Tank Rim

[canes34]

I have recently purchased a 180 gallon tank, it is 72x24x24in and is 1/2in glass. It is missing both the top and bottom rims and I currently have the top one ordered. I was wondering if the bottom rim is necessary because I have been to 4 different fish stores and have been told a lot of different information by each one. I know structurally the top is a necessity but I have been told by most that the bottom is not. Should I order the bottom rim?

 

[Aquascaper]

If it hasn't got its own stand I would factor in a 'rim' onto the stand for a 'belt & braces' approach.

Overall though the bottom rim is not part of the structural integrity of the tank (certainly a rectangular one) as the bottom sheet holds everything in place. You would need to place the tank on a polystyrene sheet though to even out any stress points (more often than not this is the only reason for a bottom rim).

 

[raptorrex]

you say "no top rim" is the tank braced?

 

[Aquascaper]

you say "no top rim" is the tank braced?

Good point, that size of tank should be braced internally with glass plates at the top ideally.

 

[canes34]

It did have a glass brace but it broke. I was going to replace it but was told that a plastic rim with two braces would be fine.

 

[raptorrex]

It did have a glass brace but it broke. I was going to replace it but was told that a plastic rim with two braces would be fine.

probably so.

but, personally, I'd rather replace the glass one.
actually i would have two, so it was divided into three.

 

[Aquascaper]

It did have a glass brace but it broke. I was going to replace it but was told that a plastic rim with two braces would be fine.

probably so.

but, personally, I'd rather replace the glass one.
actually i would have two, so it was divided into three.

Agreed, two smaller braces rather than a single large one. Particularly with regards to lighting, one big brace casts a nasty shadow.