Question 47General Subjects - 1st Asst/Chief

The correct answer is B) atmosphere. In a flash-type evaporator, the saltwater headers are vented through individual vent cocks to the atmosphere. This is done to prevent any buildup of non-condensable gases, such as air, within the evaporator system. Venting the saltwater headers to the atmosphere allows these gases to be safely discharged, rather than accumulating in the system, which could impair the evaporator's efficiency. The other answer choices are incorrect because: A) the saltwater heater shell is not the correct location for venting the saltwater headers; C) the second-stage condenser is not the appropriate destination for these vents; and D) the second-stage flash chamber is also not the correct location for the saltwater header vents.