Derimming

[Reef Fever]

So I picked up this turtle tank pretty cheap, normally it has a sliding lid where the missing rim is in the photo. I was curious whether or not completely removing the remaining 3 rims would make the tank more susceptible to bowing, or blowing out. If so I supposed I can derim and add Euro style bracing on it. Input is appreciated (tank measures 24x24x10)

 

[Connie]

I don't know if it's true or not, but I've been told you can't use a reptile tank for a marine tank....something in their waste.

 

[Reefing Madness]

I don't know about the turtle thing, but yea, if you removed the rim, euro bracing would do ya nicely.

 

[Dashiki]

At 10" high id check the thickness of the glass and see if bracing is needed at all.

Make sure the top of the glass is sanded though or you will slice your hands up every time. Use 60 grit paper for that if needed.

 

[Dashiki]

Rinsing with vinegar would remove any old waste. If your really concerned use muriatic acid.

 

[Bad Company]

That tanks looks pretty low, it probably won't need bracing. Accidental banging may result in a wet floor though.

 

[Reef Fever]

Thanks guys. Ya it already had a vigorous vinegar scrub. But I will most likely do a vinegar soak before it's ran. I'm not sure what I will be using this tank for, I already have 2 reefs so I may do a planted plaudarium or just another frag tank..maybe a shallow reef down the road

 

[stunreefer Verified Sponsor]

"Reptile" aquariums are generally built with thinner glass to save cost, since they're not expecting them to be filled to the brim with water. I would fill up and let sit for a week or so and test deflection in the glass, just to be safe.

 

[returnofsid]

"Reptile" aquariums are generally built with thinner glass to save cost, since they're not expecting them to be filled to the brim with water. I would fill up and let sit for a week or so and test deflection in the glass, just to be safe.

Exactly! Don't ever fill a 40 Breeder Reptile tank with water...it'll end in a watery disaster. They're made with thinner glass and can't withstand the pressure.

 

[Reef Fever]

glass is 3/16 thick

 

[dereks16]

Im currently using an old reptile tank that was used for red ear sliders on my reef tank now as my sump. This has been going for a year now. Cleaned up with bleach and water. No problems. And this is full probably 75% with water.

 

[Reef Fever]

So took the rim off and painted the bottom brace black, its had water in it for the past two days with zero structural degradation. gonna let it sit for a few more days..what a PIA to scrape the old silicone off though