A Strainer is a device that is used to separate solids from fluids. Strainers are placed in process piping lines to remove large solid contaminants from the flow stream. Stainers help protect valves, pumps, and other expensive equipment against dirt, scale, chips and other sediment. They are most commonly used in pressurized lines, gas or liquid, but can also be used in suction or vacuum conditions. They are intended for applications where small amounts of solid particulate are expected, and where clean-out will be infrequent. If solids will flush easily from the screen, and fluid can be exhausted to atmosphere, a blow-down valve on the drain port will allow clean-out without removal of the screen, and without interrupting the process flow.