Laboratory benchtop fermenter for advanced bioprocess development
The Biostream laboratory benchtop fermenter is a highly configurable bioreactor designed for precise bioprocess development, microbial cultivation, and cell culture applications. Suitable for bacterial, algae, fungal, plant, insect, animal, and human cell research, the system combines advanced process control with exceptional flexibility to support laboratories involved in research, process optimisation, scale-up, and small-scale production. Available from Apex Scientific, a trusted supplier of laboratory equipment in South Africa, this laboratory benchtop fermenter delivers reliable performance while adapting to evolving research requirements through modular hardware, intelligent software, and extensive integration capabilities.
Designed for versatile laboratory applications
The Biostream platform supports multiple process modes, including batch, fed-batch, continuous, and perfusion cultivation, making it suitable for a broad range of bioprocess applications. Researchers can work with bacterial cultures, algae, microbial cultivation, and mammalian cell culture using the same control platform. Furthermore, the system supports both mechanical and magnetic drive configurations, allowing laboratories to select the agitation method best suited to their application.
Universal vessel dimensions simplify linear scale-up and scale-down between process stages, while compatibility with small laboratory autoclaves improves routine laboratory workflows. Multiple impeller designs, including marine, pitched blade, spin filter, and cell lift configurations, provide additional flexibility for different cultivation requirements.
Intelligent control and monitoring
The laboratory benchtop fermenter is controlled by the Biostream BOS software platform, which provides comprehensive monitoring, data logging, and advanced PID control. Researchers can operate the system using a 9-inch multi-touch screen or from a connected computer, while network communication allows up to 32 controllers to be managed from a single platform.
Temperature is regulated through a water-jacketed vessel with PID control, Pt-100 sensors, and an integrated safety thermostat, delivering accurate thermal stability across demanding laboratory applications. Intelligent pH and dissolved oxygen sensors continuously monitor culture conditions, while automatic reagent addition maintains stable process parameters throughout fermentation.
Flexible integration and automation
The Biostream platform has been developed to integrate seamlessly with existing laboratory equipment. The controller supports Modbus communication, analogue and digital inputs and outputs, CAN Bus, RS-232 communication, extension boards, and configurable I/O for connecting balances, gas analysers, pumps, sensors, valves, mass flow controllers, and other process instrumentation.
The standard configuration includes gas mixing capability, up to four mass flow controllers, integrated network connectivity, configurable analogue and on/off pumps, and dedicated space for additional gas analysers or process sensors. Up to five integrated pumps can be configured for acid, base, feed, substrate, or antifoam addition, while external pumps can also be incorporated to meet specialised laboratory requirements.
Built for demanding bioprocess workflows
The laboratory benchtop fermenter combines accurate process control with flexible hardware to support advanced microbial cultivation, bacterial fermentation, algae research, and cell culture development. Depending on the selected configuration, the system is available with SIP capability for applications requiring sterilisation in place and aseptic processing. Because the modular platform can be expanded as research requirements grow, laboratories can increase capability without replacing their existing investment.
Apex Scientific supplies the Biostream range throughout South Africa, providing expert application advice, installation, training, and after-sales support to help laboratories achieve reliable and reproducible bioprocess results.
To learn more, visit the Apex Scientific Insights page for application articles and technical resources. You can also explore the complete Biostream product range on the Biostream website for detailed specifications and compatible accessories.
