Cut out ATO barrier in Trigger sump for more space?

[Wingzinco]

Hey all. I have a Marine Depot Elite Sump (Trigger) - 30 inch like the one in the pic below (finally getting around to using it). I wanted to get some opinions on cutting out a chunk of the ATO barrier so that I can use that area for my return pump and possibly other gear eventually, instead of using it for the ATO purpose. I don't want to risk the stability of the sump if this is an issue, obviously. Has anyone ever tried something like this with their sump? And as a secondary question, what's the best tool for cutting this? Much appreciated!

 

[blaxsun]

Do you need the room for the return pump? I guess if you want to run a refugium the extra room might be useful.

 

[Wingzinco]

Thanks @blaxsun - As-is, the larger section after the filter sock area will house my skimmer and I want to run a UV sterilizer (external from the sump but with a submerged pump) as well. This would be tight and I'd need to use my larger return pump in the next section over. No plans to run a refugium, just want the extra space in my limited cabinet and can keep the ATO external.

 

[Dcloser12]

The bubble trap will prevent any real churning for good refugium growth. Water needs to come in mid to high and then leave the chamber high to create good turbulence to get that rolling effect. Other than that it's easily possible to remove. A dremmel or rotozip will make easy work in cutting out the acrylic panel