Reconnecting rivers and fish, unblock
and unlock the natural resources
The FishLock™ is a novel solution for fish passage at low head dams and barriers. It is a modular, pre-built device that allows fish to swim upstream and downstream through two interconnected bypass chambers operated by slide gates and a turbine. The FishLock™ also generates a small amount of hydropower that can power itself and reduce the environmental impact of the dam.
Safe & Effective
The FishLock™ provides simultaneous, continuous, and volitional passage for multiple species of fish, both upstream and downstream. It can accommodate fish of different sizes, shapes, and swimming abilities, thanks to its variable flow control, rough bottom insert, and large chamber dimensions. It can also handle varying water levels and velocities, ensuring optimal performance in different conditions.
Economical
The FishLock™ is a cost-effective alternative to traditional fish passage solutions, such as fish ladders, lifts, or ramps. It is a modular, pre-built device that can be easily installed and maintained at low-head dams and other barriers. It does not require extensive civil works or modifications to the existing structure. It can also reduce facility operational costs by generating its own power from the passage flow, and minimizing water loss.
Environmental
The FishLock™ enhances the ecological integrity of the river by restoring the connectivity and diversity of the aquatic habitat. It allows fish to access their spawning, feeding, and refuge areas, improving their survival and reproduction. Attraction flow can be adjusted to optimal flow for a wide range of fish species, including small schooling fish and bottom dwellers.
The FishLock™ consists of two bypass chambers connected by a pipe bend with a turbine. The chambers are oriented in opposite directions, one facing upstream and one facing downstream. The slide gates at the entrance and exit of each chamber are controlled by a programmable logic controller (PLC) that regulates the water flow and exchange between the chambers. The PLC also monitors the water level, pressure, temperature, and fish activity in the chambers.
The PLC operates the slide gates in a synchronized manner, creating an alternating cycle of attraction and passage for upstream and downstream migrating fish. When the upstream gate of one chamber is open, the downstream gate of the other chamber is also open, allowing fish to enter from both directions. The pipe bend turbine creates a flow that attracts fish to the open chambers and helps them overcome the head difference between the river and the chamber. The turbine also generates electricity that can be used to power the PLC and other components of the device.
When the chambers are full of fish, the PLC closes the slide gates and initiates the passage phase. The PLC opens the opposite gates of the chambers, releasing the fish in their desired direction. The fish swim out of the chambers through the open gates, completing their migration. The PLC then resets the cycle and repeats the process.
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