New MH pendant

[minibowmatt]

Over the past few weeks I have been slowly building a MH/VHO pendant to use over my 50G when it gets set up. I wanted a dual 175 MH with dual Actinic T12 size bulbs. I played around with different design ideas, but I finally settled on a simple shape, with a fulle length/width parabolic reflector. Currently it is set up with one piece waterproof endcaps and clips for 2 NO 24" URI actinics. If i get can get a VHO ballast I may switch up to 30" actinics, but I would need to get new endcaps, as the ones I have can't handle that kind of heat.
I made it from 18 Guage Sheet metal. I do not like working in metal, but whatever.. it had to be done. I welded the seams on the two ends, so I am hoping i didnt leave any pin holes and it will be light tight!

 

[Anonymous]

Not bad looking man

What did you use to paint it with?

If there are some pinholes you can always put some body fill in them and repaint...

 

[Anonymous]

OH, and no fans?

 

[minibowmatt]

yeah, no fans. its a pendant, so Im hoping the 8-12" of airspace above the tank will be sufficient, plus the sump and all will be in the basement-- 59* all year round..

I painted it with several coats of a sandable primer, then Black laquer (spray). I will be giving it a gloss laquer(spray) topcoat this weekend. I though about going with a powder coat, but it would have been another 65$ and I didnt want to spend anything more on this.. In total it cost me about $160 (including ballasts/wiring/endcaps)