Air lock

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For a device that prevents air or heat escaping from an enclosed chamber, see: Airlock

An air lock is gas trapped in a high point of a liquid-filled pipe system. The gas, being lighter than the liquid, rises to the highest point and restricts the flow of liquid. In very tall systems, the gas can prevent flow entirely.

Flushing the system with high flow or pressures can help move the gas away from the highest point, or a tap can be installed to permit the gas to be vented.

[edit] See also

• fermentation lock, a brewing device
• vapour lock, a gas bubble affecting fluid flow within a pipe