The features of a typical fermenter (as shown below) are engineered to enable efficient culture of microbial, mammalian or insect cells and  facilitate  ease  of operation for the user. Key design factors that a good fermenter design must achieve are:

Operate aseptically for days 

Agitate and aerate effectively without damage to the organism

Control key parameters for cell growth e.g. temperature, pH

Reduce evaporation

Minimise the use of labour

Maximise the use of computer control

Have geometric similarity for scale up

Smooth construction for ease of cleaning

Flexibile and reliable operation