Constructing the top frame Before you begin creating the top frame, you’ll need to take the measurements of your tank. The goal is to have the top frame rest securely on the rim of the tank. In figure 15-3, you can see a diagram of the top I constructed to fit my tank. The tank measured 12.25 24.75 12.5 . That meant that the central pipes of the top frame that span the width of the tank would be 25.75 long after taking into account the added length of the joints. The central PVC pipes have threaded caps attached to allow them to be screwed into the metal T-joints. Each of the central pipe ends feed into a Tjoint (see figure 15-4) to extend across the width of the tank. You’ll then need two other PVC pipes to complete the rectangle and span the length of the tank. In figure 15-4, you can see that I used two smaller threaded pipes that are fed into a T-joint to form the proper length. These T-joints are placed at each end. They’re then rotated downward on each side to somewhat “sandwich” the tank between the joint on the top frame. Once you have the primary rectangle together, you’ll add the weightcarrying extensions. These are formed by screwing an 8 iron pipe into each of the T-joints. Then add another T-joint to the end of the new pipe with the two open ends of the joint facing up and down. To the top of the joint, add another 8 pipe (see figure 15-5).
3"
3"
25.75"
8"
There are two primary structures to the frame: the top and the base. The top is the frame that will be secured to the top rim of the tank with ratchet straps. The base is an open-ended box of PVC pipes that will sit on the bottom of the pool and structurally keep the tank at the proper level.
8"
Underwater Cam stand 97
FIGURE 15.3
A diagram of the top frame.
The central pipe ends each feed into a T-joint to extend across the width of the tank.
FIGURE 15.4
FIGURE 15.5
Add another 8 pipe to the top of the joint.