Viscous Fluids

Viscous Fluids

When managing the transfer of viscous fluids with peristaltic hose pumps, adapting your approach to address the unique properties of these fluids ensures optimal operation and longevity of your equipment. With a focus on compatibility, efficiency, and proper maintenance, here’s a comprehensive guide to navigating the challenges of viscous fluids in peristaltic hose pump applications.

1 – Choosing the Right Hose Material

Selecting hose materials that are both chemically compatible with viscous fluids and flexible enough to handle their thickness is essential. Materials such as natural rubber, nitrile, and EPDM are preferred for their durability and resistance to wear.

2 – Pump Inlet Considerations

Position the pump inlet strategically to ensure the easiest entry of viscous fluids into the pump. A well-considered inlet design minimizes resistance, aiding in the pump’s priming and maintaining efficient operation.

3 – Optimizing Flow Rates

Carefully adjusting the pump speed to balance flow rates is vital for handling viscous fluids efficiently. This ensures the pump operates effectively without placing undue strain on the hose, thus prolonging the equipment’s service life.

4 – Pre-Operational Checks and Priming

Pre-Operational Checks: Conduct thorough checks to ensure the pump and hose are ready for the added stress from viscous fluids.

Priming the Pump: Properly prime the pump with the viscous fluid to prevent air entrapment, enhancing pumping efficiency and hose longevity.

5 – Routine Maintenance

Viscous fluids can leave residues that may obstruct the system. Regular hose inspection and cleaning are crucial for preventing blockages and extending the life of the equipment.

6 – Essential Lubrication

Lubricating the hose is paramount in viscous fluid applications to reduce friction and wear. The lubricant should be compatible with both the hose material and the pumped fluid.

7 – Integrating Vacuum Assist with Caution

While incorporating a vacuum assist can significantly improve pump performance with viscous fluids by aiding the hose in fully opening when inlet pressure is low, it’s important to recognize the potential downside. The peristaltic hose is designed as a pressure hose, not a vacuum hose. Utilizing vacuum assist creates low suction pressure inside the hose and comparatively low pressure on the outside, which can accelerate delamination and wear, leading to a reduced hose life and potential failure. It’s crucial to balance the benefits of improved fluid intake with the increased risk of hose damage, making vacuum assist a tool to be used judiciously, with regular monitoring for signs of wear or damage.

8 – Temperature Management

Temperature control is often necessary for viscous fluids to maintain an optimal viscosity level for pumping. Employ heating or insulation as required to facilitate efficient fluid transfer.

9 – System Compatibility

Ensure that the entire pumping system is suited for viscous fluids, with design elements that minimize sharp bends and restrictions to reduce pressure drops and enhance pump performance.

10 – Safety and Environmental Compliance

Adhere to safety protocols for viscous fluid handling and design the system to prevent leaks and spills, ensuring waste disposal meets environmental standards.

11 – Operator Training

Train operators on handling viscous fluids, emphasizing the importance of pre-operational checks, priming, and the nuanced use of vacuum assist technology. Educating operators on the potential risks and benefits can prevent operational issues and contribute to a more efficient and reliable pumping process.

Final Note

By carefully considering the use of vacuum assist technology alongside these other factors, operators can effectively manage the transfer of viscous fluids with peristaltic hose pumps. This approach ensures the longevity of the equipment and maintains high operational standards, while also being mindful of the potential for increased wear on the hose.