ABEC, a leading global provider of engineered solutions and services for biotech manufacturing, today announced it will provide customized, large-scale bioprocess equipment, including a 14,500 liter total volume stainless steel fermenter and an 8,000 liter media preparation system to EKF Life Sciences, a division of EKF Diagnostics Holdings plc, which manufactures diagnostics enzymes and contracted custom products for use in medical diagnostics, pharmaceutical and industry. The agreement provides EKF Life Sciences’ South Bend, Indiana facility with the bioprocess equipment which will significantly expand EKF’s production capacity of enzymes used in a variety of diagnostic and Life Science applications.

An industry leader in high-quality diagnostic materials, EKF is committed to the timely and cost-effective supply of critical products to the global life science and healthcare industries. ABEC has over 45 years of experience in large-scale fermenter design and complete in-house engineering and manufacturing capabilities. ABEC will provide engineering services for EKF’s new fermentation facility to ensure optimal process performance and seamless facility integration. The 14,500 liter fermenter will feature ABEC’s patented internal cooling panels, which will enable efficient sanitation, optimal heat removal and the highest possible fermenter productivity.

“EKF Life Sciences is dedicated to developing new products and capabilities that best serve the in vitro diagnostic market on a global scale. The partnership with ABEC is another important step in accelerating our organic growth strategy,” said Mike Salter, CEO of EKF Diagnostics Holdings plc. “Their innovative equipment and resources will enable us to quickly deliver our specific manufacturing requirements and we look forward to working with them as we continue to expand our biomanufacturing capabilities and capacity.”

“ABEC’s innovative technologies and complete turnkey solutions are unique in the industry,” said Scott Pickering, ABEC CEO and Chairman. “We look forward to continuing to support EKF’s expansion and growth.”