Final answer:
The sediment trap should be installed near the inlet of the equipment to effectively capture sediment, ensuring that the sedimentation process is efficient and protects downstream filtration units.
Step-by-step explanation:
The sediment trap should be installed as close to the inlet of the equipment as practical. This location is crucial because sediment traps are designed to capture sediment particles from the water before it moves through to subsequent stages of water treatment, like filtration units. In the context of a sedimentation tank, as water flows through, the heavier floc particles settle at the bottom of the tank, and the clearer water continues on to be filtered. Thus, placing the sediment trap close to the inlet ensures that the sedimentation process is effective and helps maintain the efficiency and longevity of downstream equipment.