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How to Build a Tank for a School Project

Tanks are a common tool to keep animals in the classroom, whether it's a full aquarium of fish or a carefully maintained terrarium for desert creatures or insects. Unfortunately, buying multiple tanks can quickly become expensive, especially in districts with tight budgets. However, it is possible to construct your own custom, sturdy tanks for far less than you would pay in a pet store or for a custom design. It is an especially good project for advanced shop students or advanced science classes in high schools.

Things You'll Need

1/2 inch sheets of acrylic plastic
Table saw
Measuring tape
Utility knife
Silicone sealant
Caulk gun
Dremel or hole saw
Rags

Instructions

- 1
  Decide on the dimensions of your tank, laying out a diagram on a chalkboard with your students for the top, bottom, front, back and sides. Start with the height; it is best to keep the height under 24 inches. Choose the width of your top, bottom and front panels. Choose the thickness -- about 0.5 inch -- of the panels. Work with your students to choose the measurements of the side panels. Remind your students to subtract 0.5 inch from the height of the side panel and one inch -- 0.5 inch on either side -- for the width.
- 2
  Ask your students to cut your acrylic sheets according to the dimensions the class laid out. Supervise the use of the table saw carefully. Measure each panel after cutting it, and have your students double-check your measurements. The panels will need to be precise to within 1/16th of an inch. Use a utility knife to remove any burrs or possible rough edges. Have your students put together the panels and ensure that your tank fits properly.
- 3
  Assemble the tank with your students. Lay down the silicone sealant, using the caulk gun to place the sealant completely down the edges of each panel. Have your students press the panels loosely together to allow the sealant to completely fill all possible nooks and crannies. Run a second layer of sealant down the side of each joint, wiping any excess sealant with a rag. Have your students add water to the tank to test for any leaks. Seal the leaks, if any.
- 4
  Drill holes for any necessary plumbing using the hole saw or Dremel saw. You will most likely be drilling a few holes in the top to allow for air flow and installation of equipment, as well as a hole to place animals and natural elements in the tank. Clean all edges of any holes you cut with the utility knife to make them as smooth as possible to prevent animal injury. Have your students insert the plumbing needed and seal around it. Check the seals for leaks.

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