Printable Peristaltic Pump

thingiverse

This peristaltic pump design is based on a German concept and built to gain hands-on knowledge of its internal mechanisms. If you have a MakerBot/3D printer, you can create this pump using common parts in just a few hours. However, it requires very flexible silicone tubing for optimal performance; regular tubing may cause the ABS to overheat and break. The attached photos show a rebuilt version awaiting the appropriate tube. The model currently lacks motor mounting holes, so an electric screwdriver was used for testing, with a gearmotor planned for future use to determine required torque. To assemble the pump, print the provided files and dismantle a PC fan to harvest its ball bearings. For fans labeled "maglev," ignore the interior components. Insert the 8mm bearing into the pump base's center hole and stack an X-shaped part onto an M3x30(-40)mm bolt, followed by a nut, washers, and another nut. Drill the second X-shaped part's center hole and insert 12mm pieces of blind rivets into its holes using a hammer. Assemble two wheel pairs or one wheel onto axles, then place the X-part assembly on the M3 bolt and align the axles before securing with a nut. The wheels should turn freely; if not, add an extra washer for tension. Insert the roller wheel into the base, secure it with a nut, and attach the tube using the top cover and plastic screws. A 6mm outer diameter, 5mm inner silicone tube is recommended for optimal performance without requiring an electric screwdriver.