How Do Peristaltic Pumps Work?

What is a peristaltic pump?

Peristaltic pumps are also known as hose pumps, tube pumps or roller pumps. They provide a reliable and simple solution for moving almost any fluid in a wide variety of markets and applications.

At the core of the pump is an elastomeric hose. This tube fully contains the fluid, virtually eliminating the possibility of product contamination. Albin Pump manufactures a variety of durable tube or hose materials to meet the chemical compatibility required for each application.

The external hose surface is not machined after extrusion, which enables better lubrication of the hose. The lubricant reduces friction on the hose during operation and reduces heat buildup. The result is longer hose life and less maintenance required.  

What is a peristaltic pump used for?

Peristaltic hose pumps can transfer, dose or meter a range of fluids, including cosmetic lotions, abrasive slurries such as lime milk in mining applications, or sodium hypochlorite at water treatment plants.

Peristaltic pumps offer a flexible solution for chemical processing, wastewater applications, food & beverage and more. When paired with variable speed drives or a PLC, pump flow can be adjusted to accurately meter or dose fluids.

Albin Pump offers a wide range of pumps that can be configured to meet your fluid transfer needs, regardless of industry. 

• Peristaltic pumps have fewer mechanical parts than other pump technologies, decreasing the service required for worn parts.
• When needed, pump maintenance is quick and easy. Scheduled service consists of a simple hose change-out, yielding a lower total cost of ownership than many other pump technologies.
• Fluid does not touch any part of the pump, except the inner surface of the hose or tube and the connectors.
• The rollers or shoes move fluid through the hose or tube, so there is no need for degassing valves. The rollers squeeze the tube to prevent backflow and eliminate the need for mechanical seals, creating a seal-less system.
• Flow can occur in either direction through the hose. This bi-directional flow enables a user to easily clean the hose by flushing the lines and the process piping system during a purge cycle.
• Peristaltic pumps are designed to run dry, self-prime and offer a high suction lift (32 ft / 9.8 m). Their seal-less construction uses no mechanical seals or stuffing boxes, which can lead to fluid leaks.
• Peristaltic pumps are easy to set up, operate and maintain without specialized training. These positive displacement pumps do not require compressed air or rely on valves that can clog. The peristaltic pumping action is ideal for handling abrasive fluids and shear sensitive fluids.
• Albin Pump manufactures a wide range of tube materials and sizes, along with drive-options, pump accessories and connections. Contact your local distributor to learn more about our replacement hoses and accessories.