Vinegar Fermentation Monitoring and Control
GS2E Gas analyzer system for vinegar fermentations
Online detection of ethanol in the fermentation mash, carried out in real time without sampling and analysis, is used to automate the production process.
Online detection of ethanol in the fermentation mash, carried out in real time without sampling and analysis, is used to automate the production process.
The probe, a tube covered with a silicone diaphragm, is placed in the fermentation mash. Pressure adjusted instrument air is conducted through the probe and enriched with ethanol diffusing through the diaphragm.
For gas analysis a semiconductor sensor element is used which is located in the switchboard and connected with the ethanol enriched air stream. Depending on the transmitted signal, the corresponding ethanol concentration in the fermention mash is calculated. Signal linearization is carried out by use of pre-installed calibration data.
Process values such as the calculated ethanol concentration, temperature and sensor resistance are shown on the LCD display of the switchboard. For the purpose of process control, the linearized signal is converted to a standard current signal and two limit relay contacts which can be used as input signal for any process control system, or for visualization and/or documentation.
The GS2E gas analyzer system is applicable for any type of fermenter and any type of control system. It is easily installed and integrated with existing equipment.
The system consists of a probe which is placed inside the fermenting mash and connected to a switchboard by a flexible tube.
The switchboard is designed for field installation in the vicinity (less than 5 meter) of the fermenter, preferable on a wall to be free of vibrations. Power-supply and instrument air must be available, as well as connections to the PCS for further use of signal.
To mount the probe, a hole must be drilled into the fermenter shell to install a welding socket. It has to be placed in the lower part of the fermenter where the probe is permanently immersed in well-mixed mash. The fittings are included in the delivery.
| Weight of switchboard | 10 kg |
| Dimensions of switchboard HxWxD | 400 x 300 x 200 mm |
| Power supply | 230 V / 50 Hz |
| Instrument air supply (4 bar g) | 20 Ndm³/h |
| Power consumption | approx. 50 W |
| Operating Range | 0 - 5 vol% ethanol |
| Accuracy | ±0.2 vol% (full range 0-5 vol%) ±0.05 vol% (range 0 - 0.5 vol%) |
| Reproducibility | ±0.03 vol% |
| Operating temperature range | 0 - 45 °C |
|
Output |
4 - 20mA (analogue) |
Semi-continuous vinegar fermentation systems depend on steadily available alcohol in the mash, otherwise the fermentation comes to a halt. Monitoring the alcohol content of the fermenting mash therefore plays a vital role.
As soon as the residual alcohol content in the fermenter reaches a minimum, part of the raw vinegar is ejected and fresh alcoholic mash is fed in. This process is automated by using the GS2E gas analyser to reduce the supervision to a minimum.
The sensors used are extremely stable, with a design service life of several months. Recalibration to compensate raw material effects can easily be done by client on site.
In the event of sensor replacement, pre-calibrated sensors can be obtained from Vogelbusch or calibration can be carried out by client on site.
This gas analyzer system was specifically developed by Vogelbusch for bioprocess applications.
It is made from standard industrial components to ensure optimum availability with minimum maintenance. The following design features are part of the scope of supply:
Similar developments are available from Vogelbusch for application in yeast and alcohol fermentations:
» GS2/7 Gas Analyzer for aerobic yeast fermentations
» IR-SD2/2 Gas Analyzer for alcohol fermentations