"Is It On Yet?" - Silent Operation With Disc Pump

Over the past decade, technology has become integrated into every aspect of daily life, from smart speakers to wearable medical devices. For such products to succeed, they must solve problems effectively, operate reliably, and remain unobtrusive. In pump-driven applications, this presents a challenge—conventional rotary vane or diaphragm pumps generate noise and vibration, often requiring extra damping materials that add cost, complexity, and size.

The Lee Company’s disc pump overcomes these issues through a piezoelectric actuator and specialized acoustic cavities that operate at 21 kHz—above human hearing. This results in truly silent operation with negligible vibration, making it ideal for discreet, patient-friendly, and noise-sensitive applications.

In ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) cuffs, the silent disc pump inflates/deflates without disturbing patients, enabling more accurate 24-hour readings. Its low pulsation allows oscillometric signals to be measured during inflation, reducing compression force. The compact size supports arm-worn designs, and MRI compatibility enables use in imaging suites.

In air quality monitoring systems, silent operation eliminates disruptive pump noise, allowing placement in offices and other indoor spaces. Low pulsation improves measurement sensitivity, while continuous operation for over two years reduces maintenance needs. The absence of damping hardware simplifies designs and cuts costs.

Beyond silence, the disc pump offers pulsation-free flow, ultra-fast response, full control flexibility, and portability. These attributes enable smaller, quieter, and more efficient devices across medical, environmental, and wearable technology sectors. The company recommends starting with an Evaluation Kit to explore the pump’s potential in custom applications.