Q.7 What is fermenter and write down its types.
Answer:
Fermenter
Fermenter is a device that provides optimum environment to micro-organisms to grow into a biomass, so that they can interact with a substrate, forming the product.
Types
Fermentation is carried out in fermenters, in the following two ways:
1) Batch Fermentation
In this process, the tank of fermenter is filled with the raw materials to be fermented. The temperature and pH of microbial fermentation is properly adjusted and nutritive supplements are added. All the material is steam sterilized. The pure culture of micro-organisms is added to fermenter from a separate vessel.
Fermentation proceeds and after the proper time the contents of fermenter are taken out. Fermenter is cleaned and the process is repeated. Thus, fermen
I the process is repeated. Thus, fermentation is a dis-continuous process divided into batches.
2) Continuous fermentation
In this process, the substrate is added to fermenter continuously at a fixed rate. This maintains the micro-organisms in growth phase. Fermentation products are taken out continuously. The design and arrangements for continuous fermentation are more complex.
