A continuous fermentation device and production line

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of microbial fermentation, specifically relates to a continuous fermentation device and production line, and the fermentation device includes a plurality of horizontal fermentation tanks which are vertically stacked, control pipelines are arranged between the adjacent fermentation tanks in the up and down direction and are used for conveying fermentation liquid, stirring devices are arranged in the horizontal fermentation tanks and are used for stirring the fermentation liquid, air supplementing pipes and liquid supplementing pipes are further arranged, the air supplementing pipes and the liquid supplementing pipes extend in the horizontal fermentation tanks and a plurality of openings are arranged on the pipe bodies at intervals, and the openings are used for supplementing air and nutrient liquid into the horizontal fermentation tanks. Through the improvement of the structure of the fermentation tank, the fermentation liquid can flow along the fermentation tank in a directional manner, fermentation is carried out in the flowing process, the survival rate of the bacterial population can be ensured through uniform air supplementing and liquid supplementing, a plurality of fermentation tanks arranged in the vertical direction can save the occupied space, the circulation of the fermentation liquid in the plurality of fermentation tanks is controlled by using gravity, energy consumption is saved, and the damage of the equipment is avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of microbial fermentation technology, specifically to a continuous fermentation device and production line. Background Technology

[0002] Traditional microbial fermenters are typically vertically oriented, with air inlets, feed inlets, replenishment inlets, and observation ports at the top. They are equipped with a stirring device to ensure contact between the microorganisms and the nutrient solution and gases, promoting growth and fermentation. When the nutrient solution or gas level is low, operators must replenish it. However, even with continuous stirring, it's difficult to quickly and evenly distribute the newly added nutrient solution or gas throughout the fermenter. This can lead to some areas of microorganisms failing to receive the necessary nutrients and gases, resulting in inactivation and increased fermentation costs. Furthermore, microbial fermentation is a complex process, often requiring multiple fermenters. Traditional fermenter setups are space-consuming and have low space utilization; connecting multiple fermenters and using pumps for fermentation broth transfer results in high energy consumption; and the use of multiple devices increases the risk of damage and reduces production line efficiency.

[0003] It is evident that current microbial fermentation technologies still have room for improvement and should be optimized to enhance fermentation efficiency, ensure the activity of internal microorganisms, reduce the footprint and cost of the entire fermentation system, and lower the failure rate. Therefore, a more rational technical solution is needed to address the existing technical problems. Utility Model Content

[0004] To overcome at least one of the aforementioned defects, this utility model proposes a continuous fermentation device and production line, which aims to improve the uniformity of gas and fermentation liquid replenishment in the fermentation tank by improving the structure and combination of fermentation equipment, thereby increasing the survival rate of microorganisms, improving space utilization, promoting coordination between adjacent tanks, reducing energy consumption, and lowering the equipment damage rate.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the fermentation apparatus disclosed in this utility model can adopt the following technical solution:

[0006] A continuous fermentation device includes several horizontal fermenters stacked longitudinally. A control pipe is provided between adjacent fermenters to transport the fermentation liquid in the upper horizontal fermenter to the lower horizontal fermenter. The head and tail of the same horizontal fermenter are respectively provided with connecting ports to guide the fermentation liquid to flow through the horizontal fermenter and then into the control pipe. A stirring device is provided in the horizontal fermenter to agitate the fermentation liquid. A gas supply pipe and a liquid supply pipe are also provided. The gas supply pipe and the liquid supply pipe extend in the horizontal fermenter and have several openings at intervals on the pipe body to replenish gas and nutrient solution into the horizontal fermenter.

[0007] The aforementioned continuous fermentation device is used to fully guide the fermentation of microbial fermentation broth in horizontal fermenters. The microbial fermentation broth flows through the horizontal fermenters one by one, from the upper level to the lower level. During the flow, it is agitated by a stirring device to maintain uniformity. At the same time, gas and liquid are uniformly supplied at multiple points through gas supply pipes and liquid supply pipes, which can ensure that the microbial fermentation broth remains uniform and the overall microorganisms remain active, thereby improving the survival rate. The longitudinal arrangement of the horizontal fermenters saves installation space, and the use of gravity to transfer the broth from one horizontal fermenter to another saves energy and reduces equipment failure rate, thereby avoiding production disruptions and ensuring stable and reliable production progress.

[0008] Furthermore, the fermentation environment within the fermenter is crucial to the overall fermentation outcome. This environment can be monitored and controlled. Here, an optimization is proposed, and one feasible option is suggested: The fermenter is equipped with monitoring components to acquire fermentation environment data. These components include at least a temperature monitoring component, a liquid level monitoring component, and a pressure monitoring component. An adjustment component is also provided to adjust the fermentation environment data, including at least a temperature adjustment component. When this scheme is adopted, the monitoring components monitor at least the temperature, liquid level, and pressure within the fermenter, thereby enabling temperature, liquid level, and pressure regulation. The temperature adjustment component can be used to meet the fermenter's temperature control requirements, such as heating and maintaining the temperature. When the liquid level is abnormal, the liquid level can be adjusted by controlling the opening and closing of the connecting pipes between adjacent fermenters. When the pressure within the fermenter changes, the pressure can be adjusted back to the normal range by regulating the exhaust gas from the fermenter.

[0009] Furthermore, the arrangement of the gas supply pipe and liquid supply pipe can be varied, and their structure is not limited to a single method. Here, we optimize the arrangement and propose one feasible option: the gas supply pipe enters the horizontal fermenter from the head, and the liquid supply pipe enters the horizontal fermenter from the tail. When using this scheme, both gas supply and liquid supply are performed based on actual monitoring data.

[0010] Furthermore, the structures of the gas supply pipe and liquid supply pipe can be constructed in various forms to achieve uniform gas and liquid supply within the horizontal fermenter. Their structures are not uniquely limited. Here, we propose one feasible option: the gas supply pipe and / or liquid supply pipe includes a straight pipe section that extends from the entrance of the horizontal fermenter to the other end. The openings are spaced apart on the straight pipe section. This solution can be applied to small fermenters, where the straight pipe section is simply laid at the bottom of the fermenter.

[0011] Furthermore, in other solutions, the structures of the gas supply pipe and liquid supply pipe can be constructed in other forms. Here, we optimize and propose one feasible option: the gas supply pipe and / or liquid supply pipe includes a straight pipe section that extends to the other end of the horizontal fermenter after entering it. The gas supply pipe and / or liquid supply pipe repeatedly bends and extends within the horizontal fermenter to conform to the inner wall of the fermenter. The openings are spaced out as the pipe body extends. Using this solution, the gas supply pipe and liquid supply pipe can be applied to larger fermenters, achieving uniform gas and liquid supply within the fermenter.

[0012] Furthermore, in other solutions, the gas supply pipe and liquid supply pipe can also adopt different designs. Here, we optimize and propose one feasible option: the tank body of the gas supply pipe and / or liquid supply pipe includes a straight pipe section. After entering the horizontal fermenter, the straight pipe section connects to several annular extension sections. The openings are distributed at intervals on the straight pipe section and the extension sections. When adopting the above solution, the structure of the extension sections is not limited to annular; it can also be other shapes, such as tree-like or polygonal, which can be evenly distributed at the bottom of the fermenter to achieve gas and liquid supply.

[0013] Furthermore, when regulating the pressure inside the fermenter, it is necessary to control the outward exhaust. Various methods can be used to regulate exhaust, and the structure is not limited to a single approach. Here, we propose one feasible option: several exhaust ports are spaced apart at the top of the fermenter, and exhaust valves are installed at each exhaust port. When using this method, the exhaust valves are generally opened or closed simultaneously to evenly regulate the gas pressure inside the fermenter and maintain balanced airflow, avoiding turbulence.

[0014] Furthermore, as the fermentation broth flows along the inside of the fermenter, a stirring device agitates it. The structure of this stirring device is not uniquely limited; here, an optimization is proposed, and one feasible option is suggested: the stirring device includes a stirring shaft extending along the horizontal fermenter, with several stirring blades spaced apart on the shaft. One end of the stirring shaft extends out of the fermenter and is connected to a stirring motor. With this solution, the stirring blades not only agitate the fermentation broth but also drive it to flow in a designated direction, from one end of the fermenter to the other, thereby facilitating the flow of the fermentation broth between different fermenters.

[0015] Furthermore, when adding microbial inoculum to the fermenters, the number of fermentation tanks can be selected according to the fermentation requirements of different microbial inoculum. Therefore, multiple schemes can be adopted for adding microbial inoculum, and its structure is not limited to a single one. Here, we optimize and propose one feasible option: the uppermost fermenter is equipped with a microbial inoculum adding structure, which includes a microbial inoculum adding port and a microbial inoculum pipe that cooperates with the inoculum adding port. The microbial inoculum adding structure of the lower fermenters includes a microbial inoculum adding port located at the control pipe, and the microbial inoculum adding port is connected to the microbial inoculum pipe through the adding pipe. When adopting the above scheme, when adding microbial inoculum from the uppermost fermenter, the fermentation liquid will flow from top to bottom through all fermenters; when adding microbial inoculum from a middle fermenter, it will only flow from that fermenter through the fermenters below.

[0016] The above content discloses a continuous fermentation device, and this utility model also discloses a continuous fermentation production line.

[0017] A continuous fermentation production line includes the continuous fermentation device described above, and further includes a gas source, which is connected to the gas supply pipes of all fermenters through a gas supply main and supplies gas to all fermenters respectively; it also includes a liquid source, which is connected to all liquid supply pipes through a liquid supply main and supplies liquid to all fermenters respectively; and it also includes a microbial source, which is connected to a microbial pipeline and supplies microbial inoculum to the uppermost fermenter.

[0018] Furthermore, when the gas supply main pipe and liquid supply main pipe supply gas or liquid to the fermenter, backflow needs to be avoided. Therefore, optimization is carried out and a more feasible option is proposed: a gas supply check valve is installed between the gas supply main pipe and the gas supply pipe, and / or a liquid supply check valve is installed between the liquid supply main pipe and the liquid supply pipe.

[0019] Compared with the prior art, some of the beneficial effects of the technical solution disclosed in this utility model include:

[0020] By improving the structure of the fermenter, the fermentation broth can flow directionally along the fermenter, and fermentation can take place during the flow. The survival rate of the microbial community can be guaranteed by uniform gas and liquid replenishment. The longitudinal arrangement of multiple fermenters can save space, and the use of gravity to control the flow of fermentation broth in multiple fermenters can save energy and avoid equipment damage. Attached Figure Description

[0021] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this utility model and should not be regarded as a limitation on the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the composition of the continuous fermentation device of this utility model.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the continuous fermentation device of this utility model (no gas supply check valve is installed at the main gas supply pipe).

[0024] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the continuous fermentation device of this utility model (no gas replenishment check valve is installed at the gas supply main pipe, and no liquid replenishment check valve is installed at the liquid supply main pipe).

[0025] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the first possible structure of the gas supply tube and the liquid supply tube.

[0026] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the second structure of the gas supply tube and the liquid supply tube.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a third type of gas supply tube and liquid supply tube.

[0028] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the continuous fermentation production line of this utility model.

[0029] In the above attached figures, the meanings of each label are as follows:

[0030] 1. Fermentation tank; 2. Stirring shaft; 3. Stirring blades; 4. Exhaust port; 5. Inoculum pipeline; 6. Gas replenishment check valve; 7. Stirring motor; 8. Gas supply main pipe; 9. Liquid supply main pipe; 10. Addition valve; 11. Control pipeline; 12. Drainage structure; 13. Liquid pump; 14. Liquid replenishment check valve; 15. Pipe body; 16. Opening; 17. Nutrient solution tank; 18. Gas tank; 19. Inoculum tank. Detailed Implementation

[0031] The following description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments, further illustrates this embodiment.

[0032] In view of the many shortcomings of the existing fermentation devices, the following embodiments are optimized to overcome the defects of the existing technology.

[0033] Example 1

[0034] like Figures 1-7 As shown, this embodiment discloses a continuous fermentation device, including several horizontal fermentation tanks 1 stacked longitudinally. A control pipe 11 is provided between adjacent fermentation tanks 1 to transport the fermentation liquid in the upper horizontal fermentation tank 1 to the lower horizontal fermentation tank 1. The head and tail of the same horizontal fermentation tank 1 are respectively provided with connecting ports to guide the fermentation liquid to flow through the horizontal fermentation tank 1 and then into the control pipe 11. A stirring device is provided in the horizontal fermentation tank 1 to stir the fermentation liquid. A gas supply pipe and a liquid supply pipe are also provided. The gas supply pipe and the liquid supply pipe extend in the horizontal fermentation tank 1 and have several openings 16 at intervals on the pipe body 15 to replenish gas and nutrient solution into the horizontal fermentation tank 1.

[0035] The continuous fermentation apparatus disclosed in this embodiment is used to fully guide the fermentation of microbial fermentation broth in the horizontal fermenter 1. The microbial fermentation broth flows through the horizontal fermenter 1 one by one, and enters the lower horizontal fermenter 1 from the upper one. During the flow, it is stirred by the stirring device to maintain uniformity. At the same time, gas and liquid are uniformly replenished at multiple points through gas supply pipes and liquid supply pipes, which can ensure that the microbial fermentation broth remains uniform and the overall microorganisms can maintain activity, thereby improving the survival rate. The longitudinal arrangement of the horizontal fermenter 1 saves the installation space of the equipment. The circulation of the horizontal fermenter 1 by gravity saves energy consumption and reduces the equipment failure rate, thereby avoiding the impact on production and ensuring the stability and reliability of the production progress.

[0036] Preferably, the number of fermentation tanks 1 can be 3 to 15, and the shape of fermentation tank 1 can be cylindrical or elliptical, that is, the cross-section of fermentation tank 1 is elliptical. Generally speaking, the fermentation tank 1 of a small continuous fermentation device is cylindrical, while the fermentation tank 1 of a large continuous fermentation device can be cylindrical or elliptical. The diameter of the small tank ranges from 10 to 30 cm, preferably 16 cm; the length is 50 to 90 cm, preferably 70 cm; the diameter of the large tank ranges from 1.0 m to 2.0 m, and the length is 8 to 12 m.

[0037] Preferably, the diameter of the control pipe 11 of the small fermenter 1 is 15-30mm, preferably 20mm; the diameter of the control pipe 11 of the large fermenter 1 is 30-70cm, preferably 50cm.

[0038] In this embodiment, the fermentation environment within the fermenter 1 is crucial to the overall fermentation outcome. The fermentation environment can be monitored and controlled. This embodiment optimizes the process by employing one feasible option: a monitoring component for acquiring fermentation environment data is installed within the fermenter 1. This monitoring component includes at least a temperature monitoring component, a liquid level monitoring component, and a pressure monitoring component. An adjustment component for adjusting the fermentation environment data is also provided, including at least a temperature adjustment component. When the above scheme is adopted, the monitoring component monitors at least the temperature, liquid level, and pressure within the fermenter 1, thereby enabling temperature, liquid level, and pressure regulation. The temperature adjustment component can be used to meet the temperature regulation needs of the fermenter 1, such as heating and maintaining the temperature. When the liquid level is abnormal, the liquid level can be adjusted by controlling the opening and closing of the connecting pipe between adjacent fermenters 1. When the pressure within the fermenter 1 changes, the pressure can be adjusted back to the normal range by controlling the exhaust gas from the fermenter 1.

[0039] Preferably, various devices can be used to detect the fermentation process inside the tank, such as Raman spectrometers and near-infrared spectrometers.

[0040] The arrangement of the gas and fluid supply lines can be varied, and their structure is not limited to a single method. This embodiment optimizes the arrangement and adopts one feasible option: such as... Figure 1 , Figure 2 or Figure 3 As shown, the gas supply pipe enters the horizontal fermenter 1 from the head, and the liquid supply pipe enters the horizontal fermenter 1 from the tail. When using the above scheme, both gas and liquid supply are performed based on actual monitoring data.

[0041] The structures of the gas supply pipe and liquid supply pipe can be constructed in various forms to achieve uniform gas and liquid supply within the horizontal fermenter 1. Their structures are not uniquely limited. This embodiment optimizes and adopts one feasible option: the pipe body 15 of the gas supply pipe and / or liquid supply pipe includes a straight pipe section. After entering the horizontal fermenter 1, the straight pipe section extends to the other end of the horizontal fermenter 1, and the openings 16 are spaced apart on the straight pipe section. When using the above scheme, it can be applied to small fermenters 1, where the straight pipe section is simply laid at the bottom of the fermenter 1.

[0042] In other solutions, the structures of the air supply tube and the liquid supply tube can also be constructed in other forms. This embodiment optimizes and adopts one of the feasible options: such as... Figure 4 , Figure 5As shown, the gas supply pipe and / or liquid supply pipe body 15 includes a straight pipe section. This straight pipe section enters the horizontal fermenter 1 and extends to the other end of the horizontal fermenter 1. The gas supply pipe and / or liquid supply pipe repeatedly bends and extends within the horizontal fermenter 1 to conform to the inner wall of the fermenter 1. The openings 16 are distributed at intervals along the extension of the pipe body 15. Using the above scheme, the gas supply pipe and liquid supply pipe can be applied to larger fermenters 1, enabling uniform gas and liquid supply within the fermenter 1.

[0043] In some other solutions, the gas supply tubing and fluid supply tubing can also employ different methods. This embodiment optimizes and adopts one of the feasible options: such as... Figure 6 As shown, the tank body of the gas supply pipe and / or liquid supply pipe includes a straight pipe section. After entering the horizontal fermenter 1, the straight pipe section connects to several annular extension sections. The openings 16 are distributed at intervals on the straight pipe section and the extension sections. When adopting the above scheme, the structure of the extension sections is not limited to annular, but can also be other shapes, such as tree-like, polygonal, etc., so as to be evenly distributed at the bottom of the fermenter 1 and realize gas supply and liquid supply.

[0044] Preferably, regardless of the type of gas supply pipe and liquid supply pipe structure used, each has an opening 16. The opening 16 on the gas supply pipe is the gas outlet, and the opening 16 on the liquid supply pipe is the liquid outlet. Generally, the gas outlet faces downward to increase the contact time between the gas and the fermentation liquid, while the liquid outlet can face upward or downward. Multiple gas outlets and liquid outlets are provided, evenly distributed along the pipes. The distance between two adjacent gas outlets and liquid outlets is 5-15 cm, preferably 10 cm. In small tanks, the diameter of the gas and liquid pipes is 5-15 mm, preferably 10 mm; in large tanks, the diameter of the gas and liquid pipes is 60-100 mm, preferably 80 mm.

[0045] When regulating the pressure inside fermenter 1, it is necessary to control the outward exhaust. Various methods can be used to regulate the exhaust, and the structure is not limited to a single approach. This embodiment optimizes and adopts one feasible option: several exhaust ports 4 are spaced apart above fermenter 1, and exhaust valves are installed at each exhaust port 4. When using the above method, the exhaust valves are generally opened or closed simultaneously to evenly regulate the gas pressure inside fermenter 1 and maintain balanced airflow, avoiding turbulence.

[0046] Preferably, the exhaust valve serves two purposes: controlling the gas pressure inside the tank and venting waste gas from the tank. The exhaust valve is a one-way valve to prevent outside air from entering the tank and causing contamination. A filter device is also connected to the exhaust valve to filter the waste gas; the filter device has a pore size of 0.2 micrometers. The filter device includes a filter membrane.

[0047] As the fermentation broth flows along the interior of the fermentation tank 1, a stirring device agitates the broth. The structure of the stirring device is not uniquely limited; this embodiment optimizes the process and employs one feasible option: the stirring device includes a stirring shaft 2 extending along the horizontal fermentation tank 1, with several stirring blades 3 spaced apart on the stirring shaft 2. One end of the stirring shaft 2 extends out of the fermentation tank 1 and is connected to a stirring motor 7. With this design, the stirring blades 3 not only agitate the fermentation broth but also drive it to flow in a designated direction, from one end of the fermentation tank 1 to the other, thereby facilitating the flow of the fermentation broth between different fermentation tanks 1.

[0048] Preferably, the stirring motor 7 is located outside the fermentation tank 1 and at the center of the cross-section of the fermentation tank 1, and is fixedly connected to the fermentation tank 1. The stirring shaft 2 is connected to the output shaft of the stirring motor 7 and passes through the tank body, extending into the tank body. The stirring shaft 2 is rotatably sealed to the tank body, and the end of the stirring shaft 2 away from the output shaft is also rotatably sealed to the tank body to prevent leakage of the fermentation liquid. The stirring shaft 2 is provided with multiple stirring blades, preferably four, evenly distributed on the stirring shaft 2. The stirring device can stir the fermentation liquid, so that the microorganisms, gases, and nutrients are mixed and dispersed evenly, and can also push the fermentation liquid towards the connecting pipe. The rotation diameter of the stirring blades is 40-70% of the tank body diameter, preferably 50%.

[0049] When adding microbial inoculum to fermenter 1, the number of fermentation tanks can be selected according to the fermentation requirements of different microbial inoculum. Therefore, multiple schemes can be adopted for adding microbial inoculum, and its structure is not limited to a single one. This embodiment optimizes and adopts one feasible option: the uppermost fermenter 1 is provided with a microbial inoculum adding structure, which includes a microbial inoculum adding port and a microbial inoculum pipe 5 that cooperates with the microbial inoculum adding port. The microbial inoculum adding structure of the lower fermenter 1 includes a microbial inoculum adding port located at the control pipe 11. The microbial inoculum adding port is connected to the microbial inoculum pipe 5 through the adding pipe. When the above scheme is adopted, when adding microbial inoculum from the uppermost fermenter 1, the fermentation liquid will flow from top to bottom through all fermenter 1; when adding microbial inoculum from a certain middle layer of fermenter 1, it will only flow from that layer of fermenter 1 through the fermenter 1 below.

[0050] Preferably, the adding structure is used to add microbial inoculum into the corresponding fermenter 1, and the inoculum pipeline 5 of the adding structure is provided with an adding valve 10, which is used to control the opening and closing of the inoculum pipeline 5 at that location.

[0051] Example 2

[0052] The above embodiment 1 discloses a continuous fermentation apparatus, and this embodiment also discloses a continuous fermentation production line.

[0053] like Figures 1-7As shown, a continuous fermentation production line includes the continuous fermentation device described above, and also includes a gas source, which is connected to the gas supply pipes of all fermentation tanks 1 through a gas supply main pipe 8 and supplies gas to all fermentation tanks 1 respectively; it also includes a liquid source, which is connected to all liquid supply pipes through a liquid supply main pipe 9 and supplies liquid to all fermentation tanks 1 respectively; and it also includes a microbial source, which is connected to a microbial source pipe 5 and supplies microbial source to the uppermost fermentation tank 1.

[0054] When the gas supply main pipe 8 and the liquid supply main pipe 9 supply gas or liquid to the fermenter 1, backflow needs to be avoided. Therefore, optimization is carried out and a more feasible option is adopted: a gas supply check valve 6 is provided between the gas supply main pipe 8 and the gas supply pipe, and / or a liquid supply check valve 14 is provided between the liquid supply main pipe 9 and the liquid supply pipe.

[0055] Preferably, in some embodiments, the main gas supply pipe 8 is not equipped with a gas replenishment check valve 6, or the main liquid supply pipe 9 is not equipped with a liquid replenishment check valve 14, and backflow is prevented by continuous gas supply or continuous liquid supply.

[0056] Preferably, in this embodiment, the gas source includes an air compression separation system and a gas tank 18. The gas separated by the air compression separation system is transferred to the gas tank 18 and then distributed to the replenishment pipe through the main gas supply pipe 8.

[0057] Preferably, in this embodiment, the liquid source includes a nutrient solution production and sterilization system and a nutrient solution tank 17. The nutrient solution produced by the nutrient solution production and sterilization system is transported to the nutrient solution tank 17, and then distributed from the nutrient solution tank 17 to the replenishment pipe. The nutrient solution in the nutrient solution tank 17 is powered by a liquid pump 13.

[0058] Preferably, in this embodiment, the lowest fermentation tank 1 is provided with a drainage structure 12 to drain the fermentation liquid and transport it to the fermentation liquid post-processing system.

[0059] Preferably, in this embodiment, the fermenter 1 is connected to the inoculum tank 19, and the inoculum tank 19 provides the corresponding inoculum to the fermenter 1.

[0060] The above are the embodiments listed in this example. However, this example is not limited to the optional embodiments described above. Those skilled in the art can arbitrarily combine the above methods to obtain other various embodiments. Anyone can derive other various forms of embodiments under the guidance of this example. The above specific embodiments should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this example. The scope of protection of this example should be defined in the claims.

Claims

1. A continuous fermentation apparatus, characterized in that: It includes several horizontal fermenters (1) stacked vertically. A control pipe (11) is provided between adjacent fermenters (1) to transport the fermentation liquid in the upper horizontal fermenter (1) to the lower horizontal fermenter (1). The head and tail of the same horizontal fermenter (1) are respectively provided with connecting ports to guide the fermentation liquid to flow through the horizontal fermenter (1) and then into the control pipe (11). A stirring device is provided in the horizontal fermenter (1) to stir the fermentation liquid. A gas supply pipe and a liquid supply pipe are also provided. The gas supply pipe and the liquid supply pipe extend in the horizontal fermenter (1) and have several openings (16) at intervals on the pipe body (15) to supplement gas and nutrient solution into the horizontal fermenter (1).

2. The continuous fermentation apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The fermenter (1) is equipped with a monitoring component for acquiring fermentation environment data. The monitoring component includes at least a temperature monitoring component, a liquid level monitoring component, and a pressure monitoring component. It is also equipped with an adjustment component for adjusting the fermentation environment data. The adjustment component includes at least a temperature adjustment component.

3. The continuous fermentation apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The body (15) of the gas supply pipe and / or liquid supply pipe includes a straight pipe section that extends to the other end of the horizontal fermenter (1) after entering the horizontal fermenter (1), and the openings (16) are distributed at intervals on the straight pipe section.

4. The continuous fermentation apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The tube body (15) of the gas supply pipe and / or liquid supply pipe includes a straight pipe section. After entering the horizontal fermenter (1), the straight pipe section extends to the other end of the horizontal fermenter (1). The gas supply pipe and / or liquid supply pipe bends and extends repeatedly inside the horizontal fermenter (1) to fit against the inner wall of the fermenter (1). The opening (16) is distributed at intervals along the extension of the tube body (15).

5. The continuous fermentation apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The tank body of the gas supply pipe and / or liquid supply pipe includes a straight pipe section, which enters the horizontal fermenter (1) and connects to several annular extension sections. The openings (16) are distributed at intervals on the straight pipe section and the extension sections.

6. The continuous fermentation apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The fermenter (1) is provided with several exhaust ports (4) at intervals above it, and an exhaust valve is provided at each exhaust port (4).

7. The continuous fermentation apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The stirring device includes a stirring shaft (2) extending along the horizontal fermentation tank (1), with several stirring blades (3) spaced apart on the stirring shaft (2), and one end of the stirring shaft (2) extending out of the fermentation tank (1) and connected to a stirring motor (7).

8. The continuous fermentation apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The fermentation tank (1) is equipped with a microbial inoculation structure. The microbial inoculation structure of the uppermost fermentation tank (1) includes a microbial inoculation port and a microbial inoculation pipe (5) that cooperates with the microbial inoculation port. The microbial inoculation structure of the lower fermentation tank (1) includes a microbial inoculation port that is located at the control pipe (11). The microbial inoculation port is connected to the microbial inoculation pipe (5) through the inoculation pipe.

9. A continuous fermentation production line, comprising the continuous fermentation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: It also includes a gas source, which is connected to the gas supply pipes of all fermenters (1) through the gas supply main pipe (8) and supplies gas to all fermenters (1) respectively; it also includes a liquid source, which is connected to all liquid supply pipes through the liquid supply main pipe (9) and supplies liquid to all fermenters (1) respectively; it also includes a microbial source, which is connected to the microbial pipeline (5) and supplies microbial sources to the uppermost fermenter (1).

10. The continuous fermentation production line according to claim 9, characterized in that: A gas supply check valve (6) is provided between the gas supply main pipe (8) and the gas replenishment pipe, and / or a liquid replenishment check valve (14) is provided between the liquid supply main pipe (9) and the liquid replenishment pipe.

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