This is the design I've come up with for the tank cabinet. The idea is to have as much internal space free as possible. I'm thinking of using 19mm MDF veneered in Hard Maple to match the coffee table I built and is positioned in the lounge. Most joints will be biscuit joints. Doors will be mitred frame out of solid maple with 6mm veneered mdf panels inset.
This is the full picture:
This is the shell without doors and tank shown:
This shows the mitred panels to be biscuit joined. I'm not sure about this yet - the edges may need to be inlaid as per previous suggestion to achieve a good finish? How good a finish can I get if I rout the mitre? I'm after a quick as possible job really.
Shows the panel doors with mitred frame. I know mitres are more difficult - but I didn't want end grain - and the mitres pick up on the design for the coffee table I built. Any other ideas most welcome
The cabined will house a large 'sump' - basically another glass aquarium in which various equipment and other livestock is housed. To get this in, I need as big an opening as possible, hence the door post. I thought that using a custom made bracket would hold it in place and allow it to be slid out of the way if necessary. This shot shows the inside view - the brackets will locate on some kind of screw to keep the post in place. Any other ideas?
The main tank is obviously going to be very heavy. I know most commercial tank cabinets are constructed in a similar if not weaker way. What do you think about the load bearing capacity? So far, I've specified 25mm standard MDF for the top - is this man enough for the job and will it resist and bowing (I guess this is OK as the weight is very evenly distributed as the glass will sit directly on top)?
I also plan to seal the inside with something - has to be chemically inert and non-toxic in case chemical residue/vapour get into the water - even a very small amount could be lethal to the fish and corals. I've used Patina on my coffee table - could I use similar throughout, or should I use a poly urethane sealer of some sort inside? I did also think about running a silicon bead around all the internal joints just in case of leaks - good idea?
:?: :?: :?: The big question I have relates to the doors - can you get a hinge to fit this kind of design? I was thinking about a kitchen cupboard style hinge but I don't have the space to fix it to the frame - any ideas? :?: :?: :?:
Any other thoughts or comments would be MOST welcome
Many thanks,
Paul.