Drilling Acrylic

[Watevadog5]

Question... Tank is half filled with water. Want to drill 2 holes on top so the power head cords run straight up the sides and out... Was going to use a handheld fully charged, maybe clamp wood on the underside so I have pressure. Any tips, tricks anyone can share??

 

[Watevadog5]

would be to the left, and also on the right. With the overhang I think the wires would be super messy...

 

[143MPCo]

...FWIW, most ppl wouldn't want to risk drilling a filled take even if it's the top, that said, you would be assuming the full risk if you did it and it cracked but, unless you're going to empty it you are left with no choice.

Maybe @Floyd R Turbo can give you additional insight.

 

[Watevadog5]

Yea, I'm a bit worried as well, but since it's the top panel I thought it would be ok... Maybe I'll drain more this way it's even less pressure...

 

[Watevadog5]

this might help relieve pressure also..

 

[143MPCo]

if you do it use a spray bottle of RO/DI water on the bit to keep the heat down.

 

[KorL]

I've done that before with no issues. It was on a fully running 300 gallon. Same thing as you, I wanted the powerheads wires to run straight up and out of the tank. But it's up to you.

Also one thing I did, I placed some plastic wrap on water surface right below where I was drilling to catch all the acrylic shavings.

 

[Watevadog5]

Catching the shavings was also a thought. Hopfully the wood underneath will help

 

[adhd_nerd]

What kind of drill bit? I suggest a step drill bit.

 

[Watevadog5]

 

[Watevadog5]

Left side done. For anyone who has never drilled a tank I must say that is one scary experience

 

[143MPCo]

Left side done. For anyone who has never drilled a tank I must say that is one scary experience

try glass:rolleyes:

 

[tgp4274]

agree.... I drilled my tank 3 1 1/2 holes in 1/2" glass :)

 

[Watevadog5]

 

[tgp4274]

looks good!!!
good job :)

 

[madehtsobi0109]

I'm wanting to do this too. Did u leave the wood underneath? Anything u woulda done differently?

 

[Double J]

has anyone drilled the back panel with water in tank? should have done it from the start but didnt know how much all the clutter in the tank would bug me. if i emptied it half way down? its a 50 gal acrylic sea clear tank. forgot to send in the warranty paper, so might as well drill it now:)

 

[KorL]

I've drilled my tank before while it was still full of water. Not sure if it's a big no no, but it turned out fine.

 

[KorL]

I lined the water surface with saran wrap to catch all the acrylic shavings.

 

[Pepcrylic]

I have a 100 gal acrylic sump made with 1'' material. Lowered the water level below where I wanted to drill and had at it. Added a 2'' bulkhead.