In marine engineering, what is the function of a strainer?

The function of a strainer in marine engineering is to remove debris from fluids before they enter pumps or systems. This is crucial for maintaining system efficiency and protecting components from damage. A strainer typically consists of a mesh or perforated screen that captures particles, dirt, and other contaminants in the fluid, ensuring that only clean fluid flows through to systems like engines, pumps, and other machinery. This preventive measure helps to avoid clogs and malfunctions that could arise from the presence of foreign materials, thereby extending the lifespan of equipment and enhancing operational reliability.

In contrast, other options describe functions that do not align with the primary purpose of a strainer. For instance, pressurizing fuel occurs within components like pumps, while removing impurities after combustion is a task more suited for filtration systems located downstream in the engine cycle. Measuring flow rate is handled by flow meters, which operate on different principles and are not related to the function of a strainer.