What is the purpose of lagging in engineering?

The purpose of lagging in engineering primarily focuses on its role in thermal insulation. By providing a barrier that minimizes heat transfer, lagging is instrumental in maintaining the desired temperature of various systems and equipment, especially in piping and storage tanks. This helps in reducing energy loss, ensuring efficiency, and preventing condensation (or sweating) on surfaces, which can lead to other issues such as corrosion or water damage. Therefore, its application is crucial in various industrial settings where temperature control and energy efficiency are vital.

This understanding of lagging highlights its importance in maintaining performance standards and prolonging the lifespan of equipment rather than addressing issues directly related to fluid flow, structural support, or pressure control. While these aspects are essential in engineering, they are not the primary focus of lagging's function.