[aquasalt]

I want to convert a tank into a sump for under my 90 gallon. What is typically the largest size that will fit in the stand without having to tear the stand apart.

Since they say that 99% of an aquarium's weight is on its corners, is there anyway to temporarily remove the front center support to place a sump?

[Taras1]

The weight distribution depends on how your stand is built. You can build a temporary support with 2X4's.

You can slip a 30" L X 13" W into the stand w/o tearing things apart.

[aquasalt]

Thanks for your input Tristan! Ideally, I would like to have the entire area below be one big sump so to increase volume and surface area.

When I look at the middle support it doesn't "feel" like it is load bearing, but I'm not an engineer and certainly don't want to make a really stupid decision.

If anybody else has any ideas, I surely would like to hear them. Don't be shy!

[bnhaus]

Here is a sump but in through the side of the stand:

Melevsreef.com - Install a Sump in an Existing Setup


Removing the middle support to add the sump is fine, however, you should put the support back to be safe.

Bob

[aquasalt]

Thanks, Bob! I've studied Melev's site on many occasions but must have looked over this section. However, removing the front center bracket still seems less invasive than sawing a whole in the side of the stand.

Can anybody tell me what the advantages are of using acrylic to construct a sump over creating a sump out of a glass tank? I presume acrylic is better for temperature control issues and you can build the sump to your very own specifications. Are there any other advantages I should be aware of?