Industrial Fermenters

Industrial fermenter

Large vessel used to grow microorganisms on an industrial scale

Stainless steel

Material used to prevent corrosion and allow sterilisation

Aseptic conditions

Conditions free from microorganisms to prevent contamination

Sterilisation

Cleaning fermenter with steam to kill microbes

Nutrient medium

Provides microorganisms with glucose, minerals and amino acids

Water jacket

Controls temperature by circulating cold water

Temperature probe

Monitors internal temperature

pH probe

Monitors acidity to keep enzymes working efficiently

Agitator/paddles

Mix contents to keep conditions even

Air supply

Provides oxygen for aerobic respiration

Filter on air inlet

Prevents contamination from airborne microbes

Why are fermenters sterilised?

To prevent contamination by unwanted microorganisms

Why is stainless steel used?

It can be steam‑sterilised and does not corrode

Why is temperature controlled?

To keep enzymes at optimum temperature and prevent denaturation

Why is pH controlled?

To maintain optimum enzyme activity

Why is mixing needed?

To distribute nutrients, oxygen and heat evenly

Why is air supplied?

To provide oxygen for aerobic microorganisms

Why are air filters used?

To stop contamination entering with the air

Why is a water jacket used?

To remove excess heat from respiration

Why must conditions be aseptic?

To ensure only the desired microorganism grows