Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

For a small system, I think a single barrel may be a bit small for fish. Hence, I was thinking about the possibility of joining 2 barrels lengthwise (and obviously laying it on it's side). This would involve either getting 2 barrels with removable lids, or cutting a large hole in the top of those without, and joining them together. This would produce a ~350-400L tank approximately 2m long.

The key factor is the join. For barrels with holes cut, I was thinking maybe bolting the 2 together, and sealing with silicone would do it. For barrels without lids, find some way of clamping them together (I think they have a bit of a lip) and sealing with silicone.

I think this would make a better environment for the fish than a single , and provide a much larger tank. Has anyone tried this or have any comments?

Plastic weld them together

Interesting - any idea how? i.e. where to get one, or find someone to do it? How much would it cost? How strong would the weld be?

Might be just as easy to buy a 500ltr FT. But if you still want to join a couple just cut off the ends of 2 drums. Then cut a small slit or V in 1 drum, only has to be 3in. This will make it easier to push inside the other drum. Then silicone them together and drill small holes every inch or more and use a stainless steel bolt to keep it sealed. You can also get stainless steel rivets but I don't know if anyone has used them in AP before. Remember to keep the slit to the top and also on there side you will not be able to fill it to the top. And brace so it can't roll. If you have access you can weld the plastic together but I'm not sure if it releases anything toxic.

VB had a go at it.

Forgot to mention - a big advantage of joining the barrels is cost - $40 for a 400L tank is pretty good IMO.

Plastic welding seems a bit expensive after have a quick look on the web.

$40

I'm glad I got in before they got popular

$20 each is the cheapest I've seen them so far. I hate to ask, but how much did you pay?!

Ryan,

I would just go to the demolition place and buy and old bathtub or two and save all the hassle. Remember, KISS.

cheers
Derek

Was getting the blue for $10 and the Olive drums for $25 but they have large screw tops.

Yeh, I've got a couple of tubs lying around already, but a mate is keen on using barrels.

Gnash and I didnt pay for anything of our 30 odd barrels

grrrr...

lucky buggers

Having a plastic welder saves a LOT of money! You no longer need to buy many fittings. Just drill and hole and weld in a pipe.. The main thing is that you get the right welding rod for what you are welding together. Most barrels down here are HDPE.

3 inch uniseals are very nice too..

Sort of with Dan on this one but would use large diameter threaded pipe, 2 screw on fittings and some silicone. Just tighten the whole lot together.