Acrylic Strength Question

[YodaHart]

I'm building a custom ATO container that will fit perfectly in my new stand. The container will hold about 15 gallons of water. All the tank building calculators out there say to use 1/2" acrylic. I don't have 1/2", but I have tons of 1/4" acrylic. If I use weldon to double up the 1/4" will be as strong as the 1/2"?

Thanks!

 

[cromag27 Verified Sponsor]

Don't double up. Add a euro brace to the top and it should be sufficient, depending on the container dimensions.

 

[robbrouse]

1/2 Inch really.. Most of the custom sumps are are not that think... I'm wondering if you added a brace inside the ATO container if that would be strong enough?

 

[YodaHart]

The container will be 24"H x 17"D x 8"W. I was planning on doing eurobracing on the top and bottom, but it will probably still bow from the pressure. I may do some bracing inside the container, too if I have to.

 

[robbrouse]

Well I'm also thinking of making one, not that big, but still. Let us know if it works.

 

[cromag27 Verified Sponsor]

Add a 12" vertical baffle inside, in addition to the euro brace on top.

 

[Psyko]

I've built plenty of these in various sizes for local club members. 1/4' is plenty strong for 15 gallons. Heck most of the sumps I've built are 1/4". Instead of a eurobrace, I opted for a solid lid with a hinged opening for filling. This allows the top of the box to be used for storage. HTH.

 

[Phixer]

When it comes to fabricating with acrylic most MFGs use material that is entirely too thin and what you end up with years later is crazing and a tank/sump that bows like the bag the fish came in. Dont double up panels, spend the money and use thicker material. 17" deep should be no less than 3/8" thick. Yes some build with thinner material, some also build Yugos.