Although we've watch the 4 videos full assembly is not clear. Can you post step by step assembly instructions so we know exactly when and where we are to glue and silicon?
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No. After the solvent weld,run a gusset bead of silicone over the seams. Cut the silicone tip at a 45 degree and just like caulking a bath tubSo do you sandwich the silicone?
I will try to get to this tomorrow. We are slammed with big tanks.Although we've watch the 4 videos full assembly is not clear. Can you post step by step assembly instructions so we know exactly when and where we are to glue and silicon?
Any recommendations for the type of silicone to use?Have been a little busy. Yes. You will need silicone. I would be very surprised if anyone except maybe @Jim Gomoll can put these together leak free without silicone. The tank is designed for silicone sealing. Before the bottom and top are attached with solvent, apply silicone to all of the seams with the exception of the front panel seams. You can do this from the bottom. The design is such that all of the silicone seals will be hidden. Do not skip this step.
Personally I like Gorilla brand. Has good bond strength and in a tube that is easier to move around vs the big calk gun. See post #248 on page 13Any recommendations for the type of silicone to use?
Since you're not using it to bond/support, more as a secondary seal, you can likely use any aquarium silicone. If it was to bond, I'd recommend Momentive RTV108 or similar.Any recommendations for the type of silicone to use?
Thanks, any concerns about the mold/mildew inhibitors in the Gorilla Glue?Personally I like Gorilla brand. Has good bond strength and in a tube that is easier to move around vs the big calk gun. See post #248 on page 13
The Tenecor® Desktop AIO Drop Off DIY Drops April 13th, 2024
Looks like the hygger one. I had one lasted a year or two.www.reef2reef.com
USER BEWARE Oh Darn!!! Thanks for the catchThanks, any concerns about the mold/mildew inhibitors in the Gorilla Glue?
If there’s an option for a 36” or even better 48” sump, I’ll be first in line!!!Thank you everyone for your patience. The last of the kits shipped yesterday. Is there anyone who would like to give a silicone only build a shot? It will work very nicely but for some reason, it does not, I will replace your kit. There is a lot of misinformation out there and especially on this forum, about how acrylic cannot be bonded with silicone. Silicone can be used as an adhesive, sealant or both. Using it as an adhesive with acrylic does have limitations but for small builds such as this and for sumps, OF's media caddies and similar, it is perfectly suitable if not even preferred. For large tanks and long seams, not advised. I desigened this tank for silicone or solvent assembly. The only seams that matter are the viewing panel on the far end. And silicone on those would be perfectly acceptable. Just use toothpicks instead of wire and stay away from them as you silicone the seams. Then go back and pull the toothpicks and fill with silicone. DO NOT press the panels together. Somebody please give it a try. And NO NO NO, acryrlic does not swell up like a kitchen sponge when exposed to water. Yet another myth. Pro Tip: clean the surfaces with IPA before applying the silicone.
Onward.
The next DIY will be an UNBREAKABLE sump. Stay for more after I see some of these kits up and running with water in them.
Below is an image of a gift to you. These are not for sale. Use them with coffee, tea, beer, pickle juice or whatever else you enjoy. They are cleverly designed for both left and right hand use. Anecdotal evidence supportsclaims that continued use will make you smarter and socially charming.
All the best.
Interested in sump and all silicone build. Coffee cup is sweet!Thank you everyone for your patience. The last of the kits shipped yesterday. Is there anyone who would like to give a silicone only build a shot? It will work very nicely but for some reason, it does not, I will replace your kit. There is a lot of misinformation out there and especially on this forum, about how acrylic cannot be bonded with silicone. Silicone can be used as an adhesive, sealant or both. Using it as an adhesive with acrylic does have limitations but for small builds such as this and for sumps, OF's media caddies and similar, it is perfectly suitable if not even preferred. For large tanks and long seams, not advised. I desigened this tank for silicone or solvent assembly. The only seams that matter are the viewing panel on the far end. And silicone on those would be perfectly acceptable. Just use toothpicks instead of wire and stay away from them as you silicone the seams. Then go back and pull the toothpicks and fill with silicone. DO NOT press the panels together. Somebody please give it a try. And NO NO NO, acryrlic does not swell up like a kitchen sponge when exposed to water. Yet another myth. Pro Tip: clean the surfaces with IPA before applying the silicone.
Onward.
The next DIY will be an UNBREAKABLE sump. Stay for more after I see some of these kits up and running with water in them.
Below is an image of a gift to you. These are not for sale. Use them with coffee, tea, beer, pickle juice or whatever else you enjoy. They are cleverly designed for both left and right hand use. Anecdotal evidence supportsclaims that continued use will make you smarter and socially charming.
All the best.
For those doing some silicone work I found this interesting and helpful.
Different silicon's for Acrylic from temporary to medium to good bond.
Sand surface for better hold.
#1 Gorilla, #2 Marineland, #3 Do It Best brands for best hold.
Built Chair so far. On hold until I get some 1/8" acrylic sheet to make couple custom baffles and media caddy.Anybody attempted this beast yet? I'm probably going to give it a shot this weekend.