DIY AI Blade mount help

Schulks · Jan 24, 2023

I am working on a fancy fijicube 22.4g build. It has a kessil and the AI Blade so I need my blade mounted about 4-5 inches off the water to prevent shadows. I just asked BRS support and the blade mounts still have no expected date.

I am considering buying the orphek aura tank mount (https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/aura-acrylic-mounting-arms-orphek.html)
It uses an aluminum extrusion like rail on the top of their LED bars. Is there any good way I could attach a 1 sided aluminum extrusion rail to the top of the AI Blade. Perhaps in a way the conducts heat well so it doesn't overheat.

Any Ideas?

Schulks · Jan 24, 2023

I figured it out. Extrusions are really versatile..
I just buy a 10 series to attach the arms to like it is the light. Then I add 2 blocks with m8 holes on the ends to attach on both ends of the blade. Attach the top of those blocks to the rail I made above. Wala I can move it side to side and even spin to angle it.

Trixter227 · Jan 24, 2023

Anyway to post pictures of what you did? Possible links would be amazing!

Schulks · Jan 24, 2023

I just thought up the idea. I am considering buying the parts now. $33 for the extrusion parts and then $55 for the Aura mount. Is an expensive option but might work really well. I will update if/when i buy.

Trixter227 · Jan 24, 2023

Oh i see, just use the arms from the aura mount to connect to the extrusion?

Schulks · Jan 24, 2023

Yes, using the m8 holes on the end of the blade. Not too complicated if you know extrusions.

oreo54 · Jan 25, 2023

Schulks said:
I am working on a fancy fijicube 22.4g build. It has a kessil and the AI Blade so I need my blade mounted about 4-5 inches off the water to prevent shadows. I just asked BRS support and the blade mounts still have no expected date.

I am considering buying the orphek aura tank mount (https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/aura-acrylic-mounting-arms-orphek.html)
It uses an aluminum extrusion like rail on the top of their LED bars. Is there any good way I could attach a 1 sided aluminum extrusion rail to the top of the AI Blade. Perhaps in a way the conducts heat well so it doesn't overheat.

Any Ideas?

Blade has holes for m8 screws.
Bracket has matching holes in the side
The 2 may just fit depending on bar length, hole size ect. Blades look pretty thin, may fit under the top bar piece.
Not sure of the stability but seems it would be no different for an extrusion.

If the bars are designed well no added heat sinking would be necessary. Doesn't hurt of course.

flatlander93 · Feb 21, 2023

Any updates on this plan with the extrusion?

Schulks · Feb 22, 2023

I really want to avoid spending another $80 on mounting so I haven't pulled the trigger. The elevated tank mount AI makes looks too nice. It doesn't have anything on the inside of the tank so you wouldn't have to design the lid around it. I don't want to have the acrylic arms hanging down the side of my tank too but I am still considering it.

I did email AI again about the blade mounts and all they said is 'coming soon'.. super useless... I am going to start emailing them like every other day. maybe I can motivate them...

rtparty · Feb 22, 2023

I am sure some customer emailing them constantly will speed the boat up from China to get mounts here quicker

Schulks · Feb 22, 2023

I was advertised mounting options durnit!!!

If they'd tell me something more than coming soon I could decide if it's worth the wait..

rtparty · Feb 22, 2023

Schulks said:
I was advertised mounting options durnit!!!

If they'd tell me something more than coming soon I could decide if it's worth the wait..

I’m right there with you. Super odd to tout all these great mounting options and then have none of them available at release.

I have 3 Blades sitting here that need to be mounted but I haven’t had time to figure out and DIY something. Sure would be nice to just buy the hanging kit they are advertising!

Schulks · Feb 22, 2023

$47 - Orphek arms
$15 - Extrusion, corner brackets, and m4 nuts
$15 - shipping for extusion, brackets, and nuts

$77 for mounting arms

Seems like it would be sturdy but it might be bulky too.

flatlander93 · Feb 22, 2023

Check bulk reef supply. They have the clips.

Schulks · Feb 22, 2023

I guess the price after the clips($8.50)+ HMS rail($55)+ hanging kit($42.50) is even more than the $77 for my idea.

It would probably look nicer but mine would be easier to adjust.

flatlander93 · Feb 22, 2023

I’m planning on one hms and the clips for my 24” tank. Not sure how high to mount them tho. Just worried about still being able to look down in a rimless tank.

rtparty · Feb 22, 2023

flatlander93 said:
I’m planning on one hms and the clips for my 24” tank. Not sure how high to mount them tho. Just worried about still being able to look down in a rimless tank.

The Blades have a very large sweet spot for mounting heights. Anything between 1-9” seems to work well with good spread and few hotspots

flatlander93 · Feb 22, 2023

Has anyone noticed a lot of flex in the fixtures. Mainly looking at the 21”. I want to just use one clip in the middle on that HMS mount. Not sure that will work tho.