Plumbing question (pvc support)

[shoelaceike]

I've noticed people use a plastic straps or brackets on pvc if it spans a long area.....I was wondering if I should add something like that in my situation.

I have a 3 inch piece of pvc coming out of the bulkhead, from there is an elbow and then a 1 foot piece of pvc going horizontal. Thatsl is attached to a 3 foot flex hose which then goes into the filter sock....

Please let me know if I need to add a support strap to the 1 foot pvc... See pics...

TIA

 

[Jimbo662]

I would add support just in case. I'd also replace all those metal hose clamps. I used those on my first build thinking since they're on the outside it would be fine. Within a year I discovered they'd corroded and were basically falling apart.

 

[TheEngineer]

I would, personally. You're putting strain on the bulkhead and that's a rather long lever arm. Hanging at 90 degrees like that creates the maximum amount of torque.

 

[shoelaceike]

Thanks. So I should just add the strap and thats it? I would like to crazy glue it as I don't want to screw into the stand... Will that work?

The area with the clamp is also cemented....its just there for extra....

 

[TheEngineer]

There's no reason, physically, you couldn't use glue. Just make sure it actually holds and you'll have to check on it to make sure it stays there.

 

[shoelaceike]

Cool I'll try that.....I will just use a very thin piece of vinyl...

 

[redfishbluefish]

Without question, support that horizontal pipe. As mentioned, too much leveraged pressure on the bulkhead/tank bottom. I'd use plastic hanger strap and a couple 1/2 to 3/4 inch screws into the top board on the stand

 

[shoelaceike]

Thanks but I really don't want to screwing into my stand with a full setup on it..

 

[redfishbluefish]

But how thick is that top board? If it's 3/4 inches, you get 5/8 or 3/4 panhead screws (I'd get stainless steel). With the thickness of the doubled up vinyl strap, it won't go all the way through.

 

[shoelaceike]

It is 3/4.....maybe I'll try something like that.....thanks!

 

[shoelaceike]

Btw, what issues can I be facing if I leave as is? Leaking bulkhead? I doubt that pressure can effect the glass as its 3/4 inch and the pressure is not that much......

I'm just concerned to use any size screws as I'm concerned that it can push wood into the bottom of the tank....I was going to glue vinyl but that will probably end up shrinking and cause more pressure the opposite way....I over think everything lol.

 

[shoelaceike]

Good idea?

 

[dbl]

If you are really concerned about screwing in to the bottom, I would cut a scrap piece of wood and glue that to the bottom. Then use the pipe hangers suggested and screw in to the scrap piece of wood. I think the little plastic wire hanger held up with tape is just a chore for you to check on now and again. Just my opinion anyway.

 

[shoelaceike]

Good idea. Thank you!