This is important when AKVA group designs feed barges
Written by
Anne Oma
AKVA group has long experience in designing feed barges and is a leading player in the industry. What does it take to succeed, and what are farmers concerned with today?
AKVA group has delivered over 450 feed barges globally, ranging from small efficient ones to large robust feed barges designed for a safe and efficient workplace that contributes to increased efficiency, uptime, and success at sea. COO Kristian Botnen in AKVA group says that there is a lot to take into account when AKVA group designs and develops feed barges.
The design of feed barges is a complex process that requires an in-depth understanding of local conditions. AKVA group is one of the world's leading manufacturers of equipment for aquaculture. We find that the farmers place great emphasis on feed barges that are efficient, sustainable and in line with digital development.
AKVA group's Kristian Botnen has extensive experience in aquaculture. Photo: AKVA group.
Durable and tailor-made feed barges
One of the most important things when designing feed barges is to ensure that they are adapted to the demanding weather conditions along the coast. It is important to choose materials of good quality and to ensure that the barges are built to withstand the loads they are exposed to.
“We make feed barges that will last. By using the right materials and thorough surface treatment, we ensure that the barge will have a long life.”
The feed barges must meet the requirements for different ways of farming, whether it is farming salmon in Norway or sea bass in the Mediterranean. AKVA group makes it possible to tailor the feed barges to perfect the operation.
Feed barge which is supplied by AKVA group. Photo: AKVA group.
All feed barges can be delivered fully equipped with AKVA group's feeding systems, generator, hybrid packages, control room, living room, safety equipment, and relevant additional equipment, such as integrated handling systems for dead fish and ensilage. Read more here.
New feed barge customized for delivery in 2025 in Norway. The AC700R barge model is an advanced and cost-effective model that builds on the success of previous models such as the AC450 and AC650.
Service and consulting
AKVA group places great emphasis on building and maintaining long-term customer relationships. Experience and understanding of sea-based operations make AKVA group a valuable ally in navigating the complex challenges of aquaculture.
"We value the trust our customers place in us and are committed to supporting them through continuous innovations and dedicated service. This not only creates short-term success but also sustainable business models and practices for the future," says Botnen.
Good digital solutions
Digital solutions from AKVA group make the operation of feed barges more efficient. Using advanced technology, tasks such as monitoring and controlling feed distribution, tracking barge performance and optimizing production in real-time can improve overall productivity and reduce costs. By automating manual processes and providing real-time data, digital solutions enable farmers to make good decisions, improve operations, growth and profitability.
AKVA group's feed barges can be set up with optimized feeding with their industry-leading self-learning feeding program, AKVA observe fully automated operational control via AKVA connect and AKVA group's "ERP system" AKVA fishtalk.
“AKVA group are pioneers in technology development. We are constantly working to develop good digital solutions to simplify the farmers' everyday life,” says Botnen.
AKVA group currently delivers two different types of feeding systems, which are based on airborne or waterborne transport of pellets. Photo: AKVA group.
Reduces the environmental impact
AKVA group attaches great importance to delivering products that reduce the environmental impact, for example by using hybrid systems, preferably in combination with waterborne feeding.
“The feed barges are equipped with technology that helps to reduce feed waste and increase efficiency. This reduces the impact on the environment and makes production more sustainable. AKVA group develops technology such as waterborne feeding and airborne feeding, which can be delivered conventionally or as our leading concept for flexible feeding.”
AKVA group's feed barges are market leaders in terms of technology, performance and quality, and of course in line with the requirements set by authorities and the farming industry. AKVA group is continuously working on further development, and in tomorrow's feed barge, the environmental footprint will be even better, both in terms of production and operation.