Arctic Fish has invested in new aquaculture systems from Hampiðjan’s subsidiaries Mørenot Aquaculture and Fiizk Protection for its operations in Iceland’s Westfjords.
The company has purchased 34 HDPE cage nets from Mørenot. HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) is a stiffer and stronger material than previously used. HDPE netting has a smooth, low-friction surface that improves abrasion resistance and makes underwater cleaning easier. The nets are produced without antifouling, making them more environmentally friendly and easier to clean below the surface. They are also designed with additional reinforcement to withstand higher loads, reducing the risk of damage.
The cage nets were manufactured by Kohinoor, Hampiðjan’s subsidiary in India, a leading producer of HDPE aquaculture nets. Due to the stiffness of the material, sewing machines cannot be used, and the nets are rigged entirely by hand. All of these nets have now been delivered and have been deployed at sea.
To increase protection against sea lice, Arctic Fish has also purchased lice skirts for up to 40 nets from Fiizk Protection. Lice skirts are fitted around the upper part of the nets and form a barrier that reduces access for sea lice and other parasites. Arctic Fish has used lice skirts before with good results and is now further reinforcing its preventive measures.
Arctic Fish uses Hampiðjan’s specialised service station in Ísafjörður for maintenance and cleaning of the nets and other equipment. A staff of around 20 work there, and the facility is well equipped, including a water treatment unit, a 60m³ washing machine designed specifically for aquaculture nets, and a net loft for repairs.
The purchase of nets and lice skirts forms part of Arctic Fish’s ISK1.3 billion investment in new equipment, which also includes new feeding systems and other technologies that improve sustainability, enhance fish welfare, reduce environmental impact, and strengthen staff safety.
