280g Mixed Reef

[christyf5]

Originally Posted by JDigital

I like the sump design, especially the dropped down edge for skimmer accessibility.

Look forward to seeing more pics...

+1 somebody was thinking when they designed that one!!

I'm looking at building a tank stand something along that design. Can I ask why you reinforced the top part of the stand but not the bottom (the cross pieces)?

[JDigital]

Originally Posted by christyf5

+1 somebody was thinking when they designed that one!!

I'm looking at building a tank stand something along that design. Can I ask why you reinforced the top part of the stand but not the bottom (the cross pieces)?

My guess would be so the sump can sit flat on the floor... and not perched up higher on "rails".

[christyf5]

Originally Posted by JDigital

My guess would be so the sump can sit flat on the floor... and not perched up higher on "rails".

so the stand doesn't really need them then? Sorry to hijack, I just wanted to clarify for my own info

[xtreme]

Originally Posted by christyf5

so the stand doesn't really need them then? Sorry to hijack, I just wanted to clarify for my own info

Nope, all the weight is distributed among the bottom frame. No need for a plywood bottom. Similar in design to metal stands.

[christyf5]

Originally Posted by xtreme

Nope, all the weight is distributed among the bottom frame. No need for a plywood bottom. Similar in design to metal stands.

Cool! Thanks for the info.

Keep those pics coming!

[lastlight]

I still can't believe that sump cutout was all DIY...that's awesome.

I also love how tall these dang 280s are.

Oh and your electrical 'hub' behind the tank is scary haha!

[xtreme]

Originally Posted by lastlight

Oh and your electrical 'hub' behind the tank is scary haha!

Yeah, that was temporary. The was a partially finished bar sitting where the tank is now. The bar was wired, conveniently with 2 circuits, those where the wires from it.

[xtreme]

Originally Posted by JDigital

My guess would be so the sump can sit flat on the floor... and not perched up higher on "rails".

Yes that is one reason. I knew the space between the top of the sump and the stand was going to be tight. With a 30" tall tank I need a ladder to get into it as it is. The cross braces on the top rail are to keep the 6' lengths from twisting/warping. I read that was a possibility in another stand building thread. I contemplated using a 2x8 for the top rail with no center support, but again that would increase the overall height. I can live with the center brace.

[fishytime]

Ya Sean.....bout time you got around to bragging about your beast