The features of a typical fermenter (as shown below) are engineered to enable efficient culture of microbial, mammalian or insect cells and facilitate ease of operation for the user. Key design factors that a good fermenter design must achieve are:
Operate aseptically for days
Agitate and aerate effectively without damage to the organism
Control key parameters for cell growth e.g. temperature, pH
Reduce evaporation
Minimise the use of labour
Maximise the use of computer control
Have geometric similarity for scale up
Smooth construction for ease of cleaning
Flexibile and reliable operation