Operating principle
The typical batch mode fermentation is presented by the following stages: addition of a solution rich in nutrients, inoculation of microorganisms, injection of foam inhibitor and oxygen ( many microorganisms used in bioprocessing are aerobic). In his type of fermentation systems, the accumulation of waste products and multiplication of the microorganisms provokes the variation of conditions during the fermentation process.
Vitamins, minerals, fatty amino acids and, depending on the bacteria type, growth factors can be added throughout the fermentation cycle. The foam inhibitor is added to control the excess of bubbles, the agitation system facilitates the dissolution of oxygen and release of carbon dioxide and provides a total mixing of nutrients. The process is efficient if the fermentation cycle is carried out at a constant temperature. The chemical reactions and the mechanical processes, occurring inside the fermentation vessel, heat the system and if the heat is not balanced, the cells may die or stop reproducing. Therefore, the cooling process requires an appropriate control system.
The pH and oxygen levels, temperature, agitation, etc. of a fermentation process are automatically controlled by a PLC.
The most frequent problems occurred during the fermentation process is contamination due to an inadequate sterilization or loss of sterility during the process. The use of reliable and high-performance systems provide safety conditions for high quality production.
Design and features
INOXPA offers various types of fermenters for a wide range of applications.
The features of the fermentation / bioprocessing solutions are:
– Volume: 150 – 6.000 liters
– Design conforms to ASME BPE
– Skid-mounted structure
– Tank jacketed and insulated
– CIP/SIP design
– H/D 3:1, 2:1
– Pressure -1/+3 bars
– The control system is totally automated, the PLC controls
and records all functions and data:
– Agitation speed
– Oxygen level
– Temperature
– Pressure regulation in exhaust pipe
– Addition of nutrients
– Product harvest
– Sterilization of the nutrient medium
– Steam sterilization of the fermenter
– Vertical agitator with mechanical seal and motor gear drive.
Materials
Parts in contact with the media: St.St.S 316L.
Internal surface: Ra < 0,4.
Single mechanical seal (dry running).
Sterile sampling system.
Options
We offer qualification of all fermenters with the corresponding IQ/OQ documentation.
Magnetic agitator.
Double mechanical seal.
