What can happen if a vessel is not properly purged before use?

When a vessel is not properly purged before use, it can create a significant risk of explosion. Purging is a crucial safety process that involves removing flammable gases or vapors from the vessel to prevent the formation of explosive mixtures. If the vessel contains residual flammable substances, the introduction of ignition sources—such as sparks, flames, or even hot surfaces—can lead to combustion and potentially catastrophic explosions. This danger is particularly heightened if the vessel is used for processes involving heat or pressure changes.

In contrast, the other outcomes mentioned, such as increased efficiency, enhanced cooling, or reduced maintenance, do not correlate with the lack of proper purging. These facets are either unrelated to the purging process or are outcomes generally associated with proper operational practices rather than neglecting critical safety procedures. Thus, the prominence of explosion risk stands out as a major consequence of inadequate purging protocols.