≈ D ≈

calinb

Yes, D--that's a great idea and much easier than the plastic tool coating kits! I have a source for small rare earth magnets. I'm certain I can fully coat and seal them. I wonder if I can find any of that black aquarium sealant. Black just disappears in the back of my tank.

I was in such a hurry when I made my first wall, I didn't take any pics, but I plan to make a small wall or maybe a little "carpet" with some Java moss soon. I'm also planning to try my large soldering iron, instead of my propane torch soldering tip. It should get hot enough. I'll definitely take some pictures and share next time.

-Cal

sirdarksol

If you made sure to complete coat the magnet, this idea should work.

calinb

I got some Plasti Dip at Lowes:

http://www.plastidip.com/home_solutions/Plasti_Dip

I coated some rare earth magnets and the black finish is much nicer and tougher than silicone sealant.

According to the FAQ, it's safe when it's cured:

Q: "Is Plasti Dip® safe to use on children's toys, animal containment, and/or on kitchen utensils?

A: "Plasti Dip® does not contain any heavy metals, and when completely dry, is considered harmless. However, it is not recommended that it be used on items that may be chewed or inserted into the mouth as it may present a choking hazard."

and

"Plasti Dip® does not contain any polyvinylchloride or any other vinyl resins."

http://www.plastidip.com/faq.php

The stuff contains some really nasty carrier solvents, however, so best to cure for a long time at warm temperatures before placing in a tank. Even then, it's a always a scary proposition to add something un-tried and true to a tank--especially a tank with chocolate gouramis.
If I use these along the edges, they'll be no need for the suction cups at all. These magnets are quite strong and I think they'd even work through 1/2" glasss!

Any feedback or, even better, personal testimony about this product would be much appreciated.

-Cal

calinb

Here's a quick update to report that the Plasti Dip is working very well. I cut up a metal coat hangar into 2" sections and filed the ends square. I placed each magnet on a piece of metal coat hangar wire and dipped them, one at a time, into the Plasti Dip. I didn't fully dip them--the top side stuck to the wire remained uncoated for the first coat. I used masking tape to tape the wires to the edge the workbench until the magnets dried. After the magnets fully dried, I flipped them over on their wires and dipped from the side that was previously left bare. Two or more coats, without dipping the wire, results in the smoothest and most water proof finish.

I cured the coating by sticking the magnets to a heating vent for a couple of days.

No ill effects on the fish after a couple of days in the tank. The magnets should work through the thickest glass and they are very small, black, and unobtrusive. I no longer need suction cups to hold up the wall and the wall is pinned to the sides and top securely so no fish could possibly get past it.

-Cal