A peristaltic pump is classified as what type of pump?

A peristaltic pump is classified as a positive displacement pump because it moves fluid by trapping a fixed amount of it and forcing that volume through a discharge pipe. This action is achieved through the rotation of rollers or shoes that compress a flexible tube, creating a vacuum that draws the fluid in and then pushes it out. The key characteristic of positive displacement pumps is that they provide a constant flow rate regardless of the pressure in the system, making them ideal for applications where precise flow control is necessary.

The design of peristaltic pumps allows them to handle various types of fluids, including those that are viscous or contain solids, while minimizing the risk of fluid contamination since the fluid only comes into contact with the tube material. This feature is crucial in wastewater treatment where maintaining the integrity of the system and the quality of treated water is essential.