What kind of diagrams are used to represent alternate flow in a piping system?

The correct answer highlights the significance of supplementary diagrams in illustrating alternate flow paths within a piping system. Supplementary diagrams are specifically designed to enhance the understanding of a primary diagram by providing additional context or details, such as alternate routes for fluid flow. These diagrams are instrumental in complex systems where re-routing is necessary for maintenance, safety, or operational flexibility.

In piping systems, visual clarity of different flow paths can help engineers and technicians quickly assess various options for fluid movement, ensuring that they have a thorough understanding of the system's capabilities and limitations. Supplementary diagrams serve as valuable tools in conveying this information effectively and are often used alongside primary diagrams to give a comprehensive overview of system functionality.

The other types of diagrams mentioned do serve different purposes. Schematic diagrams provide a simplified representation of a system's components and their connections, but they may not explicitly show alternate flows. Block diagrams focus on representing system components as blocks and the relationships between them rather than on flow specifics. Flow diagrams illustrate the flow of materials or energy through a system but do not necessarily emphasize alternative paths like supplementary diagrams do.