Peristaltic Pumps: Understanding Function, Benefits, and Applications

When it comes to handling challenging fluids, peristaltic pumps offer an efficient, reliable solution for a wide range of industries. Known for their gentle pumping action and ability to handle both viscous and abrasive fluids, these pumps are indispensable in various applications, from ASME pressure vessels for chemical processing to medical devices.

In this blog, we’ll explore peristaltic pumps, a type of positive displacement pump, how they work, their key advantages, and common applications, helping you decide whether this pump type is the right choice for your fluid handling needs.

What are peristaltic pumps?

A peristaltic pump (also known as a hose or tube pump) works based on the peristalsis principle, which is the same mechanism that moves food through the digestive tract. These pumps consist of a tube that is compressed by a set of rollers or shoes, which pushes the fluid along the tube. As the rollers move, they create a vacuum at the pump’s intake and a positive pressure at the discharge, resulting in a smooth and continuous fluid flow.

The primary feature of peristaltic pumps is that the fluid never comes in contact with moving parts—just the hose or tube. This eliminates the risk of contamination, making peristaltic pumps an excellent option for handling sensitive or sterile fluids.

How do peristaltic pumps work?

The operation of a peristaltic pump is quite simple. The pump consists of a flexible tube that is positioned inside a casing. As the rollers or shoes rotate, they pinch the tube, creating a section that is squeezed closed. This action forces the fluid through the tube and into the discharge side, while the tube returns to its open position as the rollers move around the casing. This process is continuous and efficient, ensuring smooth fluid flow.

Because the fluid only comes into contact with the tube, the pump is ideal for handling chemicals, food products, or other substances that must be kept free of contamination.

What are the key benefits of peristaltic pumps?

1. Accuracy and Precision

Peristaltic pumps deliver a precise and constant flow, making them ideal for applications where accurate fluid dispensing is required. They can handle very small flow rates with great precision, which is important in sectors like pharmaceuticals or food processing.

2. Self-Priming

Peristaltic pumps are self-priming, like diaphragm pumps, meaning they can start pumping without needing a separate priming process. This makes them a great choice for applications where air must be removed or when starting from a dry state.

3. Handles Viscous and Abrasive Fluids

One of the key advantages of peristaltic pumps is their ability to handle high-viscosity fluids, slurries, and even abrasives without clogging. Whether you’re pumping thick oils, muds, or slurries, peristaltic pumps ensure smooth fluid transport.

4. No Seals or Valves

Because the fluid only contacts the tubing, there’s no need for seals or valves, which reduces maintenance needs and lowers the risk of leaks or contamination. The lack of mechanical seals also eliminates issues related to seal wear.

5. Gentle Pumping Action

Peristaltic pumps have a gentle pumping action, making them ideal for handling shear-sensitive fluids. This is important when dealing with delicate substances like food or biological products that must not be damaged during transport.

What are some of their common applications?

• Chemical Processing: In chemical processing, peristaltic pumps are commonly used to transfer chemicals, including corrosive or hazardous fluids. Their ability to handle a wide range of chemicals without contamination makes them invaluable in industries like water treatment, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals.

• Food & Beverage Industry: The food and beverage industry relies on peristaltic pumps for transferring delicate liquids, such as juices, syrups, and creams. These pumps provide consistent and contamination-free flow, which is essential for meeting food safety standards.

• Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices: In the pharmaceutical industry, peristaltic pumps are used for transferring sterile liquids, dosing medications, and in intravenous (IV) systems. The sterile nature of the pump is ideal for these sensitive applications.

• Water Treatment: In water treatment systems, peristaltic pumps are used for chemical dosing and water disinfection. Their self-priming feature and precise flow control make them perfect for adding treatment chemicals (see water treatment equipment) like chlorine or other disinfectants.

• Mining and Slurry Handling: Peristaltic pumps are commonly used in mining to transport slurries, as they can handle abrasive, thick, and high-solids fluids. They provide reliable, consistent fluid flow even in harsh conditions.

Do you have any maintenance tips for peristaltic pumps?

Tube replacement

Since the fluid only contacts the tube, tube wear is the primary maintenance task for peristaltic pumps. Regular tube inspection and replacement ensure optimal performance and prevent leaks or reduced flow rates.

Check roller and shoe condition

The rollers or shoes that compress the tube can wear over time, leading to uneven flow or tube damage. Regular inspection of these parts is essential to maintain pump efficiency.

Clean the system

Even though the pump prevents contamination, it’s still crucial to clean the system regularly, especially if the pump is used to handle food or chemical products. Cleaning prevents buildup and ensures the system remains hygienic.

Why choose peristaltic pumps?

Peristaltic pumps offer unmatched precision, reliability, and versatility, making them ideal for a variety of industries and fluid types. Whether you’re handling chemicals, food products, or delicate fluids, these pumps ensure that your system remains efficient and free of contamination.

For industries requiring accurate flow, minimal maintenance, and the ability to handle challenging fluids, peristaltic pumps provide a superior solution. When combined with proper pump services and regular maintenance, peristaltic pumps are sure to provide long-lasting performance.

EV Pump's Fluid Handling Solutions

If you are looking for fluid handling systems solutions, peristaltic pumps are a great option for your specific needs. Reach out to EV Pump & Equipment for more information on our high-performance pumps, including centrifugal pumps, positive displacement pumps, gear pumps, and charge pumps, and let us help you find the right pump for your system.

EV Pump & Equipment is a leading provider of high-performance fluid handling solutions, specializing in custom pump systems and comprehensive services for industries like oil & gas, petrochemical, and municipal water. With a deep passion for pumps and a commitment to excellence, we deliver reliable, efficient solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of every client. Our hands-on approach and elite equipment ensure that your operations run smoothly and efficiently, every time.