Hose pumps, or peristaltic pumps, are pumps that help to transport a range of liquids for a wide variety of sectors. The pumps are a reliable part of liquid transportation across the beverage, pharmaceutical, agricultural and even printing industry. Due to their high usage, hose pump efficiency is a legitimate part of maintaining optimal processing.
Hose pumps, simply put, are pumps that use a length of tubing to transport the liquid. Peristaltic pump performance is essential to many industrial and agricultural processes across the country.
This guide will answer the following questions:
- Why Is Hose Pump Performance Important?
- How To Optimise Your Hose Pump’s Performance
– Reduce Pump Speed
– Have A Shorter Inlet Pipe
– Use The Correct Peristaltic Pump Tubes
– Theoretical Flow Rate Must Be Greater Than Actual Flow Rate
– Clean Your Pipes Regularly
– Inspect Your Hose Pump Regularly
– Inspect Your Hose Pump Regularly
– Consider The Temperature
– Be Aware Of Corrosive Materials - How Long Do Peristaltic Pumps Last For?
Why Is Hose Pump Performance Important?
Peristaltic pump performance has a direct relation on the efficiency of your processing. If your pump is running at less than optimal capacity, you might see a lower, or slower transportation of goods. Your output might be lower than it usually is, leading to a lower volume of products or project delays.
High-speed performance is an essential part of pumping processing. An underperforming pump risks your business reputation, product quality and your business revenue. If your pump becomes damaged and eventually breaks, you could face costly repairs to your pump. There is also the risk of even more downtime affecting your revenue or your project plans.
Read on to find out how to optimise the performance of your hose pump.
How To Optimise Your Hose Pump’s Performance
Peristaltic pumps can be optimised in a variety of different ways. There are basic tasks you can do like cleaning your pump, through to more complex items like managing flow requirements.
Reduce Pump Speed
Many pumps are suitable for low pressure and flow rate, and do not require a fast speed. The pump head is a measurement of how much pressure your pump can generate. The lower the pump head, the longer your pump will last.
You can control the pump head by choosing a larger peristaltic pump tube. This means that the rotation of the pump will take longer, and the pump will be slower. The less pressure exerted on your pump, the longer your pump will last, and the more optimal your hose pump’s performance.
Have A Shorter Inlet Pipe
An inlet pipe is the pipe between the engine and the pump. The shorter the inlet pipe, the greater the pressure of the pump will be. The suction force of the pump is generated by the pulling away of the pump pipe from the pump. If the inlet pipe is shorter, the suction force is focused through a smaller area and is therefore greater.
Suction force is a delicate balance. The longer and narrower a pipe, the lower the force will be. The shorter and wider a pipe, the greater the suction force. It’s important to manage hose pump efficiency by getting the inlet pipe measurements correct.
Use The Correct Peristaltic Pump Tubes
Peristaltic pump tubes need to have good elasticity and resistance. Purchasing special pipes with thicker walls and shape uniformity will be integral to ensuring they do not damage under compression. As pump tubes need to be elastic, they are often softer and more prone to damage, which is why thicker walls are important. The rest of your pump can use standard tubes to reduce the overall price of the pump. Using standard pipe tubes in your hose pump can lead to leaks, damage and poor hose pump efficiency.
Theoretical Flow Rate Must Be Greater Than Actual Flow Rate
The theoretical flow rate is the pump’s displacement per rotation multiplied by its driven speed. The actual flow rate is measured by a flow metre. The theoretical flow rate must be 30% greater than the actual flow rate. This is because the theoretical flow rate acts as a maximum threshold. Actual flow rate can be influenced by liquid viscosity and other factors.
Peristaltic pump tubes are softer than usual pipes. This means you need a higher theoretical rate as an indicator they will not be damaged if transporting liquids of higher viscosities or pressures.
Clean Your Pipes Regularly
Hose pump performance relies on a debris-free peristaltic pipe tube and a clean pump case. They are precise tools that can only achieve optimum peristaltic pump efficiency when there are no blockages or issues. In addition to this, peristaltic pump tubes are soft and prone to damage, which means they should be cleaned frequently to ensure no items can cause wear and tear. Pipes that leak also risk jeopardising the sanitation of your whole project, so it’s essential to get them cleaned regularly.
Step 6: Clean The Impeller
Do the same for the exposed impeller. Gently rub with a clean cloth to remove any grime, dust or visible particles.
Inspect Your Hose Pump Regularly
Hose pumps should be inspected regularly for signs of damage. This is because if your peristaltic pump tube is damaged, liquid can leak into the pump casing. Leaks can damage your pump head and overall hose pump efficiency. They can also lead to costly repairs if left over time. Prevent extensive damage by regularly inspecting the integrity of your hose pump.
Consider The Temperature
Your operating temperature range is a significant factor in your peristaltic pumps efficiency. Silicone has quite a low and high temperature range. However, different pipe types may not be suitable for maintaining excessively high or low-temperature liquids. Make sure that your pipes are fit to transport a wide range of liquid temperatures, to prevent damage to your pump.
Be Aware Of Corrosive Materials
Before you transport a corrosive liquid, conduct soak testing and review your pipe materials to ensure they are suitable for transporting abrasive products. Corrosive items can significantly shorten the lifespan of your hose pump, so it’s essential that you are confident before transporting them. The same logic applies to transporting certain liquid viscosities. Make sure your pump can transport the required items before you begin.
How Long Do Peristaltic Pumps Last For?
Hose pumps usually last for around 10,000 hours or more of operation. If your hose pump is getting to the natural end of its operational life, AQS Liquid Transfer can help you with its range of hose pumps. Their optimal performance and efficiency will keep your projects lasting long into the future.
Do you still have questions? Give our AQS Liquid Transfer team a call on +27 12 548 7204 or fill out our enquiry form, our friendly team will get back to you with first-hand expertise on how to select a borehole pump for your needs.