In aquaculture, feed cost can account for over 60% of the total operational expense. For commercial fish farmers or feed manufacturers, choosing the right fish feed extruder machine is critical—not just for efficiency and product quality, but also for long-term profitability. However, many first-time buyers are often shocked by the wide range of prices in the market. From low-end single-screw models to high-output twin-screw extruders, pricing varies significantly depending on size, capacity, automation, and country of origin. In this article, we’ll help you clearly understand what influences fish feed extruder prices and how to make the best investment for your needs.
The price of a fish feed extruder machine typically ranges from \$2,000 to over \$300,000, depending on the model type (dry vs wet), screw configuration (single vs twin), capacity, automation level, material build quality, and additional processing systems included such as feeders, dryers, and control systems. Entry-level models for home or small-scale use are cheaper, while industrial-grade production lines for floating and sinking feed cost significantly more.
While this quick answer provides a range, the right decision depends heavily on your production goals. Keep reading to explore pricing factors, configuration options, and real-world ROI analysis so you don’t overpay—or underinvest.
Wet type fish feed extruders are always more expensive than dry type extruders.True
Wet extruders require a steam boiler, are structurally more complex, and are designed for higher output, which makes them more expensive.
🐟 Fish Feed Extruder Machine Pricing Breakdown
Let’s compare key price tiers for different fish feed extruder machine models.
| Machine Type | Capacity (kg/h) | Price Range (USD) | Typical Users |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Dry Type Extruder | 40–150 | $1,800–\$5,000 | Small farms, R\&D labs |
| Medium Dry Type Extruder | 200–500 | $6,000–\$15,000 | Aquaculture startups, co-ops |
| Industrial Dry Type Extruder | 800–1,200 | $20,000–\$45,000 | Mid-scale fish feed producers |
| Small Wet Type Extruder | 500–1,000 | $25,000–\$60,000 | Commercial hatcheries, industrial test plants |
| Twin-Screw Wet Extruder Line | 1,000–5,000 | $80,000–\$300,000+ | Large-scale feed factories, export production |
💡 Key Factors That Influence Fish Feed Extruder Pricing
Pricing depends on more than just the machine name. Here's a breakdown of what really drives the cost:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Type (Dry vs Wet) | Wet type extruders need a steam boiler and water injection—more complex and expensive. Dry types are cheaper but with lower throughput and control. |
| Screw Design | Single-screw extruders are economical. Twin-screw extruders offer higher quality feed and more flexibility but cost more. |
| Capacity/Output | Higher throughput machines (measured in kg/h) require stronger motors, bigger structures, and higher precision, raising costs. |
| Automation | Machines with touch-screen PLC control, auto-feeders, sensors, and auto-cutting systems come at a premium. |
| Materials & Build | Food-grade stainless steel (SS304/316), special alloy screws, and wear-resistant bushings improve lifespan but raise upfront cost. |
| Country of Manufacture | Chinese machines are most cost-effective; European/Japanese machines are often 2x–4x more expensive. |
| Optional Add-ons | Dryers, grinders, coolers, and packaging machines can be bundled—some manufacturers offer turn-key line packages. |
Fish feed extruder machines made in China are significantly cheaper but lack quality.False
Many Chinese manufacturers, including Darin Machinery, offer CE-certified fish feed machines with high-quality components at a competitive price.
🏭 Price vs Production ROI: What Should You Really Spend?
To decide what to invest, consider the ROI (Return on Investment) based on your daily capacity needs and market price for fish feed. Below is a model example:
| Scenario | Daily Output | Daily Revenue | Payback Time (Estimate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| $5,000 Machine (Dry) | 200 kg | $160 | ~1.5–2 months |
| $45,000 Machine (Dry) | 1,000 kg | $800 | ~2.5–3 months |
| $150,000 Line (Wet) | 3,000 kg | $2,400 | ~3–5 months |
Note: Calculations assume \$0.8/kg selling price and do not include labor, energy, or raw materials.
You need a wet type extruder to produce floating fish feed.False
Both dry and wet type extruders can produce floating feed; however, wet extruders are better suited for large-scale, continuous production with higher gelatinization.
🔧 Sample Configuration: 1-Ton/hour Dry Type Extruder Line
Darin Machinery Example Setup:
- Dry Type Single-Screw Extruder: 1,000 kg/h
- Main Motor: 75 kW
- PLC Control: Siemens Touchscreen
- Pellet Cutter: Servo Controlled
- Material: SUS304 stainless steel
- Add-ons: Powder Feeder, Twin-shaft Conditioner, Air Conveyor
- Price Estimate: \~\$38,000–\$48,000 (Ex-Works China)
🛠️ How to Choose the Right Fish Feed Extruder
✅ Dry Type is Ideal When:
- You have a limited budget
- No boiler is available onsite
- You aim to produce up to 1 ton/hour
- You prefer lower energy consumption
✅ Wet Type is Ideal When:
- You operate a large-scale factory
- High production stability and durability are essential
- Steam and hot water utilities are already available
- You need better digestibility and feed expansion rate
Comparison Table
| Feature | Dry Type Extruder | Wet Type Extruder |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Output Capacity | Moderate (50–1000 kg/h) | High (800–5000+ kg/h) |
| Steam Requirement | No | Yes |
| Maintenance | Easier | More complex |
| Suitable For | Small/Mid Farms | Large Feed Mills |
| Final Feed Quality | Good | Excellent |
⚙️ Optional Equipment That Impacts Final Price
- Automatic Weighing & Batching Systems – Ensures feed formula precision
- Dryers (Belt or Vertical) – Necessary to remove moisture and extend shelf life
- Cooling Systems – Stabilize the pellet and prevent mold
- Oil Sprayers & Coating Machines – Improve feed palatability and nutritional value
- Sifters & Crumblers – Adjust particle size for shrimp, juvenile fish, etc.
- Vacuum Packing Machines – For final feed packaging and storage
These are not always included in the basic extruder quote and may cost an additional $10,000–$80,000 depending on configuration.
🎯 Final Recommendation
If you're a small aquaculture operation just starting, a dry-type machine from a trusted supplier like Darin Machinery may be your best low-risk investment. For established feed manufacturers aiming for floating/sinking feed at high volumes, a complete wet-type twin-screw extrusion line offers optimal performance, scalability, and profit.
📞 Contact Darin Machinery for a Tailored Quote
Darin Machinery specializes in high-performance fish feed extruder machines and complete feed production lines. We offer:
- CE & ISO certified machines
- Custom output configurations (100–5000 kg/h)
- Factory-direct pricing
- Professional installation & support
👉 Contact us today to get a custom quote, machine recommendation, and free layout design for your fish feed production needs!
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