Cutting Acrylic/Lexan Polycarbonate Sheet for a Custom Top

Discussion in 'General Reef Topics' started by FlyPenFly, Jan 11, 2013.

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  1. FlyPenFly

    FlyPenFly Astrea Snail

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  3. FatBastad

    FatBastad Zoanthid

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    .125 = 1/8"
    how long is your tank? I suspect 1/8" will bow way, way too easy!
     
  4. FlyPenFly

    FlyPenFly Astrea Snail

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    The tank is 24x12.

    I guess it's finding the right thickness so that light doesn't get too blocked up but it can't be super flexible either. Should I step up to a quarter or half an inch?
     
  5. Fly5150

    Fly5150 Astrea Snail

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    At 12" across, I don't suspect 1/4" plexi will have hardly any flex. I would use 1/4".
    Matt
     
  6. FatBastad

    FatBastad Zoanthid

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    I think for 24" that 1/4" would work.

    Though, going to a local home improvement store, you can get a cheap-o sheet of glass and a glass cutter for less. If your lucky on the size, you only may have to make one break.

    A little sanding and your done.
     
  7. Fly5150

    Fly5150 Astrea Snail

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    And as long as you keep it clean from dirt and salt creep, it shouldn't effect your light.
    Matt
     
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  9. FatBastad

    FatBastad Zoanthid

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    yeah
     
  10. FlyPenFly

    FlyPenFly Astrea Snail

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    Oh duh, I forgot to mention one thing!

    I'm planning to have a peak poking out of this shallow reef. So I have to either drill a large hole in the middle of it (badass) or make this two pieces.
     
  11. Fly5150

    Fly5150 Astrea Snail

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    You will be able to make a clean hole in plexiglass with a hole saw.
    Matt
     
  12. FlyPenFly

    FlyPenFly Astrea Snail

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    Great, can't wait to get this tank started.

    Tank is in, drilled, overflowed. Sump is in. Just waiting on the return pump and cycling my live rock.