TYPES OF PERISTALTIC PUMPS

Peristaltic hose pumps are self-priming rotary positive displacement pumps that consist of three main components: a hose or tubing, a housing, and a rotor.

There are two main types of peristaltic pumps, hose pumps and tube pumps, each designed for different operating conditions. Understanding these peristaltic pump types is essential when selecting the right solution for your application, as each offers specific advantages depending on pressure, flow rate, and fluid characteristics.

How do peristaltic pumps work?

Whether you have a hose pump or tube pump, the hose/tube is placed in the tubing bed between the rotor and the housing. The rotor has several “rollers” or “shoes” attached to the external circumference that move across the hose/tube where it is “squeezed” and subsequently pushes the liquid. The hose/tube behind the shoe or roller recovers its shape, which creates a vacuum and draws fluid in behind it.

Flow rate in these pumps is determined by multiplying speed (rpm) by the volume of the trapped liquid. The volume is moved at a consistent rate, even under a wide range of viscosities or density. The flow rate is directly proportional to the gearbox speed (rpm).

 For a more detailed explanation of how peristaltic pumps work, read our full guide. 

Types of peristaltic pumps:  

1. Hose pumps  

Peristaltic hose pumps offer operators the following key benefits:

• high pressures - these can commonly operate at pressures up to 16 bars

• typically use “shoes”

• the casing is filled with lubricant to prevent abrasion of the exterior of the pump tube, and aid in the dissipation of heat.

• the force needed to occlude the hose is much greater than for the tubing

• bigger pumps and motors are required for a given flow rate with the hose pump.

There are a wide variety of hose pumps available, and the most popular choice is the reliable, durable Verderflex range. The Verderflex VF hose pumps and Verderflex Dura Series offer operators high flow rates and pressures to meet the demand of some of the harshest applications. 

2. Tube pumps   

Peristaltic tube pumps are like a “mini” version of their hose counterparts. They offer operators:

• lower pressures - can operate at pressures up to 4 bar

• typically have dry casing and use rollers with non-reinforced extruded tubing

• use rollers to squeeze the tube

• have a minimum of two rollers 180 degrees apart, and as many as eight to 12 rollers

• more rollers increase the frequency of the pumped fluid at the outlet, which decreases the amplitude of pulsing.

• more rollers also reduce the tubing life as there is a higher number of occlusions.

There are diverse tube pumps available, the choice of pump usually depends on the type of application and fluid being pumped. Global Pumps offer the entire range of Verderflex metering and dosing pumps, including the Verderflex Vantage 5000, Ds500, Dsf4, and the Verderflex Rapide Series. These dosing pumps are widely used in applications involving highly corrosive or hazardous chemicals, as well as in food processing for flavours and brewing additives.

Global Pumps YouTube channel: What Makes Hose Pumps DIFFERENT From Tube Pumps

Speak with our team to find the right peristaltic pump solution

Not sure which type of hose or tube pump suits your application? Get in touch with our Global Pumps’ team today to discuss your specific requirements.