Frequently Asked Questions – Peristaltic Pump Tubing

Frequently Asked Questions – Peristaltic Pump Tubing

A peristaltic pump uses tubing of a specific size to deliver a known quantity of fluid. The tubing inside the pump is in a circular position and a series of rollers pass over the tube to force a known quantity of fluid through the tube. Peristaltic tubing is design to return to its original shape after the rollers have passed over so the quantity and flow of fluid is consistently maintained. We are specialists in manufacturing tubing that is suitable for peristaltic pumps.

A bridge, sometimes called a ‘stop’ is a plastic attachment to the tube that locks the tube in position on a peristaltic pump. Bridges are color coded to easily identify the size of the tubing.

This depends on the application. If the tubes are being used for medical or pharmaceutical applications they should always be sterilized before use.

Generally these tubes are treated as a consumable product which is used for a period of time and then discarded to maintain accuracy of flow or due to contamination.

This varies according to the chemicals in use, pump speed, temperature and humidity. Please contact us for advice on the optimum tubing for your application.

Please see our advisory chemical resistance chart or please call our office at 321-676-7003

Tubes should be stored in cool, dry conditions, out of direct sunlight – preferably below 20 C and in low humidity.

  • The hardness of our tubing is classified on the Shore A scale. The 60-69 hardness range is ideal for peristaltic pump use. Harder grades (86-90) are more suited to general purpose applications. Softer grades (40-50) do not work well with peristaltic pumps as they tend to collapse after a short working life.
  • A good balance is sought by tubing users. The harder a tube, the more likely it is to kink when bent. A softer grade is easier to work with when access is very tight.
  • Shore D applies more to semi-rigid materials such as Polyethylene and PTFE.

Ormantine USA, Ltd. | Environmental Monitoring Division | Peristaltic Pump Tubing Division