Stercus Accidit 20g Build

Hello reefers!

After allot of time trying to decide what tank to build next, currently a 55g, I have finally made up my mind to do a 20 gallon mini. We have been searching high and low for a 180-210, and found a 240g setup but just couldn't pull the trigger on it. SO, the 20 comes to mind. My brother has a very nice 20g that has me drooling. I will try to progress this build as quickly as possible but there are always roadblocks.

Here we go, and hopefully you will enjoy!

Equipment:
-20g DT (purchased 12-1)
-20g sump / fuge with return horseshoe and a carbon bag
-Sicce 1.5 return
-Koralia Nano 425gph
-DIY LED lighting (14 LED kit, dimmable, 5RB 5W 4Violet)
-DIY stand (started building 11-29)
-VanSiphon overflow http://www.3reef.com/forums/i-made/vansiphon-125857.html
-20lbs LR in DT
-10lbs LR in fuge
-Black Tahitian Moon Sand


My goal with this is to build a small reef that would be great on the eyes and easy on the wallet. I also wanted to be able to view the fuge as well. I have 4 kids and am teaching them as we go along, seeing the fuge is a must for me on this project.

Any comments, suggestions, advice...is all welcome! 8)

Couple photos to get started: Sorry for the crappy cell pics

MOST CURRENT:




My youngest clapping his hands because he stacked the 2x4 pieces


Completed frame


Mock up tank


Possible scape

 

The beginnings of the VanSiphon, I really have everything going at once...just need to order lights next.



Dry fitting and test...my return pump and the VanSiphon work great!! Everything is drying so I can seal it all up and start plumbing it on the stand.

 

Looks and sounds like its going to be a good build.

On your stand it looks like the weight of the tank will only be supported by the screws? I would add another 2x4 in each corner to help hold the weight.

 

I also would suggest the legs go under the top structure of the stand, while it is a 20g, and it will probably hold, ya gotta ask yourself if its worth having that hang in the back of your mind all the time. Plus, it's a lot easier to change it now.

Welcome to the 20H club!

 

Thank you and this was debated around the house for a few days...I'm going to stay with it the way it is. At this point I cannot put anything in the corners because of the refugium going underneath. My brother and I (both around 200lbs) got on top of it and it didn't make a peep. I know it is allot of weight over time, but it seems to be sound and I think I am ok with it being like this.

In the process of trying to find a pump locally for a good price, skinning the stand, building the VanSiphon, and trimming it all out. Maybe tonight it will be ready for paint! Waiting on the air compressor to get here so we can finish adding the skin.

 

That stand would support two tanks that size, I wouldn't worry about strength. What I would do though is put a piece of foam under the tank in case anything settles in and puts uneven stress on it.

 

I am skinning the top, so I may see if I can find some foam to go on top. There will not be a lip up over the edge so you will see the bottom of the tank.

 

The weight shouldn't be an issue for that stand with a 20g. It all looks great so far and I will keep checking back for more pics and monitor your progress.

I was curious with that back brace at the top against the wall. Did you anchor that to the wall? I know some people do things like that because with young ones running around you really don't want one to tip it because they can always find the weirdest ways to do things...

 

Thanks vawdka

The rear brace is actually top and bottom, I did it this way to give myself room for the plumbing to pass through the top of the stand and the stand could still sit against the wall. I personally think it will give it a cleaner look. My stand sticks out almost 2" in front of the tank and almost 5" from the back of the tank to the wall, it's sturdy.

On the other hand, yes we have to be careful with something like this around the little ones, but, you should see how my kids behave. I have no worries from them, I am a stay at home dad and have them trained well 8)

*UPDATE*
Amazing what can be had at the LFS when they are going out of business aaahahahaha


I almost pushed to far when I offered a bill for an LED fixture with timers and fans built in LOL

 

Yeah, as long as you trim the foam right up to the bottom tank trim I don't think it would be too noticeable. The benefits would definitely outweigh any tiny cosmetic issues.