Re: How does a lotion pump works?

Well Jessica dear... is hand lotion waste such a problem? I'm not sure
because I never use it I suppose..but I am familiar with them as my family
members use it.  

You are absolutely right about the thicknes and general design of the pump and 
its relation to the viscosity of the substance being pumped.  You could probably 
build a better one..in fact I know you could.  These pumps are designed to be 
functional..and thats it. They are made relatively cheaply, and in all honesty, 
the more they leak the better it is for the lotion company. I would complain if 
I got a particularly messy one though. 

Taking a look at this gadget we see that in most cases the pumps seal is formed 
by the clever use of a ball bearing in a spring.  This bearing forms the seal 
that draws the lotion into the pump and moves it through the valve.  To stop the 
leaking, you must 1)improve the stregth of the spring or 2) create a better seal 
for the bearing.

Now looking at some different ones here i see that some use a plastic or
rubber disc to perform the same task.  Same idea though.  It's nice to see
somebody who is trying to minimize waste though.  Keep at it, you may find a
unique design...you never know when an idea will pay off.