Basic Functions of A Fermenter For Microbial Or Animal Cell Culture

The main function of a fermenter is to provide a controlled environment for the growth of micro organisms or animal cells, to obtain a desired product. In designing and constructing a fermenter a number of points must be considered:

• The vessel should be capable of being operated aseptically for a number of days and should be reliable in long-term operation and meet the requirements of containment regulations.
• Adequate aeration and agitation should be provided to meet the metabolic requirements of the micro-organism. However, the mixing should not cause damage to the organism.
• Power consumption should be as low as possible.
• A system of temperature control should be provided.
• A system of pH control should be provided.
• Sampling facilities should be provided.
• Evaporation losses from the fermenter should not be excessive.
• The vessel should be designed to require the minimal use of labour in operation, harvesting, cleaning and maintenance.
• Ideally the vessel should be suitable for a range of processes, but this may be restricted because of containment regulations.
• The vessel should be of similar geometry to both smaller and larger vessels in the pilot plant or plant to facilitate scale-up.
• The cheapest materials which enable satisfactory results to be achieved should be used.