Peristaltic Pumps Ensure Problem-Free Printing

Transferring ink from storage containers to the rollers on printing machines was proving problematic for the Danish company, Peterson Packaging. Air diaphragm pumps were responsible for the job but had proved unable to handle the water-based ink gently enough. As a result bubbles formed in the ink, ruining the packaging, creating excess waste and adding expense.

To resolve the problem Peterson Packaging researched the market for a gentle-action pump to ensure bubble-free ink. The chosen design also needed to be both cost effective and sufficiently compact to fit into the limited space available.

The Verderflex DURA peristaltic pump proved the ideal solution. Ink is completely contained within the Verderflex hose which is compressed by a rotating roller. On restitution of the hose the resulting vacuum draws in more liquid creating a gentle and accurate pumping process. The design eliminates any danger of cross contamination or spillage.

One of the most advanced peristaltic pumps on the market, the Verderflex DURA has a novel drive configuration that provides a 70% smaller footprint to similar pumps. This was an important attribute for Peterson Packaging as it required five pumps to fit in a tight space at the end of each print line.

As well as overcoming the space constraints the Verderflex DURA pumps are now delivering important performance benefits for Peterson Packaging. In addition to transferring bubble-free ink, the pumps are proving very easy to clean and maintain. They can even run dry without fear of damage and downtime is greatly reduced as the only wearing part is the hose. Colour change is also quick and easy.

Verderflex DURA offers greater reliability over other pumps due to its rigid drive connection. The rotor is mounted directly over the bearings, so there is no overhung load, further reducing the number of parts in what is already a very simple and elegant configuration. The rotor has been designed so it requires no shims, simplifying installation and reducing DURA’s overall power consumption.

As the DURA runs at a significantly lower operating temperature than equivalent pumps, hose life is improved by up to 40%. Another contributor to its longevity is the custom engineered construction of the Verderflex hose. This increases strength in the reinforced layers between the rubber and maximises the fatigue strength. In combination with the advanced rotor profile, the superior hose design ensures greater up-time of the pump.

The bearing construction is sealed for life and centrally absorbs the forces released in the pump. This results in quieter operation and a more durable pump and drive. Other features specific to this pump include an improved frame design and a one-size-fits-all slotted flange to connect the pump to the pumping station. The entire Verderflex DURA range incorporates a rapid change taper-lock flange that is suitable for pressures up to 12 Bar/175 PSI.

Peterson Packaging confirms that the pumps are certainly proving more efficient and quieter to run than their unsuitable and expensive forerunners. “We are very happy with the Verderflex DURA pumps and have now installed a total of 15 units into our printing process,” the company’s engineering manager concluded.