Stand questions

[Angler02]

I am getting a 180 gallon in a few months but I have the opportunity to get a very well built stand right now for it. My question is this. The stand I am getting is I believe 2-3 inch tube steel that is coated and sealed, the dimensions are 6ft long and 3ft wide by 33" tall, the 180 is 6ft by 2ft. My plan is to put a 3/4" piece of plywood to fit the top of the stand and set the 180 on top of that. The tube steel stand has a center brace that runs the length of the 6ft portion of the stand and two braces that run across the the 3ft portion. The brace that runs the 6ft portion is centered in the middle of the stand putting it at 18" from either side. Would it be safe putting the 180 on top of plywood without the center brace being directly underneath it? I don't for see any problems but I wanted to get some opinions.

 

[capncapo]

Tanks are supported by their front, back and side glass panels. That's not a lot of support for the back.

That's a LOT of weight for 3/4" plywood to support on it's own.

I think I'd have another piece of tube steel welded where the back of the tank will rest just to be safe. Sounds like you've got plenty of time.

 

[ncox38]

+1 for what CapnCapo said

 

[Angler02]

What about buliding a 2x4 plywood frame to go on top of the steel stand? I could build a 2x4 frame with a plywood top the dim of the tank, and then set that on top of the plywood top on the tube steel. Or do the same rules apply here as well?

 

[Angler02]

Sorry I worded that wrong. I want to build a new tope all together out of 2x4's and plywood and brace it where needed for the 180 and then set it on top of the steel stand.

 

[Angler02]

The 2x4's would be braced by the steel underneath and give the tank support where needed. How about that idea?

 

[capncapo]

I'd double the 2X4s up at the back edge of the tank but it should work.

Then again......I like to be cautious.

 

[logiktest]

A box made of 2x6 or 2x8 (for the tanks perimeter) would support the span. But then your stand would become taller.

Welding another stick to it where you need it would be better.

 

[Angler02]

Well my tank purchase fell through so I may go a different route. I do appreciate the responses though incase I still do this. It will just be a little longer before I get a 180 if I decide to go that way.