Acrylic Thickness for 96x24x24

[crispier]

I apologize if this has been discussed, but I’ve been unable to see opinions for this specific size of tank. I’ve never had an acrylic aquarium and am currently getting ready to make a purchase. I am concerned with bowing. I’ve looked at all the major manufacturers and for the 96x24x24 it seems the standard is 1/2 inch acrylic. When reviewing the calculators, it states that up to 24 inches tall is 1/2 inch and 24+ inches high is 3/4+. Since 24 inches is on the high end, and this is an 8 foot long aquarium…what’s my best option?

1. I am curious if anyone here has one of the 96x24x24 with the standard 1/2 inch thickness and has it bowed?

2. Opinions - Should I just make the customization change to 3/4 inch acrylic and call it a day?

I am planning on having this tank for at least 20 years.

thank you.

 

[timry2]

mine is 96 long 30 wide and 24 tall with 3/4 inch plexi. No bowing and very heavy.

 

[Troylee]

Request 3/4.. 1/2” will bow over time! If it was 4-5ft long then 1/2” would be okay but being 8ft it has a tendency to bow. I can already tell who you’re getting the tank from as everyone has the same complaint lol..

 

[albano]

I am planning on having this tank for at least 20 years.

Same thing that we all said, 20 tanks ago!

 

[crispier]

Thank you both for your opinions. It’s been an interesting shopping experience vs just going into a store and picking an aquarium. There is a lot more research when looking into acrylic and a large tank.

I actually have quotes from 5 different places and waiting for one from 2 others. All of them gave quotes for 1/2 inch acrylic and I had to go back and have them requote at 3/4. All except 1 that quoted 3/4 inch sides and 1/2 inch top and bottom as standard. The fact that that 1 quoted a higher quality product to start left me feeling most comfortable.

I have found that the 3/4 inch on this size runs, on average, $900-$1,000 for the upgrade. I’m a bit shocked at the different prices for what should be “essentially” the same thing…a range of 2k to almost 6k…just for the tank.

I don’t want to mention company names, as I am sure they all produce a quality end product. my advice to shoppers is get multiple quotes and do your research if you consider this a big long term investment.

 

[crispier]

Same thing that we all said, 20 tanks ago!

So true. I have 7 right now. Largest is a 210 glass. I am actually going to donate that to a local high school and give away 1 or 2 of the smaller ones. In the end, consolidating, but will end up with a 15, 75, 125, and 240.