Possible acrylic tank problem

[Frunkster]

Hello all

I know we in the UK don't have many acrylic tanks in general, so I have not much to go on.

Hence me posting here, seen as a lot of you guy's are using it in the US.

I have just discovered this "possible fault" in my main tank seal within the Wier, it was not really visible until I saw a brittle star in it the other night

Here is a photo of it, theres also a shallower longer one just above.

Should I start to panic now

The tank is 15mm walled, to give you a better idea of what size this "imperfection" is.

The tank is 480gls BTW

Also one more quick question -

What should the recommended thickness of acrylic be on this size of tank over in the US as a standard, tank is 87" x 30" x 42"(w)

Any & all help would be most appreciated.

 

[Kent E]

If the seam is the clear section to the right, I think it will be fine. I've done some DIY with acrylic and I'm terrible at it. The skimmer is 30" tall and has all sorts of bubbles, and inperfections and it holds just fine.

So although it isn't pleasant to look at I think she'll hold.

 

[Acrylics]

No need to panic IMO but do keep an eye on it, if it grows much at all - I would start to get concerned.
Depending on how it is braced, 18mm is a minimum IMO though (unfortunately) some companies will build similar from 12mm.

HTH,
James

 

[Frunkster]

Thank you for the input so far guy's.

Glad to hear it "may" well not be an issue

Any more thought's on this please anyone?

& can anyone else confirm this minimum 18mm thickness (not that I doubt your judgment) just would like something to go on when I approach the UK manufacturer.

Are these kind of imperfections common in acrylic tanks on the whole?, as I payed a lot of cash extra for the safety issues due to having children around the tank on a daily basis & would like that "peace of mind" I was expecting.

 

[prance1520]

I don't know much about it myself, but James (Acrylics) is a staple on the boards here when it comes to tanks and such. He's always answering questions, and from the pictures I've seen, he does amazing work. If he suggests/recommends something, I'd go with that, I doubt you'll find better advice than his around these boards.

Hope things don't get any worse. Best of luck.

 

[reefkeeper2]

I will second that opinion. You have heard it from one of the best.

 

[Frunkster]

Thank you very much guy's.

I do hope I have not offended & James I will seek you out if I have any further acrylic issues. as you appear to be da man

You have alleviated my concerns somewhat, I will keep an eye on it to see if it develops.

 

[Acrylics]

None taken whatsoever. Everyone wants to be sure and that's completely understood. Hopefully it won't be cause for further concern, but if it does - please do feel free to ask any questions

James