Screen Mesh/Curved Return Box Issue

[Manny'sReef]

I need help with my screen mesh build. I built one a few years ago with metal framing and it has done great, but it just sits on top of my rimless tank. When I added a new Radion with the arm it doesn't fit. I decided to start a new build.

The problem is my return box is in the corner and it's round. I'm thinking about cutting the top of it so it fits when the screen is placed with plastic clips (https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XBL6893/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1) since it will be recessed into the inside of the glass.

I'm also looking to add an Apex AFS feeder, so I need to have a cutout for that as well.

Any ideas on how to make it work? If you have any pics, please post them.

 

[mta_morrow]

Check out the Red Sea DIY screen tops.

Your lights can be accommodated as well as your feeder.

Love mine! Especially for the price.

Pics in my build thread

 

[Ratherbeflyen]

Build your own out of acrylic and cut out where ever you need. I cut mine out around the return line and cut a slot to put the cord for the wavemaker.

 

[skynite]

Build your own out of acrylic and cut out where ever you need. I cut mine out around the return line and cut a slot to put the cord for the wavemaker.

View attachment 821010 View attachment 821011 View attachment 821012

What kind of screen is this? and what size holes are they. I like this idea of gluing the acrylic pieces together. How did you glue the screen to the acrylic border? Did you use the same acrylic bonding glue/liquid

 

[Ratherbeflyen]

The screen is just mosquito netting. It was $1 a square yard at a fabric store. It's around 1/8" holes.

I used a router to cut a 1/8" slot, but a table saw etc could also be used. I then used window screen spline to hold the netting in the slot.

 

[cpschult]

The screen is just mosquito netting. It was $1 a square yard at a fabric store. It's around 1/8" holes.

I used a router to cut a 1/8" slot, but a table saw etc could also be used. I then used window screen spline to hold the netting in the slot.

This seems like a lot of work. How long did it take you? Any vids?

 

[cpschult]

I need help with my screen mesh build. I built one a few years ago with metal framing and it has done great, but it just sits on top of my rimless tank. When I added a new Radion with the arm it doesn't fit. I decided to start a new build.

The problem is my return box is in the corner and it's round. I'm thinking about cutting the top of it so it fits when the screen is placed with plastic clips () since it will be recessed into the inside of the glass.

I'm also looking to add an Apex AFS feeder, so I need to have a cutout for that as well.

Any ideas on how to make it work? If you have any pics, please post them.View attachment 820733 View attachment 820734

What did you end up doing for this? I'm in a similar boat.

Thanks!

 

[Troylee]

This seems like a lot of work. How long did it take you? Any vids?

They are a lot of work.. it takes a couple hours to do one unless you just rip it on a table saw and glue the corners up like he did… not a bad idea, it saves a ton of material…

 

[biecacka]

Love your popcorn machine in the corner of the first picture! I have the same one in my basement! Love that thing.

I want a nice top for my tank. I’m throwing together an aluminum framed one for the time being though.

corey

 

[Troylee]

Love your popcorn machine in the corner of the first picture! I have the same one in my basement! Love that thing.

I want a nice top for my tank. I’m throwing together an aluminum framed one for the time being though.

corey

Haha thanks! Yeah that thing is cool!

 

[cpschult]

Love your popcorn machine in the corner of the first picture! I have the same one in my basement! Love that thing.

I want a nice top for my tank. I’m throwing together an aluminum framed one for the time being though.

corey

I'm also doing the same. I have the same overflow, trying to decide if I want to bend or not.

 

[cpschult]

They are a lot of work.. it takes a couple hours to do one unless you just rip it on a table saw and glue the corners up like he did… not a bad idea, it saves a ton of material…

I don't even know where i'd source acrylic from =D

 

[Troylee]

I don't even know where i'd source acrylic from =D

Any local plastic supplier or sign shop.. Home Depot, Amazon etc.. polycarbonate aka lexan works better it doesn’t bow over time.