View Full Version : 150 Gallon (48x36x24) Hole In Wall Tank
petergillett
04-01-06, 09:47
My 8ft tank is just taking up too much room at the moment, so I'm having a bit of a change.
Going for a "hole in wall" 48 long x 36 wide x 24 high
Supported by 24 x 24 x 15 and 20 x 18 x 18 sumps, and a 36 x 12 x 12 fuge.
Have all the tanks ready, all the bits and pieces, all the wood, lintel etc.etc. pick up wall cutter on Friday.... all systems go Saturday, glass going in Monday.
Will upload pics when I get started!
JasandJules
04-01-06, 11:14
Good stuff.
Looking forwards to seeing this happen.
Valley Boy
04-01-06, 11:46
Sounds Good---why not 30''high ?----- :evil:
YorkshireMarine
04-01-06, 14:16
hey peter i see you finally got the builder to turn up then lol. good luck with the build looking forward to seeing it when i come and pick up the tank.
james
petergillett
05-01-06, 00:10
Originally posted by Valley Boy@Jan 4 2006, 11:46
Sounds Good---why not 30''high ?----- :evil:
Short @rse! Just can't reach 30" so decided to stick with the trusty 24" - especially when standing at the back of the tank there's 36" of reach too!
I'm boxing in with stud walling as should help take the chill off from the garage but the side panels will be removable for the event (which will happen) when I need to get my hand to the bottom front!
petergillett
05-01-06, 00:13
Originally posted by blacksparkle@Jan 4 2006, 14:16
hey peter i see you finally got the builder to turn up then lol. good luck with the build looking forward to seeing it when i come and pick up the tank.
james
You are joking aren't you??!!! Given up on the builder, only 6 weeks late! Decided to DIY it along with help from my Father-in-law. Has saved me a few quid at least!
Don't intend to take long, so the tank will be with you very soon.
YorkshireMarine
05-01-06, 10:39
well good luck with the cutting out as im in the trade myself just curious how your gonna cut the hole out on the tank side to get the lintel in without moving the tank. you gonna sheet the tank side with ply or something for protection against falling rubble.
james
ps post some pics mate
petergillett
05-01-06, 11:30
Originally posted by blacksparkle@Jan 5 2006, 10:39
curious how your gonna cut the hole out on the tank side to get the lintel in without moving the tank.
Not too tricky when we looked at it. It's only a single skin 100mm. The lintel is a steel L shape so it's just a case of slicing a grove into the blocks from garage side, and sliding it into place. Once in it's a careful job of removing the blocks by pulling them into the garage. We'll take the room side plaster board as it comes. I'm trying not to remove it unless it falls to pieces, with the intent of getting the cuts done, rubble out, and tidy before cutting it out with a knife and joining the two rooms.
The whole planning has been straight forward. The structure sits on a solid block at the bottom and the top is a couple of inches clear of a block. Had to lift it 2" to line up, but that's fine.
We're using a "low dust wall cutter" to do the cutting which I've heard is the ideal, and tidiest, tool for the job.
I think the word "careful" is the key word here!
JasandJules
05-01-06, 12:35
Getting builders to get quotes is something of a challenge indeed.
Good luck on doing it yourself, sounds like your FIL will be a valuable asset when you do this.
Suffolk Reefer
05-01-06, 12:38
Oh good, another one of these threads to follow, love to watch these develop.
Good luck with you build :thumbsup:
Regards
Paul
[QUOTE]We're using a "low dust wall cutter" to do the cutting which I've heard is the ideal, and tidiest, tool for the job.
Let me assure you theres no such thing!!!!!! You will be amazed at the dust, trust me.....
petergillett
07-01-06, 19:07
Originally posted by Cyno@Jan 7 2006, 18:51
[QUOTE]We're using a "low dust wall cutter" to do the cutting which I've heard is the ideal, and tidiest, tool for the job.
Let me assure you theres no such thing!!!!!! You will be amazed at the dust, trust me.....
I am no longer amazed!!!!!!!!
It's heavy, hard to balance (especially for horizontal cut), very hard to judge depth, throws loads of dust about. To be honest if we'd used it for the lintel cut we'd be in deep @$£%! Knocked it on the head in the end.
First change of plan - I thought the tank would sit nicely on the top of a block, and then the lintel on the top of another. What's the toughest part of the wall? Yep, the cement! So we moved the lintel up 2 inches. I did already know that cement was tough, but had forgotten!
Second change - ditch the wall cutter. We ended up drilling the wall into a "perforation" and then chiselling out the joins. Slightly slow but accurate, easy, very low amount of mess.
By end of day 1 we're a bit behind but the lintel is in and the brickwork is coming out. We've managed to not break the plasterboard into the current tank location, which is very pleasing!
Tomorrow the rest of the brick has to come out and the stand must be in place. It's a very simple structure and we've got all the wood, screws and tools, so should be fine!
Any some pics to start....
Old tank - soon to be the property of blacksparkle (hole in blue)
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/oldtank.jpg
A pile of wood ready
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/wood.jpg
Start of day (hole in blue)
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/start.jpg
End of day 1
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/dayone.jpg
More to follow tomorrow!
YorkshireMarine
08-01-06, 14:17
looking good peter mate you dont who needs builder hey looking forward to the new pic when you get them on.
james
petergillett
08-01-06, 22:55
Quick update. Finished the hole today - used an reciprocating saw - very, very easy. Cut like butter. Would have been finished yesterday lunchtime if we'd have done this first!
Building the stand threw up a few issues:
1. Whilst back was level, leg for left side was wrong length for right side. Conclusion - concrete floor not level.
2. Now I wasn't aware of this but planed 4x2 is not 4x2! it's about 3 7/8 x 1 7/8, so 2 pieces side by side do not have the same profile as one piece flat
3. Don't assume all pieces are the same width ie they're only around 3 7/8" - a pain when working with 2 bits together.
4. Don't assume the ends of the timber are square either
Anyway, other than that, the stand is in and we still didn't puncture the plasterboard!
Getting the tank in tomorrow should be fun. The stand is just over 4 foot high. Didn't look that high on paper!
Hole all cut out
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/holecut.jpg
Stand built and in place
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/stand.jpg
Pleasing!
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/level.jpg
I was going to suggest drilling guide lines but you've now done it!!!! Good luck
petergillett
09-01-06, 18:07
Keith from Windsor Aquatics turned up this morning as planned at 9.30. He brought with him my fuge and a couple of other knick knacks for bits I have planned.
He also helped me with the difficult job of getting the tank up onto the 4ft high stand! We pondered about it for some time until finally collaring two guys working on a house 3 doors up.
I can highly recommend Keith for building the tanks, his accurate time estimates, and his willingness to help. If I ever set up another tank (arrgghh, that's not going to happen in a hurry!) I'd definitely use him again!
Anyway, tank in place ready for painting.... matt black (unless anyone gives me a good reason to paint a different colour - current is blue, but I think I want the dramatic look).
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/tankin.jpg
instantsquid
09-01-06, 18:15
This is looking superb!
I have a black background on my Cichlid tank and my frag tank, but my new reef tank will have a blue background. I guess it's all down to taste - black background for a reef tank will certainly not be "the norm", which is in itself a good thing (IMHO).
Keep the pics coming - great start mate.
- Ian.
Why don't you try black sheeting first? Then if you like/dislike it will be alot easier to change it.
petergillett
09-01-06, 22:10
Originally posted by DannyW@Jan 9 2006, 21:25
Why don't you try black sheeting first? Then if you like/dislike it will be alot easier to change it.
Was going to black sheet the back so that I can remove it if I need to see into the tank from the back (not sure why, but the day I do I'll wish I hadn't painted it!).
Was in two minds about the sides. I wanted to paint, get the tank in place, and then seal the boarding onto the side of the glass.... however, you've given me an idea.....
If I use black painted perspex sheets I can slot them down the side of the tank then seal the edges to the glass. I can then seal the wall/board onto the back of the perspex. If I ever want to change colour (or see into the sides) I just pull the seal off and slide it out.
Will black matt emulsion go onto perspex? It paints onto glass so should it?
Will a painted backing pressed against the glass give a finish anything like actually painting it as once it's done there's no going back. The tank will be full of water and livestock before I get a chance to see it as the old tank is other side of the wall, and then I won't be able to get the paint brush in!
YorkshireMarine
09-01-06, 22:18
hey peter bet the tank was heavy so whens the big move planned cos that is gonna take some time. dont forget to keep posting pics love it so far.
james
petergillett
09-01-06, 22:56
Originally posted by blacksparkle@Jan 9 2006, 22:18
hey peter bet the tank was heavy so whens the big move planned cos that is gonna take some time. dont forget to keep posting pics love it so far.
james
Between 2 of us, yes, but with 4 it wasn't too bad. Keith and I could have managed if it wasn't going up 4 foot. They lift quite easy if you lift one end, pad, then other end, pad again, and repeat - just ran out of padding about 3 foot short!
Plan is....
1. Paint
2. Build other tank stands
3. Plumb
4. Fill to test
5. Build stud walls
6. Partly fill with new water
7. Water change main tank to swap / stabilise water so that I've got about a tank and a quarter of water.
8. Move half the water
9. Move rock
10. Move livestock
11. Move rest of water
12. Move lights / skimmer / pumps
13. Empty old tank and ring Blacksparkle/James for collection!!
14. Cut hole on inside wall - first time I'll have seen tank.
15. Finish indoors
Looking at each item it doesn't seem long but expect it will stretch. Going to make a serious dent on it all at the weekend. Not got much time this week due to work.
JasandJules
10-01-06, 09:25
Looking good.
In terms of backing, I got some blue sheeting and blue tacked it onto the back of the reef, it took a couple of goes to smooth it out etc.. but I think it is worth doing so if you decided to change it........
I assume you are adding a little more to the stand? Just it looks like you have a few inches hanging over the edge of the stand?
petergillett
10-01-06, 10:19
Originally posted by JasandJules@Jan 10 2006, 09:25
Just it looks like you have a few inches hanging over the edge of the stand?
I thought someone might clock that! Just the tank not pushed into place yet. I've got to paint/line/board/whatever it first.
Was your blue sheeting solid or like a plastic paper? On the inside does it look like painted glass, or glass + gap + colour?
JasandJules
10-01-06, 10:27
It was actually the Tropical background plastic stuff turned round !!
Looks monstrous
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/tankin.jpg
I'm watching ths thread with interest as Im in the process of doing a hole in the wall also, not got the wall just yet, only the hole :lol: :lol: :lol:
The guy on Oregon Reef (http://www.oregonreef.com/) has blue backing with black sides if your interested, this is create a sense of distance (so long as the back is kept spotless) and depth on the sides, so long as theyre kept equally spotless too.
Matt
petergillett
10-01-06, 15:45
Originally posted by xxmattyxx@Jan 10 2006, 14:54
Looks monstrous
I'm watching ths thread with interest as Im in the process of doing a hole in the wall also, not got the wall just yet, only the hole :lol: :lol: :lol:
The guy on Oregon Reef (http://www.oregonreef.com/) has blue backing with black sides if your interested, this is create a sense of distance (so long as the back is kept spotless) and depth on the sides, so long as theyre kept equally spotless too.
Matt
Not quite a monstrous as your doing! I've been watching your thread too! Mine is like "I might buy a fish tank today" compared to what you're doing!
Spotless back shouldn't be as hard because I can stand behind it with the magnet scraper. I'll have a good look at that tank - I'm struggling to find many - maybe a scan over reefcentral might give me some more examples.
petergillett
16-01-06, 23:00
Quick update. Have now
1. Painted the tank. Gone for matt black. Haven't painted the back, not sure if I will or just use a black sheet/board so that I can remove if I need to look in while working.
2. Built two more tank stands. First one for the fuge. The second holds a tank split in the middle. The left side has new salt water ready for water change, and the right is a sump for the skimmer. To help with water changes the skimmer sump can be isolated and drained, and then the SW pumped from left chamber to right.
3. Built all the boxing in and PVA coated everything this evening. Once dry I can attach the perspex edging that seals the tank to the wall.
Unfortunately no pictures - seem to have lost my camera charger and it is now flat.
Hi peter looks great. You tank looks really well made. Keith Built my two tank and i can't stop raving on about the build quality still happy one year on and he drove all the way to Bournemouth. Top tanks top guy :thumbsup: and a nice tank :thumbsup:
petergillett
01-02-06, 22:32
Major update, but sos not pics.
All 5 of the tanks are in place. All the walls, ceiling, stands now have a coat of paint on them.
I have just completed all the plumbing and have water in it! I can't put the Ocean Runner in as it's running my old tank but I had a spare AquaBee 2000l/h that I've popped into place. Water is going round. It was quite exciting really!
Took ages to fill. Outside tap and hosepipe were frozen so had to fill from the inlet of my RO unit - the pipe size delayed it somewhat!
Just decided to bite the bullet and buy a calcium reactor now. Was going to leave for a couple of months but no point in delaying. Going for a Korallin - either 1501 which is rated for 200g or could get the 3000 (400g I think). Tank is 150g plus sumps so feel the 1501 should be adequate - don't see myself going cramming with SPSs - would need light upgrades anyway.
Will need a pH controller. Not sure whether to sell the temperature controller and auto topup and put the money towards an Aquatronica.
Chop chop (as my Grandad used to say) :lol: :lol:
Wheres the bleedin polaroids??
Matt
petergillett
01-02-06, 23:09
I know! It's p!$$ing me off - haven't seen the camera charger since I came back from holiday, and it's now that dead that the lens is half open.
I'll head off to Argos in the morning and see what I can find.
:whistling: Wow awesome project and excellent feedback on progress (except the all illusive - picture of it in place). I have been telling the missus that I will do a hole in the wall in our new place and it scares me - but after reading through your post I am rejuvinated and cant wait to move........ if we ever actually commit to it...... keep up the great work Peter.
Mike
Suffolk Reefer
02-02-06, 00:05
Sounds very good, will be interesting to see the piccies when camera is finally working :unsure: :whistling:
petergillett
02-02-06, 15:37
Ok, have been to Argos and bought a new charger for my camera to keep everyone happy!
Just ordered a Korallin calcium reactor, needed a pH controller so went mad and bought an Aquatronica.
All plumbed in and filled with tap water for testing
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/plumbtest.jpg
Overflows
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/overflow.jpg
Outlets to feed calcium reactor and rowaphos reactor, and something else at some point. (One on left is for draining during a water change)
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/feeds.jpg
The fuge (top), sump (right) and RO tank (left)
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/sumps.jpg
YorkshireMarine
02-02-06, 17:23
is it just me or can anyone else not see the pic
petergillett
02-02-06, 23:57
Originally posted by blacksparkle@Feb 2 2006, 17:23
is it just me or can anyone else not see the pic
Were showing both at home and work, and files are hosted externally so can't see why they wouldn't appear?
JasandJules
03-02-06, 15:39
Showing on my pc..
Cracking looking set up too. Now the camera is charged, how about a nice pic of the front of the tank?
petergillett
03-02-06, 16:13
Originally posted by JasandJules@Feb 3 2006, 15:39
Cracking looking set up too. Now the camera is charged, how about a nice pic of the front of the tank?
There you go, just for you! The red circles show where the cut will be.
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/frontwall.jpg
JasandJules
03-02-06, 18:30
Ok, get cutting !!
I can't wait to see this baby fully fired up..
petergillett
18-02-06, 23:38
Quick update. Started putting in the stud wall - off the B&Q tomorrow to buy the sheets to cover it (they cut to size which is handy, and fits in the car!). Popped a new light switch up as well as the original switch and bulb are either side of the new stud wall.
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/studwall.jpg
Also built my reef rack
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/reefrack.jpg
Only to find that it floats! Now where was that old sand that I'd kept in a bucket for 6 months, I could bag it up and use as small weights - that's right, threw it away when I was getting the garage ready! Doh!
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/rackfloats.jpg
petergillett
19-02-06, 22:48
The stud wall is now up so the tank section is totally "indoors" with all the holes and cracks nicely sealed. Only got one side of boards up and the garage has already raised 5oC since this afternoon. Got a nice thick layer of insulation to go in the 100mm cavity and boards for the other side, which should make it even warmer. Will probably get this done tomorrow and a layer of paint on the wall.
Should be ready for the transfer at the weekend!
petergillett
20-02-06, 18:06
Got the insulation in and the other side of the wall boarded. Forgot to fit my extractor fan though! Inside has had a good coat of PVA. Need to drain the tap water so I can start the RO going.
YorkshireMarine
21-02-06, 15:41
hey peter we still going for the 11th of march as we did not confirm a date
cheers james
JasandJules
21-02-06, 15:51
Can we have updated pics then !?!?!?
petergillett
23-02-06, 11:01
hey peter we still going for the 11th of march as we did not confirm a date
cheers james
Sos James! Up to my neck and been away again! Yes 11th is looking good. Anytime after 10 suits me fine. Morning better than afternoon.
petergillett
23-02-06, 11:03
Can we have updated pics then !?!?!?
Oh, you are a hard bunch! I'll try and get some more this eve. Need to empty the 750 litres of water first and give it a quick clean so I can start the RO running!
What's happening with your tank? Not seen an update for a while.
JasandJules
23-02-06, 12:46
Yeah, we are waiting on the stands being built. The steel will be ready tomorrow and so hopefully the builder will get the piers built next Wednesday..Sadly this is Suffolk builder promises.....
Currently we are still finalising the decorating in that lounge/diner for when the stands are built.. Once they are in, the orders for the tanks go in, and it is action stations..... I know have chosen the builder for the other two tanks, and the 6.5ft reef has been dropped to a 6ft reef in order to not hit the seahorse tank with the door.........Still 3ft front to back and 2.5ft tall though.
Once I have the piers I will post up a pic...Promise.
petergillett
23-02-06, 15:54
Yeah, we are waiting on the stands being built. The steel will be ready tomorrow and so hopefully the builder will get the piers built next Wednesday..Sadly this is Suffolk builder promises.....
Can't be any worse than the reliability round here!
Currently we are still finalising the decorating in that lounge/diner for when the stands are built..
Those delays can be a bonus though. I changed all our downstairs flooring at the last minute on the basis that I wouldn't get a chance for years. If the tank was on time, it wouldn't have happened.
Once I have the piers I will post up a pic...Promise.
Good man!
petergillett
25-02-06, 00:44
Well, it's definitely going to get transferred tomorrow. Everything is ready to move!
Tank empty again. Got the lights on - has shown up how dirty it still is!
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/empty.jpg
Filling up some spare RO
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/fillro.jpg
The wall, now with extractor fan (which will hopefully deal with humidity)
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/wallfan.jpg
Coming along nicely Peter, you'll get plenty of open space in your LR.
petergillett
25-02-06, 21:05
It's all in! Rock, fish, corals and water! Streams are on. A bit cloudy but the skimmer is pulling it out. The fuge is all setup, the Rowaphos is on, just the calcium reactor to put in. Aquatronica not quite set up yet - reverted back to current temp controller until I've play with it.
Took about 3-4 hours for the main nitty gritty. Someone helped which was great - would have been hours of back breaking bending over tanks, up down ladders with buckets.
1 major soaking - pipe came off return pump, water all over garage
1 minor soaking - forgot to put the other end of the pipe in the tank whilst shifting some water round - spotted in seconds
Old room relatively mess free.
Pictures coming - just need to pick up my Chinese and have a break!
JasandJules
26-02-06, 08:12
You must have had a break by now, let's see those pics?!?!!??
That reefrack looks good too.
petergillett
26-02-06, 10:45
A couple of pics. Lights are off at the mo, so not the greatest, but.... I'm going to finish emptying the old tank and hopefully that may mean plasterboard cutting!
The fuge
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/fugelit.jpg
Back of tank in the dark (can't get far enough away for a good pic, but this will do for now)
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/backdark.jpg
The old tank empty
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/oldempty.jpg
YorkshireMarine
26-02-06, 17:57
hey peter looks great when you gonna cut out the hole so we can have a look from the front
petergillett
26-02-06, 18:06
Just emailed you James! Don't think I'm going to cut it until you pick up - the tank and cabinet is just too heavy - but then I remember it took 4 of us just to lift the glass into place!
If you need a hand moving the old tank, I can make myself available with a little bit of notice.
petergillett
27-02-06, 10:02
If you need a hand moving the old tank, I can make myself available with a little bit of notice.
Keith, you're just too kind! It's down to when James can collect so I'll leave him to arrange with you if he needs to.
petergillett
01-03-06, 23:15
James (Blacksparkle) turned up today to pick up the old tank, along with Keith (Windsor-aquatic) for a helping hand. After a bit of work, cutting the bulkheads as they were solvented, and some heavy lifting, we got it onto the van without too much trouble.
So, with the old tank out of the way, I have now cut the plasterboard. To say "impressed" was an understatement. I think it looked better than I had expected. Didn't get a chance to get some day photos as I had to rush out again, but here's a couple with the actinics on.
Room lights
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/act-dark.jpg
Room lights on
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/act-light.jpg
Not great pictures as you can't see properly, and the first is a little out of focus, but they were just quick to show the overall impression. Will get some with the lights on tomorrow.
YorkshireMarine
01-03-06, 23:26
Hi peter just to let you know got the tank back together ok bit heavy though. glued the unions on tonight and give it a clean gonna plum the rest in tomorrow and start filling the tank.
i would also like to say a big thank you to you and keith from windsor aquatics for your help with moving the tank if keith hadnt brought the trolly and clamps it would have been a lot harder.
I will send you a pic when its up and running.
thanks again james
petergillett
01-03-06, 23:39
James, I was going to email you to check you got the tank home and out of the van without too much problem - but I've only recently got in and you've beat me too it!
I hope it's lost the "wet dog on the beach" smell now that it's had a good clean! Glad the unions weren't too difficult to find - I thought you'd manage to find one without too much of a problem.
Got to agree that Keith's trolley was a major bonus. I remember it being a lot harded to get the tank in (even with four people on the job) than it was getting it out today.
As I said, any questions just give me a shout, and let's have some photos when you get all those corals in!
chris@bluzoo
02-03-06, 22:26
hi pete
how are you mate.
just been looking at your new tank and i must say you deserve a pat on the back. well done.
it looks the dogs danglies.
all the best - chris:cool:
petergillett
03-03-06, 00:10
Chris, will be coming down to get a few bits and pieces. Think I need some small bits of LR to cover the front edge of the eggcrate - almost definitely going to pull the sand back out. Will be stocking up on some more corals soon too.
If you're up in my area ever you can always pop in for a cuppa!
Very neat job. :) how did you cut the plasterboard without toucking the glass behind it. Looks very impressive. Well done mate
petergillett
03-03-06, 12:17
Very neat job. :) how did you cut the plasterboard without toucking the glass behind it. Looks very impressive. Well done mate
Thanks! Wasn't difficult as the glass sits nearly an inch behind the plasterboard. Just stuck a Stanley knife through it. Need to have a tidy up and decide exactly how much visible glass I want. The idea was to have a removable frame so that I can get the mag scraper to the edges without obstruction and then pop the frame back to cover the silicon/edges.
:) nice job you've done there pete followed by plenty of paitience:)
well done,looking forward to see it mature.
petergillett
03-03-06, 23:11
looking forward to see it mature.
So am I, but I know it's going to take much longer than the build!
petergillett
04-03-06, 18:55
Promised a day shot - struggling to take one that does it justice! Just building the frame for the room side at the mo.
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/daylight.jpg
And one a bit closer
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/daycloser.jpg
Woo, that looks nice, thanks for that Peter, thats spurred me on, a bit of depth in a hole-in-the-wall project, cheers.
:)
Matt
Promised a day shot - struggling to take one that does it justice! Just building the frame for the room side at the mo.
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/daylight.jpg
And one a bit closer
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/daycloser.jpg
petergillett
04-03-06, 20:04
Woo, that looks nice, thanks for that Peter, thats spurred me on, a bit of depth in a hole-in-the-wall project, cheers.
:)
Matt
Keep bashing away at it Matt, it's well worth it in the end. I was quite stunned at how it came it out when we cut the plasterboard.
Stunning setup! Good work, keep it up.
One bit of contructive criticism...why not frame the tank with a stunning picture frame as well instead of the current method?
This would finish it off perfectly.
petergillett
05-03-06, 00:12
I'm working on the framing! The wood is just an edge to work to so that I could seal it off from the room side. The missus would like a brushed aluminium frame to match other bits of decor - not quite sure where I'd get that done though? Have a wooden template nearly ready then will have a hunt.
I had the same dilemma,
I originally wanted brushed metal frame, it boiled down to two options, have one made up from my local metal fabricators, which they would do using very thin brushed sheet metal in one of two ways, using strips to weld a frame together (cheap option but one would see the weld lines) or a large sheet with the tank size cut out to make a frame. (iirc think this was a couple of hundred quid)
The other option was to use the stuff for kitchens and diy it onto a wood to make the frame.
In the end I opted for a wooden frame to match our furniture,
If someone tells me how to post images on this new system I will post one of the frame
petergillett
05-03-06, 11:37
(picture posted for Cyno)
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/cyno-frame.jpg
petergillett
05-03-06, 11:38
In the end I opted for a wooden frame to match our furniture,
I'm still considering the wooden frame alternative!
EnglishReefer
05-03-06, 14:28
Just found this place on ebay
http://stores.ebay.co.uk/Crazy-Parts_Stainless-Steel_W0QQcolZ4QQdirZ1QQftidZ2QQpZ2QQtZkm
I know its not brushed ally but perhaps they can get some brush ally strips for you????
Just a thought.
petergillett
05-03-06, 15:21
Just found this place on ebay
Think I might just send them an email or give them a ring!
Thanks!
chris@bluzoo
06-03-06, 20:51
Chris, will be coming down to get a few bits and pieces. Think I need some small bits of LR to cover the front edge of the eggcrate - almost definitely going to pull the sand back out. Will be stocking up on some more corals soon too.
If you're up in my area ever you can always pop in for a cuppa!
nice 1 pete will c you whenever. will take u up on the cuppa 1 day soon.
take care mate ;)
Looks absolutely superb, can't wait to see it with the frame on! Brushed Aluminium sure sounds right. The plumbing looks very well thought out and achieved. I wish I had the money to set up something that well engineered... slightly more kit than my 15G Nano!
My only comment is you need a couple more KGs of live rock to cover up the gaps at the bottom where you can see the staging..
Ben :)
petergillett
06-03-06, 22:40
Looks absolutely superb, can't wait to see it with the frame on! Brushed Aluminium sure sounds right.
My only comment is you need a couple more KGs of live rock to cover up the gaps at the bottom where you can see the staging..
Ben :)
Thanks!
The couple more kgs were going to bridge the gap between the sand and eggcrate. Was difficult position the rocks from the back, but as it happened I was quite pleased with the layout when I finally saw it from the front.
There's a strip of perspex on the front of the eggcrate to stop the sand moving under the rockwork. Well that worked really well, NOT! The Streams just blew the sand over the perspex and onto the rocks! Going to get the sand removed, then the perspex strip, then in with a bit more rock.
Have stuck a pair of MJ1200s down the back that blow under the rock work to shift settled detritus back into the water column. Removing the divider should again help flow under the rock work. Might just buy another Stream and force it downwards and out under the front.
JasandJules
07-03-06, 07:55
That is looking superb... I bet you all eat at the dining room table from now on !!
petergillett
07-03-06, 10:24
The room is going to end up as a bit of a chill out room. We've got extension plans one of which will knock the kitchen through to this room giving us a large open plan kitchen/sitting/chill/dining room.
The dining room table doesn't get used much at the mo! Only me and the missus, so it's sofa/tv dinner most of the time - a bad habit easy to slip in to but hard to get out of! Once the extending works have been done we hope to use the table a bit more, but that'll be a while yet - haven't even measured up!
petergillett
07-03-06, 12:46
My new 48" plasma TV. Only seem to be able to get the "Sky Fish" channel at the moment, and only on in the day time?
Just painted at the moment. Could do with a sand and another coat, might not even need to get the aluminium frame. At least I've got the frame made and they could use it as a template if I decide to.
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/plasma.jpg
instantsquid
07-03-06, 13:03
Very, very, very nice.
Did you make the frame removable in the end?
- Ian.
YorkshireMarine
07-03-06, 13:14
hi peter mate looking good would like to see a pic with the lights on again with the frame on it.
have you changed the bulbs on you t5s yet?
petergillett
07-03-06, 13:33
Very, very, very nice.
Did you make the frame removable in the end?
- Ian.
Thanks! Yes, still removable meaning I can get the mag scraper about 25mm further across the glass.
petergillett
07-03-06, 13:34
hi peter mate looking good would like to see a pic with the lights on again with the frame on it.
have you changed the bulbs on you t5s yet?
It'll come - only put the frame on last night! Yes, changed the bulbs which added a bit of brightness!
Off to buy some more LR to fill in those front gaps a bit. (And maybe a kids spade so I can dig that sand out!)
thats a great looking tank :D I want one like that!!! lol
jason
petergillett
07-03-06, 17:14
Ok, with the lights on. Tricky getting a good overall picture with the colour/brightness balanced.
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/withframelit.jpg
charliesangels
10-03-06, 16:56
nice tank pete, well done
petergillett
02-04-06, 21:57
Just popped one of the 400W halides up. It's in a Diamond D400 reflector and 10k XM lamp. Got another one to go up but going to leave it a week to let the corals adapt a little!
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/halide.jpg
And from the front (still can't seem to get a good photo)
http://www.petergillett.karoo.net/with1halide.jpg
YorkshireMarine
03-04-06, 01:40
looks like its gonna be bright in there pete when you get them both up and lower. You will be able to get those acros soon.
Very nice effort, a credit to you sir :)
petergillett
03-04-06, 10:04
James - just picked up my first one from my mate. Just a frag, will see how it grows!
Claude - thanks!
YorkshireMarine
03-04-06, 17:25
hey pete funny you say that i was out penrith way today and called in at calico and picked up a torch coral and flurecent green acro cost me 90 for the two but well worth it. if you have never been i suggest it they have an 18ft display tank with the biggest sohal tang i have ever seen.
im off back on thursday to have another look as there is a delivery this tuesday.
YorkshireMarine
05-04-06, 08:45
hey pete u got the other one up yet mate.
petergillett
05-04-06, 12:27
Not up yet. Just breaking the extra light in gradually. Penrith is a bit of a trek for me! I'll remember for my way back if I'm visiting customers in Scotland.
JasandJules
05-04-06, 12:47
WOW !! That looks superb Peter.. I bet I know where you eat your dinner nowadays....
petergillett
05-04-06, 19:43
Not yet - table is still covered in tank bits but it is then plan. What is quite nice is the height. The frame has a 2 inch sill which is almost exactly where my elbows sit when I cross my arms - makes it very easy to lean on with your head pressed again the glass for long periods of time.
Been tidying the "spaghetti" today ready for the extra plug bar coming tomorrow. Will show photos as soon as I think it's neat enough!
Jas - Isn't it about time we saw some more progress on yours?
YorkshireMarine
05-04-06, 20:42
Been tidying the "spaghetti" today ready for the extra plug bar coming tomorrow.
Been buying again pete
sharemaster
06-04-06, 23:33
That looks really nice Pete good work! Even the missus gives it the ooh of approval :)
Hole in the wall deep tanks are the future in our minimalisty modern houses instead of the "box in the corner look" but give it 5 years and it'll be a box in the corner again lol
JasandJules
07-04-06, 14:44
Jas - Isn't it about time we saw some more progress on yours?
If there was any more progress I would have said....SIGH... No glass yet, still in the same boat with a huuge frame or two....
chris@bluzoo
07-04-06, 19:16
lookin dandy pete , worth all the effort - c ya later friend
Looks very neat.
What ballasts are you using on your 400w halides?
Hi peter, any updates? have you managed to get a video of that wavebox yet?
petergillett
16-05-06, 00:23
Looks very neat.
What ballasts are you using on your 400w halides?
Sorry slow replies. Been far too busy recently and hadn't noticed new questions!
Using a pair of MaxiGrow 400W Compacts.
petergillett
16-05-06, 00:28
Hi peter, any updates? have you managed to get a video of that wavebox yet?
Must get some new pictures up. Not had time to sort some video but will do soon. As it happened the Wavebox packed up Sunday evening. Found it was the driver so swapped it over from one of the Streams, so I'm 12000l/h down on the circulation until a new one arrives from Germany.
Added a few acros which are doing well and getting some good growth on, and a squamosa clam which is being a pain and doesn't want to settle. There's a few patches of substrate that I couldn't reach when removing, and have also managed to survive the Streams, so I've stuck him(her/it?) in there to see what happens.
YorkshireMarine
19-12-06, 11:55
any new pics pete.
james
new reef keeper
20-12-06, 10:59
Im sure a while ago i read on here somewhere that Peter has a new hole in the wall goinig on ???
petergillett
02-01-07, 11:38
Yes, the new hole in wall starts tomorrow....
petergillett
25-02-07, 22:57
The new hole in wall is up and running and all the stock has now been moved. As the thread almost comes to a close the thread for the new 72x30x24 build can be found here - http://www.ultimatereef.net/forums/showthread.php?t=185555
The old tank is not totally finished though. It is no longer a reef, but it is not the end. I have sold the house that this one resides in, complete with the tank. It is distined to be a freshwater tropical tank. Not sure what will be kept but it's full of water and almost ready to go. I'll probably help with the start up so will get a few pics once it's up and running.
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