A biomass generator useful for continuously growing and withdrawing
bacteria to be used in a desired beneficial application, the generator
having a bacteria growth chamber; water and nutrient inlet ports; upper
and lower outlet ports; a recirculating pump withdrawing and
reintroducing fluid to establish a vortex in the growth chamber while
controlling foaming and pump cavitation; a low pressure air inlet line
discharging air inside the growth chamber above the vortex; a fluid
discharge line receiving bacteria-containing fluid from the upper outlet
port of the growth chamber; a flush line discharging wash water into the
fluid discharge line; and an electrical controller cooperating with
solenoid-operated valves and a feeder mechanism to periodically introduce
water and nutrients into the chamber, thereby simultaneously causing
bacteria-containing fluid to be discharged from the growth chamber
through the upper outlet port. A method for growing bacteria using the
subject apparatus is also disclosed.