Silicone bond

speedstar · 09-19-2009, 12:40 AM

In a DIY glass tank is it true that the seem strength is only at the contact point and any of the other slopped on silicone can be cut away? Assuning joints are all bubble free.

The Rugger · 09-19-2009, 11:19 AM

I have worked with acrylic, but never ventured into glass myself. I am eager to hear what folks have to say.

Mike · 09-20-2009, 08:17 AM

I am interested also.

ReeferRob · 10-05-2009, 09:00 AM

Bump.....

I would think that the slopped on stuff assists in the sheer strength of the silicone. Silicone is resistant to tearing, resists compression (not a requirement for aquariums).

jojo22 · 10-05-2009, 09:38 AM

I have no proof nor data to back this up, but my thought is, the extra material in the corners would help to add to the strength of the seam. Why?? Because it expands the contact area out that fraction of an inch on each pane of glass, thus giving the material more area to bond to and making the seam stronger.

As I said I have no proof and anyone is welcome to post data to prove I am wrong, but that is the way I would look at it barring any proof otherwise.

speedstar · 10-05-2009, 05:16 PM

I have just received some glass that will be sacrificed to find out he answer to this. Hopefully my test jig will have enough surface area to not break the glass prior to the seems letting loose.

I am build 2 identical glass tanks 12X12X16 HWL

I will then be using a expansion jack with a pressure gauge and measuring the point at which the tanks let loose. I plan to do this next week while on vacation.

speedstar · 10-05-2009, 05:17 PM

This will be using 1/4 glass, common sense would say the reading would be even closer if it was 1/2 do to more contact at just the meeting point, but we will see. Perhaps i'll do 1/2 also if I can find enough scrap.

jojo22 · 10-05-2009, 05:20 PM

Now the good question, will the extra material be removed while wet or with a razor after it is dry, I can see pro's and cons to each way.

speedstar · 10-05-2009, 06:47 PM

I was planning razor after dry, I don't plan on spreading or flattening the bead on the tank it will be cut from. This usually just leave a bit bubbled out ward, because I only want to make one cut as to not get into the real seam.

ReeferRob · 10-05-2009, 07:42 PM

Speed- curiosity is what killed the cat.

Im sure youll be safe, but double think the safety before starting this project.

I also think that there are WAY to many variable to truely give the answer your looking for.

You know one of the best parts of making a sand castle? Destroying it at the end!!

Where to you live maybe I can come watch or play in the destruction...........awe no evil smilies in edit mode.