DIY plexi tank build inquiry

[Tetra Guy]

Anyone here built their own tank from plexi? What’s involved? Seems like all ya need is plexi, a table saw and solvent. I’m considering building a custom tank and stand for a long, narrow space. What could go wrong? 🙃

[madmark285]

Same as you, I want to build tank but have not tackled this project yet. 

A router may be needed. The saw blade may give you too rough of a cut, You can cut the top and bottom pieces a bit larger then use a router flush cut bit  (or round over) after they been glue to the side.

My current table saw setup cannot accurately cut a 4'x8' sheet of acrylic or plywood.  I would use a Simple Circular Saw Cutting Guide to cut the acrylic sheets. I used these alot, you can make very accurate cuts with a saw guide. Should also add, how fast you move the saw blade thru the acrylic is critical. Too slow will melt it, too fast will chip it. For me, the circular saw is a better option.

Now if you are a DIY person and want curved edges... you can make a bending jig using Motor Speed Controller ($15)  ,  Nichrome resistance wire  (~$10) and an  Infrared Thermometer. Long ago in my college days, I worked in a fish store which had TruVu Aquariums. I love the curved edges of an acrylic aquarium. 

Mark

[madmark285]

I forgot to add, there was a serious shortage of acrylic with the COVID pandemic. Hopefully there will be a surplus as we get vaccinated and the pandemic comes to an end. 

[gardenman]

And you'll want cast acrylic too, not the extruded stuff. There are lots, and I mean lots, of videos on You Tube showing the process.