Ep 6. Polar Opposites

In Tanked season 2 episode 6, titled "Polar Opposites," the team at Acrylic Tank Manufacturing (ATM) takes on a unique challenge- designing and constructing a tank for two polar bears!

The episode starts with Brett and Wayde meeting with the zookeepers at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio to discuss the project. The zookeepers explain that they want a tank that can house two polar bears- Aurora and Anana. Polar bears are known to be excellent swimmers, so the tank needs to be large enough for them to play and swim around in. The team also needs to keep in mind that the tank needs to withstand the weight and strength of two adult polar bears.

The team starts by designing a massive tank with three separate sections: a shallow end for Aurora and Anana to play in, a deep end for them to swim in, and a separate area for the filtration system. The tank will hold over 16,000 gallons of water and be made of acrylic sheets that are 5 inches thick to ensure it can withstand the weight of the polar bears.

The team starts working on the tank at their facility in Las Vegas. They begin by creating the bottom of the tank, which is the most crucial part of the construction as it will bear the most weight. The team uses a forklift to lift the bottom section, which weighs over 2,000 pounds, and place it into the tank's frame. They then work on creating a ramp for the polar bears to climb up on their own and adding fake ice formations to make the tank look more realistic.

Once the tank is completed, it's time to transport it to Ohio. The team faces several challenges during transportation, including a flat tire and a minor accident. However, they eventually make it to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, where they have to lower the tank into place using a crane.

The episode ends with Aurora and Anana settling into their new home and swimming around in their new tank. The zookeepers are thrilled with the tank, and the polar bears seem to be adjusting well to their new environment.

Overall, "Polar Opposites" is an exciting episode that showcases the design and construction of an impressive tank that meets the unique requirements of two polar bears. The episode is full of unique challenges and provides an excellent behind-the-scenes look at the construction process for such a large tank. Fans of Tanked and aquarium enthusiasts alike will appreciate this episode.