What is the primary factor in determining the required pump capacity when performing a hydraulic calculation for a sprinkler system?

The required pump capacity in a hydraulic calculation for a sprinkler system is primarily influenced by the flow rate of water. This flow rate must meet the demands of the system, which is dictated by the number of sprinklers operating simultaneously, as each sprinkler requires a specific amount of water to effectively deliver the intended coverage for fire suppression.

In this context, the number of sprinklers is directly related to the total flow required for the system to function properly. As more sprinklers are activated, the total flow demand increases proportionally. Thus, understanding the number of sprinklers provides a critical baseline for determining how much water must be supplied, which directly impacts the pump capacity needed to ensure adequate pressure and flow throughout the system.

While other aspects, such as the pressure of the water supply or pipe size, play important roles in the overall design and efficiency of a sprinkler system, it is the flow rate that ultimately sets the requirements for pump capacity, as it defines how much water needs to be moved to effectively protect the designated area.