The discussion focuses on understanding the vacuum or suction created by peristaltic pumps. It clarifies that fluids are moved due to pressure differences rather than suction, emphasizing that a peristaltic pump operates by applying positive pressure to a flexible tube. The conversation also highlights that the pressure created at the end of the tube is minimal, especially when no fluid is present. Additionally, it distinguishes the function of a vacuum pump, which generates a significantly lower pressure than the surrounding environment.
PREREQUISITESEngineers, fluid mechanics students, and professionals involved in pump design and fluid transport systems will benefit from this discussion.
Hi,sophiecentaur said:Hi and welcome.
If you want an answer to this then we need to know a bit more context for your question, I think. I would just make the point that there is strictly no such thing as 'suck'. Fluids move because of excess pressure on one side, which pushes them. A peristaltic pump has an essentially 'floppy' tube which is squeezed (a positive pressure is applied) in parts to force a fluid along it. If the fluid in the tube is squeezed along the tube and the tube is then collapsed, then new fluid would only be forced in by the pressure difference in the upstream reservoir and the inside of the floppy tube. It the tube has walls that naturally (passively) spring back to shape, then you might expect a small pressure difference. A vacuum pump provides a force from a piston to produce a very low pressure in the pump - lower than the pressure in the evacuated reservoir.