scale up
The SUHF™, SUHB™, and SUHM™ platforms follows the classic method of scaling up a bioprocess by using successively larger diameter bag retention holders and bags. The range of sizes chosen gives users a typical seed to production fermentor / bioreactor train that offers flexibility in choosing the proper inoculation volume needed for successively larger batches. The agitation and mixing scale up using traditional and proven performance analysis as has been done for many years on conventional vertical stainless steel systems. Mixers throughout the bioprocess can be matched to the unit operation volume needs as a function of the production scale necessary for each step in the process.
scale out
The SUHF™, SUHB™, and SUHM™ modular design concept allows scale out in a manner typical of adding parallel equipment trains with the benefit that a variety of sizes are available to choose from. The train expansion sizes depend on how many modules are assembled for a given campaign. So rather than scale out a 50L unit by adding a parallel 50L unit, the systems can be expanded to 100L by easily inserting a second module and using a 100L bag rather than two 50L bags. In a similar manner the 50L unit can be scaled out to 150L by adding two expansion modules and inserting a 150L bag.
good under pressure
A good rule of thumb in microbial fermentation is that for every 5 psig increase in pressure the oxygen mass transfer rate will increase by approximately 33%. Thus having a fully contained bag held within our Bag Retention Vessel (BRV) the pressure can be easily controlled to 5 psig. Higher pressures may be possible based on testing and experience with the bag, external ports, tubing, and components. Although this is extremely useful in microbial growth, it is advantageous to a lesser extent when culturing mammalian cells.