Crack in Sump

[Tamw1se]

I just noticed a crack in my sump. I can feel the crack on the inside of the sump but not on the outside. It is above the waterline when the pump is running. I'm worried the the crack will grow and might leak when pump is stopped to do a water change. Can the sump be patched or should I get a new sump?

 

[Reefpilot11]

Does it go all the way to the top?

 

[risin]

I would make an effort to repair it now. Should be able to drill a small hole at both ends of the crack to stop it from progressing. Then glue a piece of acrylic over it with weld on. This is assuming you aren't too concerned with the appearance of your sump.

 

[tigger2577]

For peace of mind I would look at replacing it. Might give you a chance at doing a redesigned on your sump

 

[rogergolf66]

What size sump and what kind of sump setup is it? I have a few small tanks laying around that could be easily made into a sump

 

[laserjim]

i would make an effort to repair it now. Should be able to drill a small hole at both ends of the crack to stop it from progressing. Then glue a piece of acrylic over it with weld on. This is assuming you aren't too concerned with the appearance of your sump.

+1

 

[Tamw1se]

It is 4" for the top of the sump. I've also found about 6 smaller ones within 1" of the top. I think I'm going to replace and may redesign. Sump is 36x20x16.

 

[Reefpilot11]

Better to be safe..

 

[TampaSnooker]

I forget if it's #3 or 16 but the watery Weld On acryllic glue should fix it without any drilling - the other one has a very thick consistency. Power down and clean and dry the area around the cracks. Because it is so watery, it will wick itself all the way into the crack by capillary action and give a good, permanent bond. Use a needle applicator - it is amazing how it simply pulls itself into the crack. I have used this technique on failing seams before with great success.

 

[snake1]

I forget if it's #3 or 16 but the watery Weld On acryllic glue should fix it without any drilling - the other one has a very thick consistency. Power down and clean and dry the area around the cracks. Because it is so watery, it will wick itself all the way into the crack by capillary action and give a good, permanent bond. Use a needle applicator - it is amazing how it simply pulls itself into the crack. I have used this technique on failing seams before with great success.

#16 is the thick ....and the #3 or #4 is the watery stuff but if your seeing that many cracks it sounds like it has no support at the top and its blowing out under the pressure of the water I would get a new one or use a tank and add baffles.....

 

[Tamw1se]

Getting a new sump as I found three more cracks very similar to the one in the pic. There are too many of the small ones to even count. It will be ready by the end of the week.

 

[tigger2577]

Getting a new sump as I found three more cracks very similar to the one in the pic. There are too many of the small ones to even count. It will be ready by the end of the week.

with finding so may cracks this is probably the best choice. post pic once you get is all set backup

 

[lynardskynard12]

Any idea what's causing the cracks?

 

[Tamw1se]

The sump was made with 1/4@ acrylic and I don't think it was properly braced for that material thickness. Not to mention I just have bad luck.