buffing scratches out of acrillic

[Stephen]

I just acquired a 380g acrillic tank(free). The previous owner had several triggers that likes to peck at the corners of the tank where he would feed them. I have been told there are ways to buff out the scratches. Does any one know how to buff these out? or knows who can do it? I'm also looking for suggestions on sump/refug, plumbing, lighting, and other fun stuff to do on this enormus project. I also will have to build a new stand and canape before I can start putting it together. So the input will help in the pre-planning phase before I build them. Any and all suggestions welcome.

Thanks,
Stephen :-D

[matt]

There's wet/dry sandpaper called "micro mesh" that you can get in grits from 1500 to 12000 (not a typo) Usually you buy a set of the stuff that has all the grits. It's pretty good stuff; really durable cloth-backed. Just wet-sand the scratches with that stuff. By the time you get to 8000 you won't be able to see the scratches. You can then buff it out with a buffing wheel, if you can borrow or buy one, using fine grade buffing compound (essentially tallow). If you have deep scratches, start with automotive wet-dry paper, maybe 400 to 600 grit.
It'll look like new, but if you have lots of scratches, I hope you have lots of time!

Matt

[utmachete]

Matt's got the right Idea. If you use the micromesh get 3000 - 5000 - 8000 and then follow that up with polish you'll have a scratch free tank in no time. If you already have water in it then cut the micro mesh into strips and punch holes in each end. Then you can wrap the micromesh around the magnet like a belt and fasten it with a rubber band. This technique works like magic but use the finer grit and place the magnet where you want it, don't drag it across the areas without scratches.

[matt]

Great idea about the magnet, Bill! A way for people to remove scratches from the inside of an acrylic tank without emptying it.

Matt