Diaphragm Pumps vs. Peristaltic Pumps

Understanding Diaphragm Pumps

Using moving parts, a diaphragm pump draws fluid in through one direction to force it through an outlet following the same direction. A diaphragm pump’s design includes a flexible diaphragm, a valve, and a chamber, where the diaphragm moves up and down within the pump to create suction and discharge forces, ensuring that fluid only flows in the intended direction.

The suction stroke moves the diaphragm upward to increase the volume in the pump chamber that draws in fluid through the inlet valve, and then the discharge stroke moves the diaphragm downward to pressurize the fluid and force it through the outlet valve.

Advantages of Diaphragm Pumps

Diaphragm pump designs provide a range of advantages in fluid processing applications. They can handle a variety of fluid types, including harsh chemicals, and are less likely to leak compared to other pump equipment designs. Featuring capabilities that allow the pump to run dry for short periods of time, diaphragm pumps offer the following benefits when the system is well-maintained:

• Accommodates handling of clean liquids and harsh chemicals
• Lower maintenance costs with adequate upkeep
• Energy-efficient operations

Disadvantages of Diaphragm Pumps

There are also a few disadvantages to diaphragm pumps in various fluid processing operations. These pumps can experience inefficiency should the check valves on either intake or discharge become clogged, leading to operational issues. Disadvantages to diaphragm pumps in fluid processing applications can include the following when dealing with incompatible fluids or accidentally trapping air during operation:

• Complex design requiring technical knowledge
• May have challenges with priming against pressure
• Sensitive to particulate matter in pumped fluids

Understanding Peristaltic Pumps

Creating a wave-like motion to push fluid through a tube, peristaltic pumps have no direct contact between the fluid and the system’s moving parts. A peristaltic pump’s design features a flexible hose or tube, rollers or shoes, and a rotating mechanism, which uses the rollers to move along the tube, sealing off sections to trap and force the fluid forward and then discharging the liquid as the rollers pass. Once the rollers have passed, the tube returns to its original shape for more fluid to be drawn in.

Advantages of Peristaltic Pumps

Ideal for handling thick or dirty liquids, peristaltic pumps offer various benefits for fluid processing applications. These pumps require less routine maintenance, as their design diminishes the likelihood of mechanical failure and has the ability to run dry. Peristaltic pumps can operate more easily against higher back pressures and thicker fluids with good suction, providing these benefits to fluid processing operations:

• Effectively handles fluid with particulate matter
• Features a simple design with fewer components
• Exceptional priming capabilities

Disadvantages of Peristaltic Pumps

However, peristaltic pumps have drawbacks in their operation, as well. The hose component undergoes excessive squeezing that may affect the feed rate and pumping capabilities if left unattended, which may lead to dangerous leaks and spills that could damage the pump equipment. Disadvantages in peristaltic pumps can arise when manufacturers overestimate the working life of the hose and its operational requirements based on its application:

• May experience hose degradation over time
• High energy consumption due to constant motor load
• Large footprint required for higher flow rates

Key Differences Between Diaphragm Pumps and Peristaltic Pumps

Depending on the needs of your application, a diaphragm pump or a peristaltic pump may offer more advantages to your operations. It is essential to consider all of your requirements to choose the best handling performance, efficiency, fluid type compatibility, and processing capabilities to meet the application requirements. The key areas of difference between diaphragm pumps and peristaltic pumps are as follows:

• Complexity of design and configuration
• Fluid types and handling capabilities
• Maintenance and operation
• Energy efficiency

Preferred Applications for Diaphragm and Peristaltic Pumps

Applications for diaphragm and peristaltic pumps may be similar or overlap, but each pump design offers advantages and disadvantages for specific uses. In applications where harsh chemicals or clean liquids require processing, diaphragm pumps provide a low-pressure solution that is energy-efficient with a robust design for lower maintenance requirements. Additionally, peristaltic pumps can handle thicker or particle-contaminated fluids in high-pressure applications with a simpler design and fewer components for easy maintenance.

Contact Springer Parts for State-of-the-Art Pump Solutions for Various Industries

We are an industry-leading supplier of the latest pump equipment, replacement parts, and repair kits. Our selection of diaphragm pumps and diaphragm pump parts are competitively priced, about 20-40% cheaper than OEMs, and are designed with the specifications to meet or exceed application requirements. Springer Parts proudly offers international and bulk ordering options to support your operations with well-known pump brands and aftermarket components that simplify maintenance and repair routines and keep your equipment running smoothly.

Contact us for more information on our diaphragm pump solutions or request a quote to begin.