Computational Studies of a Novel Magnetically Driven Single-Use-Technology Bioreactor: A Comparison of Mass Transfer Models

Richard Maltby, Shuai Tian, Yong-Min Chew

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

7 Citations (SciVal)
179 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

This work applies computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling to a novel 1000 L design of single-use-technology (SUT) bioreactor, with a magnetically driven floor-mounted impeller and spargers distributed across the tank floor. A two-phase Euler-Euler model using the k-ε turbulence model and population balance is presented alongside the use of immersed solid method for modelling the impeller motion. This work also provides the first CFD analysis of a large-scale SUT bioreactor, identifying key flow characteristics of the non-standard design at different operating conditions. Five models for the mass transfer coefficient, k L, are compared, with k La values compared to experimental measurements. The slip velocity model is found to be the best prediction of the mass transfer coefficient for this SUT system. Separating the influence of the mass transfer coefficient and specific area,a shows that the latter is the dominant driving force behind changes in k La that occur at different operating conditions. Comparing the present work to previous studies for traditional stirred tanks highlights the need for understanding the hydrodynamics of non-standard reactor designs when identifying suitable mass transfer models in gas-liquid flow systems.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)157-173
Number of pages17
JournalChemical Engineering Science
Volume187
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 21 Sept 2018

Keywords

  • Bioreactor
  • CFD
  • Immersed solid
  • Mass transfer
  • Single-use-technologies

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Chemistry
  • General Chemical Engineering
  • Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering

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