What is a key component in preventing the escape of the liquid being pumped?

The lantern ring plays a crucial role in preventing the escape of the liquid being pumped. It is a part of a pump's sealing system, often placed within the stuffing box. The primary function of the lantern ring is to provide a controlled pathway for the lubricating fluid (usually a small amount of the pumped liquid or a separate lubricating fluid) to flow through, which helps maintain the necessary lubrication of the packing material around the pump shaft. By keeping the packing cool and lubricated, the lantern ring minimizes wear on the packing and the shaft, reducing the chances of leakage.

Moreover, the lantern ring's design allows for the containment of the liquid within the pump while facilitating a balanced sealing effect. This controlled method of managing leakage is vital in applications where maintaining the integrity of liquid is necessary for both operational efficiency and safety. Thus, the lantern ring is essential in ensuring that the liquid does not escape the system, making it the key component mentioned in the question.