Time for an update.
Work has been pretty steady so the tank build is going a lot slower. But the build is most of the fun for me, so no rush.
I have been working on the plumbing recently.
My daughter finally got interested in the build after she saw the orange acrylic under the 20k lighting. She suggested doing glass doors on the sump and making it a part of the display. Great idea I thought!
So we have been working on colors for all the plumbing and fittings. So far were doing very well. Everything is schedule 40 PVC. We are looking for a less plumbing look and more creativity in the flow of the plumbing. Basically were trying to eliminate as much fittings as possible and bending the PVC.
We took sand and heated it up to 525 degrees. Then packed it into the piping and capped it off. This prevents any kinks from happening in the bending and heats evenly. After about 30 seconds the piping become like a wiggle stick, and is able to be twisted or shaped into any shape necessary. Let it cool in place and shazam! custom piping.
All the piping is getting painted and clear coated in a durable non toxic chemical resistant gloss finish. There is an oil based primer applied first, paint and 5 coats of gloss.
Here are a few shots of what we have so far:
Outside drying
Overflow 1 1/2" pipe in place
Doing the math for length and shape has been interesting. I am waiting for a special true Y to come in and then I can finish the overflow. Today I worked on the return line and will start the painting process for that this week. The ball valve is for servicing the pump and controlling the return flow. I went with Asahi Valve for accuracy. Looks like pink and orange and light blue will be coming up next. I can't believe I will be doing pink but for the kids~
Thanks for looking everyone,
Frank
