What must be done before discharging a high-pressure trap into a low-pressure receiver?

Before discharging a high-pressure trap into a low-pressure receiver, it is essential to run the discharge through a flash tank. The primary purpose of a flash tank is to allow the high-pressure fluid to expand and vaporize, which helps to manage pressure and thermal energy. When high-pressure liquid enters a low-pressure environment without proper handling, it can lead to rapid vaporization and potentially hazardous conditions due to pressure differentials.

Using a flash tank helps in controlling the transition from high pressure to low pressure while minimizing risks such as potential damage to equipment or safety hazards for personnel. This process ensures that proper phase separation occurs, allowing for controlled discharge into the low-pressure receiver without causing surges or unwanted pressure fluctuations.

Appropriate handling is crucial in high-pressure piping practices to maintain system integrity and safety, which is why utilizing a flash tank is the recommended procedure in this scenario.