What is one of the functions of a scrubber in an inert gas system?

A scrubber in an inert gas system serves the crucial function of removing solids and particulates from the gas stream. This is an essential task because the process of inerting, which involves replacing the oxygen in a tank with an inert gas, can introduce various contaminants, including solid particles. The scrubber effectively captures these solids, ensuring that the inert gas remains clean and less likely to react with the cargo or contribute to the formation of flammable mixtures.

By removing solids, the scrubber helps maintain the safety and integrity of the inert gas system, ensuring that it functions properly and reduces the risk of hazards, such as explosions. Clean inert gas is vital for the safety of tankers, especially during loading and unloading operations, where the potential for flammable vapors is present.

In contrast, the other functions listed—such as increasing pressure, heating gases, or storing gases—do not pertain to the primary role of a scrubber. Instead, these functions are handled by other components within the inert gas system, like compressors and heaters, which manage gas treatment and pressure control.