Peristaltic Pump Not Priming: FG-16 Checks
Check the approved tube assembly, installation, direction, inlet path, suction conditions, and outlet restriction when an FG-16 head rotates without priming.
When an FG-16 head rotates without drawing liquid, check the tube assembly and installation before increasing speed or changing the pump. Incomplete occlusion, an incorrect assembly, inlet leakage or blockage, excessive suction, wrong direction, or outlet restriction can prevent priming.
V9.75 page 34 lists complete FG-16 tube assemblies. A tube number alone is not enough; confirm the approved material, dimensions, wall thickness, and assembly.
Safety and quick answer
Disconnect power before opening the head or working near rollers. Follow the matching FG-16 manual for loading and compression adjustment. Confirm the exact assembly and seating, then check direction, inlet sealing, blockage, wear, suction height, viscosity, and outlet restriction.
Check the installed path
Record pump, motor, head, and tubing part numbers. Inspect for loose connections, air leaks, kinks, blockage, a dry inlet path, excessive height difference, long inlet tubing, worn tubing, and back pressure. Stop if rollers stall, the cover cannot close normally, or abnormal heat or noise appears.
Confirm documented tube assemblies
V9.75 page 34 lists DI-040 plus 16# tubing and complete assemblies for 14#, 19#, 25#, and 17# tubing. Select by the complete approved assembly and application conditions.
- Do not increase speed before checking installation and the pressure path.
- Do not assume every 16# tube is suitable for FG-16.
- Use the matching installation manual for the compression position.
Engineering takeaways
- Start with the exact approved tube assembly.
- Check the complete inlet and outlet path before changing speed.
- Use the matching FG-16 installation instructions.