What is the purpose of a hydrostatic test in fire protection systems?

The purpose of a hydrostatic test in fire protection systems is to confirm system integrity and leak rates. During this test, the system is filled with water and pressurized to verify that it can withstand the designated pressure without any leaks. This process ensures that all components, such as pipes, fittings, and valves, are functioning correctly and are capable of holding pressure, which is critical for the reliability of the fire protection system.

By confirming the integrity of the system, the hydrostatic test helps to ensure that in the event of a fire, the system will operate effectively and deliver the necessary water supply to suppress the fire. It's an essential step in both the installation and maintenance of fire protection systems to ensure safety and compliance with regulatory standards. The other options pertain to different aspects of fire protection system evaluation but do not specifically address the primary objective of hydrostatic testing.