Six Ways to Simplify Fluid Transfer
To pump viscous fluids
- Choose tubing at least two sizes larger than the flow size required.
- Keep motor speed <300 rpm; the slower the motor, the better the flow.
- Use adjustable occlusion pumps:
Over-occlude to prime pump;
reduce occlusion for longer life.
To increase tubing life
- Run larger tube sizes at slower speeds.
- Reduce occlusion.
- Select longer-life material.
- Reduce pressure in system.
- Stop pump periodically, move tubing 20-25 cm (8-10 in) forward.
To reduce pulsation
- Use pulse dampener.
- Use adjustable occlusion pump.
- Reduce occlusion and apply back pressure.
- Use dual heads with offset rollers.
- Add extra discharge tubing to system.
- Run smaller tube sizes at higher speeds.
To pump abrasive fluids
- Keep soft particle sizes <25% of tube ID.
- Keep hard particle sizes <5% of tube ID.
- Keep motor speed <300 rpm.
- Use adjustable occlusion pumps:
To check tubing compatibility
- See chemical compatibility charts
- Always pretest unknown chemicals
- Immersion test recommended:
- Cut samples of tubing.
- Weigh and measure length and diameter.
- Immerse for 48 hours in a closed vessel.
- Examine tubing for swelling, brittleness, cracking, softness, and other forms of deterioration.
- Weigh and measure length and diameter.
- If tubing does not change, try it in your pump.