Could I Build A Stand Out Of 4' Pvc For A 55g?

[6lkl6l]

i can get the stuff for free which is why im wondering

 

[Dorkhedeos]

no

 

[6lkl6l]

well you can build a 3d rectangular object out of it.
im gonna need a little more detaild answer than just no

 

[divisible by zero]

would have to see the design. a 55g tank filled will be pushing 600lbs, so unless you're planning on stacking 100 pieces vertically cut the same size, it's doubtful.

 

[Dorkhedeos]

Well, sure you can if you want, but i wouldnt risk it because thatll be 55 gallons of water and a whole lot of glass on the floor. If the pvc pipes arent vertical, the pipes WILL collapse under the weight. Why not just spend a few bucks a 2x4 and not risk having it break on you?

 

[pica_nuttalli]

ok... I'm sure Tolak will augment whatever I have to say, but here goes anyways:

1) PVC is not rigid. Even if it will not break under the weight of 600+ lbs, there is a very good chance that it will bow. And unless your tank is perfectly centered on the frame, it will probably bow unevenly and your expensive glass box will slide into the ground. To counteract this, you would need to use an enormous amount of cross-bracing and corner-connects to make the frame rigid.

2) There's also the issue of leveling. If your stand is not level, then you will again experience problems with the weight distribution and risk collapse. There's also a significantly increased chance of the glass cracking and your tank breaking that way.

3) PVC is not rated for it's load-bearing capabilities and thus there would be no good way of knowing how much you should use to support the tank.

4) It would be hideous. lol: ok, this is just a reason for me)

 

[Tolak]

All of the above, plus the price of that size of pvc is much more than the lumber needed to make a stand. I would even trade foot for foot, that pvc pipe for 2x6 lumber if you were local.

The most critical is #3, pvc is designed for holding internal pressure, it does have an incredible burst strength for its weight. It isn't very good under compression.

If you are near Chicago let me know, i'll get the lumber for a trade.