Embarking on the journey of creating a reef tank is an exciting endeavor that requires meticulous planning and attention to detail. As you delve into this fascinating world, imagine yourself as the proud owner of a stunning 160-gallon reef tank, meticulously designed and equipped to house a vibrant and thriving marine ecosystem. Let’s explore the various aspects of this remarkable tank, from its construction to the intricate details that make it a masterpiece.
Design and Construction
The tank itself measures 160 gallons, with sides made of 15mm ultra-clear glass and the bottom, back, and front constructed from 19mm float glass. The back of the tank features a backpack design, which adds to its sleek and modern appearance. The bottom tank, measuring 125.6 x 54.3 cm, has a trapezoidal shape with a 10mm float glass side. Inside, it is divided into three sections: the sump and protein skimmer area, the water and temperature control area, and the live rock and ATS (Aquarium Toad Stone) area.
The cabinet of the tank is made from aluminum alloy, with the frame and door panels crafted from 4040GW and 4080GW models, which are 40mm heavy-duty, with walls measuring 4mm thick. The connection angle pieces are made of aluminum alloy and high-strength bolts, while the screws, bolts, and nuts are made from 304 and 316 stainless steel to prevent corrosion. The cabinet near the sump features a sealed angle piece for added protection.
Equipment and Lighting
The tank is equipped with a 32mm dual water top and a 40mm dual water return system. The protein skimmer is a Wavetec 250 during the acclimation period, and a BK d250 for the established tank. The lighting system consists of a Kessil AuroPro LED light bar (120cm), which is a recycled piece from an old tank. The lighting is subject to change based on the tank’s needs.
The water circulation is provided by two domestic DC pumps, an 8000 and a 9000-gallon per hour model. The wave maker is a JBJ SW40, which has been repurposed from an old tank. The temperature control system includes a split water chiller (1 horsepower) and two 500-watt Weber titanium heating rods.
Substrate and Water Parameters
The substrate of the tank is live rock, which provides a natural habitat for the marine life. The filtration system is a Berlin method with娌哥煶 (娌哥煶) to maintain water quality. The element addition is calcium reactor (AE), and the salt used is a mix of Red Sea High Calcium and Red Sea Color Enhancer.
Space and Stability
The cabinet of the tank is 280cm long, with a central width of 83cm and a “V” shape design. This design is intended to maximize space and distribute the weight of the tank evenly across the floor. The tank is placed against a wall that is 300cm long, and the floor is covered with tiles, below which are underfloor heating pipes and insulation. The design ensures that the tank’s weight is evenly distributed, minimizing the pressure on the underfloor heating pipes and insulation.
Conclusion
Your 160-gallon reef tank is a testament to your passion for marine life and your dedication to creating a thriving ecosystem. From the careful selection of equipment and lighting to the thoughtful design of the tank itself, every detail has been considered to ensure the health and well-being of your marine inhabitants. As you watch your tank come to life, you’ll be proud to call yourself the owner of this stunning underwater world.