What is one of the main purposes of conducting flow tests on sprinkler systems?

Conducting flow tests on sprinkler systems serves the primary purpose of evaluating hydraulic performance. This process is essential because it helps ensure that the system can deliver the required amount of water to effectively control or extinguish a fire. By measuring water flow rates and pressures, professionals can determine if the existing system meets the design criteria established by relevant codes and standards.

Hydraulic performance indicators, such as pressure and flow rates, are crucial for understanding how well the sprinkler system will function during an emergency. These tests help identify potential issues such as inadequate water supply, blockages, or pressure drops, which could compromise the system's effectiveness.

In contrast, assessing installation accuracy focuses on the correctness of the components' placement and configuration, which is important but secondary to performance verification. Reducing installation time and decreasing water usage are not direct objectives of flow testing; rather, they may represent other considerations in system design and operation. Thus, the emphasis on hydraulic performance aligns directly with ensuring that the sprinkler system operates efficiently and reliably when needed.