Peristaltic Pumps & Motors

A peristaltic pump is a type of positive displacement pump that moves fluids through a hose or tube squeezed by a set of rollers. Only the tubing of peristaltic pumps encounters the fluids. This design prevents cross-contamination, making the pump ideal for chemical transfer. A peristaltic pump is best if you need an accurate dosage of fluid transferred to a system. These pumps provide constant flow no matter the pressure with the help of a safety valve that controls the pressure.

Frequently asked questions: What is a peristaltic pump? What are peristaltic pumps used for? How does a peristaltic pump work?

Visit our blog for more FAQs about peristaltic pumps and answers to these questions.

How a peristaltic pump works

Peristaltic pumps use a process known as peristalsis to transport fluids. The tube of the pump contracts and expands as the rollers move across it, creating waves that carry the fluids along. This gentle motion makes the peristaltic pump ideal for transporting fragile cells or proteins.

1. As the tube constricts, it creates a vacuum that pulls fluids into the tube.
2. The roller compresses the tube as it moves across, pushing the contents through the pump.
3. The pressure applied by the rollers acts like a check valve and prevents any contents from flowing backward.
4. More fluid enters the tube as the roller releases with each rotation.
5. Simply remove and clean the tubing to sanitize the pump.

Benefits of a Peristaltic Pump

• Accurate dosing
• Gentle fluid transfer
• Abrasion resistance
• Contamination prevention
• Backflow prevention

What are peristaltic pumps used for?

• Dispensing cosmetics, foods, adhesives, media, fuels, lubricants, and waste
• Ultrafiltration
• Harvesting cell media and aspiration of culture media
• Vitamin injections
• Dialysis machines
• Pharmaceutical production
• Car washes
• pH control
• Irrigation
• Scale control
• Algae control
• Manufacturing

How to know which peristaltic pump is best for you:

Pump head

A single head pump allows all the liquid in a pump to flow through the inlet. A double head pump splits the flow and conducts liquid through both sides of the pump. It has an additional pump head that provides twice the output and allows for two solution injections.

Tubing design

The compatibility of a peristaltic pump with a certain type of fluid is almost completely dependent on the design of the tubing. Tubing that connects to the pump head differs from the suction tubing.

Desired flow rate

Flow rate is determined by tubing size and pump speed. Larger tubing produces faster flow rates.

Chemical compatibility

Make sure the chemicals you plan to use with your peristaltic pump are suited for your choice of tubing.

Pressure

High-pressure peristaltic pumps are industrial-grade pumps designed to pump aggressive sewage and slurries. Their casings are lined with lubricants to avoid damage from abrasion and friction, as well as to dissipate heat buildup. The reinforced tubing is capable of handling high pressures.

Low-pressure peristaltic pumps are laboratory-grade pumps designed for low-pressure applications, like IVs and chemical meters. These pumps usually have dry and non-reinforced casings.