Brief Introduction to Fermentation Tank Automatic Control System

**Comparison of Fermentation Tank Control Systems**

Currently, three main types of control systems are used for fermentation tanks: industrial control computers (ICCs), single-chip microcomputers (SCMs), and programmable logic controllers (PLCs). Each has distinct characteristics that cater to different needs and budgets.

### **1. Industrial Control Computer (ICC) System**

- **Description:** Modified computers with control panels, popular in the late 1980s to mid-1990s.

- **Advantages:** Low cost and affordability.

- **Disadvantages:**

- Complex structure prone to interference and data acquisition errors.

- Slow data response due to software filtering.

- Stability issues, including frequent crashes, disrupting experiments.

- **Suitability:** Phased out in the late 1990s due to significant drawbacks.

### **2. Single-Chip Microcomputer (SCM) System**

- **Description:** Compact, stable, and powerful controllers with a low main frequency.

- **Advantages:**

- Overcomes the instability and crash issues of ICCs.

- Affordable compared to PLC systems.

- **Disadvantages:** Limited in expansion and reprogramming.

- **Suitability:** Ideal for laboratory fermenters in research settings, balancing performance and cost.

### **3. Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) System**

- **Description:** Modular design with high stability, large storage capacity, and easy programmability.

- **Advantages:**

- High stability and powerful functionality.

- Easy expansion and data analysis.

- Large color touchscreen for user-friendly operation.

- **Disadvantages:** Higher cost compared to ICCs and SCMs.

- **Suitability:** Best for pilot and production-scale fermenters, offering reliability and scalability.

### **Recommendations:**

- **University/Research Use:** Single-chip microcomputer systems are cost-effective and sufficient for laboratory fermenters.

- **Pilot/Production Scale:** PLC systems are preferred for their advanced features, stability, and scalability.

- **Industrial Computer Systems:** Not recommended for larger-scale applications due to risks and limitations.