does a 50 gallon tank 36x19x19 need a center brace

I have tank with some fairly thick glass...I believe its 3/10" glass...its definitely bigger then 1/4 but not as big as 3/8. I am planning on lighting this tank with a single 250w MH atleast for now and maybe upgrade later. This tank as of now will not be very heavy on corals other than maybe some softies and easy lps. Now the MH would more than likely melt the center brace, however in order to light the full tank id probably have to raise the pendant up about 18"-24" off the water...would you think the center brace would still melt with the light at this height...also the tank is thick and only 36" long so im not entirely sure that the brace is necessary, does anyone else have more insight on this?.....another option i have thought of is either eurobracing or just siliconing a glass brace below the p;astic one and then cutting the plastic one out, any thoughts concerns? the tanks exact dimensions are 36 7/8" L x 19" W x 19 5/8" H

 

i wouldn't say it needs a centre brace, but why take the chance? the brace will add to the overall strength of the tank, so might as well spend the extra few dollars to make or buy one, will put your mind to ease as well.

 

a 40 breeder is 36x18x16 and doesnt have a center brace. I dont know for sure if those dimensions would need one but its only a few inches larger than that.

 

thanks for the input, i decided on bracing it with glass and cutting out the plastic one...i just wasnt even sure if a 36" long tank even needed a center brace

 

thats exactly what i was thinking as well