Peristaltic Pump Flow Rate Calculation Guide | Global Pumps

Flow rate is a critical parameter in peristaltic pump systems, directly impacting process efficiency, dosing accuracy, and overall system reliability. 

Engineers and system designers must accurately calculate and monitor flow rates to optimise performance and prevent costly inefficiencies. This guide explores the key factors affecting peristaltic pump flow rate calculation and provides practical insights to help you fine-tune your system.

The Fundamentals of Peristaltic Pump Flow Rate Calculation

Peristaltic pumps operate by compressing flexible tubing in a cyclic manner, creating a series of fluid-filled cavities that move through the system. The theoretical flow rate (ᵀ) of a peristaltic pump can be determined by the following equation:

Where:

• = Flow rate (L/min or mL/min)
• = Rotor speed (revolutions per minute, RPM)
• = Volume of fluid per cavity (mL/rev or L/rev)

However, real-world conditions introduce variables that impact the actual flow rate, necessitating further considerations.

Key Factors Affecting Peristaltic Pump Flow Rates

1. Tubing Size and Material

The internal diameter and wall thickness of the tubing determine the volume of fluid displaced per pump cycle. Materials must also be selected based on chemical compatibility, flexibility, and resistance to wear.

2. Rotor Speed and Occlusion Pressure

Higher rotor speeds increase flow rate but can accelerate tubing wear. The level of occlusion (how much the tubing is compressed) affects efficiency, with excessive occlusion increasing back pressure and reducing tubing lifespan.

3. Fluid Viscosity and Density

Thicker fluids resist flow, reducing pump efficiency. For high-viscosity fluids, manufacturers provide correction factors to adjust theoretical flow rate estimates.

4. Pulsation and Flow Smoothing

Peristaltic tube pumps naturally produce a pulsatile flow, which can impact dosing applications. Pulsation dampeners or multi-roller designs can help mitigate flow inconsistencies.

5. Suction Lift and Discharge Pressure

High suction lift requirements or significant back pressure can reduce effective flow rates. Ensuring proper inlet conditions and selecting appropriate tubing can help minimise these effects.

6. Tubing Wear and Calibration

Over time, peristaltic pump tubing elasticity decreases, leading to reduced flow. Regular calibration against a flow meter and proactive tubing replacement can maintain consistent performance.

7. Impulse Losses and Their Impact on Flow

Impulse losses occur due to sudden changes in velocity or pressure within the peristaltic pump system. These losses can lead to inefficiencies, increased pulsation, and erratic flow rates.

Factors influencing impulse losses include:

• Fluid Properties: High-viscosity fluids exhibit greater resistance to changes in velocity, leading to pronounced impulse losses.
• Flow Rate Variability: Rapid acceleration or deceleration of fluid can exacerbate impulse losses, particularly in rigid tubing materials.
• Tubing Elasticity: Stiff tubing materials may not recover quickly enough after compression, resulting in inefficient flow transfer.

How to Alleviate Impulse Losses:

• Use flexible tubing with optimal recovery properties to minimise abrupt changes in flow.
• Implement pulsation dampeners to smooth out pressure fluctuations and reduce flow inconsistencies.
• Adjust rotor speed to maintain a steady, controlled flow rather than subjecting the system to abrupt flow rate changes.
• Optimise system design by ensuring gradual transitions in tubing diameter and minimising abrupt changes in direction.

How to Measure and Verify the Flow Rate of Your Peristaltic Pump

To ensure accurate peristaltic pump performance, flow rates should be validated using either:

• Flow Meters: Provide real-time measurement and monitoring of fluid movement.
• Gravimetric or Volumetric Methods: Measuring collected fluid volume over a set period and comparing it to expected values.

If deviations occur, recalibration, tubing replacement, or system adjustments may be necessary.

Optimising Your Peristaltic Pump System

To maximise efficiency and ensure reliable performance:

• Select the correct tubing size and material based on fluid properties.
• Optimise rotor speed while balancing wear and performance.
• Implement flow rate monitoring and periodic calibration.
• Use pulsation dampeners where necessary for precise dosing applications.
• Address impulse losses by optimising tubing flexibility and system design.

Expert Support for Your Pumping System

Accurate peristaltic pump flow rate calculation is essential for ensuring your system operates at peak efficiency. If you require assistance in selecting the right pump or troubleshooting performance issues, our technical team is ready to provide expert guidance. Contact Global Pumps for tailored recommendations and solutions.

For more insights on peristaltic pump performance and optimisation, explore our resources or reach out to our team today.