Hose pumps – the Solution - Tapflo - flow solutions for over 40 years

What is a hose pump or peristaltic pump?
How do hose pumps work?
Advantages and challenges of hose pumps
Hose pump applications
What to look for when selecting a hose pump?
What does the price of a hose depend on?
Maintenance and cleaning of hose pumps
Summary

Article author: Leszek Świerszcz
Marketing and PR specialist

What is a hose pump?

A hose pump, also known as peristaltic pump, is a volumetric or positive displacement pump, transferring a specific volume of liquid on each cycle or rotation, providing precise control over the flow rate.

Hose pumps are ideal for transfer or dosing applications where accuracy and consistent fluid delivery is required.

Hose pumps can handle difficult, abrasive, corrosive, viscous and shear sensitive liquids with particles. They have a number of unique features what makes them the ideal choice, especially for heavy duty and demanding applications where other types of pumps fail.

The hose, made of various materials, suits the liquid being transferred. It is squeezed by a set of rollers or shoes to move the liquid. Low pressure hose pumps are effective for discharge pressure up to 4 bar. The friction on the hose with rollers is low, hence the hose needs just to be lubricated by silicone grease. The rollers can be adjusted, either by brackets or by shims depending on the pump size.

High pressure hose pumps generate friction and heat while compressing the hose, therefore constant lubrication with glycerin is needed to dissipate the heat. The shoe design allows the pump to operate within higher discharge pressures up to 15 bar, avoiding any blockage and optimizing therefore the hose lifetime.

The transferred liquid is only in contact with the inner surface of the hose, avoiding any sealing. This also allows an easy cleaning of the pump.

Hose pumps are simple to use, easy to maintain and reliable.

This pump has only few components and the only wearing part at the inside the pump is the hose They do not require any qualified people for operation, optimizing therefore your TCO (Total cost of ownership)

How do hose pumps work?

PT high pressure hose pumps have a shoe design.
The pump generates friction and heat, while compressing the hose, therefore constant lubrication with glycerin is needed to dissipate the heat. This design allows the pump to operate within higher discharge pressure up to 15 bar, avoiding any blockage and optimising therefore the lifetime of the hose.

PTL low pressure hose pumps have a roller design.
This design is effective for discharge pressure up to 4 bar. The friction on the hose with rollers is lower, hence the hose needs just to be lubricated by silicone grease. The rollers can be adjusted, either by brackets or by shims depending on the pump size.

Advantages and challenges of hose pumps

PTL series

The best solutions for simple transfer or dosing applications, allowing you a quick hose exchange to optimize pump operation time.

Industry

Paint

Water treatment

Bread dough & fruit cake

Paper mils

PT series

Effective hose pump solutions for difficult, abrasive, corrosive & viscous liquids with particles.

Pharmaceutical industry

Water treatment

Pasta, cheese industry

Bread dough & fruit cake

Cosmetic industry

Features & Benefits

Pumping challenging liquids. Hose pumps are suitable for efficiently pumping highly abrasive, corrosive, and viscous liquids containing particles.

Ease maintenance, reduced downtime. Hassle-free maintenance and minimal downtime due to few components and no seals required.

Easy operation. User-friendly operation without the need for specialized personnel.

Cost-effective solution. Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for economical pumping solutions.

Turbulence-free performance. Smooth and gentle pumping even with highly abrasive or sensitive liquids, minimizing wear and ensuring optimal operations.

Extensive configuration options. The pump connection offers a diverse range of types and orientations.

Self-priming Efficient self-priming with superior suction capacity up to -0.9 bar.

Handling high viscosity. Reliable performance with the ability to pump liquids with viscosities up to 100,000cP

Reversible operation. Versatile functionality for various applications with an easy change of rotation direction.

Adjustable flow and precise dosing. Flexibility in flow rates and precise dosing accuracy of approximately ±5% by adjusting the speed, such as with a frequency converter.

Safe to run dry. Safe to run dry, eliminating the need for monitoring and ensuring ease of use and peace of mind.

Challenges & solutions of hose pumps

	PUMP SIZE Hose pumps are big and require a lot of space Solution: TAPFLO hose pumps have as a standard on: PTL hose pumps, have a vertical reducer, optimizing maintenance access & space. PT hose pumps can offer it as an option up to PT65 size. All bigger PT hose pump sizes (PT80-PT125) offer also a vertical reducer as a standard
	PULSATIONS: HOSE PUMP GENERATE PULSATIONS Due to their specific pump design, hose pumps generate a pulsing flow. Solution: TAPFLO offers a wide range and variable sizes of pulsation dampeners. The DT or DPT dampeners will reduce the pulsing by up to 80%.
	HIGH LIQUID TEMPERATURE REDUCES THE HOSE LIFETIME The hose lifetime is significantly reduced with a liquid temperature above 80°C. Solution: TAPFLO offers special cooling systems to reduce the temperature within the pump casing
	HOSE PUMPS ARE STANDARD PUMPS? OR SPECIAL PUMPS? Hose pumps are standard pumps, but they can be tailored to your needs Solution: TAPFLO Solutions offers „build in house”and „plug and play”solutions that fit the best according to your needs.

Optimizing the hose lifetime

The lifetime of the hoses depends on various factors, which are acting together:

The working time of the pump (Continuous/Intermittent/Occasional)
(The less the pump is working the better the lifetime of the hose).

The pump discharge pressure
(The lower the pressure, the better the lifetime of the hose).

The fluid & particles being pumped
(Abrasive, corrosive, aggressive liquids & particles reduce lifetime).

The pump speed
(The lower the speed the better the lifetime of the hose).

The temperature of the liquid being pumped
(The lower the temperaturethe better the lifetime).
For high temperatures please reduce speed of the pump by 30 %

The shimming strategy
(Less shimd = less pressure on the hose = the better hose lifetime).

Hose pumps. Optimizing the hose lifetime

Advanced hose design technology

At Tapflo we have focused on reducing hose wear, and our dedicated engineers are fully immersed in this important mission.

As a result, our newly upgraded Tapflo hoses outperform the competition, lasting approximately 30% longer than any other hoses in the market.

New Tapflo hoses are characterized by a non- machined external surface, which revolutionizes the lubrication of our reinforced hoses. This feature ensures a superior grip for the lubricant, reducing friction and significantly lowering heat generation.

The outcome? An unprecedented extension in hose lifetime that sets our products apart.

Examples of the use of hose pumps

Intestinal pumps are used in a wide range of industries – from sewage treatment plants to abattoirs, food production, cosmetics, the chemical industry or the pharmaceutical industry. As a rule, we also use them where other pump technologies have mostly failed.

Wide range of applications for peristaltic pumps

Pharmaceutical industry – pumps for this industry must meet a number of exacting requirements in terms of the materials inside the hose that will come into contact with the fluid being pumped. They perform well in chemical dosing, for the hermetic transport of products and intermediates such as liquid proteins, vaccines, serums, plasma, antibiotics or syrups, among others.

Potentially peristaltic pumps can be installed in explosive atmospheres – both gaseous and dusty. Tapflo supplies pumps and pump units fully certified according to the ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU.

Cosmetics industry – transport of gels, creams, shampoos, emulsions, pumping of transport containers.

Food industry – transporting or dispensing viscous products containing solid particles, such as egg whites and yolks, condensed fat, semolina, natural flavourings, cream, milk, yoghurt, fruit preparations, soups and sauces and many others.

Wastewater treatment and water treatment – transport of media with different viscosities, e.g.: sludge, polymers, sodium hypochlorite, ferric chloride, sodium bisulphite, fluoride, polymers, aqueous ammonia solutions, potassium permanganate, caustic soda and others.

Chemical industry – pumping paints, oil additives, detergents, resins, coatings for photographic films. Peristaltic pumps offer great potential for handling corrosive chemicals, slurries or pastes.

Paint industry – transfer of semi-finished and finished paints.

What to look for when selecting a hose pump?

The hose pump is a solution provider, however the correct hose pump selection & installation is crucial. Here are the main points to consider:

Liquid being pumped (pH, temperature of liquid, Density and viscosity)

Flowrate (Minimum, Nominal, Maximal) will provide you the speed of the pump. Consider also to use a frequency inverter to adjust the speed & for an easier maintenance. Hose pumps need to run at low speed to improve the hose lifetime.. You may be able to save money by using a smaller pump with higher speed – however bear in mind that this will translate into shorter hose life, so more costs

Working time of the pump (Continuous/Intermittent/Occasional)

Pump environment (Piping sizes, Altitude where the pump is used, IP protection, Working conditions (inside/outside), Safe zone, ATEX

Fix or mobile? Stand pumps are fixed, however we can offer mobile frames or trolleys

Suction side: Flooded or suction high (suction high, density, viscosity / vacuum systems

Discharge side: The outlet pressure (Overpressure sensor / by-pass)

Particles (soft, hard) % of particles in the liquid and their size

Cleaning (CIP) or flushing with water

Certificates (FDA, Surface roughness, pump test)

Special pump options (dampeners, stroke counters, electrical cabinets, covers, pods, expansion bellows

Our local representatives will be delighted to help you in your hose pump selection.
We have an international plurilingual team in our factory that can assist you as well.

Accessories for PT & PTL


DT & DPT Pulsation dampener The use of pulsation dampers in the discharge line guarantees a number of advantages, such as: significant reduction of discharge pulsations, vibrations and noise. This solution protects not only the pump, but also the piping and instrumentation.	Revolution counter (RC) The revolution counter allows to monitor the number of rotor revolutions. This accessory can be equipped with a control cabinet. Based on the volume per revolution data, this allows to calculate and batch products according to customer needs. Revolution counter can be also equipped with external digital display for easy monitoring of the pump speed and capacity.	Hose leak detector (HLD) The rupture of the hose, which is a wear part, creates a leakage of the pumped liquid. As a result, the level of the medium in the pump casing rises and is detected by a capacitive sensor, which immediately stops the pump.

Vacuum system (only for PT) The vacuum system is utilized in applications where viscous products are handled (above 10 000 cP) or with a negative suction lift. Because of the liquid viscosity the hose does not return to initial shape fast enough and the capacity decreases. By installing a vacuum system, efficiency drops are eliminated, as the pressure inside the pump is reduced and the hose is expanding quicker.	Build-in inverter (top or side) Built-in frequency inverters are a solution for comfortable pump speed control. Allows easier exchange of the hose. The unit is equipped with a IP66 programmed frequency inverter and all necessary equipment such as wires and plugs. The main advantage of this solution is that the inverter is mounted directly on the pump, which makes the whole unit compact and ready to use.	Trolleys Trolleys are designed to enable mobility and ease of use, while maintaining proper pump stability. Thanks to these new accessories, pumps can be easily transported and the most important, used in many applications and locations.

Summary

Where the customer is looking for reliability, gentle pumping of products with sensitive structures, high self-priming properties and no contact between mechanical parts and the liquid being pumped, peristaltic pumps are a proven and reliable solution. It is a versatile option for the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries on media such as soaps, shampoos, juices, sauces, wines, pulps and pastes. The use of these pumps requires minimal maintenance. Tapflo hose pumps are engineered with a straightforward yet robust design, where the only component subject to wear is the hose itself — ensuring minimal maintenance and maximum reliability. These pumps are built to handle the toughest challenges, including abrasive slurries, corrosive chemicals, and fluids containing solids. Ideal for demanding environments, Tapflo peristaltic pumps offer exceptional durability and can be tailored to meet a wide range of industrial applications.

Tapflo can assist at every stage of pump selection and purchase, as well as provide warranty and post-warranty service.

We provide a wide selection of equipment used across all industry sectors, both in small and large enterprises. We offer professional devices for applications in:

hygienic sectors (beverages, confectionery, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, fish processing, dairy, brewing, oils, fats, processed foods, and others),
industrial sectors (wastewater treatment plants, paper industry, surface treatment, chemical processes, mechanical industry, paint and coatings industry, leather tanning).

The bitumen industry focuses on the production, processing, and application of bitumen – including the manufacture of asphalt emulsions, modified bitumens, waterproofing masses, and more. Due to the nature of the material, the bitumen industry requires advanced technologies and specialized equipment to handle substances with high viscosity and extreme temperatures.

We offer a wide range of equipment, such as pumps and mixers, that enhance the efficiency and quality of production processes in the bitumen industry. By applying modern Tapflo solutions, it is possible to achieve bitumen products of the highest quality that meet the strict market requirements. By choosing our solutions, you can significantly increase the efficiency and safety of processes in your production facility.

The chemical industry is a very large and important sector of the economy, encompassing all types of enterprises that manufacture their products using chemicals.

At Tapflo, we provide modern industrial solutions that streamline manufacturing processes and improve chemical production efficiency. We understand that handling chemicals requires the use of the highest quality equipment, and that is exactly what we deliver. Our motorers ensure the selection of devices suitable for every type of chemical, including pumps, valves, mixers, and filters tailored to the specific medium. The highest quality of Tapflo equipment guarantees safety, accuracy, and optimization of production costs.

The household chemical manufacturing industry must continuously evolve to meet market demands and environmental standards by implementing modern technologies. The production process in the chemical industry, including cleaning agents, detergents, bleaches, and other products, is complex. Every manufacturer must use precise machinery to ensure quality, safety, and the highest efficiency of their installations.

We offer a range of equipment adapted to the challenging conditions of chemical production. Using Tapflo machines ensures efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly manufacturing.

We provide a wide range of equipment used across all industry sectors, both in small and large enterprises. We offer professional devices for applications in:

hygienic industries (beverages, confectionery, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, fish processing, dairy, brewing, oils, fats, processed food, and others),
industrial sectors (wastewater treatment plants, paper industry, surface treatment, chemical processes, mechanical industry, paint and coatings industry, tanning).

The electroplating industry plays a key role in the production of various metal components. Electroplating processes require the use of equipment designed to operate in aggressive environments – with chemicals, acids, or alkalis.

Our offer includes electroplating pumps, valves, filters, and mixers, whose design and reliability enable the production of the highest quality metal coatings. We provide equipment used in industries such as metallurgy, electroplating, and paint finishing.

The cosmetics industry is a dynamically growing sector where production quality and efficiency are of paramount importance. Achieving these goals requires modern and reliable equipment such as pumps, mixers, valves, and homogenizers.

Thanks to the variety of available products, Tapflo can tailor flow solutions to the specific needs of customers in the cosmetics industry. Our technologically advanced machines play a fundamental role in production processes, ensuring high quality of cosmetic products. We guarantee precision, efficiency, and safety, which translate into superior product quality and consumer satisfaction.

We provide a wide range of equipment used across all branches of industry, both in small and large enterprises. We offer professional devices for applications in:

hygienic sectors (beverages, confectionery, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, fish processing, dairy, brewing, oils, fats, processed food, and others),
industrial sectors (wastewater treatment plants, paper industry, surface treatment, chemical processes, mechanical industry, paint and coatings industry, tanning industry).

We provide a wide selection of equipment used across all branches of industry, both in small and large enterprises. We offer professional devices for applications in:

hygienic sectors (beverages, confectionery, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, fish processing, dairy, brewing, oils, fats, processed foods, and others),
industrial sectors (wastewater treatment plants, paper industry, surface treatment, chemical processes, mechanical industry, paint and coatings industry, tanning industry).

Pumps and equipment for food production play a key role in ensuring efficiency, hygiene, and safety of manufacturing processes.

Investing in high-quality equipment pays off by improving product quality, increasing productivity, and reducing operational costs. By choosing the right food-grade pumps, mixers, or homogenizers from Tapflo, food industry companies can meet market challenges and deliver products of the highest quality to consumers. Every Tapflo device is characterized by compliance with strict sanitary standards such as EHEDG, 3-A, FDA, and USP VI.

We offer a wide range of equipment used across all industry sectors, both in small and large enterprises. We provide professional devices for applications in:

hygienic sectors (beverages, confectionery, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, fish processing, dairy, brewing, oils, fats, processed food, and others),
industrial sectors (wastewater treatment plants, paper industry, surface treatment, chemical processes, mechanical industry, paint and varnish industry, tanning).

Industry Sector

We present to you the full range of products we supply. The proposals found here are addressed to users of various types of industrial applications in India. We offer comprehensive, professional and, above all, reliable diaphragm pumps, centrifugal pumps, peristaltic pumps, pulsation dampers, electrically operated diaphragm pumps, filter press pumps, submersible pumps, industrial mixers, filter units, hygienic valves, and other equipment to the Indian Industry to ensure the safe and trouble-free transportation of liquids. Our over forty years of experience and qualified staff of top specialists ensure that the industrial equipment we supply successfully meets the expectations of even the most demanding applications in the Indian Industry.

One of the most universal pumps available on the market, compressed air-operated diaphragm pumps can be used in a wide range of applications to transfer almost any medium. Their simple operating principle and robust, compact design enable these pumps to meet the high demands of various industries.

Trouble-free dry running. Smooth flow control. Self-priming up to 5 m.
No electrical installation required. Few components. Compact and robust design. Oil-free air distributor.
Compressed air supply.

Due to changes in the way we think about our impact on the environment, we are proud to present EODD – Electric Diaphragm Pumps. The product follows a modern approach but is still based on the original diaphragm pump technology, which has proven to be very effective. We consulted with our customers, who expressed a need for the features and benefits of a traditional diaphragm pump, but with the added advantage of lower operating costs. The pump is powered by a high-efficiency electric motor (IE3 class) and there is no chance of hydraulic fluid leakage, as the pump simply does not need it.

A Filter Press Pump is a specialized type of pump designed to fill a filter press with a slurry or suspension from an external storage or disposal facility, typically used in solid-liquid separation processes, typically at high pressures reaching 24 bar.

Tapflo Filter Press Pumps are known for their robust construction, reliable performance, and ability to handle high-pressure applications with ease. They are equipped with a non-return valve to prevent backflow and are available in various materials to suit different process requirements. Air operated filter press pumps have the unique feature that when the filter press is full, they stop and no additional safety systems are required to shut down the pump (like in case of electrically operated filter press pumps).

Tapflo offers a wide range of centrifugal pumps made of stainless steel and PP and PVDF plastics, including horizontal or vertical pumps, as well as magnetically driven pumps. Available in hygienic and industrial designs, Tapflo centrifugal pumps are among the most versatile pumps currently available on the market. Selected pumps can be designed for safe contact with food and are also available in ATEX explosion-proof versions.

Hose pump is a type of positive displacement pump that can be used to pump a wide variety of liquids. Tapflo industrial hose pumps use the principle of peristalsis, whereby the deformation and compression of a soft elastomer hose allows the liquid to pass through the device.

Pumps of this type are the best solution for delicate, corrosive, abrasive or dry media, including those containing solid particles. The special design, in which only the hose comes into contact with the pumped product, reduces operating costs by reducing wear on internal components and allows operation in very demanding conditions.

The SOMA SINUSOIDAL Positive Displacement Pump works according the Sinusoidal PUMP principle, which was developed by Manfred Sommer in 1982. The Sinusoidal curve shaped rotor is fitted on a pump shaft. Due to the design, four chambers are created in which the product will be transferred very gently – without any shear or damage to the product.
A scraper divides the suction and the pressure side. The rotor does not run against the housing or the cover. That means, that the housing and the cover will never wear out. SOMA offers an unlimited guarantee for the cover and the housing.

IBC containers and drums are widely used in industry – they are the simplest way to store and transport various liquids. Since many of these liquids must be mixed before use in the process, we offer a range of dedicated industrial mixers. These are simple, yet robust and safe to operate, high-quality devices. Designed and configured for common industrial applications, they enable mixing directly in the IBC container or drum. Thanks to the use of mixers, intermediate tanks can be omitted and the process becomes faster and more economical.

Our offer is complemented by pump units, industrial trucks, acoustic and thermal shields, and SKID technological systems. Bearing in mind the diverse needs of our customers, we offer not only a standard range of products, but also customised solutions tailored to your requirements. Our range includes pump units of various power ratings and sizes. We are able to supply motors and gear motors for every standard pump available in our offer. If you cannot find a solution that meets your expectations in our offer, we will be happy to design and implement a customised solution.

Pumps

Other Equipment

We specialize in designing unconventional solutions tailored to the most demanding needs of our clients. We do this by introducing additional functionalities to the offered devices, increasing their mobility, adjusting their dimensions or introducing advanced safety and control systems. We offer all solutions that increase the comfort and safety of work, such as stationary and mobile systems for unloading media from tanks, barrels, IBC containers, etc.

Our mission is to provide technical solutions that guarantee proper functionality and stable operation in any environment.

Unloading drums filled with highly viscous liquids has never been easier. Our High Viscosity System (HVS) is designed to simplify this task, offering automated efficiency and exceptional product-saving capabilities. With HVS, you’ll experience a smooth unloading process, allowing you to focus on other critical tasks while achieving up to a 99% product removal rate. Say hello to effortless drum unloading with HVS.

Simplify the unloading of highly viscous liquids with our High Viscosity System Quattro-type (HVS Quattro). It is designed for high-volume applications where multiple drums (typically four) are stored on pallets. The HVS Quattro allows you to switch between the drums easily, thanks to our revolutionary articulated arm. Experience an impressive product removal rate of up to 99% which will reduce your production costs.

Unloading drums containing highly viscous liquids has become more efficient and precise with our High Viscosity System Flexi-type (HVS Flexi). This system simplifies the task, providing automation and effective product-saving features. The HVS Flexi ensures a smooth unloading experience, allowing you to concentrate on other important tasks while achieving an impressive product removal rate of up to 99%. It is suitable for applications with low to moderate volumes, such as supplying filling or packing lines directly.

Experience efficient and safe tank emptying operations with our flexible Unloading System. Designed to handle IBCs (Intermediate Bulk Containers), Mauser, Goodpack or Bag-in-Box® containers, totes, drums, barrels, and various other storage vessels, this system efficiently manages both low and high-viscosity products across a wide range of industries. Using a reliable suction lance mechanism, its innovative design and customizable control system ensure optimal performance while maintaining the highest industrial safety standards.

SLES* is an organic chemical compound with excellent cleaning and foaming properties. For this reason, it is commonly used in the production of cleaning agents, soaps, shampoos, and household chemicals. SLES is typically supplied to manufacturers of these liquids at a 70% concentration, and due to its physical properties, such a concentrated solution is difficult to process and must be diluted below 27% before being used in the production line. Our system enables continuous dilution with maximum efficiency and safety, reducing costs for the company in the long term.

Achieving precise mixing of ingredients to obtain the desired final product—while maintaining strict proportions, accuracy, and sequence—poses a major challenge for industrial manufacturers. The mixer was created specifically for this purpose. It is based on a system for diluting concentrated ingredients such as SLES. However, it has been designed in a modular way, allowing us to easily configure the system to meet actual production needs. The ingredients of the final product can be drawn from various types of tanks.

Precise and repeatable filling operations with our versatile container filler. Designed for applications requiring high accuracy and compatibility with various containers and products, from small-volume containers to large industrial drums. Filling accuracy below 0.1% ensures optimal production line performance while maintaining the highest industrial and sanitary standards. Suitable for both high- and low-viscosity products.

Responding to the individual needs of users, Tapflo offers the delivery of compact, automated process systems on a “turnkey” basis. Every demand for a non-standard pumping system is an opportunity for us to create a unique, tailor-made SKID system. Thanks to our extensive design and manufacturing capabilities, we provide solutions developed with specific functionality in mind. We offer virtually unlimited possibilities for the development of pumping units, both in terms of mechanics and automation.

Tapflo presents a series of chemical unloading systems designed for every branch of industry where liquids need to be stored, transferred, and dosed. Our solution, based on the use of a diaphragm pump, is suitable for handling viscous liquids, chemically aggressive substances, as well as those containing solid particles.

Several tank sizes can be combined with pumps in various configurations. Additional options allow the system to be tailored to specific needs. In this way, we have created the simplest and most versatile pumping solutions on the market.

saThe use of protection systems ensures not only efficient but also safe operation of diaphragm, lobe, gear, screw, and centrifugal pumps. Protection systems detect hazardous situations and respond immediately, for example by automatically shutting down the device. The pump protection solutions offered by Tapflo operate based on dedicated sensors. These include media presence sensors such as optical indicators, as well as tuning fork and capacitive sensors designed to detect the presence of a medium or to monitor its level in tanks or pipelines.

Tapflo presents a series of hygienic covers designed specifically for diaphragm pump users. The stainless steel housing is durable and sealed, effectively isolating the pump from its surroundings. Filled with a dedicated insulation mat, the hygienic covers are an ideal solution for acoustic or thermal separation of the pump. Tapflo industrial covers combine user-friendly design with high-quality materials. Built to last, they will serve reliably for years in nearly any application.

System type