What is a peristaltic pump? The peristaltic pump is a type of positive displacement pump that operates based on the compression and tension of a rubber hose. It consists of a flexible hose through which fluid is pumped, driven by two or three rollers or cams. This circular motion creates suction and discharge of fluids. Peristaltic pumps are highly applicable for handling abrasive, corrosive, and sterile fluids, thanks to their non-contact system, which prevents the fluids from touching the internal components of the casing and rotor. Consequently, these pumps are valuable in the chemical, food, medical, paint, water, and military industries.
When selecting a suitable pump, critical factors include rotor rotation, channel design, head pressure, hose material, and driver specifications. Industrial peristaltic pumps typically have flow rates ranging from 1 to 250 m³/h and can achieve pressures up to 16 bar. Laboratory peristaltic pumps, however, exhibit lower flow rates and pressures, usually between 0.01 ml/min and 10 l/min. The flexible component in the industrial pump is referred to as a hose, while in laboratory pumps, it is called a tube. The flow rate and pressure are determined by roller systems, tube or hose orientation, and rotation speed; increasing the rotor's speed and hose diameter enhances both flow rate and discharge pressure.
In terms of specifications, the pumps model PA25010.MH can handle a flow rate of 25 m³/h at a pressure of 5 bar with a hose ID of 2.5 mm. The PA90010.MH model offers higher performance with a flow rate of 90 m³/h and a pressure of 15 bar, reflecting the advanced capabilities of industrial pumps.
One exemplary heavy-duty industrial pump features a flow rate of 90 m³/h alongside a discharge pressure of 16 bar, making it suitable for pumping slurry and viscous liquids.
Advantages of peristaltic pumps include:
- Optimized flow rates compared to centrifugal pumps
- Easy hose connections
- Inverter control for rotation management
- Adaptable hose materials based on liquid type
- Robust structure with minimal vibration.
The characteristics of hoses used in peristaltic pumps are vital: the diameter must be precise, hose length constant, and hardness uniform according to shore standards. Internal materials have specific applications, such as NR for highly abrasive liquids, NBR for oil and petrochemicals, and FDA CFR21 compliant materials for the food industry.
In laboratory peristaltic pumps, tubes are typically made from silicon or natural rubber, while industrial pumps utilize hoses reinforced with mechanical fibers for added durability. The rotor system design allows direct connection to ball bearings for efficiency, while the gearbox system, particularly planetary gearboxes, offers low maintenance, minimal clearance, high torque performance, and professional geometry.
Advantages of Parsa Group pumps include:
- Non-contact operation concerning internal systems
- Constant pressure output
- Seal-less operation and dry running capability
- Reduced wear due to slow shaft rotation
- Innovative and optimal designs tailored to customer needs.
Applications for peristaltic pumps encompass:
- Metal refinery (lead, zinc, gold, and silver)
- Tile and ceramic industries
- Paper production
- Paint manufacturing
- Oil and petrochemical sectors
- Medical and pharmaceutical applications
- Ocean industries
- Food manufacturing
- Sugar production
These industries benefit from the pump's ability to handle corrosive, viscous, and slurry fluids effectively, making peristaltic hose pumps a preferred choice in many challenging environments.