Aquarium Glass Thickness Calculator
Calculate the required glass thickness for your aquarium. Ensures structural integrity and safety for your aquatic setup.
Recommended: 3.8 (standard), 5.0 (extra safe)
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter aquarium length, width, and height in centimeters.
- Enter safety factor (default 3.8, use 5.0 for extra safety).
- The calculator displays required glass thickness in millimeters.
- Use this to ensure your aquarium is safe and structurally sound.
Glass Thickness Formula
Glass thickness is calculated from height, pressure, and safety factor:
Thickness ≈ 0.1 × Height (cm) × √(Safety Factor)
Minimum Recommended:
<60cm: 6mm
60-120cm: 10mm
120-180cm: 12mm
>180cm: 15mm+
Example: 50cm height, 3.8 safety factor: Thickness ≈ 0.1 × 50 × √3.8 = 9.7mm. Recommended minimum: 10mm (for 50cm height). The calculator uses the larger of calculated or recommended thickness. Always use at least the recommended minimum!
Full Description
The Aquarium Glass Thickness Calculator determines the minimum glass thickness required for your aquarium based on dimensions and safety factors. Water pressure increases with depth, so taller aquariums require thicker glass to prevent breakage. Using glass that\'s too thin can lead to catastrophic failure, causing flooding and damage.
Glass thickness depends primarily on height (water pressure), with length and width also considered. The calculator uses a simplified formula that accounts for water pressure, glass strength, and safety factors. Safety factors (typically 3.8-5.0) provide a margin of safety for imperfections, stress concentrations, and unexpected loads. Recommended minimums: Small tanks (<60cm): 6mm, Medium (60-120cm): 10mm, Large (120-180cm): 12mm, Very large (>180cm): 15mm+.
This calculator helps you determine safe glass thickness for your aquarium. Enter dimensions and safety factor, and it calculates required thickness. Use it when building custom aquariums, checking existing tank safety, or planning aquarium projects. For very large or custom tanks, consult a professional—engineering calculations may be needed. Safety first—never use glass thinner than recommended!
Frequently Asked Questions
How is glass thickness calculated?
Glass thickness depends on water pressure, which increases with height. Larger, taller aquariums need thicker glass. The formula considers height, safety factor, and glass strength. Typical: Small tanks (<60cm): 6mm. Medium (60-120cm): 10mm. Large (120-180cm): 12mm. Very large (>180cm): 15mm+.
What is a safety factor?
Safety factor accounts for imperfections, stress concentrations, and safety margin. Standard: 3.8x (safe for most applications). Extra safe: 5.0x (for large tanks or high-risk situations). Higher safety factors = thicker glass = safer but more expensive. Never use glass thinner than recommended!
Does length/width affect thickness?
Yes, but height is the primary factor (water pressure increases with depth). Very long tanks may need thicker glass or bracing. The calculator uses the largest dimension. For custom tanks, consult a professional—large aquariums require engineering calculations.
Can I use acrylic instead?
Yes! Acrylic is lighter and stronger than glass but scratches easier. Acrylic thickness is typically 60-70% of glass thickness for the same strength. Example: 10mm glass ≈ 6-7mm acrylic. Acrylic is better for very large tanks but more expensive.