Aquarium larger than stand, doable?

darkknight26 · Apr 9, 2020

Hi everyone,

I am exploring an idea at the moment. I currently have an evolution aqua 900s which is empty. Thrilled to bits with the system but it could be a bit bigger.. now I love the cabinetry and sump, and considering I paid quite a bit for it just a year ago I would like to retain these two along with all the equipment if I could possibly do so.

The current aquariums dimensions are 90cm (l) x 50cm (w) x 61cm (h)

I propose to 'upgrade to a 91.44 (l) x 61cm (w) x 61cm (w)

If I was to add some extra supports in the cabinet, uprights in the form of aluminium t slot (3 to be precise. One on both sides and one front centre, add some 18mm ply on top of the stand cut to the exact dimensions of the new aquarium so the base is fully supported, do you think it would be safe to do so?

The biggest overhang would be at the front approximately 11cm or, i could overhang it on both the front and back sides by half that distance so 5.5cm overhang on the front and back.

Thanks in advance

Webslinger · Apr 9, 2020

I wouldn't do it unless you built a metal support for the tank. Ply isn't enough support and will bend. I see cracked glass in the future.

piranhaman00 · Apr 9, 2020

Thats a pretty big overhang, I use 3/4" ply on my tank overhang but its less then 1mm overhang

darkknight26 · Apr 9, 2020

Okay, thanks for the replies. Advice provided is in line with what I have read on similar threads. Appreciate the honesty and I will shelve this idea.

Dale Jones · Apr 16, 2020

Just a thought add some t slot 80/20 aluminum to the top laying on the stand then add the plywood on the top split the difference front to back and add a piece of trim to hide it all

darkknight26 · Apr 17, 2020

Dale Jones said:
Just a thought add some t slot 80/20 aluminum to the top laying on the stand then add the plywood on the top split the difference front to back and add a piece of trim to hide it all

That is actually not a bad idea. Since posting this thread, I have realised that my current aquariun, an evolution aqua 900s, red sea reefers and waterbox aquariums to name a few all overhang the aquarium stand by atleast 1/2".. in some cases more to ensure that their cabinets are flush with the edge of the tank. As long as the entire base of the aquarium is supported sufficiently, i can't see a problem. Any further thoughts?