What type of pump is a reciprocating pump classified as?

A reciprocating pump is classified as a positive displacement pump because it works by trapping a fixed amount of fluid and then forcing that fluid into the discharge pipe. This mechanism creates a constant flow rate, regardless of the resistance within the system, which is a defining characteristic of positive displacement pumps.

In a reciprocating pump, the movement of a piston or diaphragm creates a vacuum that pulls fluid into the pumping chamber during one stroke and forces it out during the next stroke. This action is crucial for ensuring that a certain volume of liquid is moved per cycle, making these pumps particularly useful in applications where precise dosing and consistent flow are required.

Positive displacement pumps, including reciprocating types, are not dependent on the motion of fluid through the system, such as the way centrifugal pumps operate. Instead, they maintain their efficiency under varying discharge pressures or flow restrictions, which is why they are preferred in various industrial processes.