Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Well, it has happened...I've not even got my sytem finished yet, no pump, no fish, gravel or veggies, but I am already planning the expansion!

Those familiar with my system will know that I have an IBC buried to about 800mm, which I will use as the FT. This is now destined to become a sump... The problem I face, is that I don't have a whole lot of space to fit a second tank. As it stands, I will need to build a platform directly above the current FT on which to place the future FT.

In the meantime, I am looking for ideas of what to use as the new FT. A second IBC is the obvious, and most simple/effective, option, but I would really like a round FT. I am restricted in diameter I can go to and guess something around 1000 to 1200mm would be ideal. I would also like it to be about 800 to 1000mm deep.

I've found a place called Rapid Plas and more specifically these troughs and rainwater tanks. These seem reasonably priced, with the PTT10W trough and RTT1100LP Rainwater, looking pretty good.

Can anyone recommend something similar to these, or had experience with this brand? Price is an issue, as I'd like to keep costs down (don't we all?!) Size is also important, I need space around and above the tank for maintenance and feeding, so keeping to around 1200x1000mm would be fantastic.

Cheers.

I think you need to have a look at the whole system..

If the current FT is not big enough then why not just install a bigger FT in that location..
ie.. install a larger/deeper Water tank..

Juergen

It's not so much a case of capacity, as wanting to incorporate a CHIFT/PIST system.

Thanks for reply

Rapidplas are good to deal with an have a substantial market here in QLD.

If you are planing an expansion and have room for at least a 2000 liter tank I suggest go for it. But it looks like you may not have room.

Cheers Earthen. I might shoot them an email. The issue will really be getting something freighted up, but I have some trucking connections thru my work which may prove handy.

What's the story with cutting RW tanks, as far as strength factors go? If I was to purchase that RT1100LP and cut an ~800mm dia. hole out of the very top (leaving a good size rim similar to how I cut my IBC FT), will that terminally weaken the tank?

The rainwater tanks are fine to cut the top off but you have to at least put a metal ring around them to support the walls, they get a little flimsy. If you where to drop it in the ground again, that would work.

There is an aquaculture tank supplier near Gladstone from memory. Not sure if that would help with your delivery issues. Perhaps a backload?

I wouldn't cut the top off as such, it would be a hole cut in the top, if you follow. I don't have MS paint or anything here at work to draw for you, but essentially, a fair portion of the top ("lid" is the best I can think to describe) would be retained, with just a circle in the middle removed...

yeah that will work.

Rain water tank work fine..

I have a 6000lt rain water tank that I cut 2 pie like sections out..
It still has the rim curl and has not deformed at all..
I left a lot of the top on to help stop fish from jumping out, I only need to fix up the section I cut out with some form or netting..

My tank work great.. Would actually recommend a tank over a AQ tub because of the price difference in the 2..

Juergen

I sent RapidPlas an email today, enquiring after pricing and outlets in my area. See how that goes tomorrow.

I really need to just get what I have running though...and restore some order to my bank account!...before going any further. Still, doesn't hurt to plan ahead

Cheers for replies guys. Definitely food for thought and the idea of just cutting pie sections had not even occured...