Remove top off from acrylic sump

[Expensive Sushi]

I want to take the attached top off my acrylic sump so I’ll have room for a skimmer. What is the best way? Is a hack-saw the only way? I don’t want to compromise the seals (edges) on the rest of the sump.

 

[alizarin]

You could use a table saw or a jig saw but if it's a small section you might just want to use a dremel with a cutting wheel bit. I use the dremel to cut through pvc all the time and it's very fast (and stinky).

 

[Gimplar]

yeah, saws will work but may not give a nice smooth edge, (depending what blade you use) you could just use a blow torch, cause you know playing with fire is always the best way to go

 

[Expensive Sushi]

Fire, yeah that could work, or maybe I can fill it with propane and light it. hmmmm so many options to consider.

 

[Aquatic Hamster]

Sump

Sump

I just completed a somewhat similar project. I've expanded a sump to hold 4 filter socks and removed a large piece of acrylic off of the top to allow for access to the back two socks. The sock holders are attached with weldon 16 to provide support to the sides.

A jig saw will work if you have one. Clamp on a straight edge of some kind to guide your blade. I found if you cut slowly there was a problem with the acrylic re-fusing back together from the heat of the blade. A second pass went easier and finished the cut. I used a small palm sander to knock off any rough areas and round off edges.

 

[Gimplar]

very nice chad, im looking to upgrade my sump system in the somewhat near future...i just wish i had money :-/

 

[mflamb]

A router with a straight cutting bit will give you a finished edge and a straight cut with a guide.

 

[Aquatic Hamster]

Yes, a router is ideal, and someone cut the oval holes out for me using the original as a guide. Alas, I had no router or really cool box of bits to use.

 

[Expensive Sushi]

Thanks everyone.