

[MarkS]

Have you thought about having Scott make it for you out of PVC? Or is it going to be nescessary to see into it from the sides?

[Ltspd]

Nice rendering Mark.

I can make it myself. It gives me stuff to do on those winter evenings,

I will also have to drill pc's 1 at a time exactly where I want them drilled. I may invest in a glass bit for 1-1/2" bulkheads. I will have to make sure that I have enough room in the skimmer area for my Aerofoamer 824. I may also place the mag 18 inside that area and pull water thru a bulkhead inside the tank itself.