Efficient cultivation infrastructure and control systems for FPA-Photobioreactors
The microalgae Cultivation Infrastructure from Subitec is a successful combination of precision work, innovative technology and careful attention to detail. It comprises a robust, technologically advanced system that seamlessly integrates the nutrient preparation system (Media Preparation), the cleaning and sterilisation system (Cleaning Unit), the harvesting system (Harvesting Unit) and the advanced control system (Control Unit). These four units are carefully designed and optimally matched to the Cultivation Modules (CM180). Connected to the ring line, the Cultivation Infrastructure enables an efficient and productive cultivation process.
Efficient cultivation infrastructure and control systems for FPA-Photobioreactors
The microalgae Cultivation Infrastructure from Subitec is a successful combination of precision work, innovative technology and careful attention to detail. It comprises a robust, technologically advanced system that seamlessly integrates the nutrient preparation system (Media Preparation), the cleaning and sterilisation system (Cleaning Unit), the harvesting system (Harvesting Unit) and the advanced control system (Control Unit). These four units are carefully designed and optimally matched to the Cultivation Modules (CM180). Connected to the ring line, the Cultivation Infrastructure enables an efficient and productive cultivation process.
Wide range of media preparation and advanced filtration
The Media Preparation System, commonly referred to as the nutrient preparation system, is the foundation of the cultivation process. Its main role is to formulate the nutrient mix that is critical for microalgal growth. This advanced system is tailored to the unique needs of different microalgae species by finely calibrating a blend of macronutrients, micronutrients, vitamins and trace elements. This ensures the cultivation of high-quality, nutrient-rich microalgae.
A key component of the system is the state-of-the-art filtration technology, which creates a sterile environment conducive to microalgae growth. The system uses a multi-stage filtration process: Primary filtration targets larger particles, while secondary and tertiary stages gradually focus on finer impurities. This comprehensive filtration ensures the purity of the nutrient mixture and maintains the highest quality standards throughout the cultivation process.
Wide range of media preparation and advanced filtration
The Media Preparation System, commonly referred to as the nutrient preparation system, is the foundation of the cultivation process. Its main role is to formulate the nutrient mix that is critical for microalgal growth. This advanced system is tailored to the unique needs of different microalgae species by finely calibrating a blend of macronutrients, micronutrients, vitamins and trace elements. This ensures the cultivation of high-quality, nutrient-rich microalgae.
A key component of the system is the state-of-the-art filtration technology, which creates a sterile environment conducive to microalgae growth. The system uses a multi-stage filtration process: Primary filtration targets larger particles, while secondary and tertiary stages gradually focus on finer impurities. This comprehensive filtration ensures the purity of the nutrient mixture and maintains the highest quality standards throughout the cultivation process.
Efficient and scalable microalgae harvesting technology
At the end of the cultivation process is the harvest. That is why the Cultivation Infrastructure is a central element in the process chain. The Harvesting Unit and Harvesting System are responsible for ensuring that the algae are harvested exactly when their nutrient density is at its most optimal. Through precise control mechanisms, this system guarantees that the nutritional value and integrity of the microalgae are maintained throughout the harvesting process.
The Harvesting System ensures that the harvested product not only meets the highest quality standards, but is also available in the desired quantity. It is capable of efficiently processing both small and large quantities of microalgae, making it suitable for different production sizes from laboratory scale to large-scale commercial applications. In addition, The Harvesting System from Subitec facilitates the subsequent downstreaming process, whether by centrifugation, filtration or flocculation, due to the high quality and density of the biomass.
Efficient and scalable microalgae harvesting technology
At the end of the cultivation process is the harvest. That is why the Cultivation Infrastructure is a central element in the process chain. The Harvesting Unit and Harvesting System are responsible for ensuring that the algae are harvested exactly when their nutrient density is at its most optimal. Through precise control mechanisms, this system guarantees that the nutritional value and integrity of the microalgae are maintained throughout the harvesting process.
The Harvesting System ensures that the harvested product not only meets the highest quality standards, but is also available in the desired quantity. It is capable of efficiently processing both small and large quantities of microalgae, making it suitable for different production sizes from laboratory scale to large-scale commercial applications. In addition, The Harvesting System from Subitec facilitates the subsequent downstreaming process, whether by centrifugation, filtration or flocculation, due to the high quality and density of the biomass.
Innovative system for cleaning and sterilisation
The Cleaning Unit with the Cleaning-In-Place (CIP) and Sterilisation-In-Place (SIP) system is an essential part of the Cultivation Infrastructure of Subitec. It ensures the cleanliness and sterility not only of the photobioreactors, but of the entire cultivation environment.
A particular focus of this system is to reduce contamination risks that are common in cultivation systems. The methodology is based on scientifically validated cleaning approaches specifically designed to remove all types of potential contaminants, whether organic or inorganic. This thorough cleaning ensures that the cultivation infrastructure is free of harmful substances and contaminants.
The SIP system uses highly effective chemical sterilisation agents following the CIP process. This sterilisation not only ensures the elimination of microorganisms, but also helps to create the ideal environment for the microalgae growth process. By integrating both systems – CIP and SIP – Subitec offers a reliable solution that ensures the integrity of the cultivation process from start to finish.
Innovative system for cleaning and sterilisation
The Cleaning Unit with the Cleaning-In-Place (CIP) and Sterilisation-In-Place (SIP) system is an essential part of the Cultivation Infrastructure of Subitec. It ensures the cleanliness and sterility not only of the photobioreactors, but of the entire cultivation environment.
A particular focus of this system is to reduce contamination risks that are common in cultivation systems. The methodology is based on scientifically validated cleaning approaches specifically designed to remove all types of potential contaminants, whether organic or inorganic. This thorough cleaning ensures that the cultivation infrastructure is free of harmful substances and contaminants.
The SIP system uses highly effective chemical sterilisation agents following the CIP process. This sterilisation not only ensures the elimination of microorganisms, but also helps to create the ideal environment for the microalgae growth process. By integrating both systems – CIP and SIP – Subitec offers a reliable solution that ensures the integrity of the cultivation process from start to finish.
Monitoring & adjustment in the cultivation process
The modern control technology from Subitec plays a central role in maximising cultivation success. A combination of stationary control system and remote access function not only enables constant monitoring of the cultivation process, but also the ability to fine-tune and quickly adapt to changing conditions.
The stationary system acts as the heart of the cultivation infrastructure and is directly connected to all relevant process modules. This allows parameters such as nutrient content, temperature and light intensity to be continuously monitored and optimised.
In addition, the remote access control system allows operators to monitor the cultivation process remotely in real time and make adjustments as needed. Thanks to secure VPN connections, it is also ensured that both the cultivation process and the associated data are protected at all times.
Monitoring & adjustment in the cultivation process
The modern control technology from Subitec plays a central role in maximising cultivation success. A combination of stationary control system and remote access function not only enables constant monitoring of the cultivation process, but also the ability to fine-tune and quickly adapt to changing conditions.
The stationary system acts as the heart of the cultivation infrastructure and is directly connected to all relevant process modules. This allows parameters such as nutrient content, temperature and light intensity to be continuously monitored and optimised.
In addition, the remote access control system allows operators to monitor the cultivation process remotely in real time and make adjustments as needed. Thanks to secure VPN connections, it is also ensured that both the cultivation process and the associated data are protected at all times.
Innovative add-ons for improved productivity
Resource optimisation and environmental responsibility are becoming increasingly important. To this end, three innovative add-ons complement the CM180 Modules:
CO2-Recovery Unit
The recovery unit under development is not just about capturing carbon dioxide, but a strategic step towards sustainable production. By recycling and returning the CO2 to the process, the unit will not only conserve resources but also minimise the system’s carbon footprint, paving the way for environmentally friendly operations.
Water Recovery Unit
This unit, which is currently under development, will make an important contribution to water conservation in production. It will serve to recover and purify water from the production process and will ensure a smaller water footprint. The unit will thus make a decisive contribution to sustainable and resource-saving action.
Hydrogen Extraction Unit
An upcoming innovative add on that will use the potential of microalgae to produce hydrogen: The environmentally friendly energy carrier will be produced directly in the system by microalgae and can be extracted by the Hydrogen Unit. The industrial production system will thus offer an additional source of income and contribute to the energy transition.