In his very interesting article in The FishSite, Matej Leskovec recently asked himself if the time had come to rethink traditional biofiltration systems in current RAS systems. It is a question that contains a lot of meaning. Mainly because the author argues that these systems are devilishly complicated, and that is true, but especially if you do not know how to manage them.
After describing the three best-positioned alternatives, from a technical point of view, to replace biofiltration systems, such as electro-oxidation, electro-coagulation and UASB reactors, he concludes: “it looks like conventional biofiltration is here to stay, due to its long tradition and proven effectiveness”
When we designed the IRTAmar® systems, this is the element to which we have devoted the most attention, because it is true that they are complex and because it is true that it is the one that causes the most headaches for users.
Management of water quality, temperature, species, feeding strategy, crop density and of course the type of biofilter determine management, but what is most important is to be certain that the system is prepared to respond to any eventuality.
However, we have seen that all of the above is of little use if the team in charge of operating the RAS systems is not well trained and is not able to anticipate possible events. Measuring the parameters, manually or using probes in real time, is obviously necessary, but knowing how to interpret the results and having time to analyse the data is much more important.
Taking care of the design down to the last detail but without losing sight efficiency, simplicity, real-time control and continuous training. With these four elements we ensure that users feel that they have control over the system and that it responds to their needs.
