http://forum.aqua-fish.net/ A forum devoted to aquarium fish, plants, techniques and fish keeping as a whole. en http://forum.aqua-fish.net/?topic=how-to-build-an-aquarium#1 Building aquariums fish is now not as popular as it used to be. Given the availability of pre-made tanks with in-built filters and pumps they have largely become obsolete a trend evidenced in the sales of the newer models. These new tanks are fantastic as they remove the need to purchase separate filters, light fittings, and even pumps. What is more, there are a huge number to choose from varying in size, colour, style and cost. However, there still remain a core group of die-hard devotees who choose building aquariums as a favorite pastime, making it to their own prescriptions and without the costs involved of having it custom made. Making your own does not require tremendous amounts of skill but it does require patience and care. In general if building your own aquarium tank remember that the following dimensions are a general principle. The length should be approximately twice the depth, and the height of the tank at most the same as the depth. The second thing to consider is the material you will be using to construct the tank. You can use glass for the entire tank or self-select only some of the sides as being glass and use metal for the remainder. Either way, the glass and/or metal must be sufficiently strong enough to withstand the forces it will be placed under. Remember that 1Litre of water = 1 Kilogram in weight. That the average tank holds approximately 150L plus the weight of the fish, plants, filters, pumps and other miscellaneous items. When building aquariums all adjoining sides should be welded together. Make sure all the materials to be used are smooth you do not want any uneven surfaces which could damage the fish. Remember to consider the metal to be used carefully. You do not want rust as added insurance coat all metal with an epoxy resin which will act as an effective sealant preventing rust. In preference to the metal frame style of tank many now opt for the all glass glued aquarium, using silicone adhesives. How to build an aquarium Setting up an aquarium will vary depending on whether you want to keep fresh-water or marine (salt-water) fish. The general principles are the same although with only a few minor differences. The following is the procedure for fresh-water aquariums and asides will be given providing you with the changes you need to make should you wish to set up a salt-water aquarium. Get all your materials together. These should include the following: Tank (such as an AR 620 (180L)) Cabinet for tank (not essential) Hood (if not integral to the tank) Background if desired Heater Substrate such as sand Substrate such as gravel Light-tube Water-ager Salt Nitrovec (water-ager) Hydrometer Bucket Circulating Pump Steps in how to build aquariums Before you do anything to your tank decide whether you would like a background for your tank. If so, paint or purchase a background for the tank. If you decide to paint one. This should be done on the OUTSIDE of the tank so that the chemicals do not affect the water quality. Put your pre-chosen tank on its stand in the position you want. Remember it is a lot easier to move it now before the water and other things are added. So think about this carefully. One consideration is you should ideally not set up your aquarium in direct sunlight. Sunlight will promote algae growth and may potentially overheat your aquarium. Get all the materials you will be using as the substrate for your plants or corals. A medium to fine gravel is ideal. Wash everything thoroughly. Use a clean bucket set aside specifically for use with your aquarium. Wash all items to be added to the tank in the bucket until the water runs clear. Do NOT use any detergents of any kind.http://www.aquariumfishhome.com/how-to-build-an-aquarium-611.html iigwk 2011-09-04