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Ace Aquatec makes splash in Japan with bespoke trout stunner

18 December 2024

Ace Aquatec makes splash in Japan with bespoke trout stunner

Pioneering aquaculture technology company, Ace Aquatec, has secured a landmark installation in Japan for its bespoke humane stunning device to be deployed by Japanese trout producer, FRD Japan, cementing their position in the region’s competitive market.

Applying their award-winning A-HSU® stunning technology to FRD Japan’s land-based closed recirculating aquaculture system (RAS), Ace Aquatec worked with the trout producer to create a bespoke system that supports the seamless and safe transfer of fish between grow out and processing facilities while meeting strict biosecurity protocols. 

The system is a 16 inch system for steelhead trout and provides an impressive capacity of 30 tonnes per hour while recycling the water in the system back into the RAS facility. The project highlights an innovative approach and opens doors to further opportunities in a country that is in the top five for fish consumption globally. 

Engineered with stringent biosecurity measures in mind, the A-HSU® system will act as a physical bridge between the producer’s grow out and processing facilities, using pumping technology supplied by MMC First Process

Utilising a combination of automated handling and monitoring systems, the system will optimise the transfer process, prioritising fish welfare and resulting in higher quality produce and happier employees.

This project demonstrates Ace Aquatec’s adaptability and precision engineering capabilities, while working closely with the client to meet the demands of the Japanese market and paving the way for further partnerships in the region.

Tara McGregor-Woodhams, CSMO at Ace Aquatec, said:

“This collaboration with FRD Japan is a significant development for Ace Aquatec and highlights our commitment to delivering solutions that are tailored to our client and meet the highest standards of innovation and efficiency.

“Developing a device that balances biosecurity and operational efficiency with the highest welfare standards has been a rewarding challenge, and we’re excited to see our technology making a positive impact in aquaculture in Asia and around the world.”

Tez Sogo, at FRD Japan, said:

“Working with Ace Aquatec has been a seamless and productive experience. The team has shown high levels of expertise and adaptability, collaborating with us at every stage to design a solution that suits our needs. The result is a device that aligns with our goals while upholding our high biosecurity standards.”

The system will be fully operational in 2027. Ace Aquatec’s A-HSU® is available for all commercial fish species including trout, salmon, tilapia, prawn, bass and bream.