Full-scale aquaculture experiments require precise planning, operational experience and infrastructure capable of handling complex measurements. The experiments are carried out using established routines, good coordination and professional documentation.
The equipment portfolio includes advanced sensors, instrumentation for oceanographic measurements and specially developed methods for collecting detailed datasets. Standardised procedures for risk assessment, experimental descriptions and quality assurance ensure safe and efficient execution.
In addition to traditional open cages, a wide range of modern aquaculture solutions are instrumented – closed facilities on land, submerged systems and floating closed systems. This enables testing of technology across different operational concepts and environmental conditions, and provides access to datasets that strengthen analysis, modelling and technology validation.
Digital infrastructure
The digital infrastructure manages the data flow from the field to fully analysed results. Real-time data are collected in the operations centre, where quality assurance, model development and long-term storage provide valuable insight over time. The infrastructure and datasets are also used in the development of remote monitoring and control, and R&D environments can be granted secure access to project-specific data.
Experimental activities
Experimental activities are carried out at various aquaculture sites across Norway. The work spans technology for operations, performance and environmental monitoring, and is based on interdisciplinary expertise in biology, technology and system understanding.
From idea to decision support
We support the entire value chain from early concept to documented results:
- Simulations and calculations
- Small-scale testing in tanks/at sea
- Full-scale measurement and testing
- Visualisation and analysis
- Documentation and decision support
What we can measure and investigate
Operational concepts we have experience with:
- Open cages
- Offshore aquaculture (HTH)
- Closed cages at sea (FLO)
- Seaweed and algae
- Deep operations
- Land-based
Measurement packages and services
- Structures and forces
- Hydrodynamics
- Environment in cage/production unit
- Biofouling
- Fish welfare
- Microbiological analysis
Locations
ACE also operates its own experimental sites, where it is possible to carry out trials that are otherwise difficult to perform at commercial locations. The sites are located in Central Norway, with main facilities at Hitra and Frøya. The locations Rataren, Tristeinen, Singsholmen and Korsneset consist of floating open cages. In addition, we offer a submerged site, Klampvika. Together, these sites cover different environmental conditions – from fjord locations to more exposed sites.
All sites are connected to the SINTEF network and operated by a commercial fish farmer. We have well-established routines and procedures for effective experimental execution. In addition, infrastructure has been established on cages and feed barges, including cabinets for data capture with various interfaces.
We also operate at a wide range of locations with customers and partners across the country, working with fish, algae and seaweed across many different production systems.
