Revolutionize Your Laboratory Work with the IKA HABITAT:The Most Flexible, Ergonomic, and Complete Bioreactor on the Market
As the first bioreactor equipped with a lid stand, the IKA HABITAT ensures ergonomic handling and optimal usability in the laboratory.
How to Set Up Your IKA HABITAT Bioreactor for Optimal Performance?
Setup is straightforward: all you need is a control unit tailored to your application and a glass vessel suited to your workload. Let’s walk through it together.
1. Choose the Control Unit
- Mammalian cells: Select the cell variant, offering gas flow rates from 0 to 2000 cc/min.
- Microbial culture: Choose the ferment variant, with gas flow rates ranging from 0 to 20,000 cc/min.
- Phototrophic organisms: The photobioreactor configuration with integrated LED panels is ideal.
- CCT configuration: Provides the option to connect three additional sensors: conductivity, CO₂, and turbidity.
2. Add Vessels
Complete your control unit with a vessel package that matches your application and workload. Simple, isn’t it?
What Are the Advantages of Combining Bioreactor, Fermenter, and Photobioreactor in a Single Control Unit?
- Versatility: Supports multiple single- or double-walled vessels (0.5 to 10 L) for maximum flexibility. One control unit allows full compatibility across the entire vessel range.
- Variable Motor: Adjustable motor technology enables quiet and energy-efficient operation.
- Chaotic Mixing: Ensures efficient and homogeneous mixing for optimal culture performance.
- PID Management: Delivers precise control and reliable scaling of growth processes.
- Ergonomics: Multi-touch display and integrated lid holder enhance user comfort.
- Temperature Control: Heating jacket or thermostat options ensure accurate temperature regulation.
- Compatibility: Supports a wide range of standard sensors available on the market.
- Optimization: Compact design maximizes bench space and productivity.
- Numerous Options: Off-gas analysis, flask holders, lid stand, gravimetric feeding, and more.
Advice and configuration
Would you like a configuration tailored to your process? Or do you need an offer?
We invite you to schedule a call with us to explore how our bioreactors can support your research, help you achieve your scientific objectives, and guide you throughout your scientific journey.
Contact an expert in fermenters in Belgium, The Netherlands, and Luxembourg
FAQ Frequently Asked Questions About Bioreactors for Benelux Laboratories
What is a bioreactor?
A bioreactor is a sophisticated system designed to create optimal conditions for biological processes. It supports the production of proteins, vaccines, biofuels, and other high-value compounds by precisely controlling temperature, pH, oxygen levels, and nutrient supply.
What sizes and configurations are available for bioreactors and is scale-up possible?
Bioreactors are available in different formats, from compact benchtop units for research laboratories to larger systems suited for industrial production. This flexibility ensures that any laboratory can select a configuration that matches its workflow.
The current IKA HABITAT portfolio includes fermenters with vessels ranging from 0.5 to 10 liters. Scaling up is facilitated by the standardized HABITAT design, which is compatible with commercially available larger setups. This modular approach ensures consistent performance from R&D to full-scale manufacturing.
Why are bioreactors important for laboratories in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg (Benelux)?
Investing in high-quality bioreactors is essential for driving research efficiency and production capacity in Benelux laboratories. Understanding their key components and operating principles significantly enhances performance and reliability.
What are the key features of bioreactors?
- Versatile sizes and configurations: Suitable for a wide range of laboratory needs.
- Optimal growth conditions: Controlled environment for maximum biological productivity.
- Advanced control systems: Precise regulation of critical parameters.
Why choose IKA bioreactors and Analis for your fermentation solutions?
- Cutting-edge technology: State-of-the-art performance for Benelux research environments.
- Customizable solutions: Configurations tailored to specific laboratory requirements.
- Expert support: Local field service engineers from Analis (Namur, Gent, Zaltbommel) ensure maintenance and operational continuity.
- Innovative training: Virtual Reality (VR) training options to reduce risks and reagent costs.
What are the essential components of a bioreactor?
Understanding the Main Components of a Bioreactor
- Vessel: The chamber where cell growth takes place. Lab-scale vessels are typically glass or plastic, while industrial units are stainless steel.
- Agitation and Mixing: Impellers ensure homogeneous distribution of nutrients, gases, and heat. Gentle mixing is used for mammalian cells, while microorganisms require more vigorous motion.
- Sensors and Monitoring: Integrated sensors track temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and nutrients, enabling real-time adjustments.
- Automated Control Systems: Regulate environmental conditions by adjusting gas flow, feeding, and pH.
- Gas Supply and Exchange: Spargers introduce gases such as air or oxygen, while exhaust systems remove waste gases.
- Temperature Regulation: Heating or cooling systems maintain optimal conditions.
- Pump and Feeding Systems: Ensure continuous and consistent nutrient delivery.
These components work together to maintain optimal growth conditions, improving process efficiency and productivity.
What is the bioprocess workflow in bioreactors?
Key Stages of Bioprocessing in Bioreactors
1. Sterilization: The vessel and components are sterilized using methods such as SIP or autoclaving to prevent contamination.
2. Inoculation: The prepared inoculum is introduced into the sterilized vessel to initiate growth.
3. Cultivation: Critical parameters such as temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and nutrients are continuously monitored and adjusted. Batch, fed-batch, or continuous processes may be used.
4. Harvesting: Once the culture reaches the desired density, downstream processes such as filtration, centrifugation, or chromatography are applied.
This workflow ensures efficient, reproducible, and productive bioprocessing from laboratory to industrial scale.
Our products
The HABITAT cell control tower package is particularly suitable for HABITAT’s cell culture applications and is used to monitor and control the bioprocess.
It includes the control unit with all connection options for gas supply, liquid addition, sensors and temperature control as well as a tablet for easy and clear operation of the bioreactor.
Control and monitoring
The bioprocess and all associated test parameters can be easily controlled and monitored via the tablet attached to the control unit and with the help of the intuitive and easy-to-use software. Depending on the type of cultivation, you can choose between the operating modes batch, fed-batch and perfusion/continuous. The new Chaotic Mixing function ensures faster and more effective mixing when required. The 10.4-inch tablet allows direct access to all actuators directly on the main screen. A clear calibration management, a diagram overview and the complete documentation of the process round off the operation. A software version that meets FDA CFR Part 11 requirements is available as an option.
Gas supply
Built in mass flow controllers for 4 separate gas lines (for N2, O2, air and CO2) ensure precise, individually adjustable gassing, ideally tailored to the needs of your cells.
Flow rates of 0.01 - 2 l/min can be achieved.
Liquid supply
4 integrated Watson Marlow pumps, adjustable in direction and speed, give you the variability to pump in and pump out different liquids (like acid, base, anti-foam agent, feeding solutions).
Sensors
HABITAT cell enables the measurement of the following parameters by means of sensors:
• pH
• DO (dissolved oxygen)
• temperature
• filling level
• foam
Temperature control
The constant and precise temperature control during the cultivation is guaranteed by the heating sleeve, which is adapted to the respective vessel size. (Heating sleeve is included with the HABITAT cell vessel package).
* Can be combined with double-walled vessel packages
The HABITAT photo cell control unit package of the HABITAT research bioreactor monitors and controls the bioprocess. With the included LED panels, the system can be used as a photobioreactor, for example for algae cultivation. Adjusting the light intensity lets you simulate a day-night rhythm. The package also includes the control unit with all connections for gas supply, liquid addition, sensors and temperature control, plus a tablet for simple, clear operation of the bioreactor.
Control and monitoring
The bioprocess and all test parameters are easily controlled and monitored via the tablet on the control unit, using intuitive software. Depending on the cultivation type, choose batch, fed-batch or perfusion/continuous modes. The new Chaotic Mixing function gives faster, more effective mixing when needed. The 10.4-inch tablet gives direct access to all actuators from the main screen. Clear calibration management, a diagram overview and full process documentation complete the operation. A software version meeting FDA CFR Part 11 requirements is available as an option.
Gas supply
Built-in mass flow controllers for 4 separate gas lines (N2, O2, air and CO2) ensure precise, individually adjustable gassing, tailored to your cells. Flow rates of 0.01-2 l/min can be achieved.
Liquid supply
4 integrated Watson Marlow pumps, adjustable in direction and speed, let you pump different liquids in and out (acid, base, anti-foam agent, feeding solutions).
Sensors
The HABITAT system measures the following parameters via sensors:
- pH
- DO (dissolved oxygen)
- temperature
- filling level
- foam
Temperature control
Constant, precise temperature control during cultivation is ensured by the heating sleeve, matched to the vessel size. (The heating sleeve is included with the HABITAT cell vessel package.)
All features at a glance
- Compact, space-saving design: 223 x 402 x 450 mm (W x D x H)
- Large tablet for clear operation (10.4 inch)
- Intuitive, easy-to-use software with many functions
- 4 integrated fast-load pumps (Watson Marlow)
- Connectivity: USB, PC, RS232, Ethernet, external signal input, external pump, single-use unit, thermostat
- Data storage
- Gas supply with 4 built-in mass flow controllers, e.g. for O2, air, N2, CO2
- Status LED display: direct error indication by light
Note: only a control tower package together with the separately available vessel package forms a functional unit.
The HABITAT cell cct control tower package is designed for HABITAT cell culture applications and is used to monitor and control the bioprocess. It includes the control unit with all connections for gas supply, liquid addition, sensors and temperature control, plus a tablet for easy, clear operation of the bioreactor. On top of the HABITAT cell package, you can connect CO2, conductivity and turbidity sensors.
Control and monitoring
The bioprocess and all test parameters are easily controlled and monitored via the tablet on the control unit, using intuitive software. Depending on the cultivation type, choose batch, fed-batch or perfusion/continuous modes. The new Chaotic Mixing function gives faster, more effective mixing when needed. The 10.4-inch tablet gives direct access to all actuators from the main screen. Clear calibration management, a diagram overview and full process documentation complete the operation. A software version meeting FDA CFR Part 11 requirements is available as an option.
Gas supply
Built-in mass flow controllers for 4 separate gas lines (N2, O2, air and CO2) ensure precise, individually adjustable gassing, tailored to your cells. Flow rates of 0.01-2 l/min can be achieved.
Liquid supply
4 integrated Watson Marlow pumps, adjustable in direction and speed, let you pump different liquids in and out (acid, base, anti-foam agent, feeding solutions).
Sensors
The HABITAT system measures the following parameters via sensors:
- pH
- DO (dissolved oxygen)
- temperature
- filling level
- foam
Temperature control
Constant, precise temperature control during cultivation is ensured by the heating sleeve, matched to the vessel size. (The heating sleeve is included with the HABITAT cell vessel package.)
All features at a glance
- Compact, space-saving design: 223 x 402 x 450 mm (W x D x H)
- Large tablet for clear operation (10.4 inch)
- Intuitive, easy-to-use software with many functions
- 4 integrated fast-load pumps (Watson Marlow)
- Connectivity: USB, PC, RS232, Ethernet, external signal input, external pump, single-use unit, thermostat
- Data storage
- Gas supply with 4 built-in mass flow controllers, e.g. for O2, air, N2, CO2
- Status LED display: direct error indication by light
Note: only a control tower package together with the separately available vessel package forms a functional unit.
* Can be combined with double-walled vessel packages
The HABITAT photo cell cct control unit package of the HABITAT research bioreactor monitors and controls the bioprocess. With the included LED panels, the system can be used as a photobioreactor, for example for algae cultivation. Adjusting the light intensity lets you simulate a day-night rhythm. The package also includes the control unit with all connections for gas supply, liquid addition, sensors and temperature control, plus a tablet for simple, clear operation. On top of the HABITAT cell package, you can connect CO2, conductivity and turbidity sensors.
Control and monitoring
The bioprocess and all test parameters are easily controlled and monitored via the tablet on the control unit, using intuitive software. Depending on the cultivation type, choose batch, fed-batch or perfusion/continuous modes. The new Chaotic Mixing function gives faster, more effective mixing when needed. The 10.4-inch tablet gives direct access to all actuators from the main screen. Clear calibration management, a diagram overview and full process documentation complete the operation. A software version meeting FDA CFR Part 11 requirements is available as an option.
Gas supply
Built-in mass flow controllers for 4 separate gas lines (N2, O2, air and CO2) ensure precise, individually adjustable gassing, tailored to your cells. Flow rates of 0.01-2 l/min can be achieved.
Liquid supply
4 integrated Watson Marlow pumps, adjustable in direction and speed, let you pump different liquids in and out (acid, base, anti-foam agent, feeding solutions).
Sensors
The HABITAT system measures the following parameters via sensors:
- pH
- DO (dissolved oxygen)
- temperature
- filling level
- foam
Temperature control
Constant, precise temperature control during cultivation is ensured by the heating sleeve, matched to the vessel size. (The heating sleeve is included with the HABITAT cell vessel package.)
All features at a glance
- Compact, space-saving design: 223 x 402 x 450 mm (W x D x H)
- Large tablet for clear operation (10.4 inch)
- Intuitive, easy-to-use software with many functions
- 4 integrated fast-load pumps (Watson Marlow)
- Connectivity: USB, PC, RS232, Ethernet, external signal input, external pump, single-use unit, thermostat
- Data storage
- Gas supply with 4 built-in mass flow controllers, e.g. for O2, air, N2, CO2
- Status LED display: direct error indication by light
Note: only a control tower package together with the separately available vessel package forms a functional unit.
The HABITAT ferment control tower package is designed for HABITAT fermentation applications and is used to monitor and control the bioprocess. It includes the control unit with all connections for gas supply, liquid addition, sensors and temperature control, plus a tablet for easy, clear operation of the bioreactor.
Control and monitoring
The bioprocess and all test parameters are easily controlled and monitored via the tablet on the control unit, using intuitive software. Depending on the cultivation type, choose batch, fed-batch or perfusion/continuous modes. The new Chaotic Mixing function gives faster, more effective mixing when needed. The 10.4-inch tablet gives direct access to all actuators from the main screen. Clear calibration management, a diagram overview and full process documentation complete the operation. A software version meeting FDA CFR Part 11 requirements is available as an option.
Gas supply
Built-in mass flow controllers for 4 separate gas lines (N2, O2, air and CO2) ensure precise, individually adjustable gassing, tailored to your cells. Flow rates of 0.1-20 l/min can be achieved.
Liquid supply
4 integrated Watson Marlow pumps, adjustable in direction and speed, let you pump different liquids in and out (acid, base, anti-foam agent, feeding solutions).
Sensors
The HABITAT system measures the following parameters via sensors:
- pH
- DO (dissolved oxygen)
- temperature
- filling level
- foam
Temperature control
Constant, precise temperature control during cultivation is ensured by the heating sleeve, matched to the vessel size. (The heating sleeve is included with the HABITAT cell vessel package.)
All features at a glance
- Compact, space-saving design: 223 x 402 x 450 mm (W x D x H)
- Large tablet for clear operation (10.4 inch)
- Intuitive, easy-to-use software with many functions
- 4 integrated fast-load pumps (Watson Marlow)
- Connectivity: USB, PC, RS232, Ethernet, external signal input, external pump, single-use unit, thermostat
- Data storage
- Gas supply with 4 built-in mass flow controllers, e.g. for O2, air, N2, CO2
- Status LED display: direct error indication by light
Note: Only a control tower package together with the separately available vessel package forms a functional unit.
* Can be combined with double-walled vessel packages
The HABITAT photo ferment control unit package of the HABITAT research bioreactor monitors and controls the bioprocess. With the included LED panels, the system can be used as a photobioreactor, for example for algae cultivation. Adjusting the light intensity lets you simulate a day-night rhythm. The package also includes the control unit with all connections for gas supply, liquid addition, sensors and temperature control, plus a tablet for simple, clear operation.
Control and monitoring
The bioprocess and all test parameters are easily controlled and monitored via the tablet on the control unit, using intuitive software. Depending on the cultivation type, choose batch, fed-batch or perfusion/continuous modes. The new Chaotic Mixing function gives faster, more effective mixing when needed. The 10.4-inch tablet gives direct access to all actuators from the main screen. Clear calibration management, a diagram overview and full process documentation complete the operation. A software version meeting FDA CFR Part 11 requirements is available as an option.
Gas supply
Built-in mass flow controllers for 4 separate gas lines (N2, O2, air and CO2) ensure precise, individually adjustable gassing, tailored to your cells. Flow rates of 0.1-20 l/min can be achieved.
Liquid supply
4 integrated Watson Marlow pumps, adjustable in direction and speed, let you pump different liquids in and out (acid, base, anti-foam agent, feeding solutions).
Sensors
The HABITAT system measures the following parameters via sensors:
- pH
- DO (dissolved oxygen)
- temperature
- filling level
- foam
Temperature control
Constant, precise temperature control during cultivation is ensured by the heating sleeve, matched to the vessel size. (The heating sleeve is included with the HABITAT cell vessel package.)
All features at a glance
- Compact, space-saving design: 223 x 402 x 450 mm (W x D x H)
- Large tablet for clear operation (10.4 inch)
- Intuitive, easy-to-use software with many functions
- 4 integrated fast-load pumps (Watson Marlow)
- Connectivity: USB, PC, RS232, Ethernet, external signal input, external pump, single-use unit, thermostat
- Data storage
- Gas supply with 4 built-in mass flow controllers, e.g. for O2, air, N2, CO2
- Status LED display: direct error indication by light
Note: only a control tower package together with the separately available vessel package forms a functional unit.
The HABITAT ferment cct control tower package is designed for HABITAT fermentation applications and is used to monitor and control the bioprocess. It includes the control unit with all connections for gas supply, liquid addition, sensors and temperature control, plus a tablet for easy, clear operation of the bioreactor. On top of the HABITAT cell package, you can connect CO2, conductivity and turbidity sensors.
Control and monitoring
The bioprocess and all test parameters are easily controlled and monitored via the tablet on the control unit, using intuitive software. Depending on the cultivation type, choose batch, fed-batch or perfusion/continuous modes. The new Chaotic Mixing function gives faster, more effective mixing when needed. The 10.4-inch tablet gives direct access to all actuators from the main screen. Clear calibration management, a diagram overview and full process documentation complete the operation. A software version meeting FDA CFR Part 11 requirements is available as an option.
Gas supply
Built-in mass flow controllers for 4 separate gas lines (N2, O2, air and CO2) ensure precise, individually adjustable gassing, tailored to your cells. Flow rates of 0.1-20 l/min can be achieved.
Liquid supply
4 integrated Watson Marlow pumps, adjustable in direction and speed, let you pump different liquids in and out (acid, base, anti-foam agent, feeding solutions).
Sensors
The HABITAT system measures the following parameters via sensors:
- pH
- DO (dissolved oxygen)
- temperature
- filling level
- foam
Temperature control
Constant, precise temperature control during cultivation is ensured by the heating sleeve, matched to the vessel size. (The heating sleeve is included with the HABITAT cell vessel package.)
All features at a glance
- Compact, space-saving design: 223 x 402 x 450 mm (W x D x H)
- Large tablet for clear operation (10.4 inch)
- Intuitive, easy-to-use software with many functions
- 4 integrated fast-load pumps (Watson Marlow)
- Connectivity: USB, PC, RS232, Ethernet, external signal input, external pump, single-use unit, thermostat
- Data storage
- Gas supply with 4 built-in mass flow controllers, e.g. for O2, air, N2, CO2
- Status LED display: direct error indication by light"
Note: only a control tower package together with the separately available vessel package forms a functional unit.
* Can be combined with double-walled vessel packages
The HABITAT photo ferment cct control unit package of the HABITAT research bioreactor monitors and controls the bioprocess. With the included LED panels, the system can be used as a photobioreactor, for example for algae cultivation. Adjusting the light intensity lets you simulate a day-night rhythm. The package also includes the control unit with all connections for gas supply, liquid addition, sensors and temperature control, plus a tablet for simple, clear operation. On top of the HABITAT cell package, you can connect CO2, conductivity and turbidity sensors.
Control and monitoring
The bioprocess and all test parameters are easily controlled and monitored via the tablet on the control unit, using intuitive software. Depending on the cultivation type, choose batch, fed-batch or perfusion/continuous modes. The new Chaotic Mixing function gives faster, more effective mixing when needed. The 10.4-inch tablet gives direct access to all actuators from the main screen. Clear calibration management, a diagram overview and full process documentation complete the operation. A software version meeting FDA CFR Part 11 requirements is available as an option.
Gas supply
Built-in mass flow controllers for 4 separate gas lines (N2, O2, air and CO2) ensure precise, individually adjustable gassing, tailored to your cells. Flow rates of 0.1-20 l/min can be achieved.
Liquid supply
4 integrated Watson Marlow pumps, adjustable in direction and speed, let you pump different liquids in and out (acid, base, anti-foam agent, feeding solutions).
Sensors
The HABITAT system measures the following parameters via sensors:
- pH
- DO (dissolved oxygen)
- temperature
- filling level
- foam
Temperature control
Constant, precise temperature control during cultivation is ensured by the heating sleeve, matched to the vessel size. (The heating sleeve is included with the HABITAT cell vessel package.)
All features at a glance
- Compact, space-saving design: 223 x 402 x 450 mm (W x D x H)
- Large tablet for clear operation (10.4 inch)
- Intuitive, easy-to-use software with many functions
- 4 integrated fast-load pumps (Watson Marlow)
- Connectivity: USB, PC, RS232, Ethernet, external signal input, external pump, single-use unit, thermostat
- Data storage
- Gas supply with 4 built-in mass flow controllers, e.g. for O2, air, N2, CO2
- Status LED display: direct error indication by light
Note: only a control tower package together with the separately available vessel package forms a functional unit.
The 0.5 l vessel package for the HABITAT research bioreactor contains a 0.5 l single-walled glass vessel for cell culture applications, plus the matching stirring drive. With the separately available control tower package (e.g. HABITAT cell), you get all the components needed for successful cultivation.
The 0.5 l vessel package for the HABITAT research bioreactor contains a 0.5 l double-walled glass vessel for cell culture applications, plus the matching stirring drive. With the separately available control tower package (e.g. HABITAT cell), you get all the components needed for successful cultivation. For temperature control via the double jacket, we recommend one of our circulators, such as the HRC basic or control.
The 1 l vessel package for the HABITAT research bioreactor contains a 1 l single-walled glass vessel for cell culture applications, plus the matching stirring drive. With the separately available control tower package (e.g. HABITAT cell), you get all the components needed for successful cultivation.
The 1 l vessel package for the HABITAT research bioreactor contains a 1 l double-walled glass vessel for cell culture applications, plus the matching stirring drive. With the separately available control tower package (e.g. HABITAT cell), you get all the components needed for successful cultivation. For temperature control via the double jacket, we recommend one of our circulators, such as the HRC 2 basic or control.
