What is the role of a trap in a piping system?

A trap in a piping system is specifically designed to prevent the backflow of gases while allowing liquid drainage. This is achieved by creating a seal with liquid that blocks gases from moving back into areas where they could cause problems, such as fumes in rooms or in plumbing systems. By allowing water or other fluids to flow out while simultaneously restricting the backflow of potentially harmful gases, traps serve a critical safety function in both residential and industrial applications.

This functionality is essential for maintaining health standards, especially in plumbing systems connected to wastewater or sewer lines. Notably, traps can be found in various applications, including sink drains and boiler systems, and their proper installation is vital for effective system operation.

The other options don't align with the primary function of a trap. While increasing fluid flow could be desirable in certain contexts, it is not the central purpose of a trap. Similarly, regulating fluid temperature is not a function of traps; that role is typically associated with other components in a piping system, such as valves or heat exchangers. Holding pipes in place is more related to supports and brackets used in construction, which again diverges from the purpose of traps.