Do you think this will work (with pics)

[ZoozFishMaster]

I wanted to add another reef tank to my collection and recently purchased an AGA 50 gal (36"x18"x18") due to room constraints. I did not realize this tank came with a center brace at only 18" high. I also purchased Outer Orbit's 36" 150W HQI 2 96W PC fixture. Of course, the HQI bulb is positioned directly over the center brace. In order to prevent an awful shadow, I replaced the stock brace with a 1/8" Lexan brace. It is fastened at the ends of the existing brace with Gorilla Glue and by 4 Nylon bolts. Do you think it is structurally sound?

 

[i have crabs]

yes ive seen 50g tanks with no brace at all dont think id worry at about it

 

[DeFeKt]

how thick is the glass?

 

[gooyferret]

I have a oceanic tank 58 gallon with no brace it will be fine im sure!

 

[fishyrican]

how thick is the glass?

Important question.

Usually, when a tank comes with a center brace, it is because the manufacturer has used thinner glass. The brace makes up for the difference in strength and keeps the sides from bowing out. If your tank came without a brace, it was likely constructed of thicker glass, so the brace is not needed.

Just keep an eye on the nylon bolts to make sure that the water pressure does not shear off the bolts over time. I think the combination of glue and the bolts should be enough, but that's just my opinion.

 

[malkore]

Hmm, I have an All-glass 40gallon breeder, which is 36x18x16...no center brace. I'm not at home so I can't tell you the glass thickness.

 

[ZoozFishMaster]

The glass thickness looks to be 3/16"