To provide performance particularly in handling supercritical extraction systems, a specially designed pump includes a cam-driven, single-plunger with a cam having a profile that enables the pumping system to avoid destructive reverse torque on the cam, gear train and drive motor after the cam passes top dead center. The plunger includes a seal having one side in contact with the supercritical fluid and a mechanism for supporting and aligning the piston on the other side of the seal to maintain the piston in alignment. The piston drive has Hertzian contact with the piston. The fluid volume leaving the pump is determined by measuring only pressure or other parameters related to flow and movement of the plunger. Measurement of the fluid volume leaving the pump is useful for recording or indicating the flow rate while the pump is operating.