Part 2
First Prototype
After realizing that the tree will not be supported by the bulkhead, we had to build a stand for the tree and give up on the idea to use the tree as the return.
Once we were set on the shape of the tree I used pvc cement and purple stuff to bond the pvc solid.
Drawing a line with a marker on both sides of the pvc before detaching it, helped a lot to be able to keep the same shape in gluing process.
I have drilled holes around the pvc structure, and started to zip tie the rocks. Live rock is very porous and crumbles when you try to drill it. In contrary, there were some rocks I just was not able to drill trough. I drilled the rocks so I can hide zip ties. I also tried to cut groves underneath the rocks to minimize the affect of the pvc. I used a hole saw to do this.
Once it was at the state where I thought it was done, I ended up breaking the trunk of the tree, I guess it was too much pressure for the angle it was in. I was able to scrap some parts of the tree and built a new shape, which is the current state I have right now.
There are visible gaps on the tree, where you see pvc pipe, the plan is to use instant foam to close those gaps. I also used instant foam to cover the overflow column in the center.
No comments:
Post a Comment