Patent ID: 7290669
Filing Date: 2007-11-06
Classification: C02F,C12M

Abstract:
1. An upflow bioreactor comprising: a vessel having an inlet, an outlet, and a top opening, wherein the top opening is configured to receive an auger and drive assembly; a septum positioned within the vessel and defining a lower chamber and an upper chamber, the septum having an aperture that provides fluid communication between the lower chamber and the upper chamber; and an auger and drive assembly comprising a drive housing and an auger, wherein the drive housing is mounted over the top opening and forms a gas seal around the top opening and wherein the auger extends from the drive housing through the aperture in the septum, the drive assembly including an adjustment mechanism that allows mounting the drive assembly to be selectively adjusted relative to the vessel in order to cause lateral movement of the auger relative to the septum.