What is the primary purpose of a flame trap in gas lines?

The primary purpose of a flame trap in gas lines is to limit the distance a flashback can travel. A flame trap is designed to prevent flames that may occur in the gas line from propagating back into the gas supply. This is crucial for safety as it minimizes the risk of a fire or explosion occurring upstream, where there is potentially a greater volume of gas. The design typically incorporates materials and structures that can absorb and dissipate the energy of a flame, effectively stopping it in its tracks.

In the context of gas systems, the ability to protect equipment and personnel from the hazards associated with flashbacks is a key safety feature. Concerns such as combustion efficiency, gas leaks, and pressure monitoring are important in gas management but are not the primary function of a flame trap. Each of these functions involves different components and systems that operate independently of the flame trap's role.