Aquafarm and recirculating aquaculture system design

Aquafarm design as the technological basis of the project

Aquafarm design is a key engineering and technological service provided by CrawTec, which involves developing the operational logic of the future farm: from the placement of equipment and hydraulics to filtration, aeration and water parameter control modes. It is at the design stage that the stability, controllability and efficiency of the aquaculture facility are established.

We design farms for growing fish, crayfish and shrimp, working with recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), land-based and combined systems. The scope and format of the design are always adapted to the customer's tasks and the conditions of the specific facility.

Flexible format of work and project implementation

CrawTec takes a flexible approach to project implementation. Depending on the customer's wishes and the format of the project, we can carry out only the design or take on an extended scope of work.

The project can be implemented in one of the following formats:

• design of the aquafarm and technological part only;
• design followed by implementation support;
• comprehensive turnkey project, including production and supply of equipment.

The choice of cooperation format is always up to the customer. CrawTec's design can be integrated equally effectively into both independent implementation and comprehensive projects.

What does CrawTec's technological design include?

CrawTec's technological design is a complete engineering product that can be used both for independent project implementation and as part of a comprehensive solution. The project is developed in such a way that the customer receives not only diagrams, but also a complete understanding of the principles of the system's operation and the requirements for its use.

The project includes:

• a complete set of drawings in 2D format;
• a 3D model of the aquafarm with the location of equipment and engineering systems;
• a description of the operating principle of the recirculating aquaculture system or aquafarm;
• technology for growing the selected aquatic organism;
• detailed equipment specifications;
• work instructions and recommendations for staff.

This project format allows it to be used as a basis for construction, equipment procurement, approvals and further operation of the farm.

Linking the project to the premises and engineering networks

Most aquafarms are designed for existing buildings or specific sites. Therefore, if necessary, CrawTec provides architectural, planning and engineering solutions to the extent necessary for the correct technological implementation of the project.

The design process may include:

• planning of premises and technological areas;
• placement of pools, tanks, racking systems and pits;
• connection of equipment to sewage, heating and ventilation systems;
• power supply and lighting diagrams;
• summary plans of engineering networks and 3D visualisation.

Design and commissioning

Practice shows that in projects requiring official commissioning, approval and certification, the most effective solution is to engage a local general designer (GD) who is licensed and authorised at the project site.

In such cases, CrawTec develops the technological part of the project, and the local GPD integrates it into the overall project and supports the process of approvals and commissioning. This approach reduces risks for the customer, speeds up implementation and optimises costs.

That is why the scope of design and its cost are always determined individually and depend on the tasks, requirements and the chosen format of participation.

Types of facilities for which design services are provided

CrawTec provides design services for various types of aquaculture facilities:

• recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS);
• land-based aquaculture farms with pools and ponds;
• cage farms;
• combined farming systems.

Who is the design service intended for?

CrawTec's aquaculture farm design service is intended for customers who want a technologically sound and feasible project, rather than a formal set of diagrams.

The service is most often used by:

• beginning farmers planning to start an aquaculture business;
• investors and developers assessing the technological feasibility of a project;
• existing farms modernising or scaling up their operations.

What is not included in basic design

Economic calculations, investment model, OPEX/CAPEX and business plan are not included in the basic design cost and are provided as a separate CrawTec service. This approach allows for a clear separation of the technological and financial parts of the project.

If necessary, a business plan can be developed additionally and integrated into the project at the customer's separate request.

Design result

As a result of the design, the customer receives a technologically verified aquafarm design, ready for implementation in the selected format. The project can be used as a basis for construction, approvals, equipment procurement and further operation.

CrawTec's design reduces start-up risks, avoids critical errors and creates a sustainable system designed for real-world operation rather than theoretical assumptions.