In this example, VMF is applied for an extracellular protein process, where the fermentation broth is processed directly, and a concentrated protein is achieved.
Description:
The fermentation broth is processed in a Vibro® microfiltration unit, where the cells are separated from the proteins. The resulting concentrate (retentate) is returned to the harvest tank. The positive pump creates an ultralow TMP that prevents fouling from building up. This means that the Vibro® unit sustains an exceptionally high transmission of protein throughout the process. The cell free protein (permeate) from the Vibro® microfiltration unit, is transferred to the product tank.
From the product tank, the protein is gently concentrated in a Vibro® ultrafiltration unit, where the concentrate is returned to the product tank. A positive pump creates the TMP needed for the process and can return the protein free retentate to the harvest tank. In the harvest tank, the retentate is used as a diafiltration buffer, to wash the cells further, while keeping the cell concentration low and avoiding excess water consumption (closed loop).
When the fermentation broth is virtually free of protein, the Vibro® microfiltration unit is stopped, and the Vibro® ultrafiltration unit is run until the desired protein concentration is reached.
This setup makes it possible to achieve +95% recovery without using additional water or buffer for diafiltration.
In this setup, it is also possible to change buffer, adjust pH etc. during the process.