Chipped tank?

Durtle · Feb 7, 2025

Last month I posted about a used IM 30L I purchased that had gotten chipped traveling home. On the recommendation of others here I've been leak testing it. It's been on plywood outside for a little over a week full of water and the chips haven't progressed and it isn't leaking. I've periodically tried to shake the plywood under the tank or knock on the glass to simulate vibration it could experience in the house and it's been solid. I added a few pictures for reference. Im trying to get some better photos but need to wait for us to have some sunny weather here.

Would you feel confident about using the tank at this point? I know it wouldn't improve the integrity of the glass but would it be worth filling the chips with silicone and attaching a small piece of aluminum to the corners to protect them from any impacts?

It came with a homemade plywood and 2x4 stand. I have a desk I'm planning to use as a stand. I'm considering using the plywood top to the stand to raise it off the surface of the desk a few inches to protect the corners a bit. I need to replace the leveling mat, it looks like the previous owner tried to remove it but stopped part way through taking it off. I had considered just adhering the new mat to the plywood or would it be best to scrape off the old one and attach it to the tank.

KrisReef · Feb 7, 2025

I see many pictures, if they are all the same chip I think you should be fine.

The old leveling pad needs to be completely removed ( no bumps) so the glass sits flat against the new pad and stand.

Fish Fan · Feb 7, 2025

I agree, I would run that tank, especially after leak testing it for a week.

I just recently replace the mat on an Innovative Marine Nuvo 25 gallon lagoon, and I can say for sure why the previous owner stopped part way....... It was a nightmare getting that old one off. I spent over an hour with a razor blade, putty knife, and isopropyl alcohol.

But yes, you do want to get the old one off completely. And rimless tanks absolutely do need a mat underneath. Many use inexpensive yoga mats from stores like 5 Bellow, but I ordered the "real" stuff right from Innovative Marine who made my tank.

Good luck!