so so close...
so so close...
Today started with making the last few cuts on the cabinetry trim boards. The side panel trim was cut and moved down into the basement along with the other trim pieces.
This picture sequence shows the wood being cut and screwed together to form the drop down holder for the UV sterilizer. The only way to fit it under the tank is to have the wood be mounted to the underside of the tank frame and suspend it above the sump tank. Plumbing will be going in front and behind this piece. It was created and then my wonder wife is painting it with RedGard to waterproof. It will get multiple coats since this will be directly above the sump tank. A PVC stand was also created for my protein skimmer to sit on top of in the sump. This has to be done because the return pumps will sit underneath the protein skimmer to make room for all equipment. Another photo later on will show the skimmer and pumps underneath the stand. Small holes were cut all over the PVC to ensure no air is caught in the PVC when it is submerged.
The cabinet trim was pulled away from the tank frame. The stainless steel plates used for securing the trim pieces together were removed and wood glue was applied to all edges. The Plates were then re-secured to the trim wood with stainless steel screws. The second picture shows the steel plates holding the trim together.
This next picture shows the final cabinets trim wood put in place. The seams were secured with wood glue and more steel plates screwed in place. Clamps were applied to ensure the glue dries in the correct shape without any warping.
Below is showing the PVC stand for the protein skimmer. The bottom right has the two sump pumps housed underneath the stand with the skimmer sitting on top. I have about ¼ to 1/2 "œ clearance to get the protein skimmer head off and out of the sump tank.
This last picture is where we currently stand. All cabinetry trim wood is screwed, glued, and clamped in place. I will let it sit for a few days to fully dry then I plan on pulling it all away from the tank frame and RedGarding the whole inside of the wood. Once the RedGard is dry, I can push the trim back in place and secure it to the tank framing. Plumbing is complete and will post pictures after all the trim wood is secured in it's final resting place. I am thinking we are 2-3 weeks out from the tank being stained, doors stained and installed, and water in the tank. All the live rock is currently in a water trough cycling under lights. Hopefully any nasty critters we can remove prior to placing it in the display tank. I need to find a place to make a custom acrylic cube tank for my refugium and top off system. Thanks for following along, cheers...