What characterizes a looped sprinkler system?

A looped sprinkler system is characterized by multiple paths for water flow to reach an operational sprinkler. This design enhances system reliability and performance, as it allows water to reach any individual sprinkler head through several routes. If one path becomes obstructed or fails, alternative paths can still supply water to the system, ensuring that coverage is maintained.

This multiple-path configuration also helps to balance water pressure across the system, leading to uniform distribution and improved operational efficiency. In contrast, other options suggest limitations in the design that do not apply to a looped system. For instance, having only one route or only allowing one branch line to operate at a time would not provide the redundancy and flexibility that characterize looped systems. Additionally, the concept of operating without cross beams does not directly relate to the fundamental properties of a looped water flow system.