Anti-static feed pipes: sales soar
Handling feed pipes has long been among the most risky operations required by fish farmers. Static electricity builds up in the pipes and can cause unforeseen discharges, which in recent years have led to several serious accidents.
Earlier this year equipment suppliers Ahlsell and Aqualine launched an anti-static feed pipe that would prevent such a buildup of static electricity and, three months after launch, Ahlsell reports cracking sales figures.
"The sale runs extremely well, we have sold almost 250,000 m in only three months. All the big farmers use our anti-static feed pipes," Johnsen explained to Kyst.no.
"The static electricity that builds up in the usual feed pipes can cause extremely hazardous discharges when the hoses are cut or in some cases when people move close to the snakes," he continued.
"The industry welcomes the hose with open arms, this is something they have long desired. There are many who have thanked us that we have come with such a tube, now feel they finally safe on the job," he said.
The price difference between a regular feed pipe and the new antistatic feed pipe is, according to Johnsen, marginal. He therefore urges all farmers to buy more HSE friendly option.
With 250,000 meters sold, it appears that the company will reach its target for the year.
Ahlsell is now looking to export the design to Scotland.
"We have not yet marketed this outside Norway, but we have been asked whether we can deliver to Scotland. We intend to do," says Johnson, although he stresses that the Norwegian market is still the company's main priority.
