During a QOD sensitivity test, how much should the priming level valve be opened to bleed system air pressure?

The correct answer is that the priming level valve should be opened to bleed system air pressure at a rate of 1 psi per minute during a QOD (Quick Opening Device) sensitivity test. This gradual approach is critical because it allows for careful monitoring and control of the pressure in the system, thereby ensuring that no sudden changes or fluctuations occur that might lead to system malfunctions or inaccuracies in the test results.

Opening the valve at this rate helps maintain stability and ensures the air pressure can be accurately assessed without introducing instability into the system. Maintaining such a controlled approach is essential to achieve reliable testing conditions, which is critical for the proper function of the sprinkler system. A more rapid decrease in pressure could result in erratic system behavior, making it more difficult to interpret the results of the sensitivity test and potentially leading to safety issues in the operation of the sprinkler system.