ii. How to Build the Small and Medium Drip Tank System
1. The Small and Medium Frog Tanks for Drip System
a. Tools
Same as listed in the Tools Section of How to Build the Holding Water System
Section
b. Parts
Same as listed in the Parts section of How to Build the Holding Water System
Section Additionally, you will need plain silicone glue for the overflow drain.
c. Construction
Construct the small/medium tank setup using the techniques described in the
Construction section of How to Build the Holding Water System. However, rather
than using the drain suction screen from the tank fitting kit, use an overflow drain
(Figure 23). Make the overflow drains a few days before you need them, so the
silicone will be dry and safe to use. We pre-make a large number of drains at one
time to have on hand. Work in a well ventilated area to avoid fumes from the
glue.
i. Constructing the Overflow Drain
1. Cut 1” diameter PVC pipe into lengths appropriate to the depth of
water you need. Our drains are generally 9 cm long for small tanks and 12
– 16 cm long for medium tanks.
2. Cut 800 micron Nitex mesh into squares big enough to cover the
of the tube.
end
3. Apply a liberal amount of silicone glue to the end of the PVC pipe.
4. Place the mesh on the glue and press it into place.
5. If necessary, apply a second layer of glue around the top of the drain,
on top of the mesh. This helps to ensure the mesh stays in place.
6. Allow the glue to dry two days before use.
7. After the glue is dry, cut away any excess mesh sticking out from the
edges of the PVC.
Figure 23
Close up of overflow drain with 800
micron Nitex mesh glued in place.