What is the purpose of air vents in a feedwater system?

In a feedwater system, air vents play a crucial role in maintaining efficient operation by removing trapped air that can accumulate within the system. When air gets trapped in the pipes or equipment, it can create pockets that impede the flow of water, leading to inefficiencies such as reduced heat transfer, decreased pump performance, and potential damage to the system.

The presence of air in the system disrupts the hydraulic balance, which can cause fluctuations in pressure and affect the overall efficiency of the feedwater process. By installing air vents, any trapped air is allowed to escape, ensuring a continuous, unobstructed flow of water. This not only helps in maintaining consistent performance but also protects the integrity of the system components by preventing issues such as corrosion or cavitation that can arise from trapped air.

While other options mention related aspects of monitoring and control within a feedwater system, they do not address the specific and critical function of air vents, which is to eliminate trapped air and facilitate smooth water flow.