Thoughts on glass ext overflows?

[exnisstech]

New tank researching. I'm looking at several tanks but am wondering about the external overflows like IM offers. Are there concerns about failures with an overflow held on with silicone? Plumbing stress? Or does the precut plumbing help support vs put a strain on the box? Ive only had internal overflows. I like the idea of the flat back wall and extra space.

 

[Euphyllia098]

These are the best imo because they don't take up space in the tank.

If your worried about the plumbing putting strain on it you can support it on the back or underside of the stand.

If your buying a complete setup from IM they have already considered if the plumbing needs support or not and you don't need to worry about it.

 

[KrisReef]

I had an acrylic external give away from stress, so I think it is something to consider. The deformation of glass and acrylic when the tank fills must have some impact upon the seams that are made to hold the overflow. When mine let loose, I dried the box, and added some "corner beads" of acrylic material on the inside of the box at the seams to beef up the connection points. So far they have held.

On the box in the picture, a 45 angle below and outside of the box might increase the stability and help prevent sagging & stress?