What is the purpose of pintle screws in sprinkler systems?

The primary purpose of pintle screws in sprinkler systems is to identify orifice sizes, particularly in sprinklers manufactured before 1999. Pintle screws are used in these older models to adjust or regulate the flow rate of water, which corresponds to the size of the orifice in the sprinkler head. By knowing the specific pin size or position, technicians can easily determine the orifice size and thus understand the corresponding flow rate that the sprinkler is designed to deliver. This is particularly important for ensuring proper operation and coverage of the sprinkler system.

In contrast, pintle screws are not utilized for indicating pressure levels or controlling water flow rates in a manner that would apply to modern systems. Additionally, while securing sprinkler heads is crucial, this function is more typically fulfilled through other means such as mounting brackets or locks rather than through pintle screws. Understanding this specific use of pintle screws is vital for effectively maintaining or troubleshooting older sprinkler systems.