Glass Thickness For Large Tank

Jaws · #1 03-20-2012, 11:15 PM

Hey guys. I'm getting some mixed responses when it comes to the appropriate glass thickness for a large tank so I thought I'd throw it out there and see what everyone here thinks. So lets say for an 8 foot long by 3 feet wide by 30" tall tank, what would you suggest? My other option is 7 feet long by 3 feet wide by 30" tall. I realize that you can make a tank bullet proof but I it doesn't need to be overkill either. I'm just looking for what's appropriate or recommended. I'd like it eurobraced too. Thanks in advance.

justincgdick · #2 03-20-2012, 11:17 PM

I'd go 3/4". Go as long as you want... it's the height that determines the glass thickness due to pressure. You may need a thicker bottom, I'm not sure.

If you get to 24" or less in hight you could probably drop to 1/2", IMO.

sphelps · #3 03-21-2012, 12:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by justincgdick

I'd go 3/4". Go as long as you want... it's the height that determines the glass thickness due to pressure. You may need a thicker bottom, I'm not sure.

If you get to 24" or less in hight you could probably drop to 1/2", IMO.

Actually length is a major contributor for glass thickness, the longer the tank the larger the bending moment which results in more deflection.

For the size 5/8" min for sure but 3/4" would be better. A standard 230 is 72" x 30" and uses 1/2" but they show a noticeable bulge as a result. With 8 feet and 5/8" you may notice a similar effect but it still be perfectly safe but the deflection causes some slight distortion which can be annoying to some people. It also depends on the bracing.