More room for corals with a magnetic shelf / frag rack
A customer has shown how 3D printing and magnets can improve a reef aquarium.
The idea is simple
The magnets are embedded inside the coral shelf, preventing them from coming into contact with the water. The result is a small, movable shelf for frag plugs without suction cups or other fixtures.
The clever part is that the shelf can be repositioned as the corals grow or whenever the lighting and water flow need adjusting. At the same time, the frags remain grouped together and raised above the bottom of the aquarium.
Why choose a magnetic coral shelf?
Flexible positioning. The shelf can be moved up and down the glass, making it easier to provide the corals with the growing conditions they need. More space. The sides of the aquarium can be put to use, so the frags do not need to take up as much space elsewhere.
Your own design. With 3D printing, you can choose the colour, shape, number of holes and spacing between the corals, allowing the shelf to suit your aquarium and the plugs you use.
Which 3D model?
Unless you want to design your own frag rack, you can explore Printables, for example. Several models are available and ready to print.
Which magnet should you use for your frag rack?
The thickness of the aquarium glass is crucial. The thicker the glass, the stronger the magnet must be to work through it. Other customers have successfully used , but you may need smaller or larger magnets. Once you know the thickness of your reef aquarium glass, you can use the magnet strength calculator to estimate how powerful the magnet needs to be.
It is important that the magnet does not come into contact with the water, as prolonged exposure will damage it. Make sure your frag rack is printed in a way that keeps the magnet completely protected from water and moisture.
