What is a common purpose of hydraulic analysis in fire investigations?

A common purpose of hydraulic analysis in fire investigations is primarily to analyze sprinkler system failures. Hydraulic analysis focuses on understanding how water flows through the fire protection systems, including sprinklers. This analysis can reveal crucial information about the effectiveness of the system during a fire event, such as whether there was adequate water pressure, volume, and distribution at the time of the incident. By determining if the sprinkler system performed as designed, investigators can assess whether it contributed to fire suppression or if its failure may have exacerbated the fire's damage.

Understanding the dynamics of water flow and pressure can definitively indicate whether a sprinkler system operated properly or if there were design flaws, blockages, or other issues preventing it from functioning effectively during a fire. This insight is vital for fire investigation purposes, as it helps in identifying the cause and origin of the fire, as well as in preventing future incidents by improving fire safety measures.