Drilling Acrylic

Watevadog5 · Oct 5, 2015

Question... Tank is half filled with water. Want to drill 2 holes on top so the power head cords run straight up the sides and out... Was going to use a handheld fully charged, maybe clamp wood on the underside so I have pressure. Any tips, tricks anyone can share??

Watevadog5 · Oct 5, 2015

would be to the left, and also on the right. With the overhang I think the wires would be super messy...

143MPCo · Oct 5, 2015

...FWIW, most ppl wouldn't want to risk drilling a filled take even if it's the top, that said, you would be assuming the full risk if you did it and it cracked but, unless you're going to empty it you are left with no choice.

Maybe @Floyd R Turbo can give you additional insight.

Watevadog5 · Oct 5, 2015

Yea, I'm a bit worried as well, but since it's the top panel I thought it would be ok... Maybe I'll drain more this way it's even less pressure...

Watevadog5 · Oct 5, 2015

this might help relieve pressure also..

143MPCo · Oct 5, 2015

if you do it use a spray bottle of RO/DI water on the bit to keep the heat down.

KorL · Oct 5, 2015

I've done that before with no issues. It was on a fully running 300 gallon. Same thing as you, I wanted the powerheads wires to run straight up and out of the tank. But it's up to you.

Also one thing I did, I placed some plastic wrap on water surface right below where I was drilling to catch all the acrylic shavings.

Watevadog5 · Oct 5, 2015

Catching the shavings was also a thought. Hopfully the wood underneath will help

adhd_nerd · Oct 5, 2015

What kind of drill bit? I suggest a step drill bit.

Watevadog5 · Oct 5, 2015

Watevadog5 · Oct 5, 2015

Left side done. For anyone who has never drilled a tank I must say that is one scary experience

143MPCo · Oct 5, 2015

Watevadog5 said:
Left side done. For anyone who has never drilled a tank I must say that is one scary experience

try glass

tgp4274 · Oct 5, 2015

agree.... I drilled my tank 3 1 1/2 holes in 1/2" glass

Watevadog5 · Oct 5, 2015

tgp4274 · Oct 6, 2015

looks good!!!
good job

madehtsobi0109 · Oct 7, 2015

I'm wanting to do this too. Did u leave the wood underneath? Anything u woulda done differently?

Double J · Nov 8, 2016

has anyone drilled the back panel with water in tank? should have done it from the start but didnt know how much all the clutter in the tank would bug me. if i emptied it half way down? its a 50 gal acrylic sea clear tank. forgot to send in the warranty paper, so might as well drill it now