How do you drill a hole in a glass tank?

[SPSFiend]

Does it have to be tempered glass? If so, how do you check that it is?

Thanks!

 

[saltyESQ]

from my understanding when I tried to get a tank drilled is that you can't tell if it is tempered. But if it is tempered, then you can't drill it as it will spider crack.

 

[noschmo]

very carefully.

 

[turtlespd]

you cannot drill tempered tanks period! tempered glass will shatter into a million pieces. The only way you can find out if your tank is tempered or not is by the manufacture.

 

[818]

Or if you decide to drill it

But yea! Only way to be 100% sure is to do what they said^^^^ and call the mnf. of the tank.

 

[raskal311]

how big is the tank?

 

[craftytony]

E-mail Rod at Rod's Reef, he drills tanks all the time
Located in illinois, he's a really good guy and could probably help you out...

http://rods-reef.com/

 

[kjbudsberg]

Most tanks are built with a tempered bottom, and the sides are non-tempered. I have drilled a lot of tanks and it is EASY. All you need is an appropriately sized bit, the tank, and some water for lubrication. The first hole I drilled was on a scrap piece of glass so I could see what would happen when the bit came all the way through (I was concerned about it "grabbing" and cracking around the hole. To start, I start the drill turning slowly dry to score the glass (about 5 seconds), then pour water on it and keep at it. The only pressure I give is the weight of my hand and the drill. About every 20-30 seconds I stop, pour more water on, then boldly forge ahead until you are all the way through. Finally I drink I beer and repeat as necessary.

 

[SPSFiend]

What kind of drill bit do you use? I have circular bits for wood... do you need a special one for glass?

 

[raskal311]

you need a diamond whole saw, check ebay its very cheap and works great.

 

[babyjess210]

HTH

http://discusasahobby.com/forum/index.php?topic=2351.0

 

[JeffersonReef]

Is the tank already assembled? If so... dont risk it. Despite what others have said, I talked to several so cal glass shops, lfs, and aquarium manufactures. The glass (EVEN ON THE SIDE) is tempered. Has to be... since tank will support so much pressure/weight. If the tank is already assembled... it IS GOING TO CRACK.

But... if you go for it.. and it works, let us know!

-Tony