Clearsseal Tanks

[JaminRat]

I have a 24"x15"x12" tank and at the top are 2 glass strips running lengthways Not front to back. I presume these are for a condensation tray not for strength. So does anyone know if it is possible to remove theese?

 

[themissingelf]

They could be for strength, stopping the front and back glass bending/breaking, although I imagine they're more likely there for a condensation tray. The thickness and quality of glass will more likely determine whether it would be safe to remove them.

 

[JaminRat]

It would appear they are the same glass and tickness as the main tank construction.

 

[Siamese Fighter05]

Got me this tank and i've wondered myself whether i can remove it

 

[JaminRat]

It would look better gone with my luminaire I would of thought with a standard hood you wouldn't see it but the biggest problem is it would get in the way of a HOB filter if I wanted to fit one.

 

[Siamese Fighter05]

I've got a luminaire on mine and i wish the bracing wasn't there either

My next tank is going to be custom made with thicker glass so i don't have to have them or the black brace across the top

Anyway, I found this advert on ebay and it says the glass bracing is for holding a condensation tray and to strengthen the glass

Here

 

[jemram]

I would think they play a pretty big role in the strength of the tank. That said Juwel tanks of about the same size dont have any bracing and the glass is about the same thickness. I think it's a case of are you prepared to take the risk of a wet carpet and dead livestock.

You could always have a tank custom built with no bracing by Paul at Fit Filtration in Rotherham. He built my 18x18x18 inch braceless cube and did a stunning job.

 

[windsor-aquatic]

They are there to add strength to the aquarium, and their removal could seriously weaken the tank. The purpose of these stress bars is to allow the manufacturer to safely use a thinner glass than would otherwise be required without them.

 

[SkiFletch]

I gotta disagree and say they're NOT for structural support. Since when do structurals run the length of the tank? Every top brace I've ever seen runs from front to back to hold the long span together as most of the force is front to back against the longer piece of glass.

 

[JaminRat]

Looks like I may of opened a can of worms here. I'll email Clearseel and see what they have to say and report back to you.