Low cost peristaltic pump

thingiverse

The peristaltic pump, featuring two cost-effective 28BYJ-48 stepper motors, is designed for 6mm ODx4mm ID silicone tubing with a flow rate of approximately 700ml/hr when driven full step unipolar. Higher flow rates may be achievable with bipolar operation. Not ideal for emergencies, this pump excels at watering plants or dispensing small quantities over extended periods. Two additional sets of tubing (3mm OD, 1mm ID) are included but have not been tested and may result in slow flow rates. Driving both motors from a single controller is possible by wiring one to run in the opposite direction as the other for better torque without resorting to more expensive NEMA steppers with gear reduction. Avoid printing the pump housing in PLA for extended use, as motor temperatures can reach up to 45-50 degrees Celsius, which may soften the material. Ensure smooth operation by sanding inner surfaces of the housing and the bottom part where bearings are situated. Required hardware components include six 13x4x5mm bearings, six M4 washers, seven M4 nuts, three M4x20 screws, four M4x5 screws, and four M4x25 screws, along with 6mm silicone tubing (PVC is not flexible enough). Motor hole threads should be tapped. Look online for examples of stepper motor driving programs while awaiting a programmable controller based on a PIC12. A video demonstration and code/schematics can be found at the provided links, but note that programming functionality has not yet been implemented in the current version.