36" tank stand do i need a center vertical brace

[rgarofalo]

Do i need a center vertical brace or can I make it out of 3/4 plywood with corner posts

 

[DaveK]

You should not need a center vertical brace, since the span is only 36".

However, you will need to frame up the plywood, since it will flex if used alone. In other words, build the frame for the stand out of dimensional lumber and screw down the plywood top to the frame.

 

[rgarofalo]

I think I am going to use a welded steel frame instead. It will give me more room underneath.
Do you think it will make the system more noisy because of using steel instead of wood?

 

[vangvace]

I'd worry more about the stand rusting.

Noise though you might have issues with vibrations, but I don't really have the experience to say.

 

[concept3]

I think I am going to use a welded steel frame instead. It will give me more room underneath.
Do you think it will make the system more noisy because of using steel instead of wood?

You can certainly get away with using 3/4 inch ply all around as long as you brace up the inside corners/joints with 2X2's (or 1X2's at the very least). Use a generous amount of Liquid nails and sheetrock screws. It's only a 36 inch span, so no center brace will be needed.

I have a 60 inch tank span with NO center brace, but the 3/4 inch ply covers a 2X4 frame, to put things in perspective. My only issue with metal is the corrosion, and when you add a "skin" of wood over it, it has a tendency of getting acoustical unless a good amount of padding is placed between the metal and wood "skin"