What is the purpose of drip legs in an air compressor setup?

Drip legs in an air compressor setup serve the specific purpose of accumulating condensation that naturally forms as air is compressed. When air is compressed, any moisture present in the air condenses due to the drop in temperature and pressure. The drip leg is a part of the air piping system designed to collect this accumulated water, preventing it from entering downstream equipment and causing damage or reduced efficiency. By allowing water to collect in the drip leg, it can be easily drained away, maintaining the quality of the compressed air and the integrity of the entire air system.

The other options mention functions that a drip leg is not designed to perform. While increasing airflow, reducing noise levels, or filtering impurities are essential aspects of an air compression system, they are managed through different components such as air filters, mufflers, or properly designed piping systems. Drip legs specifically focus on moisture management, making their purpose clear and distinct from the others.