Engineering Solutions | Peristaltic Drill-Powered Pump

Have you ever wondered if you could make a pump using just everyday materials? In this project, I’ll show you how to create an efficient peristaltic pump using a regular tin can, bearings, and a silicone tube—all powered by a drill.

The working principle is simple: the bearings rotate in a circular motion, pressing against the silicone tube and forcing liquid from one container to another. This immediately reminded me of one of the most famous mathematical constants—π (pi). After all, the process involves continuous circular movement, and the diameter of the bearings and the radius of the can are directly related to this number!

By the way, Pi Day is celebrated on March 14th (3/14 in the American date format) because 3.14 are the first digits of π. What better way to honor this day than by building a mechanism that operates through circular motion?

1. Bolts and Nuts
2. Tin Can
3. Plywood
4. Flexible Silicone Tube
5. Bearings | BUY LINK |

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We drill five holes in the tin can: one 8 mm hole in the center and four 2 mm holes for screws.

We place an order on the website, purchasing bearings and possibly some additional components for future projects. And in just six days, the package is already at our doorstep!

To secure the guides in the form of a stud, we first need to make a rigid rear part from plywood. To prevent the stud from damaging the wood and to ensure a more secure fixation, we drill holes in the plywood and press-fit the bearing. Only after that do we assemble both parts together using screws.

To secure the bearings on the axle, I used a metal plate where I placed two bearings as close as possible to the walls of the metal can. Once all the parts were securely fixed, I attached the silicone tube around the inner circumference of the container, so that when the bearings rotate, the tube gradually bends. This allows the pump to either draw in water or create bubbles if one end of the tube is placed in the water while the other stays on the surface.

This project is not only a great way to use everyday materials and simple mechanisms but also an excellent opportunity to highlight the mathematical marvel of the number π. Many elements in the pump design, such as the rotation of bearings and the use of circular components, are directly related to this number. All the circles, diameters, and radii we work with require precise calculations, where the number π plays a key role in ensuring the proper functioning of the mechanism.

This pump can be used in various applications, from simple liquid experiments to more complex mechanical and engineering projects. If you’d like to learn more and see the assembly process in more detail, make sure to check out my YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEjMd08pFBU channel, where you’ll find additional videos and tips for assembling and using peristaltic pumps.

Good luck with your future projects, and may the number π inspire you to reach new engineering achievements!