Top bracing on large acrylic tanks

[Aquavaj]

Is it common for large acrylic tanks (150g+) to be so heavily braced on top that it limits access to inside of the tank? I was looking at a 180g on craiglist and the openings on top were so small that a large rock or an aquascaped rock formation will not fit. Even if the rock fits you'll still have trouble getting the rocks to the side edges. Can't imagine having to work on the tank too being so restrictive.

 

[ZoWhat]

I suppose the first question is who built the tank? An individual or a company?

Second question is was it built to be used as a fish tank? Or smthg dry like snakes or lizards? Maybe holes are small to help contain small dry animals (???)

Braces are there for a reason....mainly to support the massive water pressure that continously pushed on the sidewalls.

Maybe the sidewalls were built with thinner acrylic that needs more bracing support up top.

Only these questions can be answered by the person or company that built it.

 

[jtl]

I once had a 150+ and it had a significant amount of euro bracing and 3 holes I believe.

 

[lapin]

I built my tank. I decided that the top was important for my piece of mind. Sure it was hard to get 35lb rocks in there thru 16" openings. I know that acrylic tanks that are mass produced, are made as thin as possible to save on material cost. The top adds some strength to the tank. However, most bow out anyway. Unless you find a custom made tank you will likely find a top with holes. I can lay on top of my tank without worry as I did when installing the light tracks.

 

[Aquavaj]

Ok I guess if I do consider an acrylic tank it'll be a case by case basis. I do understand that just about all the large ones will have some form of bracing for better structural support.