Shown is an operator recording data for an E. coli fermentation. These parameters typically include temperature, RPM of agitator, pH, sparging air flow rate, vessel pressure, dissolved oxygen, acid and base usage, antifoam usage, fermenter total volume, and a sample is taken for optical density readings and microscopic examination (136, 199, 226, 230).
This Operator is adjusting the feed rate of the antifoam addition pump. As a fermentation progresses, it can produce and release proteins into solution which causes foaming. An antifoam agent is crucial in keeping foam down to prevent a "foam out" which will clog the exhaust filters, forcing the run to be shut down prematurely (136, 195, 199, 230).
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