Conical revolution pumps are providing new ways to propel fluids around uncrewed systems (writes Nick Flaherty).

The pumps, called the R-series and developed by TCS Micropumps in the UK, work on the peristalsis principle to pump both liquids and gases. Fluids are hermetically sealed so no dynamic seals or magnetic coupling is necessary. They are resistant to ice pressure, as they are undamaged even if water freezes within them, allowing high-altitude operation for UAVs.

They have a flexible pumping chamber that is deformed in a rotary motion. One side is under compression, forming a seal, while the other side is lifted, creating suction. The rotating movement creates a fluid wave that moves around and through the pumps.

This is capable of moderate flows and pressures that are suitable for many applications in uncrewed systems. The pumps’ construction includes a flexible diaphragm that separates them from the fluid path, so the only parts that are in contact with the fluid are the diaphragm and the pumps’ head. Using different materials for these elements allows different fluids to be used.

The structure means the diaphragm can be held in a place away from the inlet and outlet ports, and so act as a valve rather than a pump. This can be done with a standard drive motor but is much simpler and easier to achieve with a stepper motor driver, says TCS.

TCS pumps have been used for a UAV airship called the Phoenix (UST 29, December 2019/January 2020) that combines helium for lifting and air for descending. The pumps compress the air to control the altitude.

The pumps can handle pressures of up to 4 bar and are available in custom sizes.