What type of flow does a positive displacement pump provide?

A positive displacement pump provides a constant flow or volume moved per revolution. This characteristic means that with each cycle of the pump, a fixed amount of fluid is displaced, regardless of the pressure in the system. This is in contrast to other types of pumps, like centrifugal pumps, where the flow rate can vary based on pressure changes.

The defining feature of positive displacement pumps is their ability to deliver a precise volume of fluid, maintaining consistent flow even under varying pressure conditions. This makes them ideal for applications where accurate fluid delivery is critical. This consistent output is achieved because as the pump's mechanism (like gears, diaphragm, or rollers) operates, it forces a specific volume of fluid into the discharge line for each cycle, ensuring steady performance.

In situations where system pressure increases, positive displacement pumps will continue to pump the same volume, automatically adjusting in resistance through additional energy to maintain the flow, characteristic that sets them apart in fluid dynamics applications.