Anyone have experience with acrylic?

[svynx]

I need a tank built, and thought that one of you might be able to help me, or at least know someone that could. I need one with outside dimensions of:
H: not sure yet
W: 30"-36"
D: 24"
Possible to have external overflow box, but hasn't been decided yet. I have no experience with this stuff, so I'm not going to attempt building one myself. And I thought I'd ask around before going to a company to build it. Hopefully it would be cheaper that way. I will at least get a quote from someone.

 

[NCNBilly]

I've made lots of smaller things, but I wouldn't chance it. Glass cages costs barely more than you could buy the acrylic for, and they'll warranty the work.


I'd go 36" so you can use standard T5 bulbs.

 

[svynx]

I posted on the DIY forum as well. From what I've been seeing, Glass Cages shouldn't be trusted. Apparently they use material that isn't great. Now that's for acrylic. Glass might be a different situation. I can find the materials, and even have them cut to size, rounded, and polished if needed. It's the putting together that worries me.
This project is for my mantis tank at work. She usually doesn't hit the glass. But the past few days she's really been going at it. Not sure if it's because she needs more space or not. I might look into a 36" cube. I'll just have to put a piece of wood under the tank since the stand isn't 36" front to back. We'll see.

 

[NCNBilly]

For an acrylic bottom, you need a solid base anyway if I remember correctly.

TFP had the largest mantis I've ever seen, nearly the size of a small lobster!

 

[svynx]

Yeah. That one has been there for about 2 weeks. Mine is the same kind, but has about 1" on the one for sale, which is why I'm looking for a bigger tank.

 

[chriscobb]

Are you still looking to build this tank? I can check with my buddies on cost of the acrylic if you'd like?? Building it wouldn't/shouldn't be super hard.....Let me know!!!!

 

[svynx]

Not anymore. I ended up just buying a 40 breeder. Thanks though.