What is a key feature of positive displacement pumps?

Positive displacement pumps are designed to move a specific volume of fluid with each cycle of operation, which results in a constant flow rate regardless of the pressure in the system. This characteristic makes them ideal for applications where consistent flow is necessary, as they deliver the same amount of fluid irrespective of changes in downstream pressure. This is in contrast to other pump types that may vary in flow rate based on changes in system pressure.

While features such as intermittent flow, flexible design, and low maintenance may describe some aspects of fluid pump operation or design, they are not defining characteristics of positive displacement pumps. The key focus here is on the ability to provide a consistent and reliable flow, which is crucial for processes requiring precision in fluid transfer.