what is aquarium fabrication?....Fabrication of Aquarium Tank

 

Fabrication of Aquarium Tank

Introduction

• An aquarium is a closed container that displays aquatic organisms in a simulated natural environment.
• Making an aquarium tank is relatively easy.
• The most common type is the all-glass tank bonded with silicon sealant, which does not require frames.

Materials Required

1. Glass panes (5 pieces) of required size
2. Silicon gel
3. Squeezing gun
4. Polythene tapes
5. Adhesive tapes
6. Sharp knife or blade
7. Glass cutter
8. Scale
9. Carborandum stone

Method of Construction

1. Preparation
• Place thermocol on a flat surface.
• Position the bottom glass pane on the thermocol.
2. Applying Silicon Gel
• Apply a thick string of silicon gel along the edge of the back surface.
• Apply gel on the two side edges of the bottom glass pane and the edges of the fixed back glass pane.
3. Assembling the Tank
• Place the side glasses one by one, joining them with the already fixed panes.
• Smoothen the gel with your finger to ensure a good seal.
4. Testing for Leaks
• Check the aquarium by pouring water into it to look for any leaks.
5. Final Steps
• Raise the back panel.
• Leave the tank to cure for a day.
6. Setting the Tank
• After curing, place the tank on a firm wooden or slotted iron stand.
• Ensure the base of the stand is even and smooth to prevent breaking the tank bottom.
• Use a uniform-sized thermocol between the tank and the stand surface to protect it from pressure.

Precautions

• Do not use the tank until it is properly set.
• Select glass panes of appropriate gauge based on the aquarium size specifications.
• Ensure the base pane measurements conform well to the aquarium dimensions.
• Lay the sealant in a continuous string to create a bubble-free bond; bubbles can lead to leaks.