Pneumatic roller pumps, also known as air-operated roller pumps or peristaltic pumps, are a type of positive displacement pump that uses compressed air to move fluids through a flexible tube by sequentially compressing it with rollers. Here’s how they work:
Flexible Tubing – The fluid flows through a durable, elastic tube.
Rollers or Shoes – These compress the tube to push the fluid forward.
Rotor Assembly – Rotates the rollers around the tube.
Air Motor – Provides rotational power using compressed air.
Pump Housing – Encloses the mechanism and supports the tubing.
Air Supply Activation – Compressed air enters the pneumatic motor, causing the rotor to turn.
Roller Compression – As the rotor spins, rollers (or shoes) press against the flexible tubing, squeezing it shut at the point of contact.
Peristaltic Action – The compression creates a moving occlusion that pushes the fluid forward in the direction of rotation.
Tubing Recovery – Behind the roller, the tubing rebounds to its original shape, creating suction that draws more fluid into the pump.
Continuous Flow – This process repeats with each rotation, ensuring a steady, pulsation-free flow.
✔ No Contamination – Fluid only contacts the tubing, making them ideal for sterile or corrosive fluids.
✔ Self-Priming – Can run dry without damage.
✔ Adjustable Flow Rate – Speed can be controlled by adjusting air pressure.
✔ Low Maintenance – Few moving parts and no seals or valves to wear out.
✔ Handles Viscous & Abrasive Fluids – Works well with slurries, gels, and shear-sensitive liquids.
Medical & Pharmaceutical – IV fluid delivery, dialysis machines.
Food & Beverage – Handling viscous liquids like syrups or dairy.
Chemical Processing – Transferring aggressive or corrosive chemicals.
Wastewater Treatment – Metering dosing chemicals.
Lab & Research – Precise fluid handling in experiments.
✖ Tubing Wear – The tubing degrades over time and needs replacement.
✖ Pulsation (in some designs) – Requires dampeners for smooth flow.
✖ Limited Pressure Range – Not ideal for very high-pressure applications.
Pneumatic roller pumps are highly reliable for applications requiring contamination-free fluid transfer, especially where electricity is unsafe or impractical. Their gentle peristaltic action makes them suitable for sensitive fluids, while their simple design ensures long service life with minimal maintenance.