Air compressor piping: Moisture separators are typically installed immediately after the intercooler to remove condensed water before the next compression stage.

Introduction / Context:
Intercoolers drop the temperature of compressed air between stages, causing water vapor to condense. Proper placement of moisture separators protects downstream stages and equipment.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Multi-stage compressor with intercooling and (often) an aftercooler before storage.
• Cooling the air below its dew point condenses water that must be removed.

Concept / Approach:
Because most condensation occurs where temperature is reduced sharply, the separator is placed right after the intercooler. This removes liquid water before the air enters the next compression stage. A second separator is commonly used after the aftercooler before the receiver, but the primary, definitive location is after the intercooler.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
P&IDs for typical compressor packages show knock-out pots/separators downstream of each cooler.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Before intercooler: Little to no condensation yet; ineffective.
• Between aftercooler and receiver: Often used as an additional separator, but the question asks generally—first essential location is after the intercooler.
• Before first stage suction: Unrelated to condensation removal from compressed air.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming a single separator is sufficient; multi-stage systems usually need separators after each cooler.

Final Answer:
after the intercooler