A Peristaltic Pump is a type of positive displacement pump used for pumping a variety of fluids. The fluid is contained within a flexible tube fitted inside a circular pump casing. A rotor with a number of rollers compress the flexible tube. As the rotor turns. the part of the tube under compression is pinched closed thus forcing the fluid to be pumped to move through the tube. As the tube opens to its natural state after passing the cam, fluid flow is induced to the pump. This process is called Peristalsis.
The main critical component of a Peristaltic Pump is the tubing because the fluid only comes in contact with this component. The tubing needs to be flexible and strong enough to withstand the constant pinching action as well as meet chemical compatibility requirements. Several manufacturers offer a wide variety of tubing for Peristaltic Pumps in different diameters and materials.
Silicone tubing is the most economical choice for short laboratory tests, however, Pharmed BPT® tubing is more desirable in medical, chemical and pharmaceutical applications because it has better chemical resistance properties.