(Another) DIY Metal Stand

Discussion in 'I made this!' started by Pastey, Sep 24, 2012.

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  1. Pastey

    Pastey Ritteri Anemone

    Joined:
    Jun 7, 2011
    Messages:
    638
    One of my current (and very plausible) options is buying a new glass
    tank and building my own stand. Building a steel stand is probably the
    only way I'll go for me if I choose this route. I want as much sump
    volume as possible and I simply can't squeeze a large tank through
    braces. Below is the design I had envisioned. I'm going to send the
    design to a mech. engineer friend today to be "stress tested". I
    couldn't find the weight of DSA's 225gal. but I estimate it to be
    2800-3000 once filled with water, sand, rock. Obviously, that front
    upper beam is going to be the point of failure if there is one. I've
    run across a couple of newb questions since I've never built my own
    stand; metal and non.

    1. How much deflection is acceptable for an aquarium? I know this is a
    tough question but I was hoping someone knew of a general figure to
    stay above (1mm, 0.5mm, etc).

    2. How much wider/longer should the stand be over the aquarium? I
    assumed 1" when I was using my figures (ex. 72" aquarium, 73" stand,
    etc.)

    3. My front panel will be attached using countersunk magnets so the
    entire panel is removable but still have 3 doors for quick access. The
    other 3 panels will likely be affixed permanently. What is the best
    way to attach wood paneling to metal?

    4. The stand "floor" would optimally be water-tight. What is the best
    way to go about this?

    I'm sure I'll think of more questions as I explore this option but
    this is all I have encountered thus far.

    [​IMG]
     
  2. Click Here!

  3. Pastey

    Pastey Ritteri Anemone

    Joined:
    Jun 7, 2011
    Messages:
    638
    I tweaked the design shortly after this. I added the angled supports to the rear to match the front.
     
  4. Jake

    Jake Sea Dragon

    Joined:
    Feb 26, 2010
    Messages:
    516
    Location:
    Saskatoon
    To go without a vertical support in the front will require extra considerations. Have you considered doubling up the front, upper beam?

    Similar to this (credit to Sphelps from canreef):
    [​IMG]
     
    Last edited: Sep 25, 2012