Collection: Peristaltic Pumps
Buy used and available-to-source peristaltic pumps from mLab Supply for laboratory and process fluid-transfer applications. Peristaltic pumps move fluid through flexible tubing without contact with internal pump components, making them well suited for sensitive, sterile, and viscous media. Representative manufacturers include Watson-Marlow, Cole-Parmer/Masterflex, Ismatec, Gilson, Verderflex, and Thermo Scientific. Configurations vary by drive, speed range, and pump head compatibility. Tubing materials, pump heads, and available accessories should be verified for each individual unit. Browse current listings or request a quote for a specific model.
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<h2>How to Choose a Peristaltic Pump</h2>
<p>Selecting the right peristaltic pump begins with understanding your fluid-transfer requirements. Key considerations include flow range, tubing compatibility, the nature of the fluid being transferred, and whether continuous or intermittent operation is needed. Drive type, speed control method, number of channels, and available pump heads all influence which platform is appropriate. For laboratory applications, bench-top drives with interchangeable heads offer flexibility across multiple workflows. For process or bioprocessing applications, more robust drives with validated tubing may be preferred. Used and refurbished units are often a practical choice when a specific drive platform is already in use in your lab, as heads and tubing are frequently interchangeable across instrument generations.</p>
<h2>What Is a Peristaltic Pump?</h2>
<p>A peristaltic pump moves fluid by compressing flexible tubing in a rotating motion, pushing the fluid forward through the tube without exposing it to the pump mechanism. Because the fluid contacts only the tubing, peristaltic pumps are widely used where contamination prevention, sterility, or chemical compatibility are important. Tubing material and internal diameter determine the chemical compatibility and flow characteristics of the system. The pump drive controls rotation speed and direction, while the pump head holds and compresses the tubing against the rotor. These pumps are inherently self-priming and can handle particulate-laden fluids that would damage conventional pump types.</p>
<h2>Peristaltic Pumps for Laboratory Fluid Transfer</h2>
<p>In laboratory settings, peristaltic pumps are used for media transfer, chromatography buffer delivery, bioreactor perfusion, cell culture feeding, sample loading, and fraction collection. Their ability to deliver precise, repeatable flow without fluid contact with the drive mechanism makes them a standard tool in research, QC, and process development labs. Bench-top drives from manufacturers such as Watson-Marlow and Cole-Parmer/Masterflex are frequently found in academic, pharmaceutical, and biotech laboratories. Ismatec drives are commonly used in analytical and high-precision low-flow applications. Gilson's Minipuls platform has a long history in fraction collection and analytical workflows. All configurations should be verified for tubing compatibility and pump head availability before purchase.</p>
<h2>Pump Drives, Heads, and Tubing</h2>
<p>Peristaltic pump systems consist of three primary components: the drive unit, the pump head, and the tubing. The drive controls motor speed and direction, typically via analog dial, digital display, or external control input. Pump heads attach to the drive and hold the tubing against a set of rollers; head design influences the number of channels, tubing size range, and occlusion characteristics. Tubing material—silicone, Tygon, Viton, PharMed, and others—determines chemical compatibility and service life. When sourcing a used peristaltic pump, confirm whether the pump head is included and which tubing types are compatible with the head design. Not all drives are compatible with all head types, and some platforms require manufacturer-specific heads.</p>
<h2>Peristaltic Pumps vs Other Laboratory Pumps</h2>
<p>Compared to syringe pumps, peristaltic pumps offer continuous flow rather than finite-volume strokes, making them better suited for sustained transfer, circulation, and media delivery applications. Compared to diaphragm and centrifugal pumps, peristaltic pumps are gentler on shear-sensitive materials and easier to clean or decontaminate by replacing the tubing alone. Vacuum pumps serve a different function—generating negative pressure rather than moving fluid through a circuit. When evaluating pump type, consider whether pulsatile flow is acceptable, whether the fluid requires single-use flow path, and whether the pump must be cleaned between runs or tubing can simply be replaced. Peristaltic pumps are generally preferred when flexibility, ease of cleaning, and compatibility with diverse fluids are priorities. Browse our <a href="/collections/vacuum-pumps">Vacuum Pumps</a> collection for alternative fluid management equipment.</p>
<h2>Popular Manufacturers and Models</h2>
<div class="mlab-collection-model-grid">
<div class="mlab-collection-model-grid__manufacturer">
<p>mLab Supply sources peristaltic pumps from leading manufacturers in laboratory and process fluid-transfer instrumentation. Common models and platforms available through mLab Supply include the following:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Watson-Marlow</strong> — 530S, 630S, 630U, 720U. Watson-Marlow drives are widely used in bioprocessing, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and research laboratories. The 600 series offers a range of head options for single and multi-channel applications.</li>
<li><strong>Cole-Parmer / Masterflex</strong> — Masterflex L/S and I/P series. The L/S platform is a standard in laboratory and research settings, with a broad range of compatible heads and tubing. The I/P series supports higher flow applications. Drive options include analog, digital, and computer-controlled variants.</li>
<li><strong>Ismatec</strong> — REGLO ICC, MCP Standard. Ismatec drives are known for multi-channel capability and precise low-flow control, frequently used in analytical chemistry, HPLC fraction collection, and cell culture applications.</li>
<li><strong>Gilson</strong> — Minipuls 3. A long-established platform in analytical laboratories, commonly used for fraction collection, continuous sampling, and multi-channel fluid handling at low flow rates.</li>
<li><strong>Verderflex</strong> — Vantage 5000. A process-oriented peristaltic pump platform designed for industrial and pilot-scale fluid transfer, offering robust construction for demanding environments.</li>
<li><strong>Thermo Scientific</strong> — FH100M. A multi-channel peristaltic pump frequently used in cell culture, bioreactor feeding, and media exchange workflows.</li>
</ul>
<p>Availability of specific models varies. <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a quote</a> for a model not currently listed.</p>
</div>
</div>
<h2>Buying Used and Refurbished Peristaltic Pumps</h2>
<p>Used and refurbished peristaltic pumps offer a cost-effective alternative to new instrumentation, particularly when the required drive platform is already established in your laboratory. Peristaltic pump drives are mechanically simple and tend to be durable; many drives remain in service for extended periods with basic maintenance. When purchasing a used drive, verify that the pump head is included and functional, that compatible tubing is available, and that any digital or software interfaces operate as expected. Refurbished units sourced through mLab Supply have been evaluated for function. Surplus and as-is units are also available for buyers who intend to evaluate or service the instrument themselves. Contact mLab Supply to discuss the condition and configuration of any specific listing.</p>
<h2>Configuration and Included Accessories</h2>
<p>Peristaltic pump configurations vary significantly between listings. Drives may be listed with or without pump heads; tubing is generally not included unless specifically noted. Some drives include external control cables, footswitch inputs, or RS-232/USB interfaces for computer-controlled operation. Multi-channel heads may be available separately or as part of a configured system. Before purchasing, confirm the following with mLab Supply: whether the pump head is included, which tubing size and material is compatible, whether any control accessories are included, and whether the unit has been tested. If you require a specific configuration, <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">submit a quote request</a> describing your requirements.</p>
<h2>Common Applications</h2>
<p>Peristaltic pumps are used across a wide range of laboratory and process applications, including media and buffer transfer, continuous cell culture feeding, bioreactor perfusion and harvest, fraction collection, chromatography sample loading and buffer delivery, tangential flow filtration circulation, environmental and water quality sampling, and industrial process fluid transfer. Their closed, tubing-based flow path makes them appropriate for sterile, hazardous, or high-value fluids where contamination prevention is critical. They are also commonly used in pilot-scale and scale-up workflows where validated, single-use flow paths are required. See also our <a href="/collections/tangential-flow-filtration-systems">Tangential Flow Filtration Systems</a> and <a href="/collections/chromatography-systems-fplc-akta">Chromatography Systems (FPLC/AKTA)</a> for related fluid-handling equipment.</p>
<h2>Bioprocessing and Laboratory Workflows</h2>
<p>In bioprocessing environments, peristaltic pumps play a central role in media delivery, perfusion, harvest, and transfer operations. Their compatibility with single-use tubing sets makes them appropriate for processes requiring clean-in-place avoidance or cross-contamination prevention. Watson-Marlow, Masterflex, and Thermo Scientific drives are commonly specified in bioprocessing protocols. When integrated with bioreactors and fermenters, peristaltic pumps control nutrient feed rates, pH correction delivery, and harvest flow. For upstream and downstream processing workflows, pump selection should account for tubing material compatibility with process fluids, required flow stability, and whether the pump must interface with a control system. Browse our <a href="/collections/bioreactors-and-fermenters">Bioreactors and Fermenters</a> collection for complementary equipment. For high-throughput liquid handling, see <a href="/collections/automated-liquid-handlers">Automated Liquid Handlers</a>.</p>
<h2>Procurement and Sourcing</h2>
<p>mLab Supply sources peristaltic pumps from research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations, and laboratory decommissions. Inventory is updated as equipment becomes available. If a specific model or configuration is not currently listed, mLab Supply can source it through its procurement network. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">request a quote</a> with the manufacturer, model, and any configuration requirements. For procurement teams and purchasing departments, mLab Supply supports vendor onboarding and can provide documentation to support institutional purchasing workflows. Equipment available through mLab Supply may also be purchased as part of a lab equipment buyout or partial decommission. Contact us to discuss procurement support for your organization.</p>
<h2>Related Laboratory Equipment</h2>
<p>Peristaltic pumps are frequently used alongside other fluid-handling and bioprocessing equipment. mLab Supply offers a range of related instrumentation including <a href="/collections/vacuum-pumps">Vacuum Pumps</a> for filtration and aspiration applications, <a href="/collections/tangential-flow-filtration-systems">Tangential Flow Filtration Systems</a> for concentration and buffer exchange, <a href="/collections/chromatography-systems-fplc-akta">Chromatography Systems (FPLC/AKTA)</a> for protein purification workflows, <a href="/collections/bioreactors-and-fermenters">Bioreactors and Fermenters</a> for upstream bioprocessing, and <a href="/collections/automated-liquid-handlers">Automated Liquid Handlers</a> for high-throughput liquid dispensing. Browse the full <a href="/collections/lab-equipment">laboratory equipment</a> catalog or <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">request a quote</a> for sourcing assistance. If you have surplus peristaltic pumps or other laboratory equipment to sell, visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page.</p>
<h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2>
<div class="mlab-collection-faq">
<div class="mlab-collection-faq__item">
<h3>What is a peristaltic pump?</h3>
<p>A peristaltic pump moves fluid by compressing flexible tubing with a rotating rotor, pushing the fluid forward without the fluid contacting any internal pump components. This design makes them well suited for sterile, sensitive, or chemically aggressive fluids, and allows the flow path to be cleaned simply by replacing the tubing.</p>
</div>
<div class="mlab-collection-faq__item">
<h3>What are common laboratory applications for peristaltic pumps?</h3>
<p>Peristaltic pumps are commonly used for media and buffer transfer, bioreactor perfusion and feeding, fraction collection, chromatography buffer delivery, tangential flow filtration circulation, environmental sampling, and continuous cell culture workflows. They are a standard tool in pharmaceutical, biotech, academic, and process development laboratories.</p>
</div>
<div class="mlab-collection-faq__item">
<h3>Is it safe to buy a used peristaltic pump?</h3>
<p>Used peristaltic pump drives are mechanically simple and generally durable. When purchasing a used unit, verify that the pump head is included, that compatible tubing is available, and that the drive operates correctly. mLab Supply evaluates units for function and can describe the condition of each listing. Contact us with any questions about a specific unit before purchasing.</p>
</div>
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<h3>What is a pump head, and is it included with the drive?</h3>
<p>The pump head is the component that attaches to the drive and holds the tubing against the rotor. Without a compatible pump head, the drive cannot transfer fluid. Pump head inclusion varies by listing. Review each product listing carefully and contact mLab Supply to confirm whether a head is included and which head types are compatible with the drive.</p>
</div>
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<h3>How do I know which tubing is compatible with my pump?</h3>
<p>Tubing compatibility depends on the pump head design and tubing inner diameter. Different pump head models accept different tubing size ranges. Tubing material—silicone, Tygon, Viton, PharMed BPT, and others—must be selected based on chemical compatibility with your process fluid. Refer to the manufacturer's documentation for the specific pump head model to confirm compatible tubing options.</p>
</div>
<div class="mlab-collection-faq__item">
<h3>What accessories might be included with a used peristaltic pump?</h3>
<p>Accessories vary by listing and may include pump heads, tubing, external control cables, footswitch inputs, RS-232 or USB interface cables, power cords, and in some cases original documentation. Surplus and as-is units may have fewer accessories. Contact mLab Supply before purchasing to confirm what is included with a specific unit.</p>
</div>
<div class="mlab-collection-faq__item">
<h3>How do I verify the configuration of a used pump before buying?</h3>
<p>Contact mLab Supply directly to request details about a specific listing. Useful information to confirm includes: pump head model and whether it is included, tubing compatibility, control interface type (analog, digital, or computer-controlled), operational status, and any noted condition issues. Submitting a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">quote request</a> with your requirements allows our team to identify the most suitable unit.</p>
</div>
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<h3>How do I choose between Masterflex L/S and I/P drives?</h3>
<p>The Masterflex L/S platform is designed for lower flow laboratory applications and is the most commonly used platform in research settings. The I/P platform is designed for higher flow applications where larger tubing inner diameters are required. Selection depends on your required flow range and the tubing size you intend to use. L/S and I/P pump heads are not interchangeable between platforms.</p>
</div>
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<h3>How does a peristaltic pump differ from other laboratory pump types?</h3>
<p>Peristaltic pumps move fluid through external compression of tubing, keeping the fluid isolated from the pump mechanism. Syringe pumps deliver precise finite volumes but require refilling between strokes. Diaphragm pumps generate pressure or vacuum but are less suitable for continuous fluid transfer of sensitive media. Centrifugal pumps move high volumes but can damage shear-sensitive biological materials. Peristaltic pumps are preferred when continuous flow, tubing replacement for cleaning, and fluid isolation are priorities.</p>
</div>
<div class="mlab-collection-faq__item">
<h3>Can mLab Supply source a specific peristaltic pump model not currently listed?</h3>
<p>Yes. mLab Supply sources equipment through its procurement network and can often locate specific models or configurations not currently in stock. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">quote request</a> with the manufacturer, model number, and any configuration requirements, and our team will follow up on availability.</p>
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<h3>What is the difference between used and refurbished peristaltic pumps?</h3>
<p>Used peristaltic pumps have been previously operated and are sold in their current condition, which may include signs of wear. Refurbished units have been evaluated, cleaned, and in some cases repaired or tested to verify operational function. Surplus units are sold as-is and may require evaluation or service by the buyer. mLab Supply can describe the condition category and any known issues for each listing upon request.</p>
</div>
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<h3>What information should I provide when submitting an RFQ for a peristaltic pump?</h3>
<p>To help mLab Supply identify the right unit, include the manufacturer and model number if known, the required flow range or tubing size, the number of channels needed, the type of fluid being transferred, whether a pump head is required, and any interface or control requirements. If you are open to alternatives, note that as well. Submit your request through our <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> page.</p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
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<h2>How to Choose a Peristaltic Pump</h2>
<p>Selecting the right peristaltic pump begins with understanding your fluid-transfer requirements. Key considerations include flow range, tubing compatibility, the nature of the fluid being transferred, and whether continuous or intermittent operation is needed. Drive type, speed control method, number of channels, and available pump heads all influence which platform is appropriate. For laboratory applications, bench-top drives with interchangeable heads offer flexibility across multiple workflows. For process or bioprocessing applications, more robust drives with validated tubing may be preferred. Used and refurbished units are often a practical choice when a specific drive platform is already in use in your lab, as heads and tubing are frequently interchangeable across instrument generations.</p>
<h2>What Is a Peristaltic Pump?</h2>
<p>A peristaltic pump moves fluid by compressing flexible tubing in a rotating motion, pushing the fluid forward through the tube without exposing it to the pump mechanism. Because the fluid contacts only the tubing, peristaltic pumps are widely used where contamination prevention, sterility, or chemical compatibility are important. Tubing material and internal diameter determine the chemical compatibility and flow characteristics of the system. The pump drive controls rotation speed and direction, while the pump head holds and compresses the tubing against the rotor. These pumps are inherently self-priming and can handle particulate-laden fluids that would damage conventional pump types.</p>
<h2>Peristaltic Pumps for Laboratory Fluid Transfer</h2>
<p>In laboratory settings, peristaltic pumps are used for media transfer, chromatography buffer delivery, bioreactor perfusion, cell culture feeding, sample loading, and fraction collection. Their ability to deliver precise, repeatable flow without fluid contact with the drive mechanism makes them a standard tool in research, QC, and process development labs. Bench-top drives from manufacturers such as Watson-Marlow and Cole-Parmer/Masterflex are frequently found in academic, pharmaceutical, and biotech laboratories. Ismatec drives are commonly used in analytical and high-precision low-flow applications. Gilson's Minipuls platform has a long history in fraction collection and analytical workflows. All configurations should be verified for tubing compatibility and pump head availability before purchase.</p>
<h2>Pump Drives, Heads, and Tubing</h2>
<p>Peristaltic pump systems consist of three primary components: the drive unit, the pump head, and the tubing. The drive controls motor speed and direction, typically via analog dial, digital display, or external control input. Pump heads attach to the drive and hold the tubing against a set of rollers; head design influences the number of channels, tubing size range, and occlusion characteristics. Tubing material—silicone, Tygon, Viton, PharMed, and others—determines chemical compatibility and service life. When sourcing a used peristaltic pump, confirm whether the pump head is included and which tubing types are compatible with the head design. Not all drives are compatible with all head types, and some platforms require manufacturer-specific heads.</p>
<h2>Peristaltic Pumps vs Other Laboratory Pumps</h2>
<p>Compared to syringe pumps, peristaltic pumps offer continuous flow rather than finite-volume strokes, making them better suited for sustained transfer, circulation, and media delivery applications. Compared to diaphragm and centrifugal pumps, peristaltic pumps are gentler on shear-sensitive materials and easier to clean or decontaminate by replacing the tubing alone. Vacuum pumps serve a different function—generating negative pressure rather than moving fluid through a circuit. When evaluating pump type, consider whether pulsatile flow is acceptable, whether the fluid requires single-use flow path, and whether the pump must be cleaned between runs or tubing can simply be replaced. Peristaltic pumps are generally preferred when flexibility, ease of cleaning, and compatibility with diverse fluids are priorities. Browse our <a href="/collections/vacuum-pumps">Vacuum Pumps</a> collection for alternative fluid management equipment.</p>
<h2>Popular Manufacturers and Models</h2>
<div class="mlab-collection-model-grid">
<div class="mlab-collection-model-grid__manufacturer">
<p>mLab Supply sources peristaltic pumps from leading manufacturers in laboratory and process fluid-transfer instrumentation. Common models and platforms available through mLab Supply include the following:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Watson-Marlow</strong> — 530S, 630S, 630U, 720U. Watson-Marlow drives are widely used in bioprocessing, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and research laboratories. The 600 series offers a range of head options for single and multi-channel applications.</li>
<li><strong>Cole-Parmer / Masterflex</strong> — Masterflex L/S and I/P series. The L/S platform is a standard in laboratory and research settings, with a broad range of compatible heads and tubing. The I/P series supports higher flow applications. Drive options include analog, digital, and computer-controlled variants.</li>
<li><strong>Ismatec</strong> — REGLO ICC, MCP Standard. Ismatec drives are known for multi-channel capability and precise low-flow control, frequently used in analytical chemistry, HPLC fraction collection, and cell culture applications.</li>
<li><strong>Gilson</strong> — Minipuls 3. A long-established platform in analytical laboratories, commonly used for fraction collection, continuous sampling, and multi-channel fluid handling at low flow rates.</li>
<li><strong>Verderflex</strong> — Vantage 5000. A process-oriented peristaltic pump platform designed for industrial and pilot-scale fluid transfer, offering robust construction for demanding environments.</li>
<li><strong>Thermo Scientific</strong> — FH100M. A multi-channel peristaltic pump frequently used in cell culture, bioreactor feeding, and media exchange workflows.</li>
</ul>
<p>Availability of specific models varies. <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a quote</a> for a model not currently listed.</p>
</div>
</div>
<h2>Buying Used and Refurbished Peristaltic Pumps</h2>
<p>Used and refurbished peristaltic pumps offer a cost-effective alternative to new instrumentation, particularly when the required drive platform is already established in your laboratory. Peristaltic pump drives are mechanically simple and tend to be durable; many drives remain in service for extended periods with basic maintenance. When purchasing a used drive, verify that the pump head is included and functional, that compatible tubing is available, and that any digital or software interfaces operate as expected. Refurbished units sourced through mLab Supply have been evaluated for function. Surplus and as-is units are also available for buyers who intend to evaluate or service the instrument themselves. Contact mLab Supply to discuss the condition and configuration of any specific listing.</p>
<h2>Configuration and Included Accessories</h2>
<p>Peristaltic pump configurations vary significantly between listings. Drives may be listed with or without pump heads; tubing is generally not included unless specifically noted. Some drives include external control cables, footswitch inputs, or RS-232/USB interfaces for computer-controlled operation. Multi-channel heads may be available separately or as part of a configured system. Before purchasing, confirm the following with mLab Supply: whether the pump head is included, which tubing size and material is compatible, whether any control accessories are included, and whether the unit has been tested. If you require a specific configuration, <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">submit a quote request</a> describing your requirements.</p>
<h2>Common Applications</h2>
<p>Peristaltic pumps are used across a wide range of laboratory and process applications, including media and buffer transfer, continuous cell culture feeding, bioreactor perfusion and harvest, fraction collection, chromatography sample loading and buffer delivery, tangential flow filtration circulation, environmental and water quality sampling, and industrial process fluid transfer. Their closed, tubing-based flow path makes them appropriate for sterile, hazardous, or high-value fluids where contamination prevention is critical. They are also commonly used in pilot-scale and scale-up workflows where validated, single-use flow paths are required. See also our <a href="/collections/tangential-flow-filtration-systems">Tangential Flow Filtration Systems</a> and <a href="/collections/chromatography-systems-fplc-akta">Chromatography Systems (FPLC/AKTA)</a> for related fluid-handling equipment.</p>
<h2>Bioprocessing and Laboratory Workflows</h2>
<p>In bioprocessing environments, peristaltic pumps play a central role in media delivery, perfusion, harvest, and transfer operations. Their compatibility with single-use tubing sets makes them appropriate for processes requiring clean-in-place avoidance or cross-contamination prevention. Watson-Marlow, Masterflex, and Thermo Scientific drives are commonly specified in bioprocessing protocols. When integrated with bioreactors and fermenters, peristaltic pumps control nutrient feed rates, pH correction delivery, and harvest flow. For upstream and downstream processing workflows, pump selection should account for tubing material compatibility with process fluids, required flow stability, and whether the pump must interface with a control system. Browse our <a href="/collections/bioreactors-and-fermenters">Bioreactors and Fermenters</a> collection for complementary equipment. For high-throughput liquid handling, see <a href="/collections/automated-liquid-handlers">Automated Liquid Handlers</a>.</p>
<h2>Procurement and Sourcing</h2>
<p>mLab Supply sources peristaltic pumps from research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations, and laboratory decommissions. Inventory is updated as equipment becomes available. If a specific model or configuration is not currently listed, mLab Supply can source it through its procurement network. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">request a quote</a> with the manufacturer, model, and any configuration requirements. For procurement teams and purchasing departments, mLab Supply supports vendor onboarding and can provide documentation to support institutional purchasing workflows. Equipment available through mLab Supply may also be purchased as part of a lab equipment buyout or partial decommission. Contact us to discuss procurement support for your organization.</p>
<h2>Related Laboratory Equipment</h2>
<p>Peristaltic pumps are frequently used alongside other fluid-handling and bioprocessing equipment. mLab Supply offers a range of related instrumentation including <a href="/collections/vacuum-pumps">Vacuum Pumps</a> for filtration and aspiration applications, <a href="/collections/tangential-flow-filtration-systems">Tangential Flow Filtration Systems</a> for concentration and buffer exchange, <a href="/collections/chromatography-systems-fplc-akta">Chromatography Systems (FPLC/AKTA)</a> for protein purification workflows, <a href="/collections/bioreactors-and-fermenters">Bioreactors and Fermenters</a> for upstream bioprocessing, and <a href="/collections/automated-liquid-handlers">Automated Liquid Handlers</a> for high-throughput liquid dispensing. Browse the full <a href="/collections/lab-equipment">laboratory equipment</a> catalog or <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">request a quote</a> for sourcing assistance. If you have surplus peristaltic pumps or other laboratory equipment to sell, visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page.</p>
<h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2>
<div class="mlab-collection-faq">
<div class="mlab-collection-faq__item">
<h3>What is a peristaltic pump?</h3>
<p>A peristaltic pump moves fluid by compressing flexible tubing with a rotating rotor, pushing the fluid forward without the fluid contacting any internal pump components. This design makes them well suited for sterile, sensitive, or chemically aggressive fluids, and allows the flow path to be cleaned simply by replacing the tubing.</p>
</div>
<div class="mlab-collection-faq__item">
<h3>What are common laboratory applications for peristaltic pumps?</h3>
<p>Peristaltic pumps are commonly used for media and buffer transfer, bioreactor perfusion and feeding, fraction collection, chromatography buffer delivery, tangential flow filtration circulation, environmental sampling, and continuous cell culture workflows. They are a standard tool in pharmaceutical, biotech, academic, and process development laboratories.</p>
</div>
<div class="mlab-collection-faq__item">
<h3>Is it safe to buy a used peristaltic pump?</h3>
<p>Used peristaltic pump drives are mechanically simple and generally durable. When purchasing a used unit, verify that the pump head is included, that compatible tubing is available, and that the drive operates correctly. mLab Supply evaluates units for function and can describe the condition of each listing. Contact us with any questions about a specific unit before purchasing.</p>
</div>
<div class="mlab-collection-faq__item">
<h3>What is a pump head, and is it included with the drive?</h3>
<p>The pump head is the component that attaches to the drive and holds the tubing against the rotor. Without a compatible pump head, the drive cannot transfer fluid. Pump head inclusion varies by listing. Review each product listing carefully and contact mLab Supply to confirm whether a head is included and which head types are compatible with the drive.</p>
</div>
<div class="mlab-collection-faq__item">
<h3>How do I know which tubing is compatible with my pump?</h3>
<p>Tubing compatibility depends on the pump head design and tubing inner diameter. Different pump head models accept different tubing size ranges. Tubing material—silicone, Tygon, Viton, PharMed BPT, and others—must be selected based on chemical compatibility with your process fluid. Refer to the manufacturer's documentation for the specific pump head model to confirm compatible tubing options.</p>
</div>
<div class="mlab-collection-faq__item">
<h3>What accessories might be included with a used peristaltic pump?</h3>
<p>Accessories vary by listing and may include pump heads, tubing, external control cables, footswitch inputs, RS-232 or USB interface cables, power cords, and in some cases original documentation. Surplus and as-is units may have fewer accessories. Contact mLab Supply before purchasing to confirm what is included with a specific unit.</p>
</div>
<div class="mlab-collection-faq__item">
<h3>How do I verify the configuration of a used pump before buying?</h3>
<p>Contact mLab Supply directly to request details about a specific listing. Useful information to confirm includes: pump head model and whether it is included, tubing compatibility, control interface type (analog, digital, or computer-controlled), operational status, and any noted condition issues. Submitting a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">quote request</a> with your requirements allows our team to identify the most suitable unit.</p>
</div>
<div class="mlab-collection-faq__item">
<h3>How do I choose between Masterflex L/S and I/P drives?</h3>
<p>The Masterflex L/S platform is designed for lower flow laboratory applications and is the most commonly used platform in research settings. The I/P platform is designed for higher flow applications where larger tubing inner diameters are required. Selection depends on your required flow range and the tubing size you intend to use. L/S and I/P pump heads are not interchangeable between platforms.</p>
</div>
<div class="mlab-collection-faq__item">
<h3>How does a peristaltic pump differ from other laboratory pump types?</h3>
<p>Peristaltic pumps move fluid through external compression of tubing, keeping the fluid isolated from the pump mechanism. Syringe pumps deliver precise finite volumes but require refilling between strokes. Diaphragm pumps generate pressure or vacuum but are less suitable for continuous fluid transfer of sensitive media. Centrifugal pumps move high volumes but can damage shear-sensitive biological materials. Peristaltic pumps are preferred when continuous flow, tubing replacement for cleaning, and fluid isolation are priorities.</p>
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<h3>Can mLab Supply source a specific peristaltic pump model not currently listed?</h3>
<p>Yes. mLab Supply sources equipment through its procurement network and can often locate specific models or configurations not currently in stock. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">quote request</a> with the manufacturer, model number, and any configuration requirements, and our team will follow up on availability.</p>
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<h3>What is the difference between used and refurbished peristaltic pumps?</h3>
<p>Used peristaltic pumps have been previously operated and are sold in their current condition, which may include signs of wear. Refurbished units have been evaluated, cleaned, and in some cases repaired or tested to verify operational function. Surplus units are sold as-is and may require evaluation or service by the buyer. mLab Supply can describe the condition category and any known issues for each listing upon request.</p>
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<h3>What information should I provide when submitting an RFQ for a peristaltic pump?</h3>
<p>To help mLab Supply identify the right unit, include the manufacturer and model number if known, the required flow range or tubing size, the number of channels needed, the type of fluid being transferred, whether a pump head is required, and any interface or control requirements. If you are open to alternatives, note that as well. Submit your request through our <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> page.</p>
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