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Parker
02-03-2008, 07:23 PM
I thought I might as well start a build thread, albeit a slow moving one.

Tank - 265 - 84"x24"x 30" High
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/IMG_1710.jpg
Stand - Custom built wall unit.
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Parker20-20Basement.jpg
Sump - 75 Gallon ( if it fits in the stand ) If not I have 2 - 30 Gallon tanks I might link together

Skimmer - Bubble Master 250
Calcium Reactor - Aquatic Essentials - If I can get it fixed - Canada Post damaged it in shipping
Return Pump - Squence Dart
Closed Loop - Sequence Dart
Lighting - 3x 400w HQI Pendants 14k
UV - Lifeguard QL-25
2x TLF Phosban Reactors


The cabinets should be installed in about 7 weeks, then I have to drop the metal stand and tank in the stand. The counter top guys will come back in and do a cut out around the tank so the bottom trim of the tank is below the counter top. I'm starting to get excited, things are starting to move along.

SeaSerpant
02-03-2008, 08:14 PM
i think i saw the same diagram on reef central. keep on posting:biggrin:

Parker
02-03-2008, 11:23 PM
Must be someone elses design, I don't believe I posted in on Reef Central.. :-)

untamed
02-03-2008, 11:46 PM
Crude math suggests that you are pushing maybe 500 lbs down each leg/foot. That's a fair amount of psi and you'll put a good dent in whatever floor that is on. If you could slip a 3"x3" metal plate under each foot you could distribute that load over a bit wider area.

I don't know what floor you are putting it on. It might be fine.

niloc16
02-04-2008, 12:23 AM
nice

Parker
02-04-2008, 01:01 AM
It's sitting on 2x4 plates on carpet over concrete in my basement at the moment, they were added after this picture was taken. Once the cabinets go in it will be on concrete only.

Skimmerking
02-04-2008, 01:08 AM
Robb its going to look sweet more pic's :mrgreen:

Parker
03-29-2008, 04:04 PM
I told this was going to be slow moving! lol

The cabinets should be in town this coming week, then I have to wait for install. I have started to prep for install now.

First coat of mold/mildew resistint paint:
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/IMG_1914.jpg

Bubble Master 250 breaking in:
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/IMG_1917.jpg

Water change station:
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/IMG_1920.jpg

RO/DI
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/IMG_1918.jpg

Two of my pendants, return pump, closed loop pump, and the second chamber from my calcium reactor..
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/IMG_1921.jpg

Exhaust fan wired to a humidistat:
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/IMG_1922.jpg


Next step after paint this afternoon is to pull the carpet back then install a rubber baseboard along the wall to prevent water from wicking into the drywall should I have a spill.

Parker
04-05-2008, 03:37 PM
I thought I would post a picture of my 75 gallon before I tore it down:

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/IMG_1633Large.jpg

As for the big tank..I've got my electrical figured out.. I'm running three new circuits to the tank today.

mseepman
04-05-2008, 06:56 PM
Great thread, it looks like it will be a really nice build when you are done...

Could you maybe expand on your water change station? How will you get water to the tank?

Parker
04-07-2008, 02:14 PM
I haven't got all the details worked out yet. But the plan is to tee off my return line to pump water from the tank and to pump water to the tank via the pump you see in the picture, I'm not sure at this point if that pump will be strong enough to move the water seven feet up then 40 feet vertical.


Great thread, it looks like it will be a really nice build when you are done...

Could you maybe expand on your water change station? How will you get water to the tank?

Parker
04-24-2008, 01:05 PM
I finally got delivery and install dates for the cabinets.. It all should be completed May.13!

Then I get to start on the fun stuff!

Railskinner
04-24-2008, 07:01 PM
looking good so far. That stand is metal i'm sure. where did you find out how to wire a exhaust fan to a humisat?What parts are needed ? I would like to rig something like this into a room as well.

Parker
05-04-2008, 03:50 PM
Got my QT set-up and ready to go, just need to add water when the time comes:

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_1942.jpg

Gratuitous Equipment shot:

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_1943.jpg

All the Salt I'll need for the next year:

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_1944.jpg

Parker
05-04-2008, 03:52 PM
looking good so far. That stand is metal i'm sure. where did you find out how to wire a exhaust fan to a humisat?What parts are needed ? I would like to rig something like this into a room as well.


Hey, sorry I missed this post, it's about the same as wiring in a light switch. You should be able to pick up everything you need from Home Depot. fan, wiring, humidistat.

Parker
05-10-2008, 01:25 AM
Base cabinets mocked up, they should be done installing them by Tuesday!

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_1957.jpg

lastlight
05-10-2008, 07:01 AM
holy HELL there's an investment!

banditpowdercoat
05-10-2008, 07:58 AM
Can I ask if you know the wall thickness of the Square tubing used in the stand in the first pic? I am building stands for OA's new renovations and want to make sure I'm using OK thickness steel. Acctually, I think I am Over engineering the stands. Allways nice to know what others are built out of.

Railskinner
05-10-2008, 10:47 AM
can hardly wait for more pics, looking GOOD

Parker
05-10-2008, 01:40 PM
holy HELL there's an investment!


can hardly wait for more pics, looking GOOD

Thanks guys! I'm getting pretty excited seeig it come together!

Parker
05-10-2008, 01:43 PM
Can I ask if you know the wall thickness of the Square tubing used in the stand in the first pic? I am building stands for OA's new renovations and want to make sure I'm using OK thickness steel. Acctually, I think I am Over engineering the stands. Allways nice to know what others are built out of.


Hi,

The wall thickness is 1/4", Over engineered is always good, better safe then sorry. :mrgreen:

Parker
05-10-2008, 02:45 PM
Railskinner did you get the BM200 running yet?

Parker
05-12-2008, 07:58 PM
Well the cabinet guys weren’t real keen on the way I was planing to drop the tank in so they came up with a better way. They have to rework the cabinets though so it's going to take an extra day.

Parker
05-13-2008, 11:26 PM
Heres some updated pictures of the stand construction.

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_1961.jpg

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_1962.jpg

steve fedyk
05-14-2008, 03:12 AM
I found your keys, there next to the pilers on the floor.:lol:

Railskinner
05-14-2008, 03:20 AM
Robb

Skimmer is not set up at the moment, i haven't had time to build a bigger sump yet

i'm undecided as to what size sump to throw under a 120- 150 gal tank

Parker
05-14-2008, 11:29 PM
Small update,

Hutches and corner cabinets in:

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_1967.jpg

michika
05-15-2008, 02:19 AM
So what is it that your other half is hoping to put on the shelves, and what is it you are hoping for?

Parker
05-15-2008, 03:38 AM
If it was up to me they would probably remain empty! lol

I want one of those model ships to put on there.. other then that I don't care..

My wife wants decorative things on the shelves.. things for me to dust as cleaning the basement is my responsibility

michika
05-15-2008, 03:44 AM
I vote that its your tank, and your cleaning responsibility, thus your space. Would you get one of those ships in a bottle kind of things or a non-bottled ship?

I really like how you've used the space, and the color I love it. I would love to do something like that for one of my future tanks, but knowing me, I would fill all the space with books, and still need more shelves! Still though, a ship, sounds pretty cool.

Parker
05-15-2008, 03:55 AM
We have book shelves in the office, there will be no books allowed on these shelves! lol

Not a ship in a bottle, but a tall ship something like this:
http://www.qualitymodelships.com/files/1743973/uploaded/USS%20Constitution%20T103.jpg

michika
05-15-2008, 04:06 AM
That is much better then a ship in a bottle!

Parker
05-18-2008, 06:36 PM
Got a little bit more done today:

I had the tank on a wooden stand so I raised it up and put it on my dollies then rolled it over to the stand that I raised to an inch lower then the tank then slid it from one stand to the other.

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_1972.jpg

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_1973.jpg

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_1975.jpg

Parker
05-19-2008, 04:07 PM
I did a really bad job of stitching two photos together to get an idea what it would look like.. I couldn't resist the urge to throw a light up there.

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/TankStiched.jpg

muck
05-19-2008, 08:02 PM
Holey cupboard space batman!! :eek:

Parker
05-25-2008, 04:15 PM
Not much to report theses days, still waiting on a few things to show up.

Here is about a 1/4 of my rock. ECO Rock from Bulk Reef Supply
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_1982.jpg

I was originally planning a to use a GEO reactor but it ended being about an inch too tall.. I found a pretty good deal on a used PM locally so I picked it up.

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_1983.jpg

Parker
05-27-2008, 02:59 AM
Well,

Just suffered a huge set-back...

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_1988.jpg

Skimmerking
05-27-2008, 03:12 AM
dude sorry to see that, good luck in getting it fixed

mark
05-27-2008, 03:16 AM
oh no!

what the heck happened?

Parker
05-27-2008, 03:24 AM
Well,

It was my own stupidity, I was hanging the lighting inside the canopy frame that I built to see how everything lined up, hight etc. I had it the light lit pulled it off the canopy set it on the brace, got distracted..and pop.

I have to find a way to fix the tank. I can't get another tank in my basement, I had to remove a wall to get this one in and that's not happening again.

michika
05-27-2008, 03:47 AM
1) order new piece of glass
2) Make jig/glass holder thing, so you can avoid the need to grow two extra arms, and hold it for a few days straight.
3) silicone into place.
4) Crack open a cold one and enjoy your handiwork.

Or

5) Pay someone to come and fix it for you.

P.S. I can't seem to figure out which thread to follow/post in.

Parker
05-27-2008, 03:59 AM
1)

P.S. I can't seem to figure out which thread to follow/post in.

I have been following yours on both also, I agree it can be interesting to follow both.

Probably easier to follow this one, I spend more time here *lol*

Parker
05-27-2008, 04:01 AM
I'm over it now, It should be pretty easy to fix and if thats the worst that happens to me over the course of this tank then I'll call myself lucky!

Now, I'm off to have a beer, stare at the tank and scratch my head a little..

Delphinus
05-27-2008, 05:47 AM
Is it just the top brace? If so, yeah, super easy to fix. The hardest part (removing the old piece of glass) is halfways done for you too. ;)

However, if it is a centre brace ... you might want to consider taking this as an opportunity to go with Eurobracing (perimeter bracing) instead? You'll be WAY happier with the tank with perimeter bracing methinks...

Parker
05-27-2008, 03:11 PM
Well,

She will never see this post but I have to give thanks to my better half. She was out of town when the tank broke and got home late, she didn't know the tank had broken. I told her about it this morning she had a look at it and asked if I can fix it. I said I probably could, she went meh if you can't go buy a new one and that was the end of it! :lol:

So heres a thanks to all the people behind us who have to put up with our insanity.

sphelps
05-27-2008, 03:15 PM
I would look at that as a blessing in disguise. Ditch the large center brace and go with a euro brace instead. You could still add two smaller center braces for additional support. At least that way you could offset them so 3 halides could shine through without going through any glass.

Parker
05-27-2008, 04:16 PM
I like the idea of a euro braced tank. What dimensions should the glass be, thickness and width?

Delphinus
05-27-2008, 05:00 PM
I'm not entirely certain if there's a hard science behind brace sizing, but FWIW, on my 280g (which is 72x30x30), the perimeter bracing is 6"x3/4" glass (super beefy stuff). On my 110g (which is 30x30x30), the perimeter bracing is 2"x1/2" (might be 5/8", not entirely sure) glass.

sphelps
05-27-2008, 05:16 PM
I like the idea of a euro braced tank. What dimensions should the glass be, thickness and width?

I can figure it out for you if you tell me the tank glass thickness.

Parker
05-27-2008, 05:21 PM
I can figure it out for you if you tell me the tank glass thickness.

The tank is 5/8 I believe.

sphelps
05-27-2008, 05:31 PM
so 15mm then.

Parker
05-27-2008, 05:41 PM
so 15mm then.


Would that need to be 15mm x 4" or 6"

Sorry to be a pain

sphelps
05-27-2008, 07:26 PM
Would that need to be 15mm x 4" or 6"

Sorry to be a pain

No worries I was actually just confirming glass thickness.

Here's what I got for you:

First off this analysis may not be correct in actual displacement values as representing silicon seams and dynamic behavior is difficult and unnecessary.

So we start off by seeing what you had before, not intirely sure but my experience shows most of these larger tanks have 18" wide center brace with about a 1" trim around the top:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/265galdisplacementcenterbraced.jpg
This is showing a displacement of 0.26mm and a somewhat unhealthy displacement pattern.

The goal here would be to at least match the displacement, as already stated the actual number isn't important, we just want to come close to matching it.

First lets compare to no bracing:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/265galdisplacementnobrace.jpg
This shows max displacement of 2.22mm, so center brace does a lot.

Now lets try a 15mm x 4" Euro Brace, bigger than 4" and it's awkward, any smaller than 4" and the glass shop will be b*tching.
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/265galdisplacementeurobrace.jpg
This shows 0.36mm max displacement and a healthier displacement pattern. This will be good, not much difference from the center brace.

However we'll take it one step further and place in 2 center braces 4" wide. Not ideal but better than the large one in the center.
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/265galdisplacementeurobracewithdual.jpg
Well look at that 0.26mm max and way better displacement pattern than the center brace alone.

I leave the choice up to you, but it's interesting to see, that center brace does a good job no wonder the manufacturers use them, cheap and effective. Just sucks for us.

HTH

Parker
05-27-2008, 07:38 PM
Holy Crap!

I can't thank you enough for that. I think I'm going to go for option 4.. I'd rather be safe then sorry.

mark
05-27-2008, 07:45 PM
neat analysis plots

Robb you had 3 400w, seems the brace breaking might have been for the best for positioning your reflectors for coverage (***** about the extra cost and hassle though)

sphelps
05-27-2008, 07:57 PM
Holy Crap!

I can't thank you enough for that. I think I'm going to go for option 4.. I'd rather be safe then sorry.

No problem, glad to help.

Parker
05-27-2008, 08:14 PM
neat analysis plots

Robb you had 3 400w, seems the brace breaking might have been for the best for positioning your reflectors for coverage (***** about the extra cost and hassle though)


Yeah in the end I'll be much better off with that brace being gone. But your right, it will be a pain in the !@# getting there.

Delphinus
05-27-2008, 08:49 PM
Wow those stress plots are really cool!! [/nerd]

bassman
05-27-2008, 09:32 PM
Wow those stress plots are really cool!! [/nerd]

Ditto!

They helped me make a decision I have been struggling with. Thanks!

sphelps
05-27-2008, 10:03 PM
They're actually displacement plots, I figured they would be benificial to most people with similar tanks.

bassman
05-27-2008, 10:07 PM
They're actually displacement plots, I figured they would be benificial to most people with similar tanks.

Indeed, very beneficial.

Here is a thread I just started asking for help regarding bracing/bowing concerns.

http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?p=326490#post326490

Parker
05-28-2008, 12:45 PM
I got most of the bracing off before I ran the knife across my knuckle and had to stop to get some stitches! :lol:

mark
05-28-2008, 02:50 PM
I got most of the bracing off before I ran the knife across my knuckle and had to stop to get some stitches! :lol:

sorry but I'm smiling

michika
05-28-2008, 03:40 PM
Your luck sucks lately!

Parker
05-28-2008, 05:06 PM
sorry but I'm smiling

No need to be sorry, I'm laughing at myself. :mrgreen:

My tank now has the blood and the sweat, now all I need are the tears!

banditpowdercoat
05-28-2008, 05:15 PM
They're actually displacement plots, I figured they would be benificial to most people with similar tanks.


What program you use and where can I get me a copy :D

mark
05-28-2008, 08:08 PM
No need to be sorry, I'm laughing at myself. :mrgreen:

My tank now has the blood and the sweat, now all I need are the tears!

would have been some tears from me if I broke the brace on my tank

untamed
05-28-2008, 11:11 PM
Ha..ha... I know what you mean. While trying to screw in my overhead track system, the screwdriver slipped and whacked me right between the eyes. I thought it hurt, but when I pulled my hand back....blood everywhere.

I had the same thought...the sweat and tears were already in the tank, so it was only a matter of time....

sphelps
05-29-2008, 03:15 PM
Don't worry the tears will come when you get your credit card statements each month. :mrgreen:


What program you use and where can I get me a copy :D

SolidWorks 2008 with Comoworks FEA add-on. For a legal license you're looking at around $8000. So unless you're using it for business you really don't need it. In addition you need to know a little about the subject to use it, I really wouldn't like to think anyone could do what I do.

banditpowdercoat
05-29-2008, 05:27 PM
Don't worry the tears will come when you get your credit card statements each month. :mrgreen:




SolidWorks 2008 with Comoworks FEA add-on. For a legal license you're looking at around $8000. So unless you're using it for business you really don't need it. In addition you need to know a little about the subject to use it, I really wouldn't like to think anyone could do what I do.

Ya, figured she'd be pricy. I have some expensive software here too for my CNC milling machine. But not $8K. Dont worry, I have too much to do allready to try and figure out what it is you do too LMAO:mrgreen:

Parker
06-01-2008, 05:10 PM
Well the tank is officially braceless, too bad it can't stay that way. That is a job I NEVER want to do again. :2gunfire:

Parker
06-03-2008, 10:07 PM
The counter tops went in today

The bottom of the tank sits 2.75" below the top of the counter top. One thing I always hated about my other tanks was that I could never clean right to the bottom of the glass with the mag-float without scratching the tank. This solves that problem and makes it look pretty cool.

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_1990.jpg

Midknight
06-03-2008, 11:39 PM
Looking good man.

Parker
06-04-2008, 02:11 PM
We are going to take this tank out and replace it. We have decided to go for a taller tank 84x24x?
About the only thing good about this whole thing is that I get to smash the thing and buy a new tank with the specs I want.. So I'll probably be asking for some design help in the future.

Parker
06-04-2008, 03:22 PM
I guess I should tell you what prompted the change... the left hand payne cracked sometime during the night. I know it wasn't broken last night when I went to bed.

bassman
06-04-2008, 03:27 PM
Man, you just aren't having the best of luck are you?

I guess it's a blessing though, now you get what you really wanted.

Delphinus
06-04-2008, 04:48 PM
Wow, weird. :( Although I suppose it's better to have happen now than when there's water in it.

Parker
06-04-2008, 05:21 PM
Wow, weird. :( Although I suppose it's better to have happen now than when there's water in it.


I'm baffled as to what happened also.. I know it wasn't cracked yesterday..It’s pretty obvious and impossible to miss. The counter top doesn't touch the tank, there is at least 1/8 all the way around that I siliconed in last night.

No sense trying to figure it out, what's done is done, on the upside I can build what I want now. The downside, I now need to sell a kidney to pay for it! :lol:

JDigital
06-04-2008, 06:06 PM
Since you are going taller... I think I would take up as high as the highest shelf on the sides... would give a it nice uniform look! :D

fencer
06-04-2008, 06:55 PM
Lucky it wasn't full of water. The glass itself may have has an imperfection it it, inclusion, just the right tap and it fractures.....I think any glass company could repair it for you. Might cost more than the tank.

Parker
06-08-2008, 04:58 PM
Well since my big tank is on hold for awhile I'm going to build a 90 I had lying
around.

The rock is just piled in there, I started to drill the tank last night. I need to pick up a new hole saw to finish it.

I'm going to use my 400,'s over it and my BM250 is in a ten gallon sump below. I'm not sure how well that's going to work, we shall see.

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/90%20Gallon/IMG_1999.jpg

banditpowdercoat
06-08-2008, 05:38 PM
Cool on the 90. What size tank is that skimmer in? is that all your going to use for a sump?

Parker
06-08-2008, 08:27 PM
It's sitting in a ten gallon sump, that's all that will fit under there. I would like to go bigger, but I don't want to waste too much money on a tank that will only be up a year or so.

Parker
07-27-2008, 11:20 PM
Well I finally got the 90 gallon up and running today.. It's not much to look at though. Anyone have any frags in a month or so? :lol:

90 Gallon
Bare Bottom
BM 250
400 W HQI - Not hung yet.

Heres my weak attempt at aquascaping.. I suck royally at it!

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/90%20Gallon/IMG_2013.jpg

http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/%5BIMG%5Dhttp://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/90%20Gallon/IMG_2013.jpg%5B/IMG%5D

karazy
07-28-2008, 03:13 AM
maybe it would look better if you took some out

Parker
07-28-2008, 03:13 PM
The pillar on the left has to stay.. it's hiding most of my stand pipe.

I'll get my better half to give me a hand with it.. I have no artistic eye what so ever.

Parker
08-20-2008, 11:31 PM
For those of you that were following the big tank build thread, here's how the stand turned out.. Still waiting on door clips... almost finished.

We have decided on a new tank size.. 315 gallon. I have to hold off on ordering it for awhile though :-(

Cathrine, you were right... it ended up full of books!

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2030.jpg
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2029.jpg

mark
08-20-2008, 11:55 PM
what's the dimensions of a 315?

Parker
08-20-2008, 11:57 PM
84x24x36

It will be a pain to maintain, but oh-well

Parker
10-03-2008, 01:09 AM
Introducing Gilligan:
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/90%20Gallon/IMG_2095.jpg
My wife is the name giver to all the fish. She went from Sailfin > Sailor > Gilligan

It's a little bare in there, I have a small frag pack coming from CoralMaster to get things started.

Parker
10-08-2008, 01:29 AM
Picked up some SPS from CoralMaster. This is my first real shot at SPS, I hope I don't kill them.

My picture taking skills are lacking to say the least.

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/90%20Gallon/IMG_2111.jpg
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/90%20Gallon/IMG_2110.jpg
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/90%20Gallon/IMG_2109.jpg
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/90%20Gallon/IMG_2108.jpg
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/90%20Gallon/IMG_2107.jpg
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/90%20Gallon/IMG_2105.jpg

Parker
10-08-2008, 01:03 PM
Sheesh, I stop building the big tank and everyone disappears! :mrgreen:

Parker
10-31-2008, 01:15 AM
Rescaped, I probably took out close to 50 lbs of rock. I also picked up a Powder Blue Tang

I'm going to have to get some food in him.....

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/90%20Gallon/IMG_2126.jpg

JDigital
10-31-2008, 01:24 AM
New scape looks good.. bare, but good... :lol:

Parker
10-31-2008, 01:25 AM
New scape looks good.. bare, but good... :lol:

There are corals in there........ really. You just can't see them. :lol:

mark
10-31-2008, 01:33 AM
Yep, much nicer with the islands.

Where you get the PBT?

Parker
10-31-2008, 01:47 AM
Where you get the PBT?

I picked it up from Blue World. So far he has been great. Zero aggression against the Sailfin and it's eating like a pig.

Parker
11-03-2008, 02:41 AM
Is it wrong to love a skimmer?

eeeewwww
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/90%20Gallon/IMG_2149.jpg
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/90%20Gallon/IMG_2150.jpg

sphelps
11-03-2008, 02:56 AM
Is it wrong to love a skimmer?

Yeap :mrgreen:

steve fedyk
11-03-2008, 04:13 AM
Very nice power blue tank. The skimmer looks to be the right size for your tank. may be you will need two for the next tank.:lol:

lorenz0
11-03-2008, 04:33 AM
looks awsome. i really want some of that blue polyp birds nest as well. but i have to agree, the land scaping is amazing

Parker
11-03-2008, 02:24 PM
looks awsome. i really want some of that blue polyp birds nest as well. but i have to agree, the land scaping is amazing

Thanks!


Talk to Greg over at CoralMaster, that's where I picked up the Birdsnest

Parker
11-17-2008, 09:27 PM
Lost my PB tang today. Not sure what happened, she was swimming fine and eating like a pig last night, she had put on a ton of weight since I got her. :sad:

I haven't changed anything in the tank lately except my P04 media.

mark
11-17-2008, 10:10 PM
Well that's a crappy thing.

Had a Potter's that went after 18 days in QT, eating and swimming, next time I looked dead. Always figured if the fish make it through the first week all would be okay but no.

JDigital
11-18-2008, 01:46 AM
Lost my PB tang today. Not sure what happened, she was swimming fine and eating like a pig last night, she had put on a ton of weight since I got her. :sad:

I haven't changed anything in the tank lately except my P04 media.

Harsh, really sorry to hear that.... soooo many fish deaths lately... I lost a 6line Wrasse, Clown, and Anemone in 48 hours...

Parker
11-18-2008, 02:50 PM
I think I'm going to stick with the two fish I have ( Sailfin & Clown ) and focus on corals until the big tank is running. Speaking of which if my wifes hinting means anything I should be able to order some time around X-mas.

Parker
11-20-2008, 02:21 PM
Well looks like I'm battling Dino's now. I thought it was a diatom outbreak on steroids until I did some research. So for now I have taken my MH offline and I'm lighting my tank with a CF fixture I had sitting around for a reduced photo period. I also did a good sized waterchange, plus added all the powerheads I had to the tank. I changed out my PO4 media last week so that should be ok.

Parker
12-04-2008, 06:03 PM
Well we have come to a crossroads of sorts, as some of you remember the glass brace on my 265 broke and that was followed up by the left hand pane cracking. The decision was made to replace the tank with a taller tank, around 36" or so. Well the quotes have come in for 36" glass and acrylic tanks. My wife and I have discussed the prices and neither one of us thinks the extra 6" gained is worth the 200% increase in price over a standard 265 gallon Reef Ready tank. I'm going to take the day to think about it, but it looks like we will be going with a standard 265 gallon.

loveless
12-04-2008, 07:01 PM
Wow that sucks. I want to build an 8 footer starting in the new year. Looks like the dimensions might have to sacrifice a bit.

Parker
12-07-2008, 11:24 PM
I'm working on getting the old tank out of the stand and out of the way, I'm not having much luck. I think I'm actually going to have to break it to get it out. I'm trying to avoid the mess that might cause though. :redface:

mark
12-08-2008, 12:19 AM
by breaking hope you mean breaking down as in cutting the silicone joints apart,

Parker
12-08-2008, 02:09 AM
Nope, by breaking I mean breaking. ( Tape all the panes and crack them ) I can't get to any of the bottom seams, the tank is counter sunk into the counter top. I can't raise it out because the stand is wider then the tank by about a half inch and catches on the countertop. I can't remove the countertop because it is glued in across the front and at the two seams.

There would also be no leverage to try and lift the tank out, dropping the new one in should be easy as it's half the weight.

mark
12-08-2008, 02:46 AM
that's to bad.

1/2 the weight, going acrylic?

JDigital
12-08-2008, 03:09 AM
Good to see this build is slowly building back up... Good Luck getting the old tank out, sounds like you will need it.. :lol:

Parker
12-08-2008, 02:41 PM
Good to see this build is slowly building back up... Good Luck getting the old tank out, sounds like you will need it.. :lol:


Who needs luck when you have a big hammer! :lol:

fencer
12-08-2008, 05:10 PM
You should sell tickets for the a crack at smashing some of that tank. Say 20.00 per swing. Or at least Video it for you tube. :)

Matt
12-08-2008, 09:35 PM
Shrink-wrap it before you bust it up if you can.

Parker
01-13-2009, 02:20 PM
Well the new tank has been ordered, should be here in the next month or two. I went with glass, the more I thought about acrylic the more it scared me. I know for a fact I would scratch it. I'll have to find a few people for help when the time comes, but it only has to be moved once.

Anyways, here is the final drawing for the tank.

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/TankDrawing-1.jpg

fishytime
01-13-2009, 03:13 PM
Two months??? *lets that deep breath Ive been holding out*. Well the drawing looks good:mrgreen:.

Parker
01-14-2009, 02:51 PM
Well the drawing looks good:mrgreen:.


I should draw up all the equipment and paste it all on the wall. It would be cheaper! :lol:

fencer
01-14-2009, 03:19 PM
Lot of holes in the bottom of that tank.....

Parker
01-14-2009, 03:36 PM
Lot of holes in the bottom of that tank.....

Yep,

2ea 1.5" Drains
2ea 1" Sump Returns
2ea 2" Closed Loop Intakes
4ea 1" closed Loop Returns

Not seeing equipment in the tank - Pricless

Boomboy
01-14-2009, 06:26 PM
Well once the tank comes in and you need a hand getting it in, i dont mind helping just let me know. you do have alot of holes in there. question, if the old tank you couldnt get it out, how are you going to get the new one in?

Parker
01-14-2009, 07:12 PM
I'm not sure I can explain it right.

The counter top comes within less then an 1/8" of the glass and the tank is counter sunk. The trim on the old tank sticks out farther then the gap I have so I can't raise the tank out. The new tank is being built a 1/2 smaller and with no trim.

JDigital
01-14-2009, 10:05 PM
I would give some thought to your CL intakes being in the floor of the tank.. I made the mistake and was forced to use a pvc fitting to raise the intake strainer up off the floor as to avoid it sucking in sand and fine debris.

Other than that, the tank design looks great. Can't wait to see it!

Parker
01-15-2009, 12:23 AM
I have no choice but to put them in the bottom. I'll raise them up and hide them in a pillar. :mrgreen:

mark
01-15-2009, 03:30 AM
nice to hear you've ordered

fishytime
01-15-2009, 04:36 AM
I have no choice but to put them in the bottom. I'll raise them up and hide them in a pillar. :mrgreen:

You will at some point need to clean the strainer fittings. Making it difficult to do so will likely mean it will get done less.:wink: Cant wait to see what you do with the aquascaping.

Parker
01-15-2009, 02:18 PM
SMASH!

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2165.jpg

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2167.jpg

sphelps
01-15-2009, 02:21 PM
That seemed somewhat unnecessary. Taking out some aggression maybe :confused:

Parker
01-15-2009, 02:35 PM
I'm not sure I can explain it right.

The counter top comes within less then an 1/8" of the glass and the tank is counter sunk. The trim on the old tank sticks out farther then the gap I have so I can't raise the tank out. The new tank is being built a 1/2 smaller and with no trim.


It was necessary. Even if I could have gotten it out in one piece It wasn't worth it to me to have to round up six/eight people to try and get it up the stairs and out the front door without damaging my freshly painted walls and brand new walnut floors. This tank was extremly over built and very heavy.

The way I did it it took 12 buckets and they are sitting in the back of my truck right now, I did it myself and most importantly I did it without hurting anyone or damaging anything.

sphelps
01-15-2009, 02:56 PM
I did it without hurting anyone or damaging anything.Well almost :biggrin:

michika
01-15-2009, 05:52 PM
I love the photos...my Blackberry just doesn't do them justice! Admit it, it was fun right?!

I love all the books! Those shelves are just begging for more books!

Boomboy
01-15-2009, 05:57 PM
smashy smashy

Parker
01-15-2009, 06:22 PM
I love the photos...my Blackberry just doesn't do them justice! Admit it, it was fun right?!

I love all the books! Those shelves are just begging for more books!


I have to admit it was a little fun, I was VERY surprised at how hard I had to hit to get it to break.

Parker
02-04-2009, 02:50 PM
The new tank could be here as early as this weekend. It will be nice to move forward again.

I picked up a new 75 gallon tank to build the sump. I'm going to build it based on one from Melev's site.

Usually I clean all my equipment in the sink in the main floor laundry room, including the skimmer cup. My wife has informed me I have cleaned my last skimmer cup upstairs, so I have been busy installing some cabinets and a sink in the storage room in the basement.

Dobber
02-04-2009, 04:54 PM
if you are unhappy with your sump system I can build you a really nice sump for cheap.

johncody
02-04-2009, 05:13 PM
Hello parker. i have enjoyed reading your post's along this thread and have even showed my wife some of the trials you have had to endure. I would like you to know that those complications that you have gone through has made my upgrade from a 90 to a 225 easyer to bear. I know in this hobby we must a one point an time just, " Pull our shirt down - lift our chin and carry on" and i do believe it's these hard times that make the good ones so much better.. So again thank you kindly for the thread and God bless you and yours..
cheers JohnCody

Parker
02-06-2009, 03:05 PM
if you are unhappy with your sump system I can build you a really nice sump for cheap.

I got it covered but thanks for the offer.


Hello parker. i have enjoyed reading your post's along this thread and have even showed my wife some of the trials you have had to endure. I would like you to know that those complications that you have gone through has made my upgrade from a 90 to a 225 easyer to bear. I know in this hobby we must a one point an time just, " Pull our shirt down - lift our chin and carry on" and i do believe it's these hard times that make the good ones so much better.. So again thank you kindly for the thread and God bless you and yours..
cheers JohnCody

Thanks, it's nice to know people are interested enough to follow along and I'm not talking to myself. :biggrin:

BlueAbyss
02-06-2009, 09:15 PM
Nope not talking to yourself at all... we're just waiting for something with water in it! :mrgreen: Just kidding, I'm sure you're just as anxious as we are.

Parker
02-11-2009, 01:05 AM
The tank is in earlier then I thought. I went and took a look at it today, I'm going to try and pick it up before the end of the week. ( Any volunteers for help )

In the meantime here is the set-up I built for my faux fish room. It's not actually connected to the tank in any way but it's a place in the basement I can use for tank related stuff instead of using the main floor facilities. The final tie-ins to the drain and supply weren't completed when I took this pic. I thought I'd post a picture because this is the cleanest it will ever be.

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2172.jpg

mark
02-11-2009, 01:07 AM
nice work area.

Where you getting the tank built?

JDigital
02-11-2009, 01:20 AM
Looks like a sweet little area for tank related stuff.. wish I had one! :mrgreen:

Parker
02-26-2009, 01:18 AM
It's here! Now I have to get it into the basement.

84x24x30h - Starfire Front, Acrylic Overflow Cover, Eurobraced, Black Back.

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2424.jpg

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2422.jpg

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2423.jpg

mark
02-26-2009, 01:35 AM
wasn't able to talk the delivery guys into bringing it down the stairs?

Parker
02-26-2009, 01:38 AM
wasn't able to talk the delivery guys into bringing it down the stairs?

I was the delivery guy I went an picked it up. :lol:

Lance
02-26-2009, 01:52 AM
That is one fine looking tank! Have Fun, and keep us posted on the build.

JDigital
02-26-2009, 04:31 AM
That is one fine looking tank! Have Fun, and keep us posted on the build.

Yea! No excuses now!

Rbacchiega
02-26-2009, 04:39 AM
I think I peed a little. Now get that in the basement and full of water!

GreenSpottedPuffer
02-26-2009, 05:54 AM
Wow that work station is very nice. So much room!

Nice looking tank. Gonna be nice to see this one come together.

Matt
02-26-2009, 03:31 PM
Ummm, Robb? You bought a tank with a bunch of holes in the bottom. That'll never hold water. :lol:

Nice tank. I look forward to following the build.

Parker
02-26-2009, 06:04 PM
Ummm, Robb? You bought a tank with a bunch of holes in the bottom. That'll never hold water. :lol:

What! You waited until I got the tank before you told me holes in the bottom were bad?!?

Parker
03-06-2009, 03:50 AM
I got the sump mostly finished tonight:

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2426.jpg

Whoops skimmer needs a good cleaning.. :lol:

fishytime
03-07-2009, 02:23 PM
Sooooooo shinny:lol: Sounds like water soon?

Parker
04-16-2009, 02:02 PM
Got the tank into the basement last night. Thanks to those who gave me a hand, I hope your able to walk upright this morning after the tank move.
:lol:
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2542.jpg

Delphinus
04-16-2009, 03:40 PM
Lookin' good.. :)

michika
04-16-2009, 06:25 PM
Nice!

Whats next now?

Parker
04-16-2009, 06:26 PM
Nice!

Whats next now?


What's next? Looks done to me... much easier to maintain this way!

muck
04-16-2009, 06:43 PM
What's next? Looks done to me... much easier to maintain this way!
I would add a couple Dura-Ace component "fish" and call it a day... :wink:

Lance
04-17-2009, 12:56 AM
Robb, get some damn water in that tank! It is going to look amazing when done.

Parker
04-17-2009, 02:19 PM
I'm not cutting any corners on this tank so it may take some time before it's ready to go.

1. Finish electrical cabinet - I want the entire tank to run off a controller - I haven't decided what controller yet, which ever one it is it has to be economical as I have a lot of things to plug into it. Maybe the RKE or the new Neptune looks pretty promising.

2. I have to plumb this thing - Drains / Returns / Manifold / 2 Closed Loops and to bad for me I prefer the look of grey SCD 80 PCV over the white SCD 40

3. I have to build a light rack - 3 ea 400w HQI / 4ea 48" T5 / 4ea 36" T5

4. I have to build the canopy - I have two extra doors that match the rest of the doors and I have extra riser and crown to match the rest of the cabinetry but I have to build the shell. I want the shell to be removable separately from the light rack.


It will be a race between Tony, Lastlight and myself to see who gets done first.....

Skimmerking
04-17-2009, 02:43 PM
Rob , no worries on the time frame. you could walk around the world and then live in europe for 20 years and still berat Tony........:lol: we need some more pictures.....

Parker
04-19-2009, 06:37 PM
we need some more pictures.....

Not much else I can show at this point.. but his will be the basic layout under the tank.

Electrical cabinet - everything will be controlled from here.
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2544.jpg

I'll be adding a shelf for the equipment to sit on so it isn't on the floor:
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2547.jpg

All the pumps will be located behind this door, it will make it easy to maintain them or swap one out.
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2546.jpg

The tank is still raised up from the install so pay no attention to the wood blocking it's sitting on. It will be removed.

Lance
04-19-2009, 07:00 PM
Robb, that is one sweet setup. Neat & tidy with lots of room for equipment. Well done. Can't wait to see this build up & running.

Skimmerking
04-19-2009, 07:27 PM
Robb that is one sweet set up. i like where the pumps are too ..

Parker
04-20-2009, 02:14 PM
Robb that is one sweet set up. i like where the pumps are too ..

Robb, that is one sweet setup. Neat & tidy with lots of room for equipment. Well done. Can't wait to see this build up & running.


Thanks guys.

Parker
05-08-2009, 02:56 PM
Well, I started to plumb this thing last night. This is going to be a chore!

My wife sat down beside me as I was plumbing and asked how it all works, I watched her eyes glaze over about 10 seconds into the conversation! :lol:

mark
05-08-2009, 03:08 PM
hey, but she asked.

Skimmerking
05-08-2009, 05:00 PM
sweet ya man she asked that is alot conciderign some don't give a hoop N heck well done

fishytime
05-08-2009, 11:59 PM
Love how the whole bookcase setup looks. My eyes would glaze over too....thats alotta plumbing:lol: I think its a good thing when they show a little interest. My g/f knows how to tweak the skimmer if its overflowing and can tell when something isnt sounding right.... which gives me a little piece of mind when Im at work.

Parker
05-27-2009, 01:59 PM
The plumbing is coming along, I'm waiting on a couple of fitting so I can finish things up. I'm hoping to do a fresh water test in a week or two.

I started the light rack last night, I'm making it out of aluminium angle. I have it laid out, I just need to drill it and rivet the pieces together.

I'll post some more pictures once I get them both completed.

Parker
05-29-2009, 02:45 PM
Here are some pics of the pluming, I'm trying to keep it nice and tidy:

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/Aquarium004.jpg

The sump return:

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/Aquarium005.jpg

Some poor pictures on the light rack, not finished:

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/Aquarium001.jpg

mseepman
05-29-2009, 03:49 PM
It's looking great so far. From the angle you took the picture of the light rack, it's hard to see exactly how you are doing it. Any other pics?

Parker
05-29-2009, 04:06 PM
It's looking great so far. From the angle you took the picture of the light rack, it's hard to see exactly how you are doing it. Any other pics?


I don't have any more pictures with me.

There is a length of angle on either side of the M/H there is a piece if angle on each end perpendicular to the end to bolt the T5's to and the top pieces of angle hold the T5 ballasts. The top pieces will have standoffs so they aren't sitting directly on the pendants.

I'm not sure if that made any kind of sence to anyone but me!

mseepman
05-29-2009, 07:27 PM
Nope..that works for me. I'm trying to pre-plan what I will do and so I am looking for every example I can find.

Where did you buy the aluminum?

Parker
05-29-2009, 09:53 PM
Where did you buy the aluminum?

I picked it up from Home Depot. I probably could have got it cheaper at a metal supply place but the hours I work makes it hard to get to them by closing time.

I'll get some better pictures once it's complete.

Parker
06-08-2009, 02:12 PM
We have water in the tank!

That 65wx2 CF fixture doesn't light up the tank to well. :lol:

The tank isn't quite full, the return holes at the top of the overflow are supposed to be 3/4" but they don't fit. The returns and drains are running but only in the overflow box. I have one small leak at a union that I have to take care of but other then that everything looks good.

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/Aquarium014.jpg

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/Aquarium016.jpg

I got power to the electrical cabinet:
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/Aquarium019.jpg

lastlight
06-08-2009, 03:08 PM
Ok that is some SERIOUSLY clean plumbing! Not a spot of primer to be seen! Taking your time is all the rage. Looks great =)

JDigital
06-08-2009, 05:36 PM
Ohhh its coming along nicely!

Boomboy
06-09-2009, 12:12 AM
so purty, looks great. love the bookcases and everything with it. this tank looks great even without the rocks in there. cant wait to see this puppy full. its been a long time since your first tank.

Parker
06-09-2009, 03:10 PM
Ok that is some SERIOUSLY clean plumbing! Not a spot of primer to be seen! Taking your time is all the rage. Looks great =)

Ohhh its coming along nicely!

so purty, looks great. love the bookcases and everything with it. this tank looks great even without the rocks in there. cant wait to see this puppy full. its been a long time since your first tank.

Thanks Guys.. I've been trying to not rush anything and get it done right the first time. But I have to say it's getting harder and harder now that there is water in the tank. So far I'm resisting the urge to throw some sand and rock in there.

Parker
06-09-2009, 03:13 PM
Here is a mostly complete picture of the light rack, I still need to add a couple of cross braces to square and strengthen everything up. I'm going to mount it directly to the wall behind the tank with a piano hinge so I can raise it up out of the way.

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/Aquarium.jpg

fishytime
06-09-2009, 03:23 PM
The light rack looks good...are you sure about the piano hinge?....they are made from low grade metals and will rust extremely quickly...also not sure that with the rack flipped up 90 degrees to the tank, that you will have enough light to work in the tank?

Parker
06-09-2009, 03:37 PM
Good point, my plan was to use a stainless hinge. I'm not sure if I'm going to use stainless screws or just throw a dab of silicone on them to keep them from rusting.

I didn't think about having enough light to work in the tank while the lights are up. That's something I'll need to address. Maybe I'll throw a couple of pot lights in the ceiling.

Parker
06-21-2009, 10:58 PM
I started to do a bit of aqua scape, my wife REALLY likes the look of the rock and foam reef she's seen so I'm going to give it a shot.

Here's a pick of one of the panels in the early stages. I think I need to use more rock and pack it denser then fill the gaps in between.. I'll follow this panel all the way through and see how it turns out.. I zip-tied the rocks on then filled the gaps with foam, let it set then knocked most of it down with a wire wheel on my angle grinder. Once it dries all the way through I'll sculpt it a little more with my drill and dremel.

Again I'm not all the happy with it so far, but we'll see.

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/IMG_2584.jpg

Parker
09-12-2009, 03:08 AM
Haven't had much to report these days.. the summer has kept me pretty busy. I did get my Apex ordered and delivered - With UPS as the transit company It's a wonder the thing showed up at all, but that's another story.

The Apex is a pretty cool unit, I'm just diving into the programing of this thing.. If I get the code right I might be able to get this thing to bring me a beer! I have two more EB8's on order, I'll have to wait for those to arrive before I can put this thing to use.

Anyway, here's a pic, I know it's not a true update unless there's a picture! :mrgreen: Sorry for being so blurry, I used my cell phone.

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/APEXPic.jpg

JDigital
09-12-2009, 03:21 AM
Oh sweet... you will have to give us a good review of the new apex! That's what I'm thinking of going with on my big tank build.

lastlight
09-12-2009, 05:33 AM
Oh no.

One of the three...posting updates! I am so feeling the pressure right now.

Slick looking unit there I really like how that looks.

So the water you have in the tank is SALT water? If it's not I'd say I'm keeping up just fine =)

Parker
09-12-2009, 02:12 PM
Oh no.

One of the three...posting updates! I am so feeling the pressure right now.

Slick looking unit there I really like how that looks.

So the water you have in the tank is SALT water? If it's not I'd say I'm keeping up just fine =)


Ha! Your safe, it's only fresh water, well actually it's empty now so I've taken a step backwards. :lol:

lastlight
09-12-2009, 04:24 PM
Ooooohhh ;)

I've had fw in mine for a couple months off and on. My goal is mold in the house before the reef!

JDigital
09-12-2009, 06:50 PM
Oh no.

One of the three...posting updates! I am so feeling the pressure right now.


Who are the "three" you speak of? or i guess, who are the other 2 of 3?... :lol:

Parker
09-13-2009, 02:41 PM
Who are the "three" you speak of? or i guess, who are the other 2 of 3?... :lol:

Delphinus
Lastlight
Myslef

Just because we all have pretty slow builds.. we post an update to our threads every couple months or so.... we aren't in a race.

Parker
09-17-2009, 04:06 AM
Small update,

Got my controller mounted up and plugged in. I toyed with having the EB8's on the front panel but I decided to put them behind to keep everything looking a little neater.

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2620.jpg

Parker
09-18-2009, 02:14 PM
Here's what it looks like behind the scenes of the electrical cabinet.

The back of the front panel:
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2623.jpg

EB8 on the right hand side, I need to get two more in there yet.
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2625.jpg

I put a bulkhead in the cabinet for the PH/ORP/ Temp probes to pass through:
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2628.jpg

mseepman
09-18-2009, 05:10 PM
Looking really good, you've done a very neat job with everything so far!

Parker
09-21-2009, 12:34 AM
Looking really good, you've done a very neat job with everything so far!

Thanks.. I've tried to build it neat so I don't have to go back later and clean it up.. I'm happy with the way it's turning out. :biggrin:

Parker
10-21-2009, 02:25 AM
Tried my hand at aquascaping today. I ditched the foam and rock wall project, my next thought was pillars but I have a lot of small pieces which didn't stack that well.. so I went with the minimalist look...


Thoughts:

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2673.jpg
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2674.jpg
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2675.jpg

Delphinus
10-21-2009, 02:37 AM
It's good - I think you'll like it because it gives the corals a good space to grow INTO.

karazy
10-21-2009, 03:03 AM
it looks good, the only problem i see with it is lack of hiding places for fish

globaldesigns
10-21-2009, 03:13 AM
I love your setup, from the first tank, to smashing it and now the new one... Keep up the great work!

YOU NEED MORE ROCK! :lol:

JDigital
10-21-2009, 04:51 AM
Hmm I find that Rockscape sorta lacks.... mainly real estate for corals/frags.. They have TONS of room to grow into, but how many can you actually fit on the LR?

Definitely "Minimal".. :lol:

lastlight
10-21-2009, 08:58 AM
I agree with JDigital.

I would avoid symmetrical designs for starters. Nothing Will make your reef look more un-natural than those perfectly balanced piles.

I also find it alarming that you have rock in the tank at all =)

Parker
10-21-2009, 12:33 PM
It's good - I think you'll like it because it gives the corals a good space to grow INTO.

Growing room was a definate concern of mine. I'm hoping to find the happy medium between the two. Looks good but also functions well.

it looks good, the only problem i see with it is lack of hiding places for fish

There is a lot of nooks and crannies that don't come across in the pictures. Some of the fish that get very large would have an issue, but I think they would in most tanks.

I love your setup, from the first tank, to smashing it and now the new one... Keep up the great work!

YOU NEED MORE ROCK! :lol:

I have about 100 lbs more rock, just have to decide what to do with it.

Parker
10-21-2009, 12:40 PM
Hmm I find that Rockscape sorta lacks.... mainly real estate for corals/frags.. They have TONS of room to grow into, but how many can you actually fit on the LR?

Definitely "Minimal".. :lol:

I agree with JDigital.

I would avoid symmetrical designs for starters. Nothing Will make your reef look more un-natural than those perfectly balanced piles.

I also find it alarming that you have rock in the tank at all =)

The biggest problem I have is all my live rock is small pieces, I ordered it that way when I was going to do the rock wall thing. I might have to order some larger pieces.

The pile on the right actually looks really cool in person, the center and left piles need some work.

Thanks for the feedback all... I'll post up round two in the next couple of days.. :mrgreen:


I'm about ready for salt and water Brett, I have a guys trip to Vegas first week in Nov. Once I'm back from that it's time to start this thing up!

mark
10-21-2009, 01:32 PM
Liked this tank (http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1288059) for the minimalist look.

Have you considered a masonry bit and some plastic dowels?

Parker
10-21-2009, 02:18 PM
Liked this tank (http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1288059) for the minimalist look.

Have you considered a masonry bit and some plastic dowels?

I've seen that tank before, amazing looking tank. Some people have a real talent for this kind of thing.

Here is another thread centered around minimalist aquascaping:
http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1658490

lastlight
10-21-2009, 03:54 PM
Of course if you look at what SunnyX has created it's most likely 2 similarily shaped lumps of rock on either side. I suppose that once corals are in there and growing the type of corals you select have the final say in what that pile will really look like.

You must be pretty stoked to fire that thing up! I'm finishing up the install of almost all my electrical components and will post an update when I'm done to make it look like I'm still in this race =)

Parker
10-21-2009, 05:10 PM
I was thinking about making left side much taller and then having it "slide" into the middle of the tank and leave the right pile the way it is... I'm proud of the right one! ha :lol:

lastlight
10-21-2009, 05:46 PM
I think that's worth a shot man. A lot can be missed in a photo though there is likely some great little nooks and crannies we're missing.

Wish like hell I had money for a vegas trip. Then I'd take that money and finish my tank and tell Vegas to take a hike.

Delphinus
10-21-2009, 05:51 PM
Honestly, I think you're going in a good way with this aquascaping. The look you have reminds me very much of Richard Harker's big tank which was a TOTM over at some other board a few years ago (the name of the board isn't important. Canreef is the one you need! :lol: )


Aquascaping

Perhaps the most unusual aspect of the tank is the appearance and aquascaping of the tank. Early photos of the tank accompanied an article in the 2002 Marine Reef and Aquarium Annual. Some hobbyists were surprised by the appearance of the tank suggesting that it was too stark in it's aquascaping.

The average reef tank begins as a glass box packed with live rock and sand. It is not unusual to see the rock-work within an inch or two of the water's surface. With enough rock cleverly aquascaped, one can create a dramatic looking reef tank with nothing else in it. The problem with this approach only becomes apparent over time. With a large portion of the tank's volume consumed by rock and sand, there is comparatively little room for corals to grow and fish to swim. In a short time the tank can become packed with corals crowding each other and fish with little room to swim. If the tank becomes too crowded, tank conditions can deteriorate. If one wants a healthy tank that looks attractive years later, the tank needs to be aquascaped with plenty of open space.

Open space also makes the tank appear more realistic. Most of the stony corals maintained by hobbyists grow on low relief patch reefs with plenty of sunlight and turbulent water motion. I modeled my tank after a patch reef with large areas of sand and isolated patches of live rock, called bommies. This spartan look isn't attractive at first, but over time the empty space is filled by growing corals. The tank's inhabitants will grow and mature as they would on a natural reef.
From http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/august2003/aquarium.htm

lastlight
10-21-2009, 06:05 PM
Tony I've seen your big tank. No offense but it's aquascaped a little too minimally right now for my tastes :lol: Very good quote you posted btw.

Delphinus
10-21-2009, 08:11 PM
:lol: Yeah, I figure if "less is more" then surely "nothing must be everything!"

lastlight
10-21-2009, 09:28 PM
That's what I used to tell the ladeez...

Lance
10-21-2009, 09:56 PM
That's what I used to tell the ladeez...


Had to beat them off with a stick I bet. :lol:

lastlight
10-21-2009, 10:00 PM
Read my post. I didn't have a stick.

Ok seriously this working from home is making me a WEIRDO.

Parker
10-22-2009, 04:25 PM
I've been staring at the aquascaping the last couple of days and I think I might stick with it the way it is for now. It's really grown on me. That plus the eventual addition of my favorite fish the Sohol Tang, he/she will have lots of room to roam.

lastlight
10-22-2009, 04:42 PM
That's my favorite fish as well. But I don't have that extra 45 gallons of display volume you seem to be flaunting all over the place. So tempting...pimpest fish EVER but ever since I saw some video of one in what I think was a 10 foot 600 gallon or something...I backed out. Thing crossed end-to-end literally in the blink of an eye. I will be watching to see how it goes for you though.

Parker
10-22-2009, 05:00 PM
That's my favorite fish as well.. So tempting...pimpest fish EVER but ever since I saw some video of one in what I think was a 10 foot 600 gallon or something...I backed out. Thing crossed end-to-end literally in the blink of an eye. I will be watching to see how it goes for you though.

Looks like it's time for more research...


But I don't have that extra 45 gallons of display volume you seem to be flaunting all over the place.

Ha! I was wondering if you saw that.

lastlight
10-22-2009, 05:12 PM
Well the speed is an issue. Not to mention the MANY posts on RC about them being killing machines as they mature. And I STILL want one. That's the power of a sexy fish right there =)

Parker
10-22-2009, 06:03 PM
great white with their teeth in their tail is a good analogy.

Would be kind of cool to say I have a fish that's mean as a great white.. lol, but not really practical.

I have one in a tank with 3 other tangs. He was added last and is the smallest. he was attacking my other fish while floating in the bag . As soon as I let him out he went after a hippo that was twice his size and whipped him . He has since laid off and only gets aggressive at feeding time. He is a total jerk but he has tons of personality

Parker
10-23-2009, 12:41 AM
RO/DI is flowing - See you in three days. :mrgreen:

I still have a number of things to do before I add salt.. I'm waiting on another EB8 from Neptune so I can't plug everything in yet and I need to extend some wiring but it's coming together. I'm still shooting for operational in Nov. My better half doesn't want me to start it up then take off for a week, I can understand that.

lastlight
10-23-2009, 01:17 AM
Ok you really had me worried.

I think the winner is the guy with saltwater in there first. Not that we care about that sort of thing. Happy for ya =)

lastlight
11-06-2009, 08:09 AM
Uh oh =)

JDigital
11-06-2009, 05:39 PM
3days was awhile ago now... hope you didn't flood the basement.. :wink:

lastlight
11-06-2009, 05:42 PM
This thread's still around? I have something for Robb whenever he shows up again.

:second:

Parker
11-11-2009, 12:05 AM
This thread's still around? I have something for Robb whenever he shows up again.

:second:

HHmmmm did you have salt before me or didn't you? A question for the ages!

Skimmerking
11-11-2009, 01:44 AM
OK robb enough IS ENOUGH 26 posts and NO pictures what the heck is going on dude.:sad:

and you call yourself a reefer. hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm:biggrin:

lastlight
11-11-2009, 01:52 AM
I would have thought you'd have posted when you got salt in. Considering the stakes. How's the tank doing? Pics you slacker.

Parker
11-11-2009, 06:18 PM
The tank is up and running, salt is in. But I have a few bugs / issues to fix. My skimmer is sitting too deep plus it's generating a @#$% load of micro bubbles. It seems to do this for a few days after being cleaned really well. One of my darts started making a bit of noise, I may have to pull it a part and check it out. It's the one I bought used, that's the chance you take, not a big deal.

The tank didn't really go through a big cycle, well not yet anyway. I've had the rock for quite some time and it's been soaking in fresh water for months. I'm still going to wait a bit before anything goes in the tank. I also need to get the fuge operational.

Tonight I need to make up all the cords to for my equipment so I can run them into the electrical cabinet properly. I'll take pics once things are cleaned up a bit, I can't post any now that Brett is showing off!

Parker
11-21-2009, 03:08 AM
So I didn't get all the cords made up the other night, in fact I only started tonight.. :mrgreen: I picked up 250' of 18/3 and a bunch of ends.. The ends are way more then I thought they would be.. $10.00 for each pair, one male, one female! Got my halides all plugged into the controller. Man, this doing things neat thing is time consuming! Took me 3 hours to get everything wired and zip-tied for three plugs!

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG00028-20091120-2100.jpg

lastlight
11-21-2009, 03:15 AM
Very nice Robb. It takes a lot of back-breaking effort down there but you do it once and everytime you open that stand up you're going to be glad you did it.

I have a similar pile of sawdust in the back of my stand beside the dart. Been meaning to vacuum it out.

Did you ever tweak your rock setup or is it unchanged?

Parker
11-21-2009, 01:32 PM
Very nice Robb. It takes a lot of back-breaking effort down there but you do it once and everytime you open that stand up you're going to be glad you did it.

I have a similar pile of sawdust in the back of my stand beside the dart. Been meaning to vacuum it out.

Did you ever tweak your rock setup or is it unchanged?

Thanks, it's getting there.

Nah, I haven't touched the aquascape yet, still the way it was. Maybe I'll get to that once the mile long honey-do list is finished. :lol:

muck
11-21-2009, 02:28 PM
Nah, I haven't touched the aquascape yet, still the way it was. Maybe I'll get to that once the mile long honey-do list is finished. :lol:
I don't know about you... but my list keeps getting longer, never shorter. :neutral:

lastlight
11-21-2009, 02:55 PM
Until you've gotten the list that references another list you're still livin' THE DREAM.

Parker
11-30-2009, 03:47 AM
Started to rework the aquascape today, I built four pillars that I hated. Here's the one that made it into the tank. I still have to work on the aquaspace for the center and right side of the tank.



http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2739.jpg

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2738.jpg

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2736.jpg

Here's what it looks like behind the scenes..

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2734.jpg

Lance
11-30-2009, 05:27 AM
Wow! That's like the Mt. Everest of saltwater.
Nice job on the rock; it looks to be plenty stable.

hillegom
11-30-2009, 06:08 AM
Good build. Keep up the good work. Going to follow this.
More Pics???
Thanks

lobsterboy
11-30-2009, 07:14 AM
very intresting aquascaping. are you planning, soft coral or SPS, or mix. ?

Delphinus
11-30-2009, 07:33 AM
Bommies! Awesome. :cool:

Joe Reefer
11-30-2009, 03:36 PM
I like it.

Parker
12-01-2009, 12:27 PM
very intresting aquascaping. are you planning, soft coral or SPS, or mix. ?

It's going to be a mixed reef, with a focus on SPS and Zoas

Bommies! Awesome. :cool:

Don't know what Bommies means but I'll take it as a compliment! lol

I like it.

Thanks Lando, I'll have to stop in one of these days when it's time to start stocking this thing.

christyf5
12-01-2009, 03:47 PM
LOL, a bommie is a rock outcropping covered in corals. They usually occur on a flat sandy area, sort of like a small hill on a flatland. Tony has one in his tank for his anemone I think.

http://aquadaily.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/coral-bommie-1.png


Love those columns, wish I had the patience to do that :biggrin:

Delphinus
12-01-2009, 05:05 PM
Yeah "coral bommie" == basically a column rock structure on a reef. (Basically what you have there!)

Here's another:
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PMP_NscDVyQ/Rok77Bd9oCI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/C0srULdtqnM/s640/DSCF1104.jpg

BWI
12-01-2009, 06:54 PM
really coming along... looks great!

Parker
12-03-2009, 12:07 AM
LOL, a bommie is a rock outcropping covered in corals. They usually occur on a flat sandy area, sort of like a small hill on a flatland. Tony has one in his tank for his anemone I think.

Love those columns, wish I had the patience to do that :biggrin:

Yeah "coral bommie" == basically a column rock structure on a reef. (Basically what you have there!)




Haha! Whoops, thanks for the heads up.

Parker
12-03-2009, 12:10 AM
Wow! That's like the Mt. Everest of saltwater.
Nice job on the rock; it looks to be plenty stable.


Seems to be so far, it has one of the discharges from my closed loop pointing directly at it and it doesn't move at all. I'm happy with how stable it is.

Parker
12-07-2009, 03:08 AM
Final aquascaping

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2746.jpg

I'm about ready to slowly start adding some corals to the tank..anyone know a good source for zoas on-line these days?

JDigital
12-11-2009, 09:44 PM
That aquascape looks pretty cool...

Have you had much time to play around with your Apex controller? got a review for us (me) .. :mrgreen: Is it worth the extra money of an Aquacontroller Jr/3?

Parker
12-12-2009, 12:02 AM
That aquascape looks pretty cool...

Have you had much time to play around with your Apex controller? got a review for us (me) .. :mrgreen: Is it worth the extra money of an Aquacontroller Jr/3?

I love it, I would buy it again in a heart beat, but I'll hold off on the full review until I've got the entire tank plugged into it and programed.

On a side note, a few impulse buys

http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2754.jpg


http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa180/RParker_07/Tank%20Build/IMG_2755.jpg

michika
12-12-2009, 02:01 AM
I'm a big fan of the pillar on the left side, and your impulse buys! I love how this is coming together so nicely.