Hospitals use pneumatic tubes to transport blood samples at speeds up to 25 mph.

Pneumatic tube systems (PTS) have been a staple of hospital infrastructure since the mid-20th century. Modern systems, like those developed by companies such as Swisslog Healthcare or Pevco, utilize a network of airtight tubes and powerful blowers. These blowers create pressure or vacuum zones to propel specially designed carriers through the building.The carriers typically travel at speeds between 20 and 25 feet per second, which is approximately 15 to 17 miles per hour. However, some high-speed systems can reach peaks of 25 mph in long straightaways. This technology is vital for transporting blood samples, medications, and pathology specimens across massive medical campuses in a fraction of the time a human courier would take.To ensure the integrity of delicate biological samples, these systems use sophisticated software to manage 'soft landings.' This involves modulating air pressure to slow the carrier down just before it reaches its destination. This prevents the hemolysis of red blood cells, which can occur if a sample is subjected to sudden, violent impacts.A study published in the Journal of Clinical Pathology highlighted that PTS usage significantly reduces the 'brain-to-lab' turnaround time. By automating the transport process, hospitals can maintain a continuous flow of specimens. This allows laboratory staff to begin analysis immediately upon a patient's arrival in the emergency department.