Can You Use Any Type of Tube on A Peristaltic Pump?
Peristaltic pumps are ideal for moving chemicals or liquids when you want to avoid cross-contamination because the tubing through which fluid moves is self-contained in the pump. These pumps work by exerting peristaltic pressure - squeezing and relaxing – on the tubing which runs in a c-shape through the pump housing. The liquid being pumped remains inside the tube, never coming into contact with any other parts. They’re an excellent choice for agricultural, medical and wastewater treatment processes where accurate dosages of liquid and easy sterilisation are essential.
The tubing used in any peristaltic pump is an essential component but as with many things, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all option and due consideration must be given to what fluids or chemicals will be passing through. Here we look at the factors you should weigh up when you choose the right tubing for your peristaltic tube pump.
Compatibility With Chemicals
Peristaltic pumps in the UK are equipped to handle all manner of chemicals or abrasive liquids, from thick sludge or slurry to viscous liquids. The tubing is the main consumable part, subject to wear and as such needs to be compatible with the liquid being pumped. It’s important to check supplier charts for tubing specifically used with peristaltic pumps rather than for general use. This is because, whilst it might be suitable under normal circumstances, the stress of the peristaltic movement when pushing a particular chemical or liquid through could cause the material to fail and leak.
Trace amounts of chemicals and some acids can be enough to destroy tubing when it is exposed to it over hours or days.
Temperature and Pressure
While tubing can be robust at room temperature it could crack or become significantly degraded as temperature or pressure increases. Advances in tubing research have led to high-pressure products (pressures up to 125 PSI) but it’s important to choose a tubing that won’t deteriorate rapidly under heat or split under pressure peaks. For example, LSM pumps standardly come with natural rubber tubing that gives good service life for temperatures encountered in mesophilic anaerobic digestion processes. For higher heat, thermophilic digestion processes (55oC – 70+ oC), pasteurisation systems, and an SBR or EPDM hose material specification are usually better.
The positive displacement principle of peristaltic pumps causes a certain level of pulsation, hence why a dampener may need to be fitted to protect the tube from pressure spikes.
Make sure the pressure in the system doesn’t exceed the recommended working pressure of your tubing and consider the temperature the pump needs to operate at. Silicone and SBR tubing have a relatively wide temperature range while others are more narrow in their scope.
Dimensions
The size of your tubing is essential, especially since every peristaltic pump is designed to be used with its correct diameter and length of hose. Too small and you may suffer reduced pump performance, insufficient flow rate and even complete failure. Too large and excess material could be pinched between the rollers and the pump head housing, leading to excessive wear and tear.
Check the tube’s inside diameter and wall thickness as even small deviations could cause issues with accuracy and dosing.
Regulations
Some industries require specific materials to be used to meet legal requirements.
For example, in UK water treatment and distribution, tubing must satisfy the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme, ensuring tubing is suitable for use with potable water and won’t release contaminants. Again, LSM pumps come with four different types of hose to accommodate – standard, natural rubber, EDPM, nitrile and food-approved. Choosing a specific hose for clean water supplies, dosing of chemicals, and, transferring sewage sludge could help ensure longer life and best sanitation practices.
Peristaltic Tubing FAQs
1. Does your tube need to be transparent?
It’s not a requirement but it can be beneficial in applications where monitoring flow, cleanliness or fluid integrity is essential. Conversely, opaque tubing is ideal for applications requiring enhanced durability, chemical resistance, or protection from light.
2. Does it need to be impermeable to gas?
Peristaltic pump tubing doesn’t always need to be impermeable, but it will depend on the specific application and the type of fluid being pumped. For example, in environmental processes, it may be necessary to avoid the release of harmful gases or volatile components.
3. Can any silicone tube be used for a peristaltic pump?
Silicone tubing is a popular choice for its flexibility, durability and biocompatibility but it’s not suitable for every use. Some fluids, such as aggressive chemicals, solvents, or oils, may degrade standard silicone, necessitating the use of specialised tubing.
4. Can you use PVC tubing for peristaltic pumps?
Yes, PVC tubing can be used in peristaltic pumps, but its suitability depends on the specific application and the type of PVC tubing being used.
5. Do peristaltic pump hoses need lubricating?
Most peristaltic pumps benefit from some form of lubrication to get the longest life from the tubing. Some require regular greasing of the roller bearings, whilst LSM peristaltic pumps are lubricated by glycerine held within the pump housing.
For more information about peristaltic pumps and their use in the biogas industry in particular, click here to download our guide.
