Differences between Peristaltic Pumps and Infusion Pumps

In preclinical, biological and pharmacological research, the choice of pumping system is crucial to ensure accuracy, reproducibility and safety. In this context, two of the most widely used technologies are peristaltic pumps and infusion pumps. Although both are used for fluid transfer, they have distinctive characteristics that make them preferable in specific applications. But what are the main differences? Let’s look at some details below.

Peristaltic Pumps

Peristaltic pumps work by compressing and releasing a hose, creating a peristaltic motion that pushes fluid through the hose. Here are some of their main features:

1. Sterility and Contamination: Because the fluid never comes into contact with the mechanical parts of the pump, the risk of contamination is minimal. This makes them ideal for applications requiring a high degree of sterility, such as handling biological and pharmaceutical fluids.
2. Ease of Maintenance: Tube replacement is quick and easy, reducing downtime. In addition, routine maintenance is generally less complex than for other types of pumps.
3. Versatility: They can handle fluids of different viscosities without damaging the pump. This makes them suitable for a wide range of applications, including abrasive or sensitive fluids.
4. Accuracy: Although they are less precise than infusion pumps, they still offer good flow control, especially for applications that do not require extreme precision. They are ideal for continuous processes and for transferring large volumes of fluids.
5. Cost: Generally, peristaltic pumps are cheaper than infusion pumps, both in terms of initial purchase and operating costs.

Here are some examples of peristaltic pumps:

• Peristaltic pump – P720 series
• Peristaltic pump – PERIPRO series
• Peristaltic micro-pump – iPrecio series

Infusion Pumps

Infusion pumps (also called syringe pumps) use a piston or syringe mechanism to push fluid precisely. Here are some of their main features:

1. Precision and Accuracy: They offer extremely precise control of infusion volume and rate, making them ideal for applications requiring accurate dosing, such as drug delivery in preclinical studies.
2. Programming and Control: They are often equipped with digital interfaces that allow precise programming and control of infusion parameters. This allows for greater flexibility and automation in experimental protocols.
3. Specific Applications: They are particularly useful for the administration of drugs, nutrients, and other compounds in biomedical and pharmacological experiments. They can be used for continuous infusion or intermittent administration (usually within the volume of the piston cylinder or syringe).
4. Limitations: They can be more expensive and require more complex maintenance than peristaltic pumps. Also, they may be less suitable for fluids with high viscosity or containing particles.
5. Safety: Infusion pumps are often equipped with alarm and safety systems to prevent dosing errors, providing additional protection during experiments.

Here are some examples of infusion pumps:

• Instech Syringe Pump (Coming Soon)
• Over-the-counter infusion pump
• Infusion pump for stereotactic
• Ultra-high precision infusion pump for capillaries

Conclusions

Peristaltic pumps have lower accuracy but can draw from a tank of considerable volume and work continuously.

Infusion pumps provide greater accuracy and continuity during administration, but the volume is limited to that of the syringe/piston used.

The choice between a peristaltic pump and an infusion pump is closely related to the specific needs of the application. Peristaltic pumps are ideal for applications that require sterility, versatility, and ease of maintenance, while infusion pumps are preferred when extreme precision and control is required.

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