Question 1

How does the underlying system work?

Accepted Answer

The system uses patented technology involving pressure differentials. Slightly greater air pressure behind the fish propels it gently through the tube. We have a great video where our VP of engineering Jim Otten explains this in great detail!

Question 2

Is there any scale loss or damage to eyes?

Accepted Answer

No. With an average pressure of 1-2 PSI experienced by the fish, independent studies have verified that there is no scale loss, damage to their eyes, or other injury caused by the system.

Question 3

How high can a Whooshh system transport fish?

Accepted Answer

How high do you want to go? 700 feet or 230 meters is not a problem. Because we do not move a column of water to move the fish, there is no practical height limit. There may be time transport limits, but if so, we have not encountered such a project yet, even in systems more than 1700 feet or 515 meters long.

Question 4

What size range of fish can be transported?

Accepted Answer

We have a range of Whooshh tubes to accommodate a variety of sizes. We have transported fish as small as herring and as large as sturgeon. Our current commercial offerings are focused on fish ranging in size from approximately 2 lbs (1 kg) to more than 34 pounds (15 kg).

Question 5

How fast do fish move through the system?

Accepted Answer

In a typical system fish will travel between 5 and 8 meters per second.

Question 6

How do you get fish in the tube?

Accepted Answer

They swim in through our Fish Faucet (false weir), gravity slide, or hand fed into the entry.

Question 7

How many fish can be transported per minute?

Accepted Answer

Our standard configuration provides for consistent transport up to 40 fish per minute. Higher volumes are achievable depending on specific system configurations.

Question 8

Do you need to slow fish down at the end of the system?

Accepted Answer

If the fish is exiting into open waters, we may not need a deceleration system. If exiting to a confined area, depending upon the configuration, we have a variety of deceleration designs from which to choose and that are deployed.

Question 9

Are there temperature operating limits?

Accepted Answer

The materials used to construct our tubes are rated from -60 to +300 degrees Fahrenheit. Because water is not used in the tube, except as a lubricant, the tube does not freeze and need not be drained. We do mist the tubes, which not only lubricates, but also helps keep the air in the tube cool.

Question 10

What happens if a fish gets stuck?

Accepted Answer

We would never want to see that happen. In addition to the automated measuring of the Fish Recognition system, the Whooshh Migrator is designed with a restriction at the entrance so a fish too big cannot enter a tube too small in the first place.

Question 11

Can the tube go in the water?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our tubes float. Depending upon the application, a protective barrier may be required to protect the tubes from debris. It is recommended only where the current and flows are low and in the direction of the tube length.

Question 12

How much water is used for transport?

Accepted Answer

Our standard system uses water for lubrication only. Auxiliary misters can be added if required. A standard mister uses just 9 gallons of water per hour.

Question 13

How robust is the system?

Accepted Answer

Each system has just three moving parts. Collectively, millions of fish have safely moved through our systems.

Question 14

How much power does a system use?

Accepted Answer

Depending upon the quantity, height, and length of transport, our systems generally require between 5-25 kW each.

Question 15

How do you clean the system?

Accepted Answer

Our systems are cleaned using standard food processing cleaning agents and protocols (protein rinse, soap, disinfection) but we take advantage of using specially designed sponges transported through the tube for faster and easier cleaning. We also have the advantage of being able to completely dry the system which creates an inhospitable environment for bacteria.

Question 16

Does the transport cause damage to fish?

Accepted Answer

With an average pressure of 1-2 PSI experienced by the fish, our tests and experience suggest there is little to no scale loss and no evidence of damage to their eyes.

Question 17

Can fish go backwards?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Optimally though, it is preferred that the fish be transported head first due to the orientation of their fins upon exit.

Question 18

Can systems be reconfigured or are they permanent installations?

Accepted Answer

Our standard system is designed to be easily configurable. We can also design permanent installations.

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