← All terms

Gear pump

A continuous-flow positive-displacement pump using meshing gears. Common in larger commercial espresso machines and brewers where smooth, quiet, low-pulsation flow is needed.

Category: Pumps & Pressure

A type of positive displacement pump using meshing gears to move water at constant volume per rotation. Smoother and quieter than vibration pumps; usually slower than rotary vane pumps.

Why it matters — Gear pumps deliver very smooth, pulse-free flow — useful for flow-profiling machines where the barista needs precise control. Their consistency makes them popular in some high-end espresso designs.

Good to know

  • Gear pumps are used in some Decent and Sanremo machines.
  • Less common than vibration or rotary pumps, but the smooth output is genuinely noticeable when comparing machines.