What is the main function of the main drain in a sprinkler system?

The main drain in a sprinkler system primarily serves as a flow test connection. During system testing and maintenance, the main drain is utilized to assess the performance and integrity of the system, specifically to measure the water flow rates and to ensure that the system is operating effectively. This allows technicians to evaluate how well the sprinkler system can deliver water in the event of a fire.

Using the main drain for flow testing provides a clear insight into the hydraulic conditions of the system and helps identify any issues that may affect performance, such as blockages or pressure drops. Proper maintenance and testing via the main drain are critical to ensure that the system will function adequately in an emergency situation.