Metal Halide lighting on acrylic

[Cozmo4]

I'm in the planning stages for a reef aquarium. I'm looking at a 185g rectangular acrylic tank that's 60" wide, 24" front to back and 30" deep. The tank manufacturer suggested that metal halide lighting could damage the tank over time, specifically if the wavelength of the lighting is below 400 nanometers, and is suggesting that I go with T5HO lighting. I can't find anything to substantiate this. As I intend to keep many varieties of coral over time and the 30" tank depth is on the deeper side, I'd prefer to build it out initially such that I can minimize the need for too many upgrades as I add thing to the tank.

Has anyone ever heard of or experienced any issues with metal halide lights and acrylic tanks? I've been very pleased with the knowledge and customer service of the company I'm working with, but this one caught me off guard.

Thanks!

 

[tkeracer619]

Lots and lots and lots of acrylic tanks have halides over them. I would keep the bulbs off the braces but other then that I don't see it as a problem. If it was there would be more about it and it would surely make the debate threads on acrylic vs glass and halide vs t5. I wouldn't be concerned unless the acrylic is too thin.

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[Cozmo4]

Thanks very much for the reply!

 

[xpirtdesign]

i have my 2X250W MH on my acrylic. I have a regular 10" fan blowing into the light and over the top of the water (creates nice ripples and gas exchange). Everything is A-OK....but my setup evaporates close to half a gallon a day? at least..

 

[grigsy]

I use MH over an acrylic tank and have had no problems.

 

[grigsy]

I use MH over an acrylic tank and have had no problems.