Quote:
Originally Posted by DasEmpress
My DH has drawn up the plans in AutoCad, and we're just trying to decide on some particulars re:the top, lighting, fans, and possibly misters &/or fogger. Since we have so many experts here, I'm looking for your help!
The outer dims are 78.5"Wx36"Hx11.75"D. It will fit onto a bookcase/pseudo buffet that we already have. The doors will be in front, opening out, and the entire orchidarium will be framed in stainless steel (with a brushed or matte finish).
I guess what I'm wondering is:
1. Do the light fixtures just sit on top of the glass?
2. Should the top be drilled with a few holes for access for any fans, misters, foggers, etc.?
3. Would it behoove us to use acrylic vs. glass on top panel?
4. Any tricks to making the doors seal?
5. Anything glaring that we're missing/overlooking?
Thanks in advance!
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Did you see my article
http://www.orchidboard.com/Setting-u...om-Orchidarium where I describe my process? I used Autocad to do drafting. Paul at FirstClassAquatics.com does not use AutoCad. I had to convert drawings to pdf for him.
In answer to your questions:
1) My lights sit directly on an old storm door sash (aluminum frame) that sits directly on the acrylic. It helps in the cooling process. A small fan blows through the lights to help cool them.
2) My tank is drilled/cut for one through-wall 3" fan, plus 3 holes for MistKing mister heads. I also had holes drilled for 3/8" fiberglass rods I use to hang the minis.
3) I don't think it makes a difference in material. I used acrylic because mine was not framed, per se, but cemented at the edges. If you are doing an aquarium-type setup, then glass would offer you one advantage - it does not warp, as does acrylic. OPne draw-back, is doors are harder to frame and hinge.
4) Doors don't have to seal, just fit reasonably tight. You'll have more than enough humidity without a real tight seal. If the seal is perfect, then too much humidity might be your problem (something to think about.)
5) You need constant air movement (24/7) inside the container (I call it a tank). That means enough fan breeze to blow the orchids around - you need to see movement. You don't need high moisture unless you plan to grow high moisture requirement plants. Otherwise, just a loose enclosure will do just fine. Get the best lights you can afford. For me, that was t5's. You can always move plants further from the lights, but increasing light can become a problem. Be sure to allow some outside air into your tank. I run one fan 24/7 inside the tanks but I have another through-wall that I run several times a week just to freshen the air.
Hope this helps. It took me several months of design and planning till I got my first one done. Now I am ready for my next one and I know exactly what to do!
Need Some Input Re: Custom Orchidarium
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