Hatchery inside a container
Choosing the right option
If there’s a building suitable for conversion into a lobster hatchery this can often be the best solution, however, there is not always a building available in the best and most appropriate sites. This is when a hatchery inside a container is preferable. A neutrally painted former shipping container can work with local planning as a non-permanent structure. It can even be moved at the end of the season if the harbour is exposed to winter storms. There are currently two hatcheries; one at North Berwick and another in SW England which are currently in operation utilising shipping containers both of these systems were built and designed by Richard Land and Dennis Gowland. With this experience and the new technology, we are now able to offer systems that can, at least, double the production of the previous systems and be installed in both 20 ft 30 ft and 40 ft containers.
The big small unit
By utilising the new technology from Northbay, a small 20 foot container can now be fitted with a system capable of producing between 40,000 to 50,000 juvenile lobsters per year. The innovative design enables much more of the space to be utilised for production.
This is a system which is designed for significant production to enhance local fisheries and move towards sustainable lobster production.
Although this is a basic system in the drawing we are happy to discuss your project and provide a solution to your needs.
How Northbay prepares the containers.
The first part of the containers journey is the insulation. The insulation used has to be of minimum thickness which rules out traditional rock wall or poly sheet insulations. We now use a closed cell spray foam which provides a total insulation and prevents water from reaching the steel which is important to prolong the life of the container. The final covering is hygienic PVC panelling which easy to clean and maintain.
The level of insulation although only 25 mm deep is equivalent 150 and because mm of insulation Board. This lowers the running heating and cooling costs of the unit significantly and prevents condensation within the unit.
