Accessories for fermenters and bioreactors enhance their functionality, monitoring capabilities, and ease of use. Here’s a list of common accessories used in bioreactor and fermenter setups:
Sensors and Probes:
pH probes: Measure acidity or alkalinity of the culture.
Dissolved oxygen (DO) sensors: Monitor oxygen levels in the culture.
Temperature probes: Measure and regulate the temperature inside the vessel.
Foam sensors: Detect and control foam formation.
Re dox (ORP) sensors: Measure the oxidation-reduction potential of the culture.
Conductivity sensors: Monitor the ionic content of the culture.
Agitators and Impellers:
Various agitator designs and impeller types for efficient mixing and aeration.
Spargers:
Introduce gases into the culture, typically for aeration purposes.
Harvesting and Sampling Ports:
Ports for withdrawing samples or harvesting cells without interrupting the process.
Cooling and Heating Jackets:
Maintain precise temperature control using external cooling or heating.
Pressure and Vacuum Control:
Valves and controllers to manage pressure and vacuum inside the vessel.
Exhaust Gas Analyzers:
Measure gas composition in the exhaust for metabolic analysis.
Peristaltic Pumps:
Deliver precise amounts of fluids for feeding or sampling.
Data Logging and Control Systems:
Computer-based systems to monitor and control bioreactor parameters.
Sterilization Systems:
Autoclaves or steam-in-place (SIP) systems for sterilizing vessel components.
Anti-foam Dispensers:
Automatically add anti-foam agents to prevent foam formation.
Media and Feed Tanks:
Containers for storing and delivering culture media and nutrients.
Gas Flow Controllers:
Regulate the flow of gases into the culture.
Level Sensors:
Monitor and control liquid levels in the vessel.
Bioreactor Skids:
Pr-assembled platforms containing essential components for easy installation.
Control Software and HMI:
Human-machine interface (HMI) and software for setting and monitoring process parameters.
Cooling Water Circulars:
Maintain the temperature of cooling jackets or coils.
pH and DO Controllers:
Automatically adjust pH and DO levels based on sensor readings.
Sampling Systems:
Automated sampling systems for regular and consistent sample collection.
Alarm Systems:
Audible and visual alerts for abnormal process conditions.
Lighting Systems:
Controlled lighting for photo bioreactors used in algae or plant cell culture.
These accessories contribute to efficient, controlled, and monitored bio processing, ensuring optimal conditions for microbial growth, product formation, and research. The specific accessories required may vary based on the type of bioreactor, the process being carried out, and the desired outcome.