New frag tank set up

_pabloperetti · Apr 12, 2019

Decided to get back into the hobby with my frag tank I was gonna set up about 2 years go but ended up failing :/
Now that I have time and money I’ve decided to do everything right. So here’s me build so far. The sump was made by me (yes I know the silicone is sloppy but as long as it works I’m okay with it). Trying to get everything I need before starting. I’m gonna be using a T5 light fixture. First sump compartment is skimmer, then Refugium, then return pump. Opinions so far? Let me know what you guys think I NEED!

glb · Apr 13, 2019

_pabloperetti said:
Decided to get back into the hobby with my frag tank I was gonna set up about 2 years go but ended up failing :/
Now that I have time and money I’ve decided to do everything right. So here’s me build so far. The sump was made by me (yes I know the silicone is sloppy but as long as it works I’m okay with it). Trying to get everything I need before starting. I’m gonna be using a T5 light fixture. First sump compartment is skimmer, then Refugium, then return pump. Opinions so far? Let me know what you guys think I NEED!

Looks like a nice setup! No worries about the silicone. We’ve all been there.

_pabloperetti · Apr 13, 2019

glb said:
Looks like a nice setup! No worries about the silicone. We’ve all been there.

Haha glad to know I’m not the only one!

DCR · Apr 13, 2019

Is there a crack in the sump that you are trying to seal with that diagonal bead of silicone on the left side? If so, I don't think that will have any strength with that fix.

_pabloperetti · Apr 13, 2019

DCR said:
Is there a crack in the sump that you are trying to seal with that diagonal bead of silicone on the left side? If so, I don't think that will have any strength with that fix.

Yea it did crack, what should I do?

DCR · Apr 13, 2019

I would silicone a plate of 1/4" thick glass about the size of the first chamber to the inside of sump over the crack - with silicon all around the edges of the plate and along the crack. This will give it more strength against the water pressure. You would need to trim away the silicon already in place on the crack. I would want the plate to extend all the way from top to bottom of the sump. It is not a very deep sump, and you might get by with your fix with the baffles you have added, but I would not trust it. I would definitely fill it in a location where a blow-out would not cause a problem