Diaphragm pumps can be a more cost-effective solution
We see peristaltic pumps, also called hose pumps, used in most markets. They are common and relatively simple in operation. But they can be expensive and difficult to maintain.
One of the most obvious peristaltic pump disadvantages is the relative pump size over other technologies. A 2” peristaltic pump can weigh more than 1,800 lbs. (820 kg), a cumbersome size that can make maintenance difficult. Meanwhile, the equivalent 2” air operated double diaphragm (AODD) pump weighs less than 250 lbs. (113 kg).
Peristaltic pump maintenance can become a considerable task, specifically replacing the hose.
To start, a peristaltic pump must be serviced in place. In many cases, this might not be an easy location to access. The inlet and outlet of the pump must be cleared of hard piping or other obstructions for a distance of approximately 3/4th of the hose length.
The lubricant inside the peristaltic pump must be drained or replaced first. If you have tubing failure or leakage, the lubricant will be contaminated with process fluid, or the process fluid may be contaminated with lubricant. The contaminated lubricant then must be disposed of properly and replaced.
Diaphragm pumps and peristaltic pumps share many of the same customer benefits. Both can run dry, handle abrasive materials or viscous fluids, and have high dry suction life.
Peristaltic pumps and AODD pumps can handle many types of fluids and do so gently with little shear. They also dose chemicals and other fluids in specific amounts into processes.
Peristaltic hose pumps have many limitations
- The inability to deadhead without damage
- A large, heavy pump and motor
- Maintenance that can require multiple people and several hours
- Hoses are eventually squeezed out of shape and pumping efficiency drops
- The squeezing action of the pump stresses the rubber hose and will cause it to fail more often than other pump designs
- Hose failures or leaks can cause lubricant and product contamination
- Set up and shimming are necessary to alter pressures
- In the large sizes, a hose can cost 20% of the pump price
- High electricity consumption
ARO® Diaphragm Pump Advantages:
- Ability to deadhead without failure
- Smaller footprint, size, and weight
- Can be serviced by a single mechanic in a fraction of the time
- More broad chemical compatibility (PTFE)
- Lower operating costs
- Lower capital investment
- Lower pulsation
- No product contamination possible
- Process Ready – automation and remote controllability comes standard on all EXP Seriesmodels
- Can be used in hazardous environments without special configurations (no electrical power required)
