Corning® Ascent® FBR PD System
Peristaltic Pump
Guidelines for Use
The Corning Ascent Fixed Bed Reactor (FBR) PD System consumables (Cat. Nos. 6971 - 6976) use high quality tubing designed for
extended-use operations with peristaltic pumps for the recirculation pump section. As with all peristaltic pumps, in rare cases of
prolonged use or improper loading, tubing can wear abnormally, fracture, and eventually leak. The following are best practices to load and
monitor tubing to prevent leaks from occurring on the Ascent FBR PD System.
◗During initial loading of the tubing loop through the recirculation pump or when opening the pump head for tubing inspection, tubing
should be taut and centered in the pump channel prior to closing the pump head. A slight tension can be placed on the tubing by
manually sliding the consumable sensor tray away from the pump head while closing the pump head (Figure 1). The tray may retract
slightly following release.
◗Following the Media Maintenance Phase, the tubing should be inspected for proper centering in the channel and re-tensioned, as the
tubing may stretch slightly during initial use (Figures 2 and 3).
◗Discoloration and attening are normal during peristaltic pumping operation (Figure 4), and external particulate generation on the
tubing and pump head during pumping is common. Particulate should be removed from the pump head regularly as it is observed.
Particulates can be removed using a lint-free wipe. Excessive particulate generation can be a sign of abnormal or excessive tubing wear.
Additional inspection, centering and tensioning may be recommended in these cases.
◗For operations with consistent high RPM (>250) and extended time periods (>3 days), the tubing should be inspected daily for abnormal
wear per the pump and tubing manufacturers’ recommendations and repositioned in the center of the rollers. If the presence of deep
ssures, gouges, or cuts through the thickness of tubing are observed, the risk of the tube leaking is elevated. The user should consider
stopping the run (Figure 5).
Figure 1. Tubing should be taut and centered in the channel while the pump head is closed. Gently sliding the
consumable sensor tray away from the pump head (white arrow) can ensure the tubing is taut during loading and
reloading.