Well I started a topic on 22nd November 2010 re plastic enclosures. At last I have something to show you all and ask your opinion. I initially went in with all sorts of ideas but quickly realized costs were spiralling out of reach. With much planning, and discussions with a few reptile keepers we finally have an enclosure I am pleased with


The enclosure is made from 15mm plastic and the glass track from 25mm high density polyethylene (HDPE). The plastic for the main body of the enclosure is sold by the manufacturers as a recycled plastic flat sheet replacement for plywood and marine ply, is a unique thermoplastic alternative to traditional timber or rubber materials and is almost indestructible, lightweight, weatherproof, rust, chemical and mould resistant. It can be easily drilled and mechanically fastened with standard hardware such as screws and regular construction adhesive, and the non-stick surface cleans easily and is scratch resistant. Made from a unique combination of recycled plastic in HDPE and polypropylene (PP), provides distinct benefits over comparable products like MDF. It has an outer solid layer, with a closed cell structure foam core made from the same plastic; this makes it much lighter while maintaining strength. This enclosure has a very strong design and supports considerable weight with minimal distortion. Being easily drilled and screwed makes mounting of lights and other fittings simple for the end user. The enclosures external measurements are 1217mm Wide, 600mm Deep and 600mm High and an opening of 1188mm X 400mm. Should there be sufficient interest in these enclosures I envisage multiple sizes. It comes with 5mm deep glass track on the bottom and sides, with 12mm deep track above for easy fitting of 6mm toughened safety glass. It does not include branches or carpet as displayed in picture. Another advantage of the plastic is unlike melamine it will not swell or warp from moisture. Unlike glass enclosures it has higher thermal properties reducing heating costs. With solid colour throughout inevitable minor scratches won’t show up or need painting. Three vents have been placed above and below the glass sliding doors so the enclosure can be placed against walls or other enclosures. The lower vents are 20mm from the floor to allow for different types of substrate. The floor has been recessed 10mm up so when stacked a gap exists between enclosures to allow for wiring of lights, heating and other accessories. Screws for fixing panels together are countersunk and come with black caps to hide and neaten. If you wish to make a seal between panels construction adhesive needs to be used as silicone will simply wipe off. This flat pack enclosure comes at a cost of $600.00
I need people’s opinions. Please poll your votes. Would you buy this enclosure? Do you like the idea but the price is higher than you would be prepared to pay? Or you do not like the enclosure? If the opinions are favourable I will look at producing these for sale in the next month or two. 

Manufacturer says physical properties Minimum/ Maximum Service Temperature in air -30c to 130c.
I placed a 50watt heat cord direct on surface weighted down without thermostate and ran for 24hrs, the plastic got very hot but no signs of damage.

I like to do things on the cheap so would probably not buy one myself (never have bought a new enclosure) but I reckon there could be a market, I was recently looking at the reptile 1 enclosures etc in a petshop and the overall finish is pretty disappointing for top name terrariums (delamination, bowing, broken plastics, cheap fittings) all before they've even left the shop.
Warping with prolonged heat from a lamp would concern me but at 15mm I can see that would probably be unlikely.

I'm not sure the ventilation would be adequate for all requirements.
Does it come with glass?
Are you manufacturing these? and if so is there any room for customising?

I have a mate that has a workshop in indonesia with cnc machines etc. If you want when  i get back to aus I'll ask him if he has the capacity to supply the machined HDPE. They are a good idea, just too pricey for the size. How heavy are they?

OK sounds like no one is interested so I won't start making them I just have another enclosure for myself. What should I buy will be the next decission

I understand. The problem is that the plastic retails for over $400.00
I can get it at Wholesale but by the time we add the glass, Screws Vents and a bit for labour not to mention GST, the price quickly rises.

great looking enclosures   - will the plastic warp with time and stress?

Hey mate, they do look good... When I'm down that way, ill have to check them out.. I'd be wanting 1800 by 600 by 400high.. cost on that?