What is the main hydraulic advantage of using a grid system in fire suppression?

The main hydraulic advantage of using a grid system in fire suppression is the uniform pressure across all outlets. This design allows for more consistent water distribution throughout the system, ensuring that each sprinkler head operates effectively when activated. In a grid system, the interconnected piping helps to balance the pressure fluctuations that can occur in more traditional layouts. By having multiple supply routes to each outlet, the pressure delivered to each sprinkler can be maintained at similar levels, reducing the risk of uneven coverage or weak discharge. This is particularly crucial in ensuring effective fire suppression across large or complex areas where variable pressure might lead to inadequate coverage.

The grid system also helps in compensating for any potential pressure losses that can occur due to friction or elevation changes within the system, further enhancing the reliability of the suppression system during an emergency.