415 Gallon Plywood Tank Build
- Thread starter acrylic51
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2quills
Well-Known Member
Quote:
Originally Posted by acrylic51 http:///forum/thread/376802/415-gallon-plywood-tank-build/760#post_3361072
That's what my dad drives.......I'll have to call you Corey!!!!!
Sure, dude. Let me know. My old man drives an f-250 diesel as well. My fuel pump just went out on my work truck. Guess I'll be changing that this weekend.
Originally Posted by acrylic51 http:///forum/thread/376802/415-gallon-plywood-tank-build/760#post_3361072
That's what my dad drives.......I'll have to call you Corey!!!!!
Sure, dude. Let me know. My old man drives an f-250 diesel as well. My fuel pump just went out on my work truck. Guess I'll be changing that this weekend.
posiden
Active Member
Quote:
Originally Posted by acrylic51 http:///forum/thread/376802/415-gallon-plywood-tank-build/780#post_3362030
Unless the glass is laminated professional I don't think it would look good at all, and that would drive the price up, and wouldn't even be comparable to the acrylic price....
How do you propose laminating the glass?
Having it done. I remember a thread on RC that has laminated glass. It was just a thought.
Originally Posted by acrylic51 http:///forum/thread/376802/415-gallon-plywood-tank-build/780#post_3362030
Unless the glass is laminated professional I don't think it would look good at all, and that would drive the price up, and wouldn't even be comparable to the acrylic price....
How do you propose laminating the glass?
Having it done. I remember a thread on RC that has laminated glass. It was just a thought.
2quills
Well-Known Member
No link, just wanted to share a few pics of the trim. I wanted to close off the gaps and the sides of the tank between the glass and the sides of the canopy cabinets. It was about a 1/4" gap on each side. So I took some 1 x 3/4" poplar board, routed one edge as to match my doors and corners of the stand then trimed out the gap. It doesn't look half bad in person if I do say so. Blends right in with the cabinet and it sits flush to the glass. All I see is a little bit of the black silicone on the corners. Was thinking of your dilema so I wanted to share so you could see if you like the idea of trimming yours if you go with glass.
acrylic51
Active Member
Corey that looks super sweet!!!!! I like the way it looks. I'm getting closer to getting the black epoxy work done on my tank, and hopefully by next weekend will be able to apply or start to apply the clear top coats inside the tank, and get the tank back up on the stand. I'm going to install either the glass or acrylic while the tank is up on the stand. Don't really like the idea of getting a good seal and then attempting to muscle the tank into place and jeoparizing the integrity of the seal work.
Once the tank is up in place again I'm going to have to do similar trim work as you did on the corners to make everything line up with the stand and canopy standoffs/corner caps. Shouldn't be to major, but more trim work.
I've been thinking a lot lately about the direction I'm headed as far as lighting the tank. I haven't deviated away from my choice of LEDs one bit. What I'm debating is DIY method vs looking deeper into the AI's......I'm real iffy with the aspect of building my own drivers which I'd have to be able to do to link or pair the LEDs up with the controller. Here's another link that might interest others that are considering building their own......
http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1975251
Once the tank is up in place again I'm going to have to do similar trim work as you did on the corners to make everything line up with the stand and canopy standoffs/corner caps. Shouldn't be to major, but more trim work.
I've been thinking a lot lately about the direction I'm headed as far as lighting the tank. I haven't deviated away from my choice of LEDs one bit. What I'm debating is DIY method vs looking deeper into the AI's......I'm real iffy with the aspect of building my own drivers which I'd have to be able to do to link or pair the LEDs up with the controller. Here's another link that might interest others that are considering building their own......
http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1975251
acrylic51
Active Member
Quote:
Originally Posted by 2Quills http:///forum/thread/376802/415-gallon-plywood-tank-build/780#post_3365140
Yeah, I see what you're saying. You mean you're going to have to make your own drivers with audrino's? I'm just going to do timmers and manual dim. Agreed, installing the panel would seem better done once in it's final place.
Yeah Corey I tried to bring that point up earlier in the build thread.....I'm dead set on LEDs and won't settle for anything less. I love the ability to be able to control my LEDs, and dimming with pots is very doable, but it still doesn't give me total control like what I'm after.
Originally Posted by 2Quills http:///forum/thread/376802/415-gallon-plywood-tank-build/780#post_3365140
Yeah, I see what you're saying. You mean you're going to have to make your own drivers with audrino's? I'm just going to do timmers and manual dim. Agreed, installing the panel would seem better done once in it's final place.
Yeah Corey I tried to bring that point up earlier in the build thread.....I'm dead set on LEDs and won't settle for anything less. I love the ability to be able to control my LEDs, and dimming with pots is very doable, but it still doesn't give me total control like what I'm after.
acrylic51
Active Member
Quote:
Originally Posted by 1Snapple http:///forum/thread/376802/415-gallon-plywood-tank-build/780#post_3365008
Shawn, I have the utmost confidence in your ability in building a LED fixture, I am sure it will look astonishing.
If you want I can probably help you come up w/ the LEDs and drivers ect. and you can figure out how you want to mount it ect.
Thanks Josh......I have no doubt I could build an LED rig, but building the drivers is another story......I have a good source for the Crees and power supplies.....I hadn't planned on using the traditional ELN meanwells though because of the amount of LEDs I was looking at was more economical using another Meanwell power supply.
Quote:
Originally Posted by 2Quills http:///forum/thread/376802/415-gallon-plywood-tank-build/780#post_3365140
Yeah, I see what you're saying. You mean you're going to have to make your own drivers with audrino's? I'm just going to do timmers and manual dim. Agreed, installing the panel would seem better done once in it's final place.
I had received a PM from Al Mac about the AI which sorta peaked my interest. After stomaching the sticker shock I'm thinking seriously going this route for several reasons. Biggest is not having to deal with building the drivers which is totally needed in my case since I want it to interface with either (Apex or Profilux controller). Haven't totally decided which one I'm going to go with yet.....
Another major advantage is without having the build knowledge of the drivers and audrino system the AI and it's controller, can create all kinds of lighting schemes and is totally dimmable and interfaces well with both controllers I mentioned earlier. This is a major advantage for me due to work schedule and being able to monitor and be alerted and control my tank while away from my phone is another advantage. Again it could be done, but the features I truly want requires those drivers, and the time I'd spend reading, waiting parts and build time doesn't seem very wise.....I know kind of crazy to hear from my mouth......
I did email AI for their suggestions on how many units.....They advised me to measure the opening between the euro bracing. Their units cover a 24"x24" area, which is pretty good. I would need 3 units IMHO, but also thinking about doing some DIY LEDs that I can mount and angle to get complete coverage. I'm not to concerned about the supplemental LEDs being totally controlled by the aquarium controller though......
I actually did get a little accomplished this weekend on the tank.....I got the rest of the black epoxy work done. Still have to glass the overflow, but the overflow isn't near the work as the rest of the tank. No all that is left is a quick sanding to rough up and a wash down, and then I'm going to start the final clear epoxy coat pour. I did change my mind on the epoxy for the clear coat. I'm still using and staying with West Systems epoxy, but for the final finish pour coat, I'll be using the 207 hardner. This hardner is perfectly clear and is actually designed for finish coats. The regular 206 has a slight yellow tint to it, that you'd never notice, but I notice every time I mix epoxy, and want it perfectly clear.
I will have to get off my lazy butt, and take some pics and get everyone up to speed again......
Originally Posted by 1Snapple http:///forum/thread/376802/415-gallon-plywood-tank-build/780#post_3365008
Shawn, I have the utmost confidence in your ability in building a LED fixture, I am sure it will look astonishing.
If you want I can probably help you come up w/ the LEDs and drivers ect. and you can figure out how you want to mount it ect.
Thanks Josh......I have no doubt I could build an LED rig, but building the drivers is another story......I have a good source for the Crees and power supplies.....I hadn't planned on using the traditional ELN meanwells though because of the amount of LEDs I was looking at was more economical using another Meanwell power supply.
Quote:
Originally Posted by 2Quills http:///forum/thread/376802/415-gallon-plywood-tank-build/780#post_3365140
Yeah, I see what you're saying. You mean you're going to have to make your own drivers with audrino's? I'm just going to do timmers and manual dim. Agreed, installing the panel would seem better done once in it's final place.
I had received a PM from Al Mac about the AI which sorta peaked my interest. After stomaching the sticker shock I'm thinking seriously going this route for several reasons. Biggest is not having to deal with building the drivers which is totally needed in my case since I want it to interface with either (Apex or Profilux controller). Haven't totally decided which one I'm going to go with yet.....
Another major advantage is without having the build knowledge of the drivers and audrino system the AI and it's controller, can create all kinds of lighting schemes and is totally dimmable and interfaces well with both controllers I mentioned earlier. This is a major advantage for me due to work schedule and being able to monitor and be alerted and control my tank while away from my phone is another advantage. Again it could be done, but the features I truly want requires those drivers, and the time I'd spend reading, waiting parts and build time doesn't seem very wise.....I know kind of crazy to hear from my mouth......
I did email AI for their suggestions on how many units.....They advised me to measure the opening between the euro bracing. Their units cover a 24"x24" area, which is pretty good. I would need 3 units IMHO, but also thinking about doing some DIY LEDs that I can mount and angle to get complete coverage. I'm not to concerned about the supplemental LEDs being totally controlled by the aquarium controller though......
I actually did get a little accomplished this weekend on the tank.....I got the rest of the black epoxy work done. Still have to glass the overflow, but the overflow isn't near the work as the rest of the tank. No all that is left is a quick sanding to rough up and a wash down, and then I'm going to start the final clear epoxy coat pour. I did change my mind on the epoxy for the clear coat. I'm still using and staying with West Systems epoxy, but for the final finish pour coat, I'll be using the 207 hardner. This hardner is perfectly clear and is actually designed for finish coats. The regular 206 has a slight yellow tint to it, that you'd never notice, but I notice every time I mix epoxy, and want it perfectly clear.
I will have to get off my lazy butt, and take some pics and get everyone up to speed again......
acrylic51
Active Member
Sorry guys!!!! Been lazy, tired, 14hour days and have been doing bits and pieces. Actually just picked up a GSXR for summer time so been out playing in the garage!!!!!
Actually I'm curious as to the drivers your referring to. I've been thinking a lot on the DIY issue, and maybe not having it controlled by my controller really isn't a big deal?!?!?
As far as progress I'm still waiting on a quote for the 3/4" Starphire glass. I had got a quote on 1/2", but would honestly prefer the 3/4" glass. All the black epoxy work is done and started to drill bulkhead holes. Need to sit down and figure out my needs for bulkheads and get them ordered from Savko this week. All bulkheads except from the return pump will be schedule 80. I will try to get some pics posted if my laptop will cooperate with me today!!!!
Actually I'm curious as to the drivers your referring to. I've been thinking a lot on the DIY issue, and maybe not having it controlled by my controller really isn't a big deal?!?!?
As far as progress I'm still waiting on a quote for the 3/4" Starphire glass. I had got a quote on 1/2", but would honestly prefer the 3/4" glass. All the black epoxy work is done and started to drill bulkhead holes. Need to sit down and figure out my needs for bulkheads and get them ordered from Savko this week. All bulkheads except from the return pump will be schedule 80. I will try to get some pics posted if my laptop will cooperate with me today!!!!
2quills
Well-Known Member
Quote:
Originally Posted by acrylic51 http:///forum/thread/376802/415-gallon-plywood-tank-build/780#post_3366561
Sorry guys!!!! Been lazy, tired, 14hour days and have been doing bits and pieces. Actually just picked up a GSXR for summer time so been out playing in the garage!!!!!
Actually I'm curious as to the drivers your referring to. I've been thinking a lot on the DIY issue, and maybe not having it controlled by my controller really isn't a big deal?!?!?
As far as progress I'm still waiting on a quote for the 3/4" Starphire glass. I had got a quote on 1/2", but would honestly prefer the 3/4" glass. All the black epoxy work is done and started to drill bulkhead holes. Need to sit down and figure out my needs for bulkheads and get them ordered from Savko this week. All bulkheads except from the return pump will be schedule 80. I will try to get some pics posted if my laptop will cooperate with me today!!!!
Shawn, are you a ruff ryder?
I've went back and forth on the controler issue. For me I didn't think it was worth the extra hassle for building and programming. The cloud simulations are cool and all that but not necissary IMO. There's still the issue or debate on the effect that the random thunderstorms have on the electronics themselves. I think for my tank they recommend having 4 A.I. modules...that's approximately $2400 not including tax or shipping. I think I get enough ambient sunrise in the house without a controler, and simple timmers can do the rest by having the drivers fire up at different times if need be. Then the manual dimming capabilities for fine tuning color and intensity. That's all I need and I'll have just as much power at half the cost.
Originally Posted by acrylic51 http:///forum/thread/376802/415-gallon-plywood-tank-build/780#post_3366561
Sorry guys!!!! Been lazy, tired, 14hour days and have been doing bits and pieces. Actually just picked up a GSXR for summer time so been out playing in the garage!!!!!
Actually I'm curious as to the drivers your referring to. I've been thinking a lot on the DIY issue, and maybe not having it controlled by my controller really isn't a big deal?!?!?
As far as progress I'm still waiting on a quote for the 3/4" Starphire glass. I had got a quote on 1/2", but would honestly prefer the 3/4" glass. All the black epoxy work is done and started to drill bulkhead holes. Need to sit down and figure out my needs for bulkheads and get them ordered from Savko this week. All bulkheads except from the return pump will be schedule 80. I will try to get some pics posted if my laptop will cooperate with me today!!!!
Shawn, are you a ruff ryder?
I've went back and forth on the controler issue. For me I didn't think it was worth the extra hassle for building and programming. The cloud simulations are cool and all that but not necissary IMO. There's still the issue or debate on the effect that the random thunderstorms have on the electronics themselves. I think for my tank they recommend having 4 A.I. modules...that's approximately $2400 not including tax or shipping. I think I get enough ambient sunrise in the house without a controler, and simple timmers can do the rest by having the drivers fire up at different times if need be. Then the manual dimming capabilities for fine tuning color and intensity. That's all I need and I'll have just as much power at half the cost.
2quills
Well-Known Member
Quote:
Originally Posted by 1Snapple http:///forum/thread/376802/415-gallon-plywood-tank-build/780#post_3366591
Shawn, what controller do you have?
It needs a 10v output and that's it, 10v controls the dimming circuit, so it dims it.
I will find some, how many LEDs are you thinking Shawn? Driver directly corresponds to the amount of LEDs you are running.
I think he was planning on using an Apex controller, which I believe has a couple of 10v controls on it already if I'm not mistaken.
Originally Posted by 1Snapple http:///forum/thread/376802/415-gallon-plywood-tank-build/780#post_3366591
Shawn, what controller do you have?
It needs a 10v output and that's it, 10v controls the dimming circuit, so it dims it.
I will find some, how many LEDs are you thinking Shawn? Driver directly corresponds to the amount of LEDs you are running.
I think he was planning on using an Apex controller, which I believe has a couple of 10v controls on it already if I'm not mistaken.