DIY Acrylic Refugium
Refugiums are a terrific new addition to saltwater aquarium systems. Refugiums can be used to hold a myriad of things, including nitrate reducing Mangroves and Algae as well as 'Pod Farms for cultivating Amphipods and Copepods. The Hang on and Hang In Tank type refugiums are the most popular due to their ease of installation and simple or no plumbing requirements.
Here is a photo of a small (4" X 6" X 8" high) acrylic Hang On Tank refugium with Mangrove seedlings, being used to reduce nitrates, phosphates and other toxins in a 55g saltwater tank. The plumbing is simple: a siphon tube and a small plastic hose from the top of a powerhead. This refugium can be hung anywhere on the outside of a tank or sump. You can also drill some holes in it and hang it on the inside of a tank or sump, which requires no plumbing.
Refugiums can be constructed of glass, acrylic or just about anything else that will hold water, however here we are going to show you how to build a Hang In/On Tank Refugium using 3/16" Cell Cast Acrylic.
 Here is an exploded view of a typical hang in or hang on tank refugium. You can make your refugium any size you wish. We suggest that you click on the graphic to see the enlarged version and then print the diagram. You can use this to make notes for the dimensions of your refugium. |
You will want to adjust the size of the Bracketto accommodate the thickness of your tank or sump wall material.
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If you can not find them locally, a 24" X 24" sheet of 3/16" Cell Cast Acrylic can be purchased from Delvie Plastics for about $15.00, plus shipping and handling. A 4 oz. can of Weld-On #4 can be purchased from rplastics for about $6.00 plus shipping and handling. The sheet of acrylic will have either a paper or plastic sheet covering when you receive it. Do not remove this paper or plastic sheet while assembling. If you don't want to cut the acrylic yourself, the acrylic supplier will usually do it for you for a small fee.
You can find syringes and hypodermic needles at your local pharmacy, although you may be asked a few questions about your intended use. The masking tape and sandpaper can be found at your local hardware store.
Tools:
- Table Saw (preferred)
- Jig Saw
- C Clamps (if you are using a Jig Saw and cutting guide)
- Tape Measure or Ruler
The blades for either the table saw or jigsaw should have as many teeth per inch as possible for cutting acrylics. If you are using a jigsaw, use a blade with 16 to 18 teeth per inch. If you are using a table saw, the "fine cut" blades will work best for cutting acrylics. This will produce a much cleaner cut which will require less finishing prior to bonding.
If you plan to make your refugium a hang in tank type, drill holes in the side, bottom and/or front pieces of the refugium before assembling. 1/2" holes will work well for most applications. Use the water spray bottle to keep the drill bit cool while you are drilling. You will find that a slower drill speed works best for acrylic.
Part 2 - DIY Acrylic Refugium - Edge Finishing, Assembly and Bonding
