PILOT-SCALE VERIFICATION OF A COMPUTER-BASED SIMULATION FOR THE CENTRIFUGAL RECOVERY OF BIOLOGICAL PARTICLES

The development of a model for simulating the recoveries by pilot-scal e disc-stack centrifugation of whole yeast cells, yeast cell debris an d protein precipitates prepared by ammonium sulphate salting-out is pr esented. The model is based on the grade efficiency concept and incorp orates the effects of hindered settling at high biomass concentrations and the breakage of shear-sensitive material within the centrifuge fe ed-zone to give an accurate prediction of solid/liquid separation. The simulations have been proven by comparison with data from pilot-scale verification trials. The trials have highlighted where improvements t o the models were required to increase their accuracy. The value of ve rification trials in proving the validity of models is commented upon.