Building or installing an acrylic fish tank for the first time can feel challenging — but with the right preparation and guidance, it’s a smooth and rewarding process. In this complete installation guide, Leyu Acrylic, a professional acrylic aquarium manufacturer, walks you through every step: from materials to final testing — helping you achieve a strong, clear, and leak-free result.
- Materials: Acrylic fish tank panels, acrylic glue, sealant, filter materials, decoration items such as pebbles and aquatic plants, fish tank bottom stickers or mats.
Pro Tip: Work in a clean, dust-free area with a flat and level surface. Even small debris can affect bonding quality.
Acrylic fish tank
Acrylic fish tank
Step-by-Step Assembly Instructions
1. Check All Acrylic Panels
Inspect each panel for scratches or cracks before bonding. Ensure all edges are smooth and square. If you ordered from Leyu Acrylic, panels are pre-polished and precisely cut.
2. Dry Fit the Panels
Before applying cement, assemble the tank without glue to confirm the fit and alignment. Use masking tape to hold sides together temporarily.
3. Apply Acrylic Cement
Using a syringe applicator, carefully apply cement along the joint seams. The solvent softens and welds the acrylic — creating a strong, transparent bond. ⚠️ Do not over-apply glue; excessive solvent can cause bubbles or stress marks.
4. Assemble and Clamp
Position the panels vertically, and use clamps or support frames to maintain tight contact. Leave it undisturbed for at least 24 hours.
5. Inspect Bond Lines
After curing, check all seams for clarity and alignment. Slight haze can be polished with fine sandpaper (grit 800–1000).
6. Water Leak Test
Fill your tank slowly with fresh water and leave it for 24 hours. Inspect the seams under bright light for any sign of leakage. If bubbles appear, drain and re-seal the joint.
Acrylic fish tank
Acrylic fish tank
Common Assembly Mistakes & How to Fix Them
Problem
Cause
Solution
Small bubbles in seams
Too much solvent or poor pressure
Re-polish and re-glue the section.
Uneven joints
Unleveled work surface
Use a precision level and support blocks.
Edge cracking
Excess force during clamping
Reduce pressure and use padding.
Leaks
Incomplete bonding
Re-seal with silicone or repeat solvent bonding.
Post-Installation Care Tips
Avoid harsh cleaners: Use only mild soap and soft cloths.
Prevent scratches: Never use abrasive pads; use acrylic-safe tools.
Maintain temperature: Keep the tank away from direct heat or sunlight.
Polish regularly: Use an acrylic cleaner to maintain clarity and gloss.
Refill carefully: Avoid pouring water directly onto one spot to reduce pressure stress.
Why Choose Acrylic over Glass Aquariums?
Feature
Acrylic
Glass
Transparency
93% light transmission, clearer
80–85%, slight green tint
Weight
~50% lighter
Heavier
Impact Resistance
17× stronger
Fragile
Custom Shapes
Easily molded & seamless
Limited
Safety
Shatter-resistant
Breaks easily
✅ Acrylic aquariums are perfect for large custom tanks, public aquariums, and modern home setups.
Installation Scenarios & Inspiration
At Leyu Acrylic, we've provided large-scale acrylic panels for:
About Leyu Acrylic – Professional Aquarium Panel Manufacturer
With over 20 years of experience, Leyu Acrylic specializes in:
Large curved and flat acrylic panels for aquariums
Custom fabrication and on-site installation service
Seamless bonding technology for oversized tanks
Our materials are 100% virgin PMMA, providing superior clarity and long-term durability.
We’ve supplied aquarium projects in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East — trusted by designers, contractors, and aquarium builders worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How long does it take to assemble an acrylic fish tank? A small tank (under 1 meter) can be assembled in 1–2 hours, while large custom tanks may take 1–2 days including curing time.
Q2: Can I use silicone instead of acrylic cement? No, silicone does not bond acrylic properly. Use dedicated acrylic cement (e.g., Weld-On).
Q3: What if my acrylic panels don’t fit perfectly? Slight sanding can correct uneven edges. For serious gaps, contact Leyu Acrylic for precise re-cutting.
Q4: How thick should the acrylic be? Thickness depends on tank size and water pressure. We can calculate the ideal thickness for you based on your dimensions.
Get Expert Help or a Custom Quote
Thinking about building your own acrylic fish tank? Contact us today for professional advice, custom dimensions, or ready-to-install aquarium panels.
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Consult Your Leyu Acrylic Aquarium Experts
We help you avoid the pitfalls to deliver the quality and value your acrylic aquarium need, on-time and on-budget.
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