What is meant by "dead legs" in pressure piping systems?

"Dead legs" in pressure piping systems refer to short sections of pipe where fluid can stagnate, meaning these segments do not facilitate continuous flow or circulation. This stagnation can lead to several issues, such as the accumulation of sediment, bacteria growth, or corrosion, potentially compromising the integrity and safety of the entire system. By failing to adequately circulate, dead legs can create conditions that may increase the risks of contamination or introduce points of failure within the system.

Other options describe different characteristics of piping systems but do not accurately capture the concept of dead legs. For instance, pipes that have been abandoned are not actively involved in the system's operation, areas with excessive pressure buildup pertain to pressure imbalances rather than flow stagnation, and insulated parts of the system focus on thermal management rather than fluid dynamics. Understanding the role of dead legs is essential for maintaining a functional and safe pressure piping system.