What is the function of a relief valve in a sprinkler system?

The function of a relief valve in a sprinkler system is primarily to relieve pressure in excess of a predetermined value. In a fire protection system, maintaining safe pressure levels is crucial; if pressure exceeds the system's design limitations, it can lead to equipment damage or failure, posing risks to both the system and property.

The relief valve acts as a safety measure by allowing excess water to escape, thereby reducing the pressure to a safer level. This function helps to ensure the integrity and reliability of the sprinkler system. Proper pressure management is essential for the effective operation of sprinklers, allowing them to perform optimally when activated without the risk of overflow or burst pipes.

While maintaining maximum water pressure, controlling water flow, or activating sprinklers can be important in certain contexts, each of those functions is not directly related to the primary role of a relief valve, which is focused specifically on managing pressure to ensure safety within the system.