Ras Recirculating Aquaculture System: Things You May Want to Know

How to choose a filtering drum machinefiltering drum is very important in recirculating aquaculture, so how to choose a filtering drum machine? When choosing a filtering drum machine for recirculating aquaculture, you need to consider the following factors:一、Filter selection1. Filter accuracyOne of the main functions of a filtering drum is to remove total suspended particulate matter from water. The mesh size (aperture) of the filter directly affects the removal efficiency of TSS. Studies have shown that when the mesh size of the filter increases from 150 to 200, the removal rate increases rapidly, but after exceeding 200 mesh, the increase in removal rate is no longer significant. Therefore, a 200-mesh filter is the most cost-effective choice for recirculating aquaculture.2. Filter material1) Corrosion resistanceIn a recirculating aquaculture system, the water contains various chemicals, such as disinfectants, acidic or alkaline substances produced by the decomposition of minerals and organic matter. Therefore, the filter material needs to have good corrosion resistance. Stainless steel filter (such as 304 or 316 stainless steel) is a common choice. It can resist the erosion of corrosive substances such as chloride ions in the water and is suitable for most freshwater and marine aquaculture environments.For some special chemical environments, such as water bodies containing high concentrations of heavy metal ions or strong acids and alkalis, it may be necessary to choose special plastic filters, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) filters, which have excellent chemical stability.2) Mechanical strength and wear resistanceThe filter needs to have sufficient mechanical strength and wear resistance during long-term water flow impact and frequent cleaning. Nylon filter and polyester fiber filter are better choices. They not only have good wear resistance, but also will not be easily deformed or damaged when subjected to certain water pressure and water flow impact. In some large-scale, fast-flowing circulating water systems, more attention should be paid to the mechanical strength of the filter. For example, in a factory-scale circulating aquaculture workshop, the water circulation speed is high, and a high-strength filter needs to be selected to ensure its stability during long-term operation.2. Water treatment volumeThe water volume of the filtering drum is determined according to the scale of the aquaculture water body. For large industrial circulating water aquaculture farms, dozens or even hundreds of cubic meters of water may need to be processed per hour. Generally speaking, the rated water volume of the filtering drum will be indicated on the product manual of the filtering drum. Make sure that the water volume of the selected filtering drum can meet the circulation requirements of the entire aquaculture system to avoid water quality deterioration due to insufficient processing capacity. For example, for a 500 cubic meter aquaculture pond with a circulation cycle designed to be once every 2 hours, you need to choose a filtering drum that can process at least 250 cubic meters of water per hour.3. Aircraft Material and StructureThe main material of the filtering drum should have good corrosion resistance, because the water in the recirculating aquaculture system contains various minerals, microorganisms and chemicals. Stainless steel and PP are both ideal choices. 304 stainless steel can be selected for freshwater aquaculture, and 316 stainless steel or PP is recommended for marine aquaculture. They can resist the erosion of corrosive substances such as chloride ions in the water and extend the service life of the filtering drum.The structure of the filtering drum should be designed to facilitate installation, maintenance and cleaning. For example, choose a filtering drum with a removable housing or filter, so that it can be easily operated when the filter is blocked or the equipment needs maintenance. Reasonable internal water flow channel design is also important to ensure that the water flows evenly through the filter and forms a stable filtering flow state on the filter surface to avoid local water flow being too fast or too slow and affecting the filtering effect.4. Power trainThe power of the filtering drum is mainly used to drive the water pump to circulate the water through the filter. It is necessary to consider whether the power of the motor is sufficient, and also pay attention to its energy consumption. Insufficient power will cause the water flow rate to be too slow, affecting the filtration efficiency; while excessive power will cause energy waste. It is wise to choose a filtering drum with an energy-efficient motor. For example, some filtering drums with variable frequency motors can automatically adjust the motor speed according to the actual water quality and water volume required, reducing energy consumption while ensuring the filtration effect. In addition, the protection level of the motor is also very important. For humid aquaculture environments, motors with a protection level of at least IP54 should be selected to prevent water from entering the motor and causing damage.5. Automation/Intelligencefiltering drums with a high degree of automation can greatly reduce the workload of manual operations. For example, a filtering drum with an automatic back washing function can automatically start the back washing program when the pressure difference of the filter reaches a certain threshold, flushing away impurities on the filter through reverse water flow and restoring filtering capacity. Some high-end intelligent filtering drums can also be connected to the water quality monitoring equipment of the entire aquaculture system, automatically adjusting the filtration speed and back washing cycle according to water quality parameters (such as turbidity, suspended matter content, etc.) to achieve intelligent water quality control. The blockage of the filtering drum or the damage of the filter can be judged by the liquid level in the filtering drum cavity, and the operating status of the motor or cleaning water pump can be judged by current monitoring. 6. Brand and after-sales serviceChoosing a filtering drum machine from a well-known brand can usually guarantee the quality and performance of the product. These brands have relatively strict standards in product research and development, production processes and quality control. For example, some brands that have been deeply involved in the field of aquaculture equipment for many years have products that have been verified by a large number of practical applications and have high reliability.Good after-sales service is also a factor to consider. filtering drum machines may have various faults during use. Timely technical support and maintenance services can reduce the losses caused by equipment downtime to aquaculture production. It is necessary to understand whether the manufacturer's after-sales service network covers your own breeding area and its after-sales response time.

Loach is known as "water ginseng". It has high nutritional value and delicious taste, so it is very popular in the market. Loach is a relatively common food, and cultured loaches can often be purchased on the market. Of course, there are many methods of breeding loaches, and there are also various types of breeding ponds, such as earth ponds, rice fields, cement ponds, PE barrels, and plated ponds. Zinc plate canvas pond breeding, etc. How to breed loach? How to build a loach breeding pond?Let’s take the galvanized sheet canvas fish pond, which has been popular in high-density aquaculture equipment in the past two years, as an example. The construction of canvas fish pond is relatively simple. Compared with other ponds such as cement ponds, it is less time-consuming and labor-intensive. It can be installed once it is installed. When put into use, the terrain requirements for breeding sites are not so strict. They can be placed in low-lying mountains, flat rice fields and other places. Although the canvas pool can adapt well to any terrain, the breeding loach should try to choose shelter from the wind and sunny areas, and the terrain is relatively high. And a place with plenty of water. Of course, the water source for aquaculture is the top priority. When raising loach, water quality management must be done well, which can reduce the cost of breeding and increase production.Galvanized sheet canvas pond farming in deep mountainsWhen raising loaches, you can plant some aquatic plants such as aquatic plants in the breeding pond, or you can create an aquaponic symbiosis model and plant some vegetables, which can not only clean the water body, but also provide shelter and shelter for the farmed loaches. Provide some microorganisms and small insects for loaches to feed on.So what should be done about the effluent of wolize's canvas fish pond? The materials needed to prepare for the sewage of the canvas pond are roughly matching fish toilets, a number of sewage drainage pipes (PVC water pipes and air pipes), and the entire drainage and sewage system has water sources, inlet and outlet, various channels, sluice gates, catchment pools, and so on. In order to facilitate sewage discharge, the bottom of the fish pond is generally recommended to make the bottom of the pot shape, so that some of the waste and slag of the flowing fish pond through the water body will converge to the center of the fish pond, in this position to install the fish toilet, the fish pond excrement can be smoothly discharged through the fish toilet and pipe, to keep the water quality clean.The sewage design of the canvas fish pond is relatively simple, because the canvas fish pond is a regular shape, there is no cleaning dead corners, there will be no silt blockage, and the installation location of the fish toilet and pipeline can be determined according to the site selection and personal needs of the fish pond, and the limitation is relatively small. In addition to fish toilet sewage, conditions can also be made into fish and vegetables symbiotic circulating water filtration system, fish and vegetables double harvest saving resources is more ecological and environmental protection.

It is undeniable that compared with traditional aquaculture technology, circulating water technology requires a large amount of fixed investment in the early stage, such as civil engineering costs and various research and development inputs for aquaculture modules. Also face high operating costs for feed and fry. Therefore, in terms of investment in circulating water technology projects, we hope to find an agricultural technology service company that adopts the EPCO asset-light operation model, which can reduce the cost structure of circulating water farming or approach it to the cost structure of traditional farming.Specifically,  believe that a good RAS aquaculture enterprise should have the following advantages:First of all, behind the enterprise, there needs to be a complete set of data center to support the continuous data accumulation in the production process, and to get rid of the traditional breeding mode of relying on the empiricism of the master. Use data to train technicians in batches, so that the breeding process can be standardized and professional. Secondly, the enterprise needs to have more experienced aquatic researchers to do a good job in the breeding environment of the cultured species, and to be able to accurately control the hatching rate, survival rate, bait ratio and other factors. Finally, the team also needs to have a self-developed feed formula or an external feed company that can bring stable feed supply and nutrient intake to the species being farmed, and can make the aquatic products produced healthy and strong while reducing costs.It is not a simple matter to use the new technology of RAS circulating water to subvert the traditional breeding mode in the past. The production process has spawned a large number of service requirements for technical support, facility support, and raw material support. Therefore, we hope to find a team with knowledge reserves spanning engineering, marine biology, animal nutrition, microbiology and other disciplines, and the management team can have both the ability to integrate industry resources and the ability to implement projects.

Introduction to Ras Aquaculture SystemsRas Aquaculture Systems (RAS) represent a significant leap in modern aquaculture. Unlike traditional open-water systems, RAS uses a series of tanks and filters to circulate water, ensuring precise control over environmental conditions. This method not only boosts the health and growth of the fish but also minimizes waste and environmental impact. Given the rising global demand for seafood, RAS systems offer a sustainable solution that can help meet this demand without harming natural ecosystems.However, these systems come with their own set of challenges. High costs, complex technology, and the need for strict environmental control are some of the hurdles. That's where scientific research comes in, helping to overcome these obstacles and ensure RAS systems are more viable.Nutritional Studies in RASOne of the key areas of research in RAS is making sure the fish get all the nutrients they need. Scientists are looking at different types of feed, such as formulated diets and live feeds, to see what works best. For example, in RAS systems, salmon are fed carefully balanced diets that contain the right mix of proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. This helps them grow faster and healthier.Research has shown that well-formulated diets can significantly improve growth rates and feed conversion ratios, which means less waste and more efficient operations. By tweaking the diet, farmers can make their RAS systems more profitable and sustainable.Environmental Monitoring and Control in RASMaintaining the right conditions in RAS systems requires constant monitoring. Scientists are developing technologies to keep an eye on parameters like temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen levels. These tools help ensure the fish are thriving in their environment.Disease and Pathogen ManagementClosed systems like RAS can sometimes lead to rapid spread of diseases. Scientists are working on strategies to prevent and control these outbreaks. This includes strict biosecurity measures, the use of disinfectants, and probiotics. For instance, regular cleaning, quarantine procedures, and antiviral treatments can significantly reduce the risk of viral diseases in RAS systems.By keeping the environment clean and well-monitored, scientists are helping ensure that RAS systems can maintain a high level of aquatic health.Genetic and Breeding Studies in RASImproving the genetics of the fish is another important area of research. Scientists are using selective breeding and advanced genomics to enhance traits like disease resistance and faster growth rates. This can lead to the development of genetically improved strains of fish that are more resilient and efficient.For example, genetic engineering and selective breeding programs have led to the creation of salmon that are better at fighting off diseases and growing faster. These improvements not only boost the efficiency of RAS systems but also contribute to more sustainable aquaculture practices.Energy Efficiency and SustainabilityEnergy consumption is a major concern in RAS systems. High energy costs can make these systems less economically viable. Researchers are working on ways to optimize energy use and explore renewable sources like solar and wind power.For instance, using energy-efficient lighting, advanced filtration systems, and integrating renewable energy sources can help reduce operational costs and the carbon footprint. By minimizing energy consumption while maintaining optimal conditions, RAS systems can become more sustainable and cost-effective.Economic Impact and Market AnalysisThe economic viability of RAS systems is crucial for their success. Research is being conducted to understand the cost-benefit analysis of setting up and running these systems. As consumers demand more sustainably sourced seafood, RAS systems are becoming more attractive because they offer a more efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional aquaculture.For example, a case study shows that RAS systems can be highly profitable and sustainable in urban settings. By integrating these systems into urban landscapes, fish farms can take advantage of space and resources, making them more accessible and attractive.ConclusionRAS Aquaculture Systems (RAS) represent a promising future for sustainable aquaculture. The scientific research being conducted in this field is helping to overcome key challenges and make RAS more efficient, economically viable, and environmentally friendly. With continued research and innovation, RAS has the potential to revolutionize the aquaculture industry and contribute to global food security.

Understanding Aquaculture Feeding NeedsProper nutrition is foundational to the success of any aquaculture system. Different species require tailored feed formulations based on their unique nutritional needs. For example, species like salmon and trout have higher protein requirements compared to farmed fish like tilapia. Additionally, the growth stage of the species and water quality significantly impact their nutritional requirements.Feeding Regimen Design: Balancing Efficiency and SustainabilityBalancing efficiency and sustainability is crucial for designing optimal feeding regimens. Continuous feeding can lead to overfeeding and waste, while dosing feeding ensures precise control over feed quantities. Here are the key distinctions:- Continuous Feeding: This method provides a constant flow of feed throughout the day. It is simple to implement but can result in overfeeding and excessive waste. For instance, a study in a freshwater trout farm found that continuous feeding led to high levels of uneaten feed in the water, causing oxygen depletion and nutrient pollution.- Dosing Feeding: In this method, feed is provided in controlled quantities at set intervals. It is more efficient and helps prevent overfeeding. A case study in shrimp farming in Thailand demonstrated that dosing feeding, combined with regular monitoring of water quality, significantly reduced feed waste and improved shrimp growth rates.- Computerized Control: Modern systems use sensors and automated controls to monitor and adjust feeding rates based on real-time data. This approach ensures precise feeding and minimizes waste. A farm in Spain implemented computerized systems, which reduced feed usage by up to 20% while maintaining high growth rates in salmon.Case Studies on Effective Feeding PracticesTo illustrate effective feeding practices, let's look at some successful case studies:- Shrimp: In shrimp farming, dosing feeding is often used. Farmers monitor water quality and adjust feeding rates accordingly to ensure optimal growth and reduce waste. A farm in Vietnam using dosing feeding found that they could reduce feed costs by 15% while achieving higher yields.- Salmon: Salmon farming employs a combination of continuous and dosing feeding, with an emphasis on high-quality feed formulations and precision feeding to support rapid growth. A farm in Scotland used a hybrid system, reducing feed waste and improving fish health.- Tilapia: Tilapia farmers use a variety of feeding regimens, but many prefer dosing feeding due to its efficiency and ease of integration with modern aquaculture systems. A farm in Egypt implemented dosing feeding and saw a 20% reduction in feed costs while maintaining high growth rates.Advanced Technologies in Aquaculture FeedingAdvancements in technology are revolutionizing how aquaculture systems are fed. Sensor technology and automation are driving the development of precision feeding systems:- Sensors: Sensors monitor water quality, feed consumption, and fish activity, providing real-time data to optimize feeding. For example, a farm in Australia uses sensors to monitor ammonia levels and adjust feeding rates accordingly, reducing the risk of water quality issues.- Automation: Automated systems adjust feeding based on predefined algorithms and continuous monitoring, ensuring precise and efficient feeding. A case study in Norway demonstrated that automated systems reduced feed usage by up to 15% while maintaining high growth rates in salmon.Integration of data analytics further enhances these systems by tracking long-term trends and making informed adjustments to feeding regimens. For instance, a farm in the Netherlands uses data analytics to predict feed requirements based on historical data, leading to more efficient feeding and reduced waste.Environmental Considerations in Feeding RegimesExcess feed can significantly impact water quality and ecosystem health. Effective feeding practices aim to minimize waste and runoff:- Minimizing Waste: Proper feeding regimens reduce the amount of unused feed that ends up in the water, potentially causing oxygen depletion and nutrient pollution. For example, a farm in the Philippines implemented a dosing feeding system and saw a reduction in feed waste by 30%, leading to improved water quality.- Sustainable Solutions: Implementing closed-loop systems and using biodegradable feed can help mitigate the environmental impact of aquaculture. A farm in Thailand used biodegradable feed, leading to a 25% reduction in environmental impact while maintaining high growth rates.Future Trends in Aquaculture FeedingEmerging trends in feed formulation and delivery promise to further enhance the sustainability and efficiency of aquaculture systems:- Feed Formulation Innovation: Advances in feed formulation are leading to more nutrient-dense and sustainable feeds. For example, a farm in China developed a feed with higher protein content and lower environmental impact, reducing feed costs by 10% while maintaining high growth rates.- Delivery Innovations: New technologies, such as targeted feed delivery systems, are being developed to ensure that feed reaches the fish precisely and efficiently. For instance, a case study in Denmark demonstrated that targeted feed delivery systems reduced feed waste by up to 20% and improved fish health.Looking Ahead: The Future of Aquaculture FeedingAs we move forward, adapting to these trends and leveraging the latest technologies will be key to ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of aquaculture. By prioritizing optimal feeding regimens, we can ensure a more resilient and efficient future for aquaculture.