Chemical Resistance Of Peristaltic Pump Tubing: What You Should Know

Understanding Peristaltic Pump Tubing

Peristaltic pumps are widely used in various industries for their ability to handle delicate fluids and maintain a hygienic fluid transfer process. These pumps operate by squeezing and releasing flexible tubing to create a positive displacement action, making them ideal for applications where cross-contamination must be avoided. The tubing used in peristaltic pumps plays a crucial role in determining the pump's performance and longevity. In this article, we will delve into the importance of chemical resistance in peristaltic pump tubing and what you should know to ensure optimal operation.

The Impact of Chemicals on Peristaltic Pump Tubing

Chemical resistance is a critical consideration when selecting tubing for peristaltic pumps. Exposure to certain chemicals can cause the tubing material to degrade, leading to leaks, reduced pump performance, or complete pump failure. It is essential to choose tubing that can withstand the chemicals present in your application to ensure the longevity and efficiency of your peristaltic pump system.

When selecting tubing for your peristaltic pump, it is essential to consider the types of chemicals the tubing will come into contact with during operation. Some chemicals may be compatible with certain tubing materials, while others may cause degradation or failure. It is crucial to consult chemical compatibility charts provided by tubing manufacturers to determine the best tubing material for your specific application.

Tubing Materials and Chemical Compatibility

Peristaltic pump tubing is available in a variety of materials, each with its chemical resistance properties. The most common tubing materials used in peristaltic pumps include silicone, Santoprene, Tygon, and Viton. These materials offer varying levels of resistance to chemicals, making them suitable for different applications.

Silicone tubing is known for its excellent biocompatibility and flexibility, making it a popular choice for pharmaceutical and food processing industries. Silicone tubing is resistant to oxidation, ozone, and UV radiation, but may not be suitable for applications involving strong acids or solvents.

Santoprene tubing is a thermoplastic elastomer known for its excellent abrasion and tear resistance. Santoprene tubing offers good resistance to acids, bases, and some solvents, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

Tygon tubing is a flexible and clear plasticizer-free tubing material that offers excellent chemical resistance to a wide variety of fluids. Tygon tubing is commonly used in laboratory and research applications where compatibility with a broad range of chemicals is required.

Viton tubing is a fluoroelastomer material known for its excellent high-temperature resistance and chemical compatibility. Viton tubing is resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including acids, solvents, and hydrocarbons, making it ideal for demanding industrial applications.

Factors Affecting Chemical Resistance

Several factors can affect the chemical resistance of peristaltic pump tubing, including temperature, pressure, and exposure time. High temperatures can accelerate chemical reactions and increase the likelihood of tubing degradation. It is essential to select tubing materials that can withstand the operating temperatures of your application to prevent premature failure.

Pressure can also impact the chemical resistance of tubing materials. High-pressure applications can cause tubing to swell, crack, or rupture if the material is not resistant to the fluid being pumped. Choosing tubing with the appropriate pressure rating for your application is crucial to ensure reliable and safe operation.

Exposure time is another critical factor to consider when evaluating the chemical resistance of tubing materials. Prolonged exposure to certain chemicals can cause the material to break down over time, leading to leaks or pump failure. It is essential to select tubing materials that can withstand the expected exposure time in your application to maintain the integrity of your peristaltic pump system.

Testing Chemical Resistance

Before selecting tubing for your peristaltic pump system, it is essential to test the chemical resistance of the materials under your specific application conditions. Chemical compatibility testing involves exposing the tubing material to the chemicals it will come into contact with during operation and monitoring for signs of deterioration or degradation.

There are several methods for testing the chemical resistance of tubing materials, including immersion tests, permeation tests, and accelerated aging tests. Immersion tests involve soaking the tubing in the test chemical for a specified period and observing any changes in the material properties. Permeation tests measure the rate at which chemicals pass through the tubing material, providing insights into its resistance to permeation.

Accelerated aging tests subject the tubing material to extreme temperatures, pressures, or chemical concentrations to simulate long-term exposure in a short period. These tests can help predict the longevity of the tubing material and its performance under harsh operating conditions. By conducting thorough chemical compatibility testing, you can select tubing materials that will deliver reliable performance in your peristaltic pump system.

Conclusion

Chemical resistance is a critical factor to consider when selecting tubing for peristaltic pumps. Choosing tubing materials that can withstand the chemicals present in your application is essential to ensure the longevity and efficiency of your pump system. By understanding the impact of chemicals on peristaltic pump tubing, evaluating tubing materials and their chemical compatibility, considering factors affecting chemical resistance, and conducting thorough testing, you can select the best tubing for your specific application. Properly selecting chemical-resistant tubing will not only enhance the performance of your peristaltic pump but also reduce maintenance costs and downtime in the long run.