how to get scratches out of acrylic fish tank

The buffing wheel would be like the kind used on a bench grinder but could be adapted to a hand tool like a drill or something. Scott, thanks for posting this. the area will be relatively thinner and the fish n' coral will start to look like they're in fun-house mirrors (warped). Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 41,567 times. You can buy a buffing wheel of your choice, but make sure the pad on it is not too coarse to cause haziness in the glass. You can either do it by hand using cotton swabs (preferable for fine scratches) or buy an electric hand drill attached via buffing wheel for efficient results. Use only a clean soft cloth, rather than one of your sponges that already has cleaning products on it. Simply mix 2 cups of water in 1 cup of cerium oxide, and your polishing compound is ready. Size uniformity coupled with the ability to recede into the resilient backing matrix means that all crystal tips- the cutting edges- are at the work surface at the same level. disclaimer: i didn't use that method but my 'method' basically melted the plastic a bit for that 'shiny' finish. Be the first to know about the sales, specials, new products, the latest BRSTV episodes and win free prizes! Since then the uses of cushioned abrasives have expanded in metal finishing with applications that include automotive crankshafts, surgical needles, mill rolls, musical instruments, and orthopedic devices. The grit youll need to use ultimately depends on the severity of the scratch. ALSO will your mesh film work with a palm sander? You cant keep your aquarium glass completely scratch-free. For much more noticeable scratches, sandpaper with a grit rating of between 100 and 300 will be called for. Keep your tool at a low setting and apply pressure evenly. Squeeze out enough toothpaste to cover the scratches, and using small circles with a clean, dry cotton cloth, buff the surface until it begins to smoothen out. A scratched acrylic surface may not affect the integrity of your aquarium, but it can highly limit your enjoyable viewing experience. If you have got the same situation where you cant stand those unpleasant-to-the-eye scratches, and want to get rid of them, here is how to do it effectively:if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'aquariumfocus_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_14',683,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-aquariumfocus_com-medrectangle-3-0')};if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'aquariumfocus_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_15',683,'0','1'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-aquariumfocus_com-medrectangle-3-0_1')};.medrectangle-3-multi-683{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:15px!important;margin-left:0!important;margin-right:0!important;margin-top:15px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;min-width:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. Preferably, get a toothpaste with baking soda for enhanced results. 2022 Bulk Reef Supply. but that link shows direct application for clarity sake. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. MUWAHHHH HAHAHAHAHAHAH that struck me soooo funny. I just scratched the sh*t out of the front of my acrylic tank. Although acrylic and glass are both different materials, the ways to remove scratches from them are quite similar. warpage like a carnival funhouse mirror. Longevity is related to how much you use. I have a Tenecor tank, almost bought the kit, but used Novus when the tank was still dry. To prepare the resin for usage, follow the manufacturers label instructions. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. At Aquarium Focus, we strive to be the ultimate resource for learning about fishkeeping. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'aquariumfocus_com-leader-1','ezslot_2',643,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-aquariumfocus_com-leader-1-0')};To make the scratch removing process more efficient, you will require an electric or battery-operated hand drill and a buffing wheel. I just recently figured out that you are the guy occassionally on LA FISH GUY. Keep sprinkling water on it as the paste starts getting sticky on the surface. Use of this web site is subject to the terms and conditions described in the, http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/foplay.php?f=745, http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/sh783476&page=68. Thanks deacon, I dont think that will do it. It's a long long process. Working on the same level, the crystals of cushioned abrasives produce fewer deep random scratches in the work piece, leaving a uniform, even surface pattern that requires fewer aggressive steps to produce the final finish. But on a high-end tank, it'd probably be worth it. Anyone have experience buffing scratches out of acrylic? Hi, I am Pawan! Required fields are marked *. Wear disposable rubber gloves while sanding to protect your hand from harmful chemicals. Scott.do you make house calls for scratch repair????? They could easily ruin the aesthetic appeal of the aquarium you have passionately worked on. You also might want to check out the following link, http://www.dxmarket.com/micromark/products/80939.html. You should also avoid focusing too tightly on the scratch itself. However, you can still apply the methods to see how much it affects them or if not at all. Aquarium Focus is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Wait for the surface to dry before moving on to the next step. Sandpaper will be needed at this point. After cleaning the interior, use a lint-free cloth to dry the acrylic before putting back the decorations and refilling your fish tank with water. $5.99 economy shipping on orders under $49. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'aquariumfocus_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_3',646,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-aquariumfocus_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0')};Dont do the buffing part more than is required. Use an electronic buffer to save time, and your arm. I have been looking around for a cheap used acrylic tank that is loaded with scratches so I can practice on that before attempting to do it on my big tank. . Once youve removed your fish and plants, youll get rid of the tank water. Use aquarium decor creatively to cover the scratch. However, it is not difficult to remove scratches from aquariums made of acrylic. I need a quick way to remove scratches from a large surface. It might take several applications before you get the results you want. good luck! Squeeze NOVUS plastic polish on a clean, soft towel and buff until the acrylic becomes transparent as it was originally. Once your tank has been drained and emptied, you can finally tackle those unsightly scratches. If you have an account, sign in with your email address. Required fields are marked *. Fortunately, the scratches can be removed by sanding or buffing, unlike glass. My 12gal Eclipse tank has remained clear of any really visible scratches for a few months now. To prevent visual distortion, avoid pushing the machine too hard on the glass surface and dont overdo it in one place. You can remove scratches from your aquarium glass using teeth whitening toothpaste or cerium oxide. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. LOL. The Aquarium restoration kits have the following grits: I'm going to guess 3-12"x6" sheets of each grit. Because glass is so much harder than acrylic, you need power tools and diamond grit. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. You may use an electric buffer to save time and your hands. Maybe you should try some stuff called micro-mesh. The uniform scratch pattern of a cushioned abrasive allows the manufacturer to use finer grades of abrasives in fewer steps to finish a part. I have a 4x4 Dewalt palm sander. If the above method does not work to repair your glass aquarium, look into replacing the pane of glass. It is actually possible to remove scratches from glass, but as far as I know it cannot be done on a full tank. By using our site, you agree to our. The sheets can be cleaned. JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For getting rid of moderate to deeper scratches, use liquid glass resin. Probably 2-3 sheets of the various grits that you think you'll need. This article was co-authored by wikiHow Staff. This system can be used while water is still in the tank. If you want to be particularly thorough, consider using a heavily diluted detergent. Because the abrasive crystals float on the resilient layer, relatively larger crystals can be used to produce a very fine scratch pattern. The store will not work correctly in the case when cookies are disabled. ", http://m2reviews.cnsi.net/scotts/basics/buff.htm. Your scratch/ restoration mesh kit came as reccomended. In using these cushioned abrasives, go back and forth rather than in a circular pattern. You can also use a heavily diluted detergent to be particularly thorough. ill lookinto that fingernail thing, but I think a block of shaped wood and some Sand papers will accomplish the same effect. Its more convenient and safe to remove scratches from an empty aquarium than a water-filled one. This will help you choose the appropriate repairing technique and improve the chances of its success. I used 600 to 2000 grit paper to get the deep scratches out and polished the tanks with Novus2 and a random orbit buffer. Unlike common sandpaper, cushioned abrasives have no hard makecoat or a sizecoat over the layer of abrasive as is typical of common coated abrasives. The material quickly found use as an improved method for polishing acrylic windows in the aircraft industry. Use a new soft cloth to be sure you don't scratch the aquarium surface, or mix cleaning products. Ordering micromesh tonight. Add water to your tank before judging your work! Once you have emptied your acrylic aquarium and cleaned up the surface around the scratches, you can now tackle the unsightly marks. Never done it on a tank, but it is possible to buff acrylic with a VERY soft. like the softest cotton flannel type buffing wheel and a special buffing compound for acrylic. For slightly more noticeable scratches, on the other hand, you may need to use sandpaper of around 3000 grit. Scratches on a glass aquarium may give you a hard time removing them. Apply even and steady pressure when using a hand drill. With regards to the usage of these tools, there are a few things that you must keep in mind and comply with as you engage with the following techniques: NOTE: Ideal for both glass and acrylic aquariums. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. This is even a problem for glass tank owners but unlike glass where scratches are permanent, scratches from acrylic can be removed and they can even be removed with a tank that's full and stocked. The colors of the fish against the reflection of the water through the glass is soothing and calming. Going over the area with water should get rid of most of these particles. I think I read that several fish stores in the bay area has it though. If the scratch is still visible, progress to 800, 1000, and then 2000 grit. Would you recommend the Novus over the micromesh. (I have a showcar and the buffer was so easy to use) If the scratches are not too deep the Novus will handle them just fine. Take a look at the fingernail files at your local pharmacy. Your email address will not be published. Allow it to sit on the scratches for 24 hours and then run the buffer to remove the excess resin. i heard 600 grit sandpaper workshehewhy's my water so cloudy? If the scratches are barley noticeable, 5000 grit sandpaper is advisable. An inexpensive acrylic fish tank is a budget-friendly option for the novice aquarist. The first thing you need to determine is the severity of the scratches. All that sanding will have created minuscule acrylic particles to accumulate on the interior of your fish tank. I've got glass. Thanks for posting this. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'aquariumfocus_com-leader-2','ezslot_7',645,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-aquariumfocus_com-leader-2-0')};You have to create a liquid paste by mixing water with cerium oxide in a 2:1 ratio. Keep your tool at a low setting, and apply even pressure. 1.5 inches thick acrylic Those are amazing magnets!!! Posted on Last updated: December 11, 2021, Are UV Filters Good for Aquariums? . don't buff away too much. So thanks to you guys! If you apply pressure with sandpaper and a circular motion, you will be left with whirled blemish marks. Next, fill the solution in a syringe and carefully pour it on the affected area. I have one question. oh its on a customers 220, so its a BIG deep tank. Sirreal63, my tank is is dry right now. Here are some shots of the tank after this process was complete. Your email address will not be published. Often once the tank is filled, the scratch is barely visible, if at all. When you use the next finer grit, go over the area perpendicular (cross ways) to the previous grit. Sanding will have caused tiny acrylic particles to accumulate inside the aquarium, but running clean water through the tank can help eliminate most of these particles. "by slapping the materials against a hard surface or by rubbing with gum rubber." how to remove? Incorporating these practices will ensure less damage to the viewing panels. The silica in toothpaste can be abrasive enough to smoothen out minor acrylic scratches. Alternatively, if you have a glass tank, you should squeeze brass or metal polish onto a clean cloth and use that to buff out the scratch, instead. Avoid tacking the scratches when the tank is half full since sanding will create tiny particles that will unavoidably fall into the remaining water. We hope this article helped you removescratches from your aquarium glass and provide you with a basic understanding of the topic. The chemicals used to clean the aquarium are toxic for many fish and marine creatures. The Reef Central Forums are now located at https://forums.reefcentral.comThe old forum is closed to new activity. My tank is 30 inches deep, and very challenging to keep the coraline under control. the cross perpindicular method is a new one to me thanks, but it makes sense. Tough questions. This damage can easily occur while cleaning your tank or doing water changes. 2 of the grits are so fine that you can hardly feel them. You can tell right where my reach ends based on the coraline growth! The marine envionment has really taken its tole on my acrylic 12. Although most acrylic tanks tend to be fairly durable, you will ultimately have to contend with superficial damage like scratches and scuffs. An abrasive with crystals that float rather than remain in a fixed position best describes a cushioned abrasive. However, it is not at all complicated if you can get the process right. Add water to the surface and allow it to cool off before you start again. This article has been viewed 41,567 times. Read: Self-sustaining fish tank ecosystem. Dampen the wheel with the cerium oxide solution and put some of it on the scratched area. All you have to do is, take a small amount of toothpaste and rub it on scratches using cotton swabs. Tackling those scratches will create tiny debris particles that will fall into any remaining water, so its always best to work with a completely empty tank. Please enter your email address below to receive a password reset link. how do I buff them out or reduce them> I thought of using very fine sand paper and then wet sanding it, also using an automotive buffer wheel to polish it. I cant spend like 10 hours on this tank, I need a fairly speedy fix without the "funhouse mirror" effect. Dave ESPI, October 18, 2002 in General Discussion. Avoid using regular sandpaper and instead, look for one that you can use in wet and dry conditions. You can also remove scratches and scuffs from an acrylic fish tank using products specifically made for this purpose. i've used polishing wheels to polish up acrylic edges to a shine but i wasn't concerned about clarity at that time, i.e. Touch the aquarium surface gently as you work to ensure it is not getting hot. The buffing pad must be wet using cerium oxide solution or some glass cleaner of your choice. At this point, you will require to use sandpaper, but be sure to look for one that can withstand some exposure to moisture.

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