The
'Flexi-Panel' is a patented passive-grading device designed to
size grade live fish in the water. In fish farming use, the standard
method is to install the Flexi-Panel into a sweep net, which is
used to enclose all the fish in the cage. The sweep net is then
gradually lifted, thus encouraging the smaller fish to swim through
the openings in the Flexi-Panel, back into the cage. The grading
is completed when only the larger fish, unable to pass through
the Flexi-Panel, remain in the sweep net.
Whilst the principle of passive grading is not new the Flexi-Panel
represents a massive step forward in terms of technology. The
previous metal grading grids were severely restricted in area
due to their weight and rigid construction. As well as tending
to cause physical damage and scale loss to the fish, they presented
a safety hazard to the operator.
The Flexi-Panel overcomes all these previous drawbacks by being
of a lightweight flexible construction, allowing very large areas
to be easily and safely handled. When the Flexi-Panel is in use
the tension on the net keeps the individual apertures at their
pre-determined dimensions, thereby allowing an accurate size grade.
However when the tension is removed from the panel it simply folds
up in any direction, just like an ordinary net.
The
strength, flexibility and lightweight nature of the Flexi-Panel
is due to the materials used. Relatively short lengths of very
rigid uPVC pipe are connected together using loops of Dyneema
twine to form a series of individual apertures. Dyneema was chosen
as it is the strongest, most stable and abrasion resistant material
available. The plastic pipes are very smooth and are able to rotate,
thereby completely eliminating physical damage and scale loss
to the fish.
Large areas of Flexi-Panel can easily and safely be used, resulting
in fast and stress-free grading of the fish.
