The peristaltic pump is probably best known for its ability to pump fluid without the pump mechanism contacting the working fluid. This is critical for food safety applications and other situations where pumps may contaminate liquids. [Maciej Nowak] has made a good example of such a pump, which is made of aluminum from scratch.
The build video details the machining process and shows how to make an aluminum body on a lathe before installing bearings and silicone hoses. Then the pump shaft and a set of brass rollers are manufactured and compressed along the pipe to produce pumping effect. The rollers are also lubricated to reduce friction on the pipe. The pump is powered by a small DC motor driven by a small toothed belt, which makes the appearance of the finished product quite industrialized.
We are used to seeing a lot of 3D printed water pumps in this place. Although this structure requires a fully equipped machinery workshop, it is stronger than any plastic product, and you can easily break the window with it in an emergency. This is a vague function required by some discerning pump customers.
[Maciej] showed the building by pumping some green liquid, noting that the peristaltic design does not need to be started, which makes the operation easier. It is also bidirectional and can run very slowly if necessary.
Overall, this is a build that demonstrates the benefits of working in metal and the great features of peristaltic pump design. Play the video after the break.