DEVELOPING AN

AQUAPONIC FISH FARMING

2024
SYSTEM

WIL Mechanical Engineering

 2024

• Introduction
AGENDA
• Theoretical consideration
• Practical consideration
• System Components
breakdown
• Alternative Designs Explored
• Project Budget and Materials
• How Our System Works
• Maintenance
• Conclusion
PRESENTATION TITLE 2

• Recommendations
 BACKGROUND
Changes occurred between 2009 and 2010, with the Department
of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT) and the Department
of Agriculture (DoA) merging to form the Department of
Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF).
• The Department of DAFF is responsible for aquaculture growth
and administration.
• In 2011, marine aquaculture production was 1,883 tons, valued
at 379 million Rands.
• The abalone subsector contributed the most, followed by
mussels and oysters.

Rainbow trout rearing is the oldest aquaculture subsector in

South Africa, with the first dry pelleted feeds introduced in 1956.
• Oyster farming, the earliest type of aquaculture, started in
1673 and 1676.
• Hydroponics in South Africa began in the 1940s and 1950s,
initially developed for the mining sector.
• Government-funded research initiatives in the 1960s and 1970s
led to the creation of commercial hydroponic systems.
• Aquaponics research began in the 1970s, with studies showing 3

the efficiency and effectiveness of aquaponics systems.

• The trend towards sustainable farming and local food
 20XX

PROBLEM STATEMENT

South Africa's Aquaponic Farming System

• Addresses water, agricultural land, food
scarcity.
• Minimizes environmental impact.
• Cooperates with solar energy for electricity
cost reduction
4
 LITERATURE SURVEY 20XX

Aquaponics Environment Importance

• Maintaining ideal environmental conditions is crucial for healthy fish and plant
development.
• Temperature range: 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F).
• Humidity levels: 50% to 70% to avoid plant strain.
• Light intensity requirements: Leafy greens need 200-400 µmol/m²/s and 12-16
hours of daily light exposure.
• pH: 6.0 to 7.0.
• dissolved oxygen (DO) levels: 5 mg/L, ideal 6-8 mg/L.
• Electrical conductivity (EC): 1.0 to 2.5 mS/cm.
• Essential nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium,
sulfur.
• Water quality parameters: ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, turbidity.
• Consistent observation and regulation are crucial for long-term viability and
efficiency.
PRESENTATION TITLE 5
• Species compatibility 20XX

Explanation of aquaponics including the

process of selecting a fish and plants to be
grown.
Type of aquaponic system
•Nutrient film technique
•Floating raft
•Media filled

PRESENTATION TITLE 6
 Setting of objective 20XX

• Design an aquaponics system suitable for fish survival taking

into consideration the temperature and humidity at the
project site.
• Select plants that are well adapted to hydroponic
development and select fish species that are compatible with
aquaponic system.
• Design grow beds that facilitate plant growth as well as a
tank that is appropriate for the fish type selected. Add
plumbing to connect the tank to the grow beds.
• Develop a filtration system that makes use of gravel for
conversion of ammonia into nitrates. Select an aeration and a
pump for circulation of nutrient-rich water at constant
required pressure.
• Draw up a maintenance schedule for the system components
to prevent failure or accumulation of unwanted bacteria
8
 FISH SELECTION CONSTRAINTS

• Climate tolerance
• survivability of the fish in
aquaponics
• Reproductive rate

9
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRAINTS

Complying with waste management procedures, species legislation, and water quality standards.
Maintaining a temperature range of 20–27°C and a relative humidity (RH) of 60%–75% for optimal growth for both
plant health and fish wellbeing, ensuring a productive aquaponics system.

10
 WATER QUALITY
• water management in aquaponics is important
because it helps to maintain the balance of
nutrients, pH levels, and temperature, which
are all critical for plant and fish growth.
• Involving chemical use and other external products to
maintain oxygen level also avoiding build up of
diseases in the water system

11
SOLAR
Here are some key points for integrating renewable energy,
particularly solar, into fish farm operations:
 Cost Savings: Integrating renewable energy sources, like
solar power, can reduce operational expenses by generating
sustainable, low-cost energy.
 Solar Energy Benefits:
1. Environmental Impact: Solar energy is an eco-friendly
option, reducing carbon footprint.
2. Reliability: Solar technology, especially photovoltaic (PV)
systems, can reliably generate energy by converting
sunlight into electricity.
3. Versatility: Solar power is adaptable for remote or off-grid
locations, making it viable for fish farms in various settings.
SOLAR

 Types of Solar PV Systems:

1.Single Crystal Silicon (Monocrystalline): High efficiency, using
a single silicon crystal, providing a greater energy output per panel.
2.Polycrystalline Silicon: Made of multiple silicon crystals;
generally has a lower efficiency compared to monocrystalline but
remains cost-effective.
3.Amorphous Silicon (Thin-Film): Known for its ability to generate
electricity in low-light conditions, though it has a lower efficiency
compared to crystalline silicon options.
SOLAR

 Components and Operation:

1.Solar Cell Matrix: This essential component in PV systems converts
sunlight to electricity, making it the core element of energy generation.
2.Efficiency Factors: Efficiency varies with silicon type and environmental
factors, but increasing the amount of silicon in panels generally improves
output.
 Using solar PV systems, especially those tailored to specific needs like low-
light conditions, can enhance energy efficiency and sustainability in fish
farming, supporting long-term viability and reduced dependency on non-
renewable energy sources.
PRACTICAL CONSIDERATION
• USE OF TOOLS, APPARATUS
AND EQUIPMENT
• BUILDING AND
CONSTRUCTION OF
EQUIPMENT
• FAULTS FINDING
• CONDUCTING OF TESTS
 CONDUCTING TESTS AND RECORDING DATA:

 Regular checkups for ammonia, nitrate and pH levels.

 Track fish and plant growth parameters accurately by keeping a systematic digital record of
data for analysis.
ACQUISITION OF INFORMATION AND EXECUTION OF
ADMINISTRATIVE TASKS:

 Technical details for plant and fish species.

 Plan to meet often with stakeholders and the team.
 Generate status updates and efficiently oversee the project budget.
EXECUTION OF DESIGNS, DRAFTING OF DRAWINGS,
AND HANDLING OF DOCUMENTATION:

 Design process

 Choosing the Right Location for the Aquaponics System, i.e. temperature, humidity, sunlight, etc.

 Essential Tools and Materials for Building an Aquaponics System.

 Selecting the Ideal Fish and Plants for the Aquaponics System
ACQUISITION OF INFORMATION AND EXECUTION
OF ADMINISTRATIVE TASKS:

 Fish Tank:

 Choose a container first that can support the weight of the fish and hold water. Install a drain at the bottom of the

tank and link it to a solid waste removal filtration system to guarantee adequate filtration.

 To keep the fish at the ideal temperature, a temperature sensor is installed so that the water temperature does not

exceed acceptable levels.

AQUAPONICS SYSTEM
 COORDINATION OF ACTIVITIES:

 Encourage team members to communicate with one another by providing frequent updates and teamwork
resources.
 Arrange for resources, knowledge, and regulatory compliance with outside partners.
COMPLIANCE

 Safety Regulations: To safeguard people and the environment, make sure all procedures adhere to safety
guidelines.
 Environmental Compliance: Obtain the required licenses and use sustainable techniques to reduce the
aquaponics system's negative environmental effects.
 Ethical Considerations: Make sure that fish and plants are treated humanely during their care and harvesting by
adhering to ethical norms.
GROW BEDS

 Design and Structure

Made from an IBC tank, cut for optimal size.

2. Exterior Materials:

 Encased in a steel cage for support.
 Lined with PVC plastic to ensure durability and safety.

3. Drainage System

Equipped with drainage pipes at the base.

4. Bell Siphon Connection:

 Directs water flow efficiently to the sump pit below.

5. Inner Light Cage

Installed inside the grow bed before adding gravel.

6. Purpose:
 Allows for easy removal of the grow bed for maintenance.
 Designed to work with a hoist for lifting and accessibility.
FISH TANK
1. Tank Design

Full IBC tank used as the fish tank.

Serves as the primary source of nutrients

for plants.
2. Water Flow and Filtration

Pipe Connection to Filters

3. Water Recirculation

Pump
FISH AND GROW BED STANDS

1. Frame Structure
Constructed from square steel tubing for
durability.
Designed to support the weight of the fish
tank and grow beds filled with water and gravel.

2. Stability
Secured to the ground with concrete for added
rigidity and stability.

3. Expandable Design
Fish tank stand allows for the addition of two
more tanks.

4. Purpose: Enables easy expansion of the

system to grow more plants.
HOIST FRAME

1. Frame Structure
Made of square tubing with a round tube
rail for the hoist movement.
Built for durability and ease of use in the
aquaponic setup.

2. Hoist Specifications
Type: Specstar hand chain hoist (manual
operation).
Function: Moves along the rail to lift
grow beds filled with gravel.
Purpose
Facilitates easy maintenance by lifting
grow beds for inspection and cleaning.
 FILTER TANKS
 System Design
 Utilizes two 200-liter barrels for filtration.

 First Barrel: Solid Collector

 Connected to Fish Tank: Collects waste from the
fish tank.

 Purpose: Creates an environment for beneficial

bacteria that support the nitrogen cycle, converting
waste into nitrates for plant nutrition.

 Second Barrel: Nutrient Reservoir

 Contains Nutrient-Rich Water: Supplies nutrient
water directly for plant irrigation.

 Connection: Works in sequence with the solid

collector to ensure efficient nutrient delivery.
 COST ANALYSIS
ITEM COST QUANTITY
IBC Tank R 4200.00 3
200 litre barrels R1160.00 2
Water Pump(submersible R1450.00 1
pump)
Air pump R2700.00 1
PVC Pipe and fitting
PVC Pipe (50mm) R114.00 7.5m
PVC elbow R125.00 5
PVC connector T R120.00 2
PVC ball valve R448.00 8
Sealing Rubber Washer R158.00 1
PVC endcap/stopper R48.00 4
PVC male to female R180.00 3
PCV Coupler, Straight R138.00 6
(50mm)
ITEM COST QUANTITY
PVC barrel connector,
B-type COST ANALYSIS
R103.00 3

BELL SIPHON
Polyethylene pipe R370.00 9m
(25mm, 20mm)
PVC (25mm × 1in ) R114 3
female
Electric CONNECTION
Soler panel R560.00 1
Aquarium LED R450.00 2
Wire connection R145.00 10m
Battery R600.00 1
Hoist R2300.00 1
STRUCTURE
30×30×2.6 square R 159.00 2.6mm
tube
29.2×3.2m round R140.00 6m
tube
AQUAPONIC DESIGN SYSTEM

 Aqauponic flow chart system

 Final concept design
 Nitrogen cycle
 Hoist design
AQUAPONIC FLOW CHART
 AQUAPONIC FARMING CONCEPT

Hoist rail

Sump tank

Bell siphon

Grow bends
AQUAPONIC FARMING CONCEPT CONT…….
Top view Front view

Side view
NITROGEN CIRCLE

biofilter

Soil
collector
HOIST DESIGN

hoist

Hoist gear connection

FISH ENVIRONMENT/ROOM

 Regular Cleaning
 Temperature Monitoring
 Ventilation
 Humidity Control
 Lighting Maintenance
REGULAR CLEANING

-- Prevent algae
-- Healthy
TEMPERATURE MONITORING

 Stable water temperature between 24°C to 26°C °C

 Keep ammonia levels close to zero and nitrite levels minimal. High levels indicate poor
biofiltration or overfeeding
 Sunlight
 Maintain sunlight levels between 380–840 nanometers. If levels fall below the plant's
recommended growing time, activate the lighting system
SUNLIGHT
VENTILATION AND HUMIDITY CONTROL

 Remove Excess Heat

 Pest Control
 The ventilation system needs to be tailor
made for your setup to ensure your plants'
heat and humidity requirements are
considered
PRESENTATION TITLE 42
WATERTIGHT FISH HOUSING

 Leak Inspection
 Water Quality Testing
 Tank Cleaning
 Filter Maintenance
LEAK INSPECTION

 Tank
 Pipe
 Velve
POOR WATER
QUALITY
GROW BEDS FOR PLANT GROWTH

 Media Bed Cleaning-Regularly clean

 pH and Nutrient Testing
 Plant Pruning and Replanting
 Inspect for Pests
 Water Cycling
WATER REPLACEMENT SCHEDULE

 10-15% weekly
 to control toxin levels and refresh the environment
AQUARIUM PUMP MAINTENANCE

 Clean and lubricate water pumps regularly to maintain consistent water circulation and
filtration.
SYSTEM
CALIBRATION
BACKUP SUPPLIES

 Keep extra supplies

 Pumps
 Filters
 water quality testing kits
DATA TRACKING

 Use a system (manual log)

to record changes, maintenance dates, and water test results for long-term monitoring.
HOUSE SERVICING AND STRUCTURAL MAINTENANCE

 Structural Integrity Checks

 Waterproofing Reapplication
 Backup Power Testing
 Drainage System Inspection
 Air Quality and CO₂ Levels
FISH BEHAVIOUR
 Observe for signs of stress or
illness, such as unusual
swimming, appetite loss, or
color changes.
AMMONIA SPIKES

Increase
High ammonia aeration, adjust
can signal feeding, and
filtration perform water
problems. changes to lower
ammonia levels.
NUTRIENT DEFICIENCES

Signs include Supplement

yellowing nutrients and
leaves and check for
poor growth. proper cycling.
EQUIPMENT FAILURES

Keep backup pumps, heaters, and Troubleshoot and implement

aeration devices. temporary solutions during failures
to protect fish and plants.
 CONCLUSION
 Sustainable & Efficient Design: The aquaponics system integrates fish and plant cultivation,
maximizing resource use, especially in water-scarce environments like CPUT.
 Resilience Through Solar Power: Solar energy powers lighting and pumping systems,
addressing load-shedding and reducing reliance on non-renewable energy.
 Balanced Ecosystem: The design minimizes waste and optimizes nutrient cycling by
incorporating compatible fish and plant species with appropriate filtration and aeration.
 Scalability and Adaptability: The system can be scaled for small or large operations,
making it a flexible solution for food production.
 Food Security & Environmental Impact: Aquaponics offers a low-impact alternative to
conventional agriculture, enhancing food security in resource-constrained regions like
South Africa

58
 RECOMMENDATIONS

 Species Selection: Regularly adjust fish and plant species for optimal adaptation to local
environmental conditions; consider heating options for temperature-sensitive species.
 Solar Power Optimization: Invest in high-efficiency solar panels and battery storage to
ensure reliable operation during load-shedding.
 Water Quality Monitoring: Use automated sensors for real-time monitoring of critical water quality
parameters (pH, dissolved oxygen, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite) to maintain ecosystem health.
 Modular Grow Beds for Expansion: Design grow beds that support easy expansion, enabling
adaptability for increased food production in urban spaces.
 Community Engagement: Provide training and workshops to promote aquaponics, building
sustainable agriculture skills among local farmers and students.
 Regular Maintenance: Clean and inspect grow beds, filters, and pumps frequently, and
upgrade filtration systems if needed to handle increased bio-load
59