It seemed like a simple enough assignment: Move a 2.000 liter fermentation tank from one room to another. However, it had to be done in a very tight spot and while the factory was in normal operation. That was the task at CMC Biologics – now AGC Biologics A/S – in Søborg, Denmark. LBP Engineering managed the reconstruction of a production suite as well as the relocation and reconnection of the large and heavy fermentation tank.

The relocation of the tank was complicated by the fact that the new clean room in which the tank is now installed is smaller than the previous room. First of all, the ceilings are low. To bypass this, a so-called tophat design was installed, raising the ceiling in the area above the tank. This meant, however, that it became necessary to relocate the technical installations on the walkable technical area above, and coordinate this effort with the refitting of all ventilation and other piping for nitrogen, oxygen and clean air, among other elements.

The LBP project team has designed the modified clean room with a clear emphasis on accessibility, to make it easy to operate the fermentation tank and to keep comply with international regulations. During the design phase, the practical experience of the LBP team played a major part.

“We had a very small team in place: a mechanical engineer and an electrician. I think that it is a huge advantage for our clients that most LBP employees come from a practical craftsmanship background. It is the combination of practical and theoretical services that make our work valuable. In the project at hand, it certainly allowed the client to keep this factory in operation while we handled the relocation and refurbishment of their equipment,” says Bjarne Særmark.