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The major downside of gear-type pumps, such as variable volume pumps, lies in their inability to effectively handle solids or abrasive materials. These pumps are designed for the precise movement of fluids and achieve this through tightly meshed gears that create a sealed chamber to transport liquid.

When solids or abrasive materials are introduced into the pump, they can cause significant wear to these gears, leading to premature failure or decreased efficiency. The delicate tolerances maintained in these pumps mean that any foreign particles can disrupt their operation, posing a serious operational challenge and potentially resulting in costly repairs or replacements.

In contrast, some other pump types, like diaphragm or centrifugal pumps, may be designed to handle such materials more effectively, providing a more robust solution in applications where solid content is a concern. This key characteristic makes the inability to pass solids or abrasive materials a defining limitation of gear-type pumps, highlighting the importance of selecting the appropriate pump type based on the fluid's properties.