60 Gallons Rimless dream

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Hi. My name is manny, Fifteen years ago, I packed up my 180-gallon tank and stepped away from the reef-keeping hobby. Back then, I promised myself that if I ever returned, I’d build my dream tank: a sleek, rimless 24x24x25 setup. Well, after all these years, I’ve finally decided to take the plunge, and wow—how things have changed in the reefing world!
With so much new equipment and technology available, I spent months planning and researching, asking myself, “What would I do differently this time?” Initially, I decided to ease back in by finding a smaller, used tank. I landed a 35-gallon for a great price, but almost immediately, I felt it wasn’t enough. Just two days later, I found a 60-gallon rimless tank online at another amazing deal. That sealed the deal—I knew I had to go all-in and build my dream setup around it.

Here’s where I’m at so far:

• Controller: I’m going with a Hydros controller for flexibility and reliability. From everything I’ve read, it seems like a solid choice with great features, and I’m excited to see what it can do.

• Stand and DIY Projects: I’m building a custom stand and many of the tank components myself. I have access to a laser cutter, 3D printers, and a small hobby shop, plus years of experience working with acrylic to build sumps and reactors. The plan is to keep the design compact and efficient, maximizing water flow and incorporating a small refugium.

• Custom Roller Filter: One of my big goals is to design an automated filter roller system integrated with the Hydros controller. It’s an ambitious project, but I’m confident it will help streamline maintenance and improve filtration efficiency.


This build is already shaping up to be an exciting adventure, and I can’t wait to see it come together. I’ll be sharing updates along the way—everything from equipment choices to stand designs and some of the unique DIY touches I’m adding to the tank.


For those who’ve returned to reefing after a long break, I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences. What would you do differently now with all the new tech available? And if anyone has tips for working with the Hydros controller or ideas for a 60g rimless setup, let me know—I’m always open to advice!

Stay tuned, and let’s build something incredible together!

Here is a video update

 
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BunkerShop

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Video Update
60 Gallons built update
A31D3742-2A98-4CF7-B99C-D8B266004BF0_1_105_c.jpeg
 
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BunkerShop

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Back wall controller

Hey everyone ! I'm in a bit of a pickle and could really use your expertise. I was thinking about installing the Hydros controller on the back wall, but now I'm having second thoughts. What do you think about creating a separate stand or control panel away from the tank?
I'm concerned about the metal connections on the Hydros controller getting corroded from evaporation and saltwater. Plus, I'm planning to add a container for RO water container

Your thoughts would really help me make a decision. Whatever you all decide, I'll roll up my sleeves and get to building this weekend! What do you think?
 
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shakacuz

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Back wall controller

Hey everyone ! I'm in a bit of a pickle and could really use your expertise. I was thinking about installing the Hydros controller on the back wall, but now I'm having second thoughts. What do you think about creating a separate stand or control panel away from the tank?
I'm concerned about the metal connections on the Hydros controller getting corroded from evaporation and saltwater. Plus, I'm planning to add a container for RO water container

Your thoughts would really help me make a decision. Whatever you all decide, I'll roll up my sleeves and get to building this weekend! What do you think?

your concern is valid enough to warrant having the electrical stuff separate from the sump. i had my stuff mounted to the wall above the tank and off to the side. kept wires away from water, and provided me space to work under the tank.
 
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BunkerShop

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I'm excited to share my plans for my aquarium setup! With my new stand, I aim to hide 80% or more of the wiring to maintain a clean and clutter-free look. I haven't revealed many features yet, but I’ll be posting a video soon to showcase everything.

My main focus is creating a futuristic aesthetic while highlighting my equipment. Being a tech enthusiast, I chose the hydros controller for its flexibility in managing various components, including pumps and other additions that I’ll be demonstrating.

The goal with this stand is to maximize functionality while utilizing every bit of space effectively. I'm also planning to optimize the sump area. Initially, I considered a small sump, around 3-4 gallons, using an acrylic container. However, with the possibility of adding a second stand, I now have the opportunity to create a much larger sump.

I’m looking forward to sharing my progress and hearing any suggestions or advice from the community!
 
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BunkerShop

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Update I am currently setting up my sump with a roller filter controlled by the Hydros, and I'm excited about this project. Additionally, I'm implementing a power bank to efficiently supply power to my tank at 24V, 12V, and 10V, which will significantly reduce the need for multiple DC power supplies and messy wires. DCCD2272-1972-4049-9DE8-21A5C5E2F3BB.jpeg 215A63A8-E436-4E26-ABD6-2416D38A8F91_1_201_a.jpeg 932DD00F-13C2-4E78-AE7B-D99CF2D0E615_1_201_a.jpeg
 
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The plan is focused on minimal wires and power supplies while having full functionality in the tank and full control, I think the hydros controller has amazing possibilities in comparison with others having the time to plan this for so long and think about it for so long allow me to wait and see how thanks evolve and it’s amazing what you can do with this things
 
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BunkerShop

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Dry fitting the sump just to get a good idea. It’s looking good so far. Stay tuned for more coming this weekend.
IMG_1645.jpeg
 

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