Rotary Vane Pump vs BP7 Piezo Actuator Micropump: A Comparison

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Rotary vane pumps are a staple in various industries due to their reliability and efficiency in handling fluid and gas transfer. However, there exists a robust alternative that deserves attention: the BP7 micropump by Bartels Mikrotechnik GmbH.

This article will introduce the BP7 micropump, exploring its features, benefits, and applications, allowing you to evaluate it as a viable option alongside traditional rotary vane pumps.

A schematically shown rotary vane pump next to a micropump from Bartels Mikrotechnik.
Rotary Vane Pumps use rotating vanes for fluid movement, while Micropumps from Bartels Mikrotechnik use piezoelectric actuation.

Comparing Rotary Vane Pump and The Bartels Pump

Basic Differences

Rotary vane pumps operate through a series of vanes mounted on a rotor, which moves fluid by creating pressure differences. These pumps are known for their high efficiency, particularly in applications requiring a continuous and steady flow of fluids or gases. They are widely used due to their ability to handle a range of viscosities and provide consistent performance under varying operational conditions. However, they do require maintenance due to mechanical wear and tear. Lubricants such as oil or graphite can reduce this wear, but because of the rotating mechanism, some wear is inevitable, and the pump’s lubricant will need to be changed regularly.

In contrast, the BP7 micropump is a positive displacement membrane pump that utilizes piezo actuators. This technology enables the pump to handle both liquids and gases with precision and minimal pulsation. The BP7 micropump’s compact design and minimal maintenance requirements offer a modern, efficient alternative for various fluid handling applications. With its ability to operate efficiently in confined spaces and its lightweight construction, the BP7 is particularly suited for applications where size and power consumption are critical factors.

Common Applications for a Rotary Vane Pump

Rotary vane pumps are commonly used in a variety of settings due to their versatility and robust performance. Typical applications include:

  • HVAC Systems: Providing reliable circulation of refrigerants.
  • Automotive Industry: Used in braking systems and fuel injection processes.
  • Manufacturing: Handling various fluids in production lines.

The BP7 micropump excels in more specialized applications, including:

  • Lab Testing: Ideal for precise fluid control in analytical equipment.
  • Point of Care Testing: Used in medical devices requiring reliable and compact fluid handling solutions.
  • Liquid Handling and Dosing: Suitable for applications demanding accurate dosing and minimal contamination.
  • Gas & Liquid Analysis: Provides precise control and efficient operation in analytical instruments.
  • Air Quality Monitoring: Ensures accurate sampling and measurement of air quality parameters.

Advantages of The Bartels Pump | BP7

The BP7 micropump offers several distinct advantages that make it a compelling choice for various fluid handling applications. Unlike rotary vane pumps, which rely on mechanical parts that wear out over time, the BP7’s piezo actuators provide a highly reliable and maintenance-free operation. This results in a significantly longer lifespan, with the BP7 capable of continuous operation for up to 5000 hours.

One of the standout features of the BP7 micropump is its compact and lightweight design. Weighing just 2 grams, the BP7 is easy to integrate into portable and space-constrained devices, offering flexibility in design and application. Its small footprint does not compromise its performance; the pump can handle liquids with a flow rate of 5 – 8000 μl/min and gases with a flow rate exceeding 25 ml/min, making it versatile enough for a wide range of uses.

Two Bartels Pump BP7 mounting samples displayed flat on a white background, shown from front and back angles, with two blue paper clips for size comparison.
The Bartels Pump | BP7 – Mounting, a piezoelectric membrane pump designed for easy integration into fluidic systems.

Energy Efficiency for Maximizing Performance

Energy efficiency is another key benefit of the BP7 micropump. With a power consumption of just 50 mW, it is particularly suitable for battery-operated devices and applications where power efficiency is a critical factor. This low power requirement helps in extending the operational time of portable devices, reducing the need for frequent recharging or battery replacements.

 

Precision and Fast Response with Unmatched Accuracy

Precision and fast response times are essential in many fluid handling applications, and the BP7 micropump excels in these areas. The piezo actuators provide precise control over fluid flow and pressure, making the BP7 ideal for applications requiring high accuracy, such as medical dosing and microfluidics. The rapid response capability enhances efficiency in dynamic and demanding environments, ensuring that fluid handling processes are both accurate and timely.

 

Minimal Maintenance and Durability Built to Last

The BP7 micropump also boasts minimal maintenance requirements. Unlike rotary vane pumps, which often need regular servicing due to mechanical wear, the BP7 is built for durability and long-term use. This reduces downtime and maintenance costs, making it a cost-effective option over time. Additionally, its quiet operation and the use of chemically resistant materials in contact with the medium ensure reliable performance across a variety of challenging conditions.

Two Bartels Pump BP7 mounting samples displayed flat on a white background, shown from front and back angles, with two blue paper clips for size comparison.

The Micro Pump for your application

The Bartels Pump | BP 7 – the newest pump by Bartels Mikrotechnik – works efficiently in small application areas

Advantages of Rotary Vane Pump

Rotary vane pumps offer unique advantages that have solidified their place in various industries and applications. Their high efficiency and ability to provide a steady flow of fluids make them particularly suitable for continuous operation in demanding environments. Here are some key benefits of rotary vane pumps:

Versatility

Rotary vane pumps are highly versatile, capable of handling a wide range of flow rates and fluids with different viscosities and chemical compositions. This versatility makes them suitable for diverse applications, from pharmaceutical manufacturing to food and beverage processing. Their ability to accommodate various fluid types without contamination makes them indispensable in industries where product purity is critical.

Bio-Compatibility

One of the standout features of rotary vane pumps is their bio-compatibility. They are often used in medical and biotechnological applications where maintaining the integrity of biological materials is paramount. Rotary vane pumps ensure that fluids only come into contact with the pump tubing, minimizing the risk of contamination and ensuring safe handling of sensitive materials such as blood or pharmaceutical compounds.

High Volume Manufacturing:

Rotary vane pumps are capable of high-volume manufacturing, making them ideal for industrial processes that require continuous and consistent fluid handling. Whether it’s dispensing large quantities of chemicals in manufacturing or transferring fluids in automated production lines, rotary vane pumps provide reliable performance under high-demand conditions.

Robust and Durable Design

Built to withstand harsh operating conditions, rotary vane pumps offer long-term reliability and durability. Their robust construction makes them suitable for industrial environments where equipment must endure continuous use and occasional rough handling.

High Suction and Vacuum Capabilities

Rotary vane pumps excel in applications requiring high suction or vacuum capabilities, such as in HVAC systems and certain automotive functions. Their design allows them to maintain consistent performance even under challenging conditions, ensuring efficiency and reliability.

In summary, the versatility, bio-compatibility, and high-volume manufacturing capabilities of rotary vane pumps underscore their reliability and effectiveness across a wide range of applications. These features make rotary vane pumps a preferred choice in industries where precision, cleanliness, and efficiency are critical considerations.

Choosing the Right Pump for Your System

Selecting the optimal pump for your system involves weighing several critical factors, especially when considering the capabilities of a rotary vane pump.

Factors to Consider

  • Fluid Type and Compatibility: Assess the nature of the fluids your system will handle. Rotary vane pumps excel in managing diverse fluid types, including viscous and abrasive substances, while maintaining high levels of bio-compatibility. This makes them suitable for applications where fluid purity and integrity are paramount. Evaluate the viscosity, chemical compatibility, and particulate content of your fluids to determine if a rotary vane pump aligns with your operational needs.
  • Space and Weight Constraints: For applications where space is limited and weight is a concern, the BP7 micropump’s compact and lightweight design offers a significant advantage. Rotary vane pumps, while robust, typically require more space, which might be a limiting factor in portable or compact systems.
  • Maintenance Requirements: Evaluate the maintenance needs of each pump type. The BP7 micropump’s minimal maintenance requirements and long lifespan can reduce downtime and operational costs, whereas rotary vane pumps may necessitate more frequent maintenance due to mechanical wear.
  • Power Efficiency: If energy efficiency is a priority, the BP7 micropump’s low power consumption makes it an excellent choice for battery-operated devices. Rotary vane pumps, while efficient in their own right, generally consume more power due to their mechanical design.

Application-Specific Recommendations

For medical applications such as IV infusion or drug delivery systems, where precise fluid control and contamination prevention are critical, rotary vane pumps are often recommended. Their ability to handle sensitive fluids safely and efficiently ensures the reliability and safety of medical treatments.

Conversely, micro pumps shine in applications requiring precise dosing and compact integration, such as wearable medical devices, microfluidic systems for biomedical research, and portable analytical instruments. Their low power consumption and rapid response time are advantageous in scenarios prioritizing energy efficiency and operational responsiveness.

By carefully evaluating these factors and understanding the specific requirements of your application, you can confidently select the pump type—whether rotary vane or BP7 micropump—that will optimize fluid handling, enhance system performance, and meet the unique operational demands of your setup.

A full microfluidic system, consisting of a pump, sensor, damper, multiple valves and a fluidic chip by microfluidic ChipShop.
Integrated microfluidic system: Combines pump, sensor, damper, valves, and fluidic chip for precise fluid control.

Conclusion: Choosing Between Rotary Vane Pump and the BP7 Micropump

Throughout this exploration of rotary vane pumps and the BP7 micropump, several key advantages and considerations have emerged. Rotary vane pumps have been highlighted for their versatility in handling various fluid types and their bio-compatibility, making them essential in medical and biotechnological applications. They also excel in high-volume manufacturing scenarios where reliability is crucial.

If this article sparked your interest in micro pumps, visit our shop or contact us via our contact form so we can help you integrate micro pumps perfectly into your system.