Metal halide reflectors

[JCR's Reef]

I'm looking for some reflectors for metal halides if anybody has any laying around. I'd prefer them not to be all corroded but I could polish them out. Im looking for 2 of them or a cheap place to buy some.

 

[Fireworm]

Just curious, are they going in a canopy? And could you make some out of mirrors? What kind of light would that put out? Just some thoughts

 

[JCR's Reef]

Im thinking of putting them in a canopy, or might make them suspended above the tank. All the research in the past says mirrors allow the light to pass through or bounce around way too much and lose intensity and isnt very reflective. Flat white paint is a better reflective than mirrors. I thought about just painting them flat white since on not planning on keeping this tank, just have to save money for a new first which will be awhile.

 

[mattvisocky2003]

You are correct about mirrors. They make poor reflectors and can create "hot spots" of light. You could always go to Home Depot and get some solar tube material and bend it into a simple reflector...

 

[JCR's Reef]

How reflective are the solar tubes? Are they polished material?

 

[mattvisocky2003]

They are anywhere from 92-97%. I am not sure exactly what they are made out off...

 

[k'ville_reefer]

i think the solar tubes are made from aluminum......with a very high polish. I've read the same about the mirrors vs. flat white paint. the paint being the better choice.....sorry worm of fire

 

[k'ville_reefer]

for that matter. you might be able to use simple aluminum flashing. it comes in rolls. any lowes or home depot...etc carries the stuff. just keep the shiny side out.

 

[Fireworm]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13548165#post13548165 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by k'ville_reefer
i think the solar tubes are made from aluminum......with a very high polish. I've read the same about the mirrors vs. flat white paint. the paint being the better choice.....sorry worm of fire

No harm no foul. I was just throwing out an idea.