What can be said about a variable displacement pump?

A variable displacement pump is a type of hydraulic pump designed to adjust the flow rate of fluid based on system requirements. The defining characteristic of a variable displacement pump is that it can change the volume of fluid it displaces per revolution, which allows for more precise control of hydraulic systems. This adaptability enables the pump to deliver only as much fluid as is needed at any given time, improving efficiency and responsiveness in hydraulic applications.

Being a positive displacement device means that it moves a fixed amount of fluid for each cycle or revolution, ensuring that the flow is consistent, and pressure is maintained as required by the system. This is an essential characteristic of all positive displacement pumps, including both variable and fixed displacement types. Therefore, the nature of a variable displacement pump as a positive displacement device is foundational to its operation and function in hydraulic systems.