In the rhythm with peristaltics: the benefits offered by peristaltic pumps enables them to be used in applications where contamination would be a problem

摘要

Peristalsis is a process in which a series of rhythmic muscle contractions move food or fluid through the human body. Peristaltic pumps operate on a similar principle to this: the fluid is drawn into a tube and a number of rollers force it through by squeezing and releasing the tube until it is eventually expelled. The complete closure of the tube by the rollers gives the pump its positive displacement action, preventing backflow and siphoning while eliminating the need for the check valves and associated pipework which is required by other pump types, explains Watson Marlow Bredel Pumps of Falmouth, Cornwall. There are numerous benefits to such pumps including the fact that they feature no valves, seals or glands and nothing but the tube touches the fluid. This means that in operation there is no risk of either the pump contaminating the fluid or the fluid contaminating the pump. As such, peristaltic pumps are suitable for a wide range of applications, and their benefits and features enable them to be used where contamination would be a problem - such as within the food or medical industries. In one example of peristaltic pumps in operation, the technology is enabling Optimec of Malvern to produce quality assurance equipment which is enabling its customers to accurately measure contact lenses.