Oops... Averted BIG Disaster

[AuroraDrvr]

I was woken up this morning to a 240 gallon tank that popped two center braces between last night at 12 and around 9 in the morning. The tank was bowing about 3-4" total in the center.

Luckily no side seams split, though they were showing that they were starting to pull the silicone apart and fail. We quickly drained the water level to 1/2 way, where it sits right now. We've still got all the livestock in the tank, and it's just circulating with PH's.


Time to look for a new (used) tank that has the standard 8x2' footprint. Anyone want a killer deal on a 240 that needs blown apart and reseamed? lol

[Neuticle]

That would suck, you're lucky it happened on a weekend when you have a little time to mess with it.

Anyone want a killer deal on a 240 that needs blown apart and reseamed? lol

That would make good use of my RTV stash If you're interested in dumping it, I may try to get it off you for glass.

[Crustman]

That is a scary problem. Amazing it didn't break. I have a freshwater 120 and it sits on beams that over piers supporting my house. It is scary when I think of the floor breaking.

[likes2fly]

I have a 180g in a condo sitting on piers.

[AuroraDrvr]

Yes, it was definitely an attention getter.

I'm not sure what we are going to do. I can't find a 240 or other tank with a 8x2 footprint anywhere in LA, MS, AL or the FL panhandle. And we really can't afford to buy new. We may just have to stuff the fish into our 125 until we can find a suitable replacement tank.

[redpheonix]

You could build a sit on top brace. I built one for my tank out of 1X1 angle and connected it with 1/2x1/2 angle on top and welded it all together. I sanded it and primed it and then coated it with plastic/rubber coat
That way I can remove my center brace and not have to worry about the tank bowing from the pressure.

Might try that if the seams are still good. Feel free to give me a call
228-990-7340 Zack

[redpheonix]

I took a couple pics of the brace I made. If you text me I will text you the pics of it to see if something like this might work for you.

[Crustman]

Man Zack, all of us are not welders. Great you can do this.Is there any damage to the silicon on the seams with the tank bowing?

[Crustman]

I can see it now; you bring the arc welder in the fish room, put the mask on, and sparks are flying as you weld.

[redpheonix]

No I measure the outside edge of the tank and build the brace to match then paint and seal it so that it can be placed on top of the tank. I usually leave about a 1/4" gap and use small wedges so it can be snugged up just right. But it's welded at home (actually my dads house that's where the wire welder is.

[AuroraDrvr]

I have a welder, and know how to weld...

Problem is, the side seams are compromised and showing the beginnings of failing.