The Fear of the Shark Tunnel

Question

There are many people in my family that run through the shark tunnel or literally cry when they are under it because they fear it will break. I can understand that most of the animals like sharks and rays can be dangerous but they are not out to get humans. Has a shark tunnel ever broken? If so where? And also i know the tunnels are Acrylic glass but how does the glass suport the water, a gallon of water equals 8 lbs., how does the tunnel not break?

Answer 1

It's protected by 2 inch thick glass and the water would spread to the size of shallow water if it broke.

Answer 2

The acrylic is thicker than it looks, 2 to 4 inches depending on the size / height of water above it.

Also the tunnel shape is very strong, like a bridge.

They are calculated during construction to take the weight of water + a significant margin to allow for wear and tear / any shark impacts.

Do believe one as failed but suspect there have been some leaks around joints to the frame etc