Peristaltic pumps are an easy and affordable way of transferring accurate volumes of fluid. They move liquids of various viscosities through a system of nozzles and tubes. The peristaltic pump works by compressing a flexible tube, usually silicone, containing the liquid, which then pushes the liquid through the tube. The major advantages of using a peristaltic pump are that they can dispense very precise volumes of liquid, they do not introduce air bubbles into the liquid being dispensed, and they are easy to use and maintain. 

A peristaltic pump uses external rotating rollers to generate flow in a tube. The rollers spin in a single, reversible direction around an axis and during rotation, contact the outer diameter of the tube. The rollers then press into the flexible tubing, propelling the fluid. As the roller swings away from the tube, the next one makes contact, thus continuing the flow of fluid contained within. The flexible tube becomes compressed at the contact points, forcing the fluid into the direction of the movement of the roller.

Compared to other types of pump designs, peristaltic pumps offer certain advantages. For example, unlike most other pump systems the fluid only contacts the inside of the tube and isn't exposed to any other pump components. This prevents contamination of the fluid and the pump, ensuring that the fluid doesn't damage the pump and that the fluid remains pure and undamaged from the pump operation. It also means the pump can be used without a filter, minimising clean-up; if a tube becomes worn, it can easily be replaced.

Pumping flow rates can be changed by selecting different tube sizes and by operating the pump at different RPMs. Applications of peristaltic pumps include medical and laboratory equipment, food and beverage processing, chemical dosing and transfer, water treatment, and many others.