building a sump

[nomadnumber29]

Hey guys,
IU'm looking to custom built a sump that matches my stand and I needed help on where (and what type) of material to buy so that I don't go broke in the process. I was thinking cast acylic, but its so expensive. I need to be able to drill the sides because I have a pan world pump that isn't submersible. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks

 

[areze]

telling you right now, it isnt easy.

infact unless you know what your doing, you will undoubtably fail.

now if you can get a glass tank or acrylic, you can convert it into a sump with baffles that should be easy enough to do.

but your average joe wont ever get the peices exact enough, or the get the edges joined properly to be absolutely water tight and strong.

if you happen to have a cad mill in your shop that can cut you out your peices precisely... then nevermind.

 

[runningstix]

I bought all the cast acrylic for a sump 25"x16"x20" cut to exact size and edges routed smooth for around $70. Pretty cheap if you ask me.

 

[areze]

didnt know you could order it precut.

still, have you assembled it?

its not easy. atleast it wasnt for me.

 

[runningstix]

I have not assembled it yet, hopefully this week. Once I decide on a layout.

I bought extra acrylic cut to size for a 12x12x6 "frag tank"/practice.

That is assembled!

Local plastic shops will cut to size.

 

[nomadnumber29]

Runningstix, what was the name of the shop were you bought it? Are they online?

 

[runningstix]

I bought all the acrylic for my sump/frag at a place called ssplastics

http://www.ssplasticsinc.com

I also bought a bunch of acrylic for a diy skimmer at a place called plasticare

http://www.plasticareinc.com

These are both local to Denver, CO There has to be someone local to you.

 

[k.shep]

if you havn't glued acrylic before, run a thin bead of weld on 40 or 16 down the joints to be safe.

 

[runningstix]

I did that as well and passes the water test! That was my first experience with acrylic