Glue and Sealant

[reefburnaby]

PFisher,

PVC glues/solvent are fairly safe once they are fully cured. It takes about 48 hours to full cure and dry. PVC solvent actually dissolves PVC and when it dries...recements and fuses the PVC together. So, the solvent doesn't actually remain in the PVC...it actually dissappates in to the air. The remaining work is fused PVC.

Other glues such as silicone sealant, ABS, epoxy and super glue are good for marine use. Silicone comes in many flavours including pure silicone and bacteria resistant versions. The bacteria resistant version (i.e. kitchen and bathroom version) is probably not the type you want, so I would go with the 99% pure ones. The die in silicone is harmless.

As for pump for a 24" X 3", a Maxijet 600/900 should do the job. The smaller pump should ensure that a good air/water mixture is inside the skimmer. So, I would try those first and add an airstone if there isn't enough air for skimming.

- Victor.