400 Gallon Coral Flat Project

[sphelps]

Originally Posted by mseepman

There is a running debate as to whether there is bad leaching from ABS...Google it and check it out for yourself.

It's a bunch of garbage and a complete myth that will never die. ABS plastic is not only completely safe but actually used for most plastic parts you already find in your aquarium like bulkheads, power heads and those reeflow pump housings. ABS plastic is also superior against chemical exposure and is a thermoset plastic so it won't deform with heat, realistically it's better for our application hence its popularity in products designed for aquarium use. ABS pipe from your plumbing store was manufactured for one purpose and it's not going to meet regulations for residential potable water sources as it's not made for pressure applications. As a result many warnings regarding ABS pipe not being suitable for potable water applications exist but these are in place for obvious reasons that relate to the prevention of installing ABS pipe in your home source waterlines.

The latest buzz on this is the use of mildew inhibitors on ABS pipe, not sure where it came from but there is zero evidence of this and simply not true. ABS pipe is designed with a smoother surface on the inside which promotes better flow for drainage applications and it also reduces mildew and mold growth as there is less surface area. Perhaps this is the source of the inhibitor myth.

In reality, ABS pipe is cheaper than PVC, promotes better flow with smoother pipe and larger radius fittings, more available in larger sizes, resists chemicals better, and is easier to glue. People should really conclude it's better for our application but as long as there are people with keyboards there will always be a stream of misinformation to follow.

Anyway build is looking good bud!