Novel air sterilizing and filtering system of fermentation tank

Abstract

The utility model discloses a novel air sterilizing and filtering system of a fermentation tank, which relates to the technical field of fermentation engineering and comprises a first valve, a front fine filter, a rear fine filter, a second valve and a sterilizing steam valve, according to the utility model, the design that the front fine filter and the rear fine filter are connected in series is adopted, so that infectious microbes in the air can be finely filtered twice. The front filter firstly intercepts large-particle impurities and part of infectious microbes, and the rear filter further removes tiny infectious microbes, so that the degerming efficiency is greatly improved, the risk that the infectious microbes enter the fermentation tank is effectively reduced, a purer air environment is provided for the fermentation process, the quality and stability of fermented products are guaranteed, the probability of fermentation failure is reduced, and the production cost is reduced. And the product qualification rate is improved.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The utility model relates to fermentation engineering technical field especially relates to a novel air sterilization filter system of fermentation tank. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the actual production application of the fermentation tank, the air sterilization filter system is crucial. At present, although the existing air sterilization filter technology of the fermentation tank can achieve a high sterilization effect, usually more than 99.999%, the situation of contamination caused by incomplete sterilization of the air system still occurs from time to time in the actual production process, and the contamination frequency is relatively high. This brings great risks and challenges to fermentation production, not only affecting product quality, but also possibly leading to production stagnation and increasing production cost. In order to effectively reduce the contamination risk and improve the stability and reliability of fermentation production, a more efficient air sterilization filter system is urgently needed to better solve this problem. Therefore, a novel air sterilization filter system adopting double precision filter systems in series is developed to better intercept bacteria in the air and ensure the air quality in the fermentation tank, creating more favorable conditions for fermentation production. SUMMARY

[0003] The utility model provides a novel air sterilization filter system of fermentation tank, solved the technical problem that the situation of contamination caused by incomplete sterilization of the air system still occurs from time to time.

[0004] To solve the above technical problems, the utility model provides a novel air sterilization filter system of fermentation tank, including first valve, preposition precision filter, postposition precision filter, second valve and sterilization steam valve, the input end of first valve is connected with air inlet, the output end of first valve is connected with the input end of preposition precision filter through pipeline, the output end of preposition precision filter is connected with the input end of postposition precision filter through pipeline, the output end of postposition precision filter is connected with the input end of second valve, the output end of second valve is connected with fermentation tank, the input end of sterilization steam valve is connected with steam end, the output end of sterilization steam valve is connected on the pipeline between first valve and preposition precision filter.

[0005] In some embodiments, the input end of the sterilization steam valve is provided with a three-way, and the three-way is connected with a steam trap valve on one side.

[0006] In some embodiments, a third valve is arranged on the pipeline connecting the preposition precision filter and the postposition precision filter.

[0007] In some embodiments, a first pressure gauge is arranged on the top of the preposition precision filter, and a first drain valve is arranged on the bottom of the preposition precision filter.

[0008] In some embodiments, the top of the post fine filter is provided with a second pressure gauge, and a pressure balance exhaust valve is further connected to the pipeline connected with the second pressure gauge of the post fine filter.

[0009] In some embodiments, the bottom of the first valve and the second valve are both provided with two exhaust valves.

[0010] Compared with the related art, the novel air sterilization filter system of the fermentation tank has the following advantages

[0011] Beneficial effects:

[0012] The novel air sterilization filter system of the fermentation tank provided by the utility model adopts the design of series connection of the pre-positioned fine filter and the post-positioned fine filter, and can perform twice fine filtration on the miscellaneous bacteria in the air. The pre-positioned filter first intercepts large-particle impurities and part of the miscellaneous bacteria, and the post-positioned filter further removes the tiny miscellaneous bacteria, greatly improves the sterilization efficiency, effectively reduces the risk of the miscellaneous bacteria entering the fermentation tank, provides a purer air environment for the fermentation process, guarantees the quality and stability of the fermentation product, reduces the probability of fermentation failure, and improves the product qualification rate.

[0013] The novel air sterilization filter system of the fermentation tank provided by the utility model is provided with a sterilization steam valve, and steam can be conveniently introduced to simultaneously perform high-temperature sterilization on the two filters before use. This design can effectively kill the microorganisms and miscellaneous bacteria possibly remaining in the filters, guarantees the initial sterile state of the filtration system, prevents the breeding and cross contamination of the miscellaneous bacteria in the filtration process, and provides a reliable sterile air source for the fermentation process. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 It is a whole structure schematic view of the utility model.

[0015] Reference numerals in the drawing: 1, first valve; 2, pre-positioned fine filter; 3, post-positioned fine filter; 4, second valve; 5, steam drain valve; 6, sterilization steam valve; 7, tee joint; 8, third valve; 21, first pressure gauge; 31, second pressure gauge; 32, pressure balance exhaust valve. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] Embodiment one

[0017] The new air sterilization filter system of the fermenter in this embodiment includes a first valve 1, a pre-fine filter 2, a post-fine filter 3, a second valve 4, a sterilization steam valve 6, a steam drain valve 5, a third valve 8, a first pressure gauge 21 at the top of the pre-fine filter 2, a first drain valve at the bottom of the pre-fine filter 2, a second pressure gauge 31 at the top of the post-fine filter 3, a pressure balance exhaust valve 32 connected to the pipeline of the second pressure gauge 31, a second drain valve at the bottom of the post-fine filter 3, and two exhaust valves at the bottom of the first valve 1 and the second valve 4. The input end of the first valve 1 is connected to the air inlet, and the output end is connected to the input end of the pre-fine filter 2 through a pipeline. The output end of the pre-fine filter 2 is connected to the input end of the post-fine filter 3 through a pipeline. The output end of the post-fine filter 3 is connected to the input end of the second valve 4. The output end of the second valve 4 is connected to the fermenter. The input end of the sterilization steam valve 6 is connected to the steam end, and the output end is connected to the pipeline between the first valve 1 and the pre-fine filter 2. The input end is provided with a tee joint 7, and one side of the tee joint 7 is connected to the steam drain valve 5. The pipeline connecting the pre-fine filter 2 and the post-fine filter 3 is provided with the third valve 8.

[0018] Normal operation process of the air sterilization filter system of the fermenter:

[0019] I. System preparation and initial state check

[0020] Before starting the air sterilization filter system of the fermenter, ensure that all components are installed correctly and connected tightly. Check whether the first valve 1, the second valve 4 and the third valve 8 are in the closed state to prevent accidental leakage of air or steam. Check whether the first drain valve at the bottom of the pre-fine filter 2 and the second drain valve at the bottom of the post-fine filter 3 are closed to ensure the sealing of the filter. Observe the initial readings of the first pressure gauge 21 and the second pressure gauge 31, and record them as the initial pressure state of the system for subsequent comparison and monitoring of filter pressure changes.

[0021] II. Steam sterilization stage

[0022] Open the sterilization steam valve 6, and steam enters the system from the steam end through the tee joint 7. Part of the steam flows through the pipeline to the pre-fine filter 2 and the post-fine filter 3 for high-temperature sterilization, and the other part of the steam is drained through the steam drain valve 5 to remove condensed water, ensuring that the steam entering the filter is dry and high-temperature. Continue the steam sterilization for 30 minutes (the sterilization time can be adjusted according to actual needs), and monitor the pressure changes in the filter through the first pressure gauge 21 and the second pressure gauge 31 during this period to ensure that the pressure is within the normal range (e.g., not exceeding 0.2 MPa) to prevent damage to the filter caused by excessive pressure.

[0023] III. Filtration operation stage

[0024] After sterilization, close the sterilization steam valve 6. Open the first valve 1, the third valve 8 and the second valve 4 in sequence to let air into the system from the air inlet. The air first enters the pre-fine filter 2, and is filtered by the fine filter medium (such as folded filter paper, sintered metal filter element, etc.) inside, which intercepts most of the dust particles and part of the bacteria in the air. At this time, observe the first pressure gauge 21, and the pressure difference should be relatively stable (such as 0.03-0.05 MPa) under normal working conditions. If the pressure difference increases rapidly, it may indicate that the pre-fine filter 2 is clogged. The air that has been preliminarily filtered by the pre-fine filter 2 enters the post-fine filter 3 through the pipeline, and the post-fine filter 3 uses higher-precision filter material (such as ultrafiltration membrane, nanofiber filter element, etc.) to further remove the remaining microorganisms and impurities in the air. During the operation of the post-fine filter 3, observe the second pressure gauge 31, and the normal range of the pressure difference can be set to 0.05-0.08 MPa. The filtered sterile air enters the fermentation tank through the second valve 4, providing a clean air environment for the fermentation process.

[0025] Four, operation monitoring and maintenance

[0026] During the operation of the fermentation tank, the readings of the first pressure gauge 21 and the second pressure gauge 31 are checked regularly (such as every hour), and the pressure changes are recorded. If the pressure difference is found to be outside the normal range, the corresponding filter should be maintained in time. For example, when the pressure difference of the pre-fine filter 2 reaches 0.08 MPa, close the first valve 1 and the third valve 8 to stop the air from entering the pre-fine filter 2. Open the first drain valve at the bottom of the pre-fine filter 2 to drain the condensate and impurities that may have accumulated. Then open the pre-fine filter 2 housing and check the condition of the filter element. If it is clogged or damaged, replace it with a new one. After reinstalling the housing and checking the sealing, resume the operation of the pre-fine filter 2. The maintenance operation of the post-fine filter 3 is similar. When the pressure difference is abnormal, close the second valve 4 and perform operations such as draining, checking and replacing the filter element. At the same time, open the exhaust valve at the bottom of the first valve 1 and the second valve 4 regularly (such as every week) to exhaust the impurity gas that may have accumulated inside the valve, ensuring the normal operation of the valve.

[0027] Example Two

[0028] Operation to cope with steam supply fluctuations

[0029] I. Unstable steam pressure

[0030] In the steam sterilization process, if the steam source pressure fluctuates, leading to unstable steam pressure entering the filtration system. At this time, the steam pressure in the pre-fine filter 2 and the post-fine filter 3 is closely monitored through the first pressure gauge 21 and the second pressure gauge 31. If the steam pressure is lower than the minimum pressure required for sterilization (such as 0.8 MPa), the steam sterilization process is suspended, the steam supply system is checked, and possible faults (such as steam pipe blockage, steam generator failure, etc.) are eliminated. After troubleshooting, restart the steam sterilization and extend the sterilization time to ensure the expected sterilization effect. For example, originally sterilized for 30 minutes, after the steam pressure fluctuation recovers to normal, extend the sterilization for another 10-15 minutes.

[0031] II. Steam flow change processing

[0032] When the steam flow changes, if the flow is too large, it may cause the pressure in the filter to rise too fast, causing impact on the filter. At this time, the steam flow situation is judged by observing the pressure rise rate of the first pressure gauge 21 and the second pressure gauge 31. If the pressure rise rate exceeds the safe range (such as more than 0.05 MPa per minute), the sterilization steam valve 6 is appropriately closed, and the steam flow is adjusted to an appropriate range to ensure that the filter is sterilized at a stable pressure. If the steam flow is too small, it may lead to incomplete sterilization, so under the premise of ensuring stable steam pressure, check whether the steam supply pipeline and valve have throttling conditions, clean possible blockages, and ensure sufficient steam flow into the filter for effective sterilization.

[0033] Example Three

[0034] Filter drainage and impurity processing

[0035] I. Pre-fine filter 2 drainage operation

[0036] After the fermentation tank air sterilization filtration system runs for a period of time, a certain amount of condensate and impurities may accumulate at the bottom of the pre-fine filter 2. When drainage is needed, close the first valve 1 and the third valve 8, and stop air from entering the pre-fine filter 2. Slowly open the first drainage valve at the bottom of the pre-fine filter 2 to drain the condensate and impurities into the designated collection container. During the drainage process, pay attention to the state of the discharge. If a large amount of impurities or abnormal colored substances are found to be discharged, it may indicate that the internal filter element of the pre-fine filter 2 is damaged or there are other problems, which need to be further checked and processed. After the drainage is completed, close the first drainage valve, reopen the first valve 1 and the third valve 8, and restore the normal operation of the pre-fine filter 2.

[0037] II. Post-fine filter 3 drainage and exhaust

[0038] For the post-fine filter 3, in addition to the regular drainage, it also needs to be vented. After closing the second valve 4, first open the pressure balance vent valve 32 at the top of the post-fine filter 3 to vent the gas that might have accumulated inside the filter, then open the second drainage valve at the bottom to drain the water. This way, it can avoid the drainage being blocked or the impurities flowing back due to the gas pressure during the drainage. After the drainage is completed, first close the second drainage valve, then close the pressure balance vent valve 32, and finally open the second valve 4 to resume the filtering work of the post-fine filter 3. During the drainage and venting, the discharge should also be observed, and if any abnormality is found, the post-fine filter 3 should be checked and maintained in time, such as replacing the filter element, cleaning the inside of the filter, etc.

[0039] Example Four

[0040] System application in multi-batch fermentation production

[0041] I. Batch-to-batch sterilization and preparation

[0042] When performing multi-batch fermentation production, after each batch of fermentation is completed, the air sterilization filter system of the fermentation tank needs to be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to prepare for the next batch of production. After the fermentation is completed, close the first valve 1 and the second valve 4, and stop the air supply. Open the drainage valves at the bottom of the pre-fine filter 2 and the post-fine filter 3 to drain the remaining condensate and impurities. Then, according to the steam sterilization steps in Example One, open the sterilization steam valve 6 to sterilize the two filters at high temperature, and the sterilization time can be appropriately extended to 45 minutes to ensure the killing of possible residual microorganisms. After sterilization is completed, close the sterilization steam valve 6 and wait for the system to cool to room temperature.

[0043] II. Adjustment of fermentation parameters for different batches

[0044] During the fermentation process of different batches, the operating parameters of the air sterilization filtration system may need to be adjusted according to the requirements of the fermentation product and the actual situation in the fermenter. For example, when the air quality requirement of the fermentation process is higher (such as the production of high-value biological products), the air flow can be appropriately reduced, the residence time of the air in the filter can be prolonged, and the sterilization effect can be improved. At this time, by adjusting the air flow regulating valve at the inlet end (assuming that there is such equipment at the inlet end), the air inlet speed is reduced, and at the same time the pressure changes of the first pressure gauge 21 and the second pressure gauge 31 are observed to ensure that the filter operates stably under the new working condition. If it is found that the pressure in the fermenter fluctuates greatly during the fermentation process, which may affect the fermentation effect, the opening of the exhaust valve at the bottom of the second valve 4 can be adjusted to balance the pressure in the fermenter and ensure the stability of the fermentation process. During the fermentation process of each batch, the parameters such as the pressure, temperature, etc. in the fermenter and the first pressure gauge 21 and the second pressure gauge 31 are continuously monitored, and the system operating parameters are adjusted in a timely manner according to the actual situation to ensure that the fermentation process proceeds smoothly and the product quality meets the requirements.

Claims

1. A novel air decontamination filter system for a fermenter, characterized in that, The device comprises a first valve, a front fine filter, a rear fine filter, a second valve and a sterilization steam valve, the input end of the first valve is connected with an air inlet, the output end of the first valve is connected with the input end of the front fine filter through a pipeline, the output end of the front fine filter is connected with the input end of the rear fine filter through a pipeline, the output end of the rear fine filter is connected with the input end of the second valve, the output end of the second valve is connected with a fermentation tank, the input end of the sterilization steam valve is connected with a steam end, and the output end of the sterilization steam valve is connected on the pipeline between the first valve and the front fine filter.

2. A novel air germicidal filtration system for fermentors as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The input end of the sterilization steam valve is provided with a three-way joint, and a steam water valve is connected to one side of the three-way joint.

3. A novel air germicidal filtration system for fermentors as claimed in claim 1, wherein, A third valve is arranged on the pipeline connected between the front fine filter and the rear fine filter.

4. A novel air germicidal filtration system for fermentors as claimed in claim 1, wherein, A first pressure gauge is arranged on the top of the front fine filter, and a first drain valve is arranged on the bottom of the front fine filter.

5. A novel air germicidal filtration system for fermentors as claimed in claim 1, wherein, A second pressure gauge is arranged on the top of the rear fine filter, a pressure balance exhaust valve is further connected to the pipeline connected between the rear fine filter and the second pressure gauge, and a second drain valve is arranged on the bottom of the rear fine filter.

6. A novel air germicidal filtration system for fermentors as claimed in claim 1, wherein, Two exhaust valves are arranged on the bottom of the first valve and the second valve.

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