superman9012000
New Member
i have a 58 gallon tank and want to make a wet/dry filter but need some kind of direction
wet/dry filter help
- Thread starter superman9012000
- Start date
T
thomas712
Guest
This is the advice that was given to me when I was building a acrylic wet/dry.
True acrylic cement is methylene chloride and is a carcinogen. It is best applied by syringe with a long needle to facilitate corner adhering, etc. No tape, clamps or other "hold-together" supports are needed. Only an architect's triangle and "T" sqaure are reqired to align the sides to the bottom and/or any inserts you plan on including.
By wicking the cement, capilliary action allows it to travel the length of the joint insuring a water-tight seal.
The one big area ofter overlooked is the cut edge preparation before bonding. The saw action leaves a surface pitted and uneven. Due to the viscosity of the cement, (thin), these rough edges need attention before actual assembly. Then a propane blow torch set way, way low to sort-of flame polish the final mating surfaces.
There is a thicker viscosity cement out there that fills some imperfections when cementing, but not nessessary for this application, only on high pressure sensitive work.
Thomas.
True acrylic cement is methylene chloride and is a carcinogen. It is best applied by syringe with a long needle to facilitate corner adhering, etc. No tape, clamps or other "hold-together" supports are needed. Only an architect's triangle and "T" sqaure are reqired to align the sides to the bottom and/or any inserts you plan on including.
By wicking the cement, capilliary action allows it to travel the length of the joint insuring a water-tight seal.
The one big area ofter overlooked is the cut edge preparation before bonding. The saw action leaves a surface pitted and uneven. Due to the viscosity of the cement, (thin), these rough edges need attention before actual assembly. Then a propane blow torch set way, way low to sort-of flame polish the final mating surfaces.
There is a thicker viscosity cement out there that fills some imperfections when cementing, but not nessessary for this application, only on high pressure sensitive work.
Thomas.
bheron
Member
whoa, whoa! That sounds like brain surgery 
I am designing my sump/fuge and decided, b/c of the unique space i have to work with, to have an acrylic box custom made for me. I was about to call Home Depot and Loews to get an estimate on the cost.
Am I right in saying this sounds like something that is not simple to do and should be done by a professional if you want it done right?
I am designing my sump/fuge and decided, b/c of the unique space i have to work with, to have an acrylic box custom made for me. I was about to call Home Depot and Loews to get an estimate on the cost.
Am I right in saying this sounds like something that is not simple to do and should be done by a professional if you want it done right?
T
thomas712
Guest
Originally posted by bheron
Am I right in saying this sounds like something that is not simple to do and should be done by a professional if you want it done right?
Its like anything else in life, a puzzle. If you have kids and you put that first bike together for them at christmans (If you don't have it build for them) then it might take you hours, and you might have a few pieces left over. Next time it takes you half the time, with less pieces left over. Hopfully third time is a charm.
Map it out, measure twice, cut once.
Thomas
superman9012000
New Member
my tank is made of glass and has been running for three months i want to build a wet/dry filter without drilling a hole is there some other way
cool clown
Member
You can get a overflow box. This is what most people use. I just ordered mine today.
cool clown
Member
I got it off ----. I got the complete system with bio balls and return pump for a 200 gallon tank for under 200.00. I was going to build one but after priceing parts and the time involved I decided to just buy it. I think I saved in the long run.