Cultivation of sensitive cells requires advanced control, which is achieved with the Novaferm Fermenter Control System connected to the fermenter via the supply cabinet. Sterilisation, temperature control, agitation, gassing and other functions are controlled by this combination.

Most cells are very fragile and sensitive to gas bubbles and gentle agitation and oxygenation systems are therefore necessary. If the cell is anchorage-dependent, this means special requirements for the vessel. For cultures in suspension, the conventional fermenter vessel with certain modifications can often be used. Conversion kits with bottom-mounted, magnetically coupled agitators, are available for the Novaferm standard fermenters.

For cultivation of anchorage-dependent cells, we have developed a special conical vessel with a top-mounted, magnetically coupled agitator. This means that there are no bearings below the liquid level that may cause grinding of beads and cells. The conical shape results in good distribution of beads at slow agitation speed and the possibility of growing small or large culture batches in the same vessel. The internal parts may be selected for the process conditions required.

The vessel, sensors and process piping are sterilisable in situ. Materials are selected with respect to the sensitive requirements of the cells. A broad selection of accessories is available, such as different gassing systems, perfusion systems, incinerators for exit gas and clean-steam generators. Future upgradings regarding both control functions and vessel configurations are permitted by the modular design and easily carried out by the user.