Building Sump

[terryricke]

I've built a new sump from a 55g glass tank but used acrylic for the baffles. Now that the sump has been up and running for a week the baffles are coming lose. I used GE Door and Window Silicon that others have used but it doesn't appear to stick to the acrylic very well. Can anyone recommend an adhesive that I could use to install these baffles again? Should I try something different for baffles? I would like to use the baffles I already have cut to fit but would be willing to try something different if the consensus was to change.

Terry

 

[annamarie421]

I'm no expert, but I considered this when I was building my sump:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/ca/volume_3/cav3i1/Baffles/baffles.htm

Instead I got some glass cut at the hardware store - it was pretty inexpensive, and it's holding up really well.

Hope to help!
Anna

 

[glaspie69]

just use 100% silicone caulk, it won't budge

 

[kau_cinta_ku]

also scratch up the acrylic where the silicone is going on the acrylic to help it bond to it

 

[Bullet]

The same thing happend to me once and if I remember right the problem was they were too tight. I made them so they would fit exactly but Hung told me to leave them a little loose and then silicone them in.

 

[terryricke]

I think I'll try a combination of all the suggestions since I'm not sure if what I used is 100% silicon, the panels are smooth and tight. How much space should I leave, just enough to easily insert them? I'm thinking like a 1/16th all the way around...

annamarie421
Thanks for the link, I like that setup too.

Terry

 

[got2lb]

I cut mine to fit. Just a little slack to get them in there. I used the GE windows and Doors silicone II. Before I put them in I did scratch up the edges of the acrylic where it was going to bond with the silicone. I didn't have any problems at all.

 

[Coralfreak]

I used the GE windows and Doors silicone II

I hope this is a typo, you do not want to use Silicone II, it contains a fungicide to resist mold, not good for your tank. Be sure to ONLY use GE Silicone I.

 

[got2lb]

Only the kitchens and baths has the fungicide not the doors and windows. I have heard that the new Doors and windows II does but not the old stuff. Haven't checked for myself yet.

I actually looked and I used the I anyway not the II. I remember now that supposedly the I adhears better than the II it's a little more "GOOEY" I guess!