In sprinkler systems, what does the "K" in K-factor represent?

The "K" in K-factor represents the coefficient of discharge for a sprinkler. This factor is a crucial value in hydraulics that quantifies the relationship between the size of the orifice in the sprinkler and the amount of water that can flow through it when a specific pressure is applied.

Understanding the K-factor is vital for designing and analyzing sprinkler systems, as it directly influences how much water will be delivered during an event that calls for fire suppression. A higher K-factor indicates a larger flow rate for the same pressure, allowing for more effective coverage in a fire situation.

This concept is foundational when calculating the water supply needs of the system, ensuring that the sprinkler can effectively control or extinguish a fire according to the system's design criteria.