Installation and Pre-Use Handling Guide for BioVita Systems

Proper installation and pre-use handling are the foundation of reliable fermentation performance. Following these critical steps helps prevent contamination, equipment damage, and process deviations.
1. Site & Utility Check 
-Place the system on level ground; ensure good ventilation, cleanliness, and reliable grounding.
-Check power, instrument air, water, and steam pressure against your specific equipment specifications.
2. Unpacking & Assembly
-Verify all components against the packing list; inspect for transit damage.
-Secure all tank ports, bolts, and fittings to the recommended torque – do not overtighten manual valves.
-Ensure O-rings and gaskets are correctly seated.
▲Never start the agitator without water in the tank.

3. Sensor Calibration
-Calibrate pH and DO electrodes before sterilization.
-pH: Use two-point calibration with buffers matching your process. Rinse, do not wipe the electrode. Store in saturated KCl if not in use.
-Optical DO: No zero-point calibration needed. Calibrate 100% after sterilization, before inoculation, with max agitation and aeration.
▲ Protect the optical cap from organic solvents and strong oxidizers. Never add electrolyte.

4. Integrity Test
-Pressurize the assembled system with air; close all valves. Monitor pressure for ≥30 min.
-Detect leaks with soapy water; tighten or replace seals as needed.
▲ Must be completed before sterilization.
5. Water System Prime
-Open water injection and jacket valves; bleed until water flows without bubbles.
-Confirm circulation pump and jacket filling.
6. Air Compressor
-Drain condensate at least twice daily; check connections.
-Verify pressure switch and safety valve per compressor manual.
7. Cleaning & Sterilization Prep
-Clean tank with soft brush and purified water; drain completely.
-For SIP, ensure steam quality and do not introduce cooling water when tank temperature exceeds the specified limit.
-Keep all electrodes submerged; maintain exhaust valve open during sterilization.
8. Final Pre-Use Check
-After cooling, re-verify sensor readings.
-Disinfect connection points with 70% ethanol before aseptic connections.
-Run a water test to confirm agitation, temperature, and gas flow control.
▲ Key Safety
-Depressurize before servicing. Never create negative pressure during cooling.
-Keep air line pressure > tank pressure to prevent backflow.