MEC 35 - Peristaltic Pump

Introduction

Background

Research and design for peristaltic pumps use a multidisciplinary approach. To maximize pump efficiency and dependability, our team explores the fields of fluid dynamics, material science, and mechanical engineering. Important factors include knowing how well tube materials work with various fluids, creating exact rotor mechanics, and taking motor requirements into account. The main goal of the ongoing research is to decrease pulsation, improve pump precision, and investigate applications in industries including water treatment, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals. The goal of this ongoing improvement is to enhance longevity, adaptability, and performance in many industrial and medical contexts.

Problem Statement

The main requirements for the completion of MT324- Advanced Project: Design and Construction is to pitch a personal idea or use an idea given from the Project Lists found on the course shell. These projects aim to apply all the knowledge taken on the course Mechanical Engineering Technology- Industrial as the students prepare to enter the industry.

The group chose to propose their personal idea called Peristaltic Pump. The Peristaltic Pump is designed as a suction to take a liquid from one place to another without exposing the liquid to any contamination or to the pump itself.

Purpose and Limitation

The construction of the peristaltic pump aims to create a prototype of a pump that applies Mechanical, Electrical, and Programming works on the pump. Here are some of the applications and limitations that the students will have to face in the project.

For Mechanical works, the team will apply their knowledge with SolidWorks, wherein they had to create detailed drawings of the peristaltic pump based on the computations derived from fluid flow analysis. The drawings they created will be the blueprint for their manufacturing wherein they will apply their knowledge on basic machine shop process such as using the lathe, milling machine, drilling machine, and 3d printing machine. However, the team are limited to using the machines at the machine shop within the supervision of their professor.

For the Electrical works, the students will connect the peristaltic pump to an electrical power source. This step involves the wiring of the pump to a suitable power supply with proper voltage and current. It is however limited to a simple electrical connection.

Lastly, for the Programming works, the students will apply programming techniques to monitor the liquid flow by controlling the volume which will be shown in the user interface.

Design Requirements

As per the course handout given to the class, the project is given a set of requirements as follows: 

1. The size of the project should not exceed 2ft x 2ft x 3ft.
   • The group's final output size is 6in x 6in x 2.85in.
2. The weight of the project should not exceed 50lbs.
   • The group’s final project weight is 2lbs

Application of the Project

            Due to their versatility in handling a wide range of fluids with sterility, accuracy, and dependability, peristaltic pumps are used in a variety of sectors. It can be applied in the pharmaceutical and medical industries, where maintaining sterile conditions and exact fluid control are critical. Peristaltic pumps can also be used in the food and beverage industry for the safe transfer of delicate and viscous fluids; these pumps are frequently used to pump syrups, sauces, and beverages. In addition, peristaltic pump can also be used in handling toxic chemical for industrial works like paint to make sure that workers will be safe from harmful substances.