Peristaltic Pump pulsation issues
Peristaltic Pump pulsation issues
(OP)
Pulsation is breaking the PVC tubing. We are using a 1/2 HP single lobe peristaltic operating at 1,700 RPM that is moving 10 GPM up 2' to a tube that is at atmospheric pressure. The flow is thru the tube and returns to the pump at the other end. There is only about 10" clearance above the pump so dampeners are out. Replacing the pump with a sine or progressive cavity is too expensive. Currently the discharge of the pump has a stainless connector that feeds a 5' length of 1" flexible PVC tubing that is routed through a 360 degree bend. Then it transitions to 1" Schedule 40. This seems to be working at present but I'm not confident that it will last. The pump is in continuous operation and the tubing has a tendency to kink which increases the pressure.





RE: Peristaltic Pump pulsation issues
What fluid are you pumping?
Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA
RE: Peristaltic Pump pulsation issues
It sounds to me like this "kink" is building too much back pressure on the pump. Eliminate that issue, and you should be ok.
Thoughts?
RE: Peristaltic Pump pulsation issues
RE: Peristaltic Pump pulsation issues
Steve
RE: Peristaltic Pump pulsation issues
Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA
RE: Peristaltic Pump pulsation issues
If there is no chance for you to install a pulsation dampener and if an expansion joint right after the pump does not help. you'll have to install another pump.
Is the pump really working at 1700 rpm or is that only the motor speed? Isn't there a gear between motor and pump?
RE: Peristaltic Pump pulsation issues
micalbrch The pump does indeed operate at 1,700 RPM but I like your comments regarding pressure. I could replace the 1" plumbing with 1.25" or even larger within our existing framework. You mentioned an expansion joint as an option. Currently I'm using the 1" clear PVC and I'm not confident that it will last. Do you have any suggestions for a manufacturer of such an item?
Steve
RE: Peristaltic Pump pulsation issues
I can't recommend a certain manufacturer for an expansion joint but there should be plenty of them. I do not even know whether "expansion joint" is the correct word as English isn't my native language. "Flexible connector" and "compensator" are other words for me. These devices are not designed to act as pulsation dampeners but they will at least not worsen the situation but probably help.
How high is the pressure the pump is working at?
RE: Peristaltic Pump pulsation issues
Thanks for your help.