What Are Peristaltic Pumps & Hose Pumps Used For?

Peristaltic pumps are commonly used for accurate and repeatable dosing, transferring shear-sensitive materials, and handling abrasive or viscous fluids. They are especially valued in scenarios where cross-contamination must be avoided, or where chemical resistance is critical.

Because the fluid only contacts the inner surface of the tubing or hose, these pumps are ideal for sterile processes, aggressive chemicals, or fluids containing solids. Additionally, they are used where gentle pumping is needed, avoiding damage to fragile fluids or particulates.

Some of the most common functions of peristaltic and hose pumps include:

Chemical dosing and metering – accurately delivering acids, alkalis, coagulants, and disinfectants.

Transferring viscous materials  – such as slurries, pastes, or liquids with suspended solids.

Feeding biological additives  – in processes like fermentation or aquaculture.

Pumping abrasive fluids – including those with sand, metal particles, or solid-laden wastewater.

Low-pulse fluid delivery – useful in precision coating or laboratory work.

Sanitary applications – due to the easy cleaning and tubing replacement.

Their versatility and ability to provide accurate flow control without valves or seals make them extremely reliable in both batch and continuous operations.

Where Are Peristaltic Pumps & Hose Pumps Used?

The robust and hygienic nature of peristaltic and hose pumps allows them to serve in a wide variety of sectors. Below are some of the most relevant and growing fields where these pumps play a central role:

1. Water and Wastewater Treatment

Peristaltic pumps are extensively used for dosing chemicals such as chlorine, sodium hypochlorite, lime, and polymers. Their high precision and ability to run dry without damage make them well-suited for unmanned or remote water treatment facilities.

2. Automobile Manufacturing

In automotive production lines, these pumps are employed for metering paints, coatings, or masterbatch feedstock during the paint mixing or finishing stages. Their resistance to solvents and ability to maintain clean delivery paths is a major advantage in this environment.

3. New Energy and Battery Manufacturing

With the rise of lithium-ion battery production and other energy storage technologies, hose pumps are applied in dosing electrolyte solutions, conductive pastes, and other high-viscosity or sensitive materials.

4. Metallurgy and Chemical Processing

The handling of aggressive chemicals such as acids, bases, and oxidizers is made safer and more efficient with peristaltic pumps, which isolate the fluid within the hose or tube, avoiding contamination and wear to pump components.

5. Printing and Dyeing

In textile dyeing and ink mixing, peristaltic pumps ensure smooth, bubble-free flow and consistent color dosing. Their accurate, low-pulse operation prevents streaks or variation in print quality 

6. Biotechnology and Artificial Culture

Peristaltic pumps are favored in the life sciences for tasks such as enzyme dosing, nutrient delivery, and transferring cultured fluids. Their sterile design and ability to handle delicate media without damage are key advantages.

7. Pulp and Paper

In pulp production, hose pumps can handle viscous and fibrous slurries, additives, and bleaching agents without clogging or damage, ensuring smooth, continuous processing.

The same technology is also deployed in labs, food processing, and pharmaceutical manufacturing, further extending its reach due to its hygienic and precise pumping characteristics.

How Do Peristaltic Pumps Work?

Peristaltic pumps operate on a simple yet highly effective principle inspired by natural peristalsis — the rhythmic contraction of muscles that pushes contents through a tube, like how food moves through the digestive system.

In a peristaltic pump, a flexible tube or hose is placed inside a circular pump housing. Rotating rollers or shoes compress the tubing against the pump casing, forcing the fluid inside to move forward. As the rotor turns, the section behind the roller decompresses, creating a vacuum that draws more fluid into the tubing.

This continuous sequence of compression and relaxation generates a steady flow of fluid with no backflow and minimal pulsation (especially in multi-roller designs). Since the fluid never contacts any part of the pump except the interior of the tubing, contamination is virtually eliminated.

There are two main categories:

1. Tube-Type Peristaltic Pumps

These are often used for low- to medium-pressure applications and offer excellent control in micro-dosing or lab-scale processes. Tubes can be easily swapped out, making maintenance fast and sanitary.

2. Hose-Type Peristaltic Pumps

These pumps are used in higher-pressure and industrial applications. Their thicker hoses can handle greater abrasion, larger volumes, and higher flow rates, making them suitable for mining slurries, wastewater sludge, and heavy chemical feeds.

Some advanced models also include smart sensors and integrated controllers for feedback-based dosing, flow monitoring, and system diagnostics. These features enhance process automation and reliability.

Additional benefits include:

1. Self-priming capabilities: Able to draw fluid without external assistance.

2. Dry-run protection: No damage occurs if the pump runs without fluid.

3. Reversible operation: Flow direction can be changed as needed.

4. Low maintenance: With only the tubing or hose needing periodic replacement, downtime is minimal.