Agitated Fermentation Tanks

Agitated fermentation tanks are specialized bioreactor vessels designed to support microbial or cell culture growth through controlled agitation, aeration, and environmental conditions. These vessels provide gentle yet effective mixing to maintain cell suspension, enhance oxygen transfer, and ensure uniform nutrient distribution throughout the fermentation broth.

Why are Agitated Fermentation Tanks Needed?

Agitated fermentation tanks are critical for biotechnology and fermentation processes where mixing directly affects cell growth, product formation, and process efficiency. Proper agitation maintains cells in suspension, enhances oxygen transfer for aerobic processes, distributes nutrients uniformly, and prevents gradients that stress cultures or reduce productivity.

Agitated Fermentation Tanks Applications

Common applications include:

• Pharmaceutical fermentation
• Industrial enzyme production
• Biofuel production
• Brewery fermentation
• Amino acid production
• Single-cell protein production

Specifications and Characteristics

At Roben, Mfg, Inc., we offer comprehensive options including:

• Volumes from 10 liters to 500,000+ liters
• Sanitary design with CIP/SIP capability
• Low-shear agitation options
• Integrated aeration systems
• Sterile design with containment

Certifications and Standards

Our agitated vessels are designed and manufactured in accordance with stringent industry standards:

• ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code: Pressure vessel design and fabrication
• FDA cGMP Guidelines: Pharmaceutical manufacturing compliance
• 3-A Sanitary Standards: Food and dairy equipment
• ISO 9001: Quality management system certification
• CE Marking: European compliance certification
• ATEX Directive: Explosive atmosphere certification where applicable

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do you minimize shear damage to cells?

Cell protection involves selecting low-shear impellers (marine, Lightnin A315), optimizing tip speed, using appropriate power input, and designing baffles to minimize high-shear zones. CFD analysis identifies and eliminates regions of excessive shear. Some sensitive cultures require air-lift or wave bioreactor designs that eliminate impeller shear entirely.

What agitator designs enhance oxygen transfer?

Rushton turbines provide excellent gas dispersion and oxygen transfer but generate significant shear. Concave disc turbines offer improved performance with reduced shear. Multiple impeller stages improve oxygen transfer in tall vessels. Our designs optimize the balance between oxygen transfer and shear sensitivity for specific cultures.

Can fermenters be designed for containment?

Yes, we design fermenters with appropriate containment features for pathogenic organisms or valuable products. Features include sealed systems, contained sampling, sterile barriers, and validated sterilization. Biosafety level requirements are incorporated into agitator sealing, venting, and access designs.

Contact Roben, Mfg, Inc.

For more information about our agitated vessel solutions or to request a quote, please contact Roben, Mfg, Inc. today. Our experienced engineering team utilizes advanced CFD software to optimize agitator designs for your specific mixing requirements.

Phone: (732) 364-6000 | Email: sales@robenmfg.com

760 Vassar Ave, Lakewood, NJ 08701