What is a key feature of a positive displacement pump?

A positive displacement pump is characterized by its mechanism of operation, which involves moving a specific volume of fluid with each cycle, regardless of the pressure in the system. This feature is fundamental because it allows these pumps to deliver a consistent flow rate under varying pressures, making them ideal for applications where precise fluid handling is essential.

Additionally, the action of moving a fixed amount of fluid per cycle gives positive displacement pumps their unique advantage of being able to handle thicker fluids or slurries, as they physically push the fluid through the system. This is a stark contrast to centrifugal pumps, which rely on kinetic energy and are more suited for certain types of fluids and flow conditions.

While the other options mention kinetic energy, high-speed operations, or low-viscosity fluids, they do not apply to the core function of positive displacement pumps, which is fundamentally about displacing a defined volume of fluid.