250W Halides on a 180 Acrylic

[spankr]

What are the possibilities of running 3-250w MH bulbs on a 180 Gallon Acrylic Aquarium. I was going to purchase a glass tank but got such a steal on this used acrylic setup, that I had to get it.
I want the MH lights for the corals, but worry about the heat from the bulbs. Has anyone run either 250w or 175w MH bulbs on an acrylic tank?
If I have to I will run VHO's, but want the MH's for the shimmer effect.
I realize that acrylic is much harder for reef tanks, but I got the tank, stand, canopy, uv steralizer, pump, sump, purple tang, flame angel, skimmer, and 175lbs of Premium Fiji for $700.00. Not to mention that he threw in 4-29 gallon tanks to boot.
Thanks,
Chris

 

[eelfreakrobi]

you got such a good deal! I spent more than that in my 55 gal, im so jealous, but anyway, I would say that the 3-250 mh would be good, that would give you about 4 watts per gallon but since the dimensions are big I would reccomend adding some vho actinic lamps which would make the tank beautiful. I have also heard that the uv is not good for reef tanks so if you sell it your budget will rise up. good luck!

 

[demosthenes]

Yeah, I would go with an MH/VHO combo, and I would also sell the UV sterilizer, as they are indiscriminate in what they kill. You lose the good with the bad. All they really do is prevent disease, but if you feed foods w/ garlic, keep the tank peaceful, quarrantine, and prevent overstocking you will not need to worry.

 

[spankr]

I guess my question is will the heat of the 250W lights deform the acrylic? and what should the distance be from bulb to the acrylic?
Thanks,

 

[jonthefb]

on an acrylic tank, id set them abot 12inches from the top of the tank and make sure you have enough air circulation to keep them cool!
good luck
jon