MH and Acrylic tanks...question

[ripley2112]

Hi there

Getting ready to setup a new tank (60gl) and I have a basic lighting question. I currently own a IceCap VHO system (will use if I have to). I'd like to upgrade my lighting to MH bulbs with PC bulbs. What are the down sides to system this since the tank is acrylic - I know there can be problems with acrylic due to MH heat. I'll be making the switch to a wooden canopy with a fan or two to help keep things cool.

Any advice...?

 

[fungia]

i would worry about the center brace but i think the rest is ok. i started to melt acrylic once with a 150w hqi mh and it was 1/4 inch thick! i think if there is a lot of fans and the mh is far enough you are ok, at least a foot. my friend has 175w over his 50g acrylic and it is fine but he has no middle brace.

 

[taikonaut]

Yes, the middle bracket can be an issue if you mount the MH directly in the middle. The distance from the top and fan will help.

 

[hillbilly]

I would not place MH fixtures directly on acrylic.
That's just asking for trouble. It's better and cooler,
to hang them above the tank.