Peristaltic Pump Motor Selection Tips: Brushless Motor or Stepper Motor?
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This article explores the advantages of brushless motors and stepper motors when it comes to driving a peristaltic pump, which is one of the most common motor applications in industries such as medical, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and diagnostics.
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Peristaltic pumps, sometimes referred to as roller pumps, transport various fluids by creating mechanical contractions on flexible tubing. The tubing is typically arranged around the motor, which moves wheels that press and push the liquid through the tubing. These pumps are often used to move sterile or highly reactive fluids without exposing them to contamination, such as IV fluids, chemicals, or slurries. They are a key component in many medical devices like blood analyzers and are easier to maintain, more versatile, and more energy-efficient compared to traditional centrifugal pumps. The only part that needs periodic replacement is the flexible tubing. The peristaltic pump was first patented in the U.S. in 1855.
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A peristaltic pump operates by having wheels mounted to the motor shaft. As the motor rotates, the wheels push a certain volume of liquid through the tubing. This process is known as **peristalsis** and mirrors the way our gastrointestinal tract works. Adjusting the motor’s speed changes the flow rate accordingly.
Factors affecting the flow rate include:
- Inner diameter of the tube: Larger diameter equals higher flow.
- Outer diameter of the pump head: Larger diameter equals higher flow.
- Rotational speed of the pump head: Higher speed equals higher flow.
- Inlet pulsation: This reduces the filling volume of the hose.
The precision of the motor in responding to commands directly impacts the accuracy of the flow rate, making the choice of motor crucial for optimal pump performance.
Two of the most popular motor types for peristaltic pumps are stepper motors and brushless motors. Let’s dive into their unique features and why our customers prefer them.
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### Stepper Motors for Precision in Flow Rate
Stepper motors excel in providing precise positioning, making them ideal for fine flow adjustments.
- Many types are available, and our customers appreciate the preassembled encoder option for its quality and ease of use.
- Due to tubing friction, peristaltic pumps need high starting torque. Stepper motors naturally provide strong torque at low speeds, but high-torque stepper motors like the PKP Series enable downsizing.
The PKP Series 1.8°/0.9° stepper motors deliver high torque thanks to advancements in technology, such as enhanced air gap, magnetic rotor/stator design, and high winding density. Frame sizes range from NEMA 8 (0.79"/20mm) to NEMA 34 (3.35"/85mm). Options include standard, high-resolution, geared (spur/planetary/harmonic), encoder (TTL/line driver), and electromagnetic brake models. For optimal performance, we recommend pairing these motors with our CVD drivers, as they are specifically designed for PKP Series windings.
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### Brushless Motors for Small Size, High Efficiency, and Low Heat
Brushless motors are perfect for variable speed applications requiring speed regulation through feedback.
- They are compact, allowing for more streamlined pump designs.
- They generate minimal heat even during high-speed rotation, preventing heat-related issues.
The BLH Series includes a brushless DC motor or gearmotor along with a dedicated variable-speed driver. Motor sizes range from 15 to 100 watts, offering parallel offset shaft, parallel centered shaft, and flat hollow shaft gearhead options. Drivers come in three types for user control flexibility: analog setting, digital setting, and RS-485 communication type. Functions such as torque limiting and status monitoring are available with the dedicated driver.
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### Enhancing Performance with Gears and Drivers
Adding gears and drivers to motors can significantly enhance their capabilities and ensure consistent performance. Both the PKP Series and BLH Series offer a variety of gear options to increase torque. For instance, the new CS geared stepper motor provides more permissible torque than the SH geared stepper motor, with increased radial load capacity.
Dedicated drivers also play a critical role in improving performance, such as reducing vibration and ensuring speed regulation. Since Oriental Motor tests both the motor and driver together, we can guarantee our specifications.
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In summary, stepper motors’ high starting torque and stop accuracy make them excellent for precise flow adjustments, while brushless motors offer small size, high efficiency, and low heat. The diverse range of sizes, types, gear options, and driver lineup from the PKP Series and BLH Series makes them compelling choices for our customers.
Backed by Oriental Motor’s reputation for quality and support from dedicated teams, these products stand out as reliable options in the industry.
If you need assistance with pumps, feel free to contact our experts today!