A peristaltic pump also referred to as a hose or tube pump works using positive displacement. Fluid is fed through the tubing by rollers that rotate squeezing a flexible tube against the pump housing.

As the roller moves over the tubing, it expands and creates a vacuum to allow more fluid to enter. During operation, at least one roller closes the tubing. Therefore the need for valves is eliminated. The rollers are turned either directly by a motor or by a gearbox.