What is the main purpose of conducting a "flow test" on sprinkler systems?

The primary purpose of conducting a flow test on sprinkler systems is to verify the water flow and pressure at remote points. This assessment is crucial for several reasons.

Firstly, accurate flow and pressure readings are essential for determining whether the sprinkler system can deliver the necessary water to meet the design criteria outlined in NFPA standards. Sufficient flow and pressure are critical for effective fire suppression, ensuring that the system can respond adequately in the event of a fire.

Secondly, the results of the flow test assist in ensuring that the system is designed correctly to meet the specific needs of the building and its fire protection requirements. By measuring the flow from the water supply at various locations, engineers can validate the hydraulic calculations that were performed during the design phase of the sprinkler system.

In contrast, while checking for leaks is an important part of system maintenance, it is not the main objective of a flow test. Similarly, assessing the age of sprinkler heads or validating installation costs falls outside the scope of what a flow test aims to accomplish. The focus of the flow test remains steadfastly on evaluating the hydraulic performance of the system to ensure it can effectively provide fire protection.