Which rope is best for aquaculture? Discover the Top 1 most preferred choice

In modern aquaculture, ropes are not just auxiliary materials – they are vital components. Selecting the right type of rope for each water environment helps stabilize the farming system, extends equipment lifespan, reduces repair costs, and enhances overall production efficiency. So, what is the optimal choice for each specific environment – saltwater, brackish water, or freshwater? Let’s explore with SIAM Brothers Vietnam to make the right decision.

1. Saltwater Environment – High Corrosion, Strong UV, Powerful Currents

Coastal and offshore areas are often the sites of cage fish farming, oyster farming, or high-tech shrimp farming. Here, ropes face three main challenges: salt-induced corrosion, UV radiation from sunlight, and the tension from waves and ocean currents.

1.1 Saltwater Analysis

In this environment, traditional ropes like PP (polypropylene) have the advantages of being lightweight and floating on water, but they degrade quickly under UV exposure and saltwater, making them unsuitable for long-term use.

Nylon ropes offer high tensile strength and good elasticity, which helps absorb shock from waves and loads. However, they absorb water and significantly lose strength when submerged for extended periods.

Polyester ropes stand out due to their excellent resistance to UV rays and water. They don’t stretch much under load, making them suitable for fixed offshore cage systems. However, they may still be susceptible to biofouling and wear if surface treatment is inadequate.

Polyester ropes - Source: Internet

The most superior choice for saltwater environments today is HMPE (High-Performance Polyethylene) ropes – ultra-durable synthetic ropes with a strength-to-weight ratio higher than steel, non-water-absorbent, abrasion-resistant, and extremely UV- and chemical-resistant. Though more expensive, their long lifespan and stability make HMPE the top choice for industrial-scale offshore farming.

1.2. Recommendation:

For saltwater environments, HMPE or high-grade polyester ropes are the best choices in terms of performance and long-term durability.

2. Brackish Water Environment – Variable Salinity, Fluctuating Water Levels, Semi-Natural Conditions

Brackish water is typically found in estuaries or coastal ponds, where freshwater and saltwater mix. This environment is characterized by seasonal salinity changes, a complex ecosystem, and mild corrosion risks, less intense than in pure saltwater areas.

2.1. Brackish Water Analysis

In this setting, many opt for nylon or polyester ropes due to their stability and resistance to changing salinity levels. Nylon is suitable for flexible systems like drag nets or suspended setups due to its shock absorption. Polyester works better for fixed installations, offering low stretch and reliable load-bearing.

Nylon ropes - Source: Internet

PP ropes can be used in brackish water, but prolonged sun exposure can lead to quick degradation.

2.2. Recommendation:

UV-treated polyester or high-quality nylon ropes are the best options for brackish water, ensuring durability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness.

3. Freshwater Environment – Ponds, Lakes, and Rivers with Low Corrosiveness

Freshwater is the least chemically harsh environment, but still requires ropes that are strong, resistant to stretching, and abrasion-resistant due to currents and mechanical operations.

3.1. Freshwater Analysis

In this environment, PP ropes are acceptable thanks to their affordability and ease of use. However, for more durable systems, nylon is a better candidate due to its elasticity and ability to absorb force, ideal for shrimp and fish ponds where net systems move frequently.

Polyester ropes perform well in fixed systems like fish cages or blocking nets because of their low stretch and non-water-absorbent properties.

3.2. Recommendation:

In freshwater, nylon or polyester ropes—depending on the specific system—offer efficient operational and cost-effective solutions.

4. Comparison of Rope Types by Aquaculture Environment

5. Why Choose Aquaculture Ropes from SIAM Brothers Vietnam?

Fish & Shrimp Aquaculture rope - Source: SIAM Brothers Vietnam

SIAM Brothers Vietnam is a pioneering brand in Vietnam specializing in the production of ropes specifically designed for the aquaculture industry — with a diverse product range that includes nylon, PP, polyester, and high-tech PE ropes, suitable for all types of aquatic farming environments and species.

SIAM Brothers’ products are specially engineered to withstand Vietnam’s tropical climate and harsh aquatic conditions, ensuring:

• Exceptional durability and stable load capacity

• Resistance to UV rays, abrasion, and chemicals

• Non-water absorbent, rot-resistant, and non-shrinking

• Compliance with international standards for quality and safety

Moreover, SIAM Brothers Vietnam provides a dedicated technical support team to help customers select the right rope for each farming model, optimizing investment longevity and cost efficiency.

Read more: Optimal Solutions for Modern Aquaculture: Safety and Sustainability

Source: SIAM Brothers Vietnam

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