British Columbia's aquaculture industry generates over $1 billion in economic activity annually, and virtually every fish farm, shellfish operation, and marine research facility depends on custom metal fabrication for its infrastructure. From the floats that support workers and equipment to the pen systems that contain fish stocks, metal fabrication is woven into every aspect of aquaculture operations.
Float and Platform Systems
Every aquaculture site needs stable platforms for personnel access, equipment mounting, and operational activities. These float systems must be engineered for specific site conditions: wave height, tidal range, current velocity, and expected loading. They are fabricated from marine-grade aluminum to resist saltwater corrosion while keeping weight low enough for adequate freeboard. T & C Fabrication builds float systems for sites across the Discovery Islands.
Feed System Infrastructure
Modern salmon farms use automated feed systems that require robust mounting structures, pipe supports, and hopper platforms. These components must be fabricated to exact dimensions for compatibility with feed equipment, corrosion-resistant for the marine environment, strong enough to support tons of stored feed, and accessible for maintenance and cleaning. The feed system infrastructure represents a significant portion of a farm's metal fabrication requirements.
Net Pen Support Structures
Net pen systems need structural support rings, walkway connections, anchor points, and tensioning hardware — all fabricated from corrosion-resistant materials. As pens get larger and farms move to higher-energy sites, the structural demands on fabricated components increase. Proper engineering and quality welding are essential for safety and system integrity.
Maintenance and Repair
Marine structures require ongoing maintenance. Weld repairs, corrosion mitigation, structural reinforcement, and component replacement are regular needs. Having a fabrication shop that understands aquaculture equipment and can respond quickly — especially for emergency repairs — is a critical resource for farm operators.
T & C Fabrication is based on Quadra Island, in the heart of BC's Discovery Islands aquaculture region. We provide fabrication, repair, and maintenance services for aquaculture operations. Call Ted at 250-202-1643 to discuss your aquaculture fabrication needs.
