More about Peristaltic Pumps

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Peristaltic pumps generate fluid flow in a tube through the use of external rotating rollers. These rollers spin in a single, but reversible, direction around an axis, and as they rotate, they make contact with the outer diameter of the tubing. The rollers then press into the tubing, which must have at least some flexibility, and propel the media. As the roller rotates away from the tube, another makes contact, continuing the constant motion of the contained fluid. At the points of contact, the flexible tube becomes compressed and forces the media in the direction of the rollers’ movement.

Peristaltic pumps have a number of advantages over other pump designs. Unlike many other systems, the fluid within the tube is not exposed to any pump components, and only makes contact with the inside of tube. This prevents contamination of both fluid and pump, ensuring that the pump is not damaged by the fluid or particulate within the fluid, and that the fluid remains completely pure and undamaged by pump operation. It also allows the pump to perform without a filter, as well as to minimize cleanup. If a tube has received excessive wear, it can be easily removed and replaced.

Specialized peristaltic pumps are used in various medical applications. In some cases, these pumps are used to actually move blood through the patient’s veins and arteries. The rollers are designed so that they do not damage the blood vessels or the blood cells. These devices assist blood flow in various surgical procedures and medical operations.

Peristaltic pumps are rated by pump speed and flow rate, and pump tubing is rated by size and acceptable flow. Most pumps can be used with a certain range of tubing sizes, which will be specified by the manufacturers, with appropriate flow and RPM ratings for each size (they will vary). Because peristaltic pumps operate by positive displacement, they have minimal backflow, and are used for a variety of low and medium flow metering applications, where specific amounts of fluid need to be delivered.