A lab scale 2L bioreactor operates at a volumetric productivity of 4 g L-1 h1 and is integrated with a cylindrical 400 mL separator: Chemical Engineering, Assignment, UCL, UK

Questions

1. A lab scale 2L bioreactor operates at a volumetric productivity of 4 g L-1 h1 and is integrated with a cylindrical 400 mL separator (Figure 1) with an L/D ratio = 4. The residence time in the separator is 16 min. The system described is characterised by Re = 105. The fermentation broth is characterised by μa = 0.25 Pa.s, p = 1050 kg m23.

a) Calculate the current length and diameter of the separator in operation.
b) If residence time is reduced to 8min will there be an interference on settling?

2. Propose an approach for scaling up the lab scale separator described above for a bioreactor volume of 10 m3, operating at the same volumetric productivity and a maximum residence time of 16 min (see Figure 1).

• Discuss your considerations for the basis of performing the scale up design.
• State any relevant parameters for design and / or verification.
• Detail any further measurements which would be needed to support the scale up design.

3. Propose a downstream procedure to ensure that the final product, taken from the separator and having the composition shown in Table 1, meets the specifications given in Table 2 so it is suitable to sale to customers. Aim to provide a process that can be applied industrially for as low a price as possible. State any assumptions and trade-offs/compromises in the design.

Answer

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