sump baffles

I am building a sump using my 30 Gallon long tank. My question is regarding the baffles that I will use for my bubble trap and to separate the refugium section from the return section - how thick should the baffles be? I went to Lowes and they sell glass that is maximum 1/16 inch thick, and plexiglass that is maximum 1/8 inch thick. I'd rather use the glass, since it will adhere better to my silicone sealant. But I don't know if 1/16 inch is thick enough?

 

i would go with thicker glass

 

I would go with the thicker too,I had no trouble with the plexi bonding to the glass in my sump.First one I built I used 1/16 plexi because home depot had it in just the right width, all I had to do was cut how tall i needed it. When filling the tank up to test for leaks them babies bowed like hell but once all the water was in they were fine but the next time I went thicker for ease of mind.

 

Go with glass. Any glass shop will be able to cut you baffles to your specifications.
If you use plexi, you need to be very careful if the sump is glass. Plexi expands a lot more than glass with temperature fluctuations. If the fit is too tight, the plexi can literally blow out and shatter the entire sump.

 

I had a glass shop cut me 4 panes of used glass for $25. The glass looked brand new with no scratches or marks. Just make sure to give it a good cleaning with vinegar.

 

wow good to know!

 

I didnt even think of this when I set up my sump. But I know my plexi is to short. It took alot of silicon to seal it;D

 

I just had 4 pieces cut for my tank, $4.00 a piece with the edges sanded, make sure you get them polished/sanded so you can handle it no problem.
I went with 1/4 inch glass no worries on it breaking.

 

My plexi was short too. Lots of silly-cone needed. Bonding is not a problem....just watch the fit.

 

I had some made the other day and the guy at lowes told me he's made one before and said the glass has an easier time of shattering from the water pressure.