What is the main purpose of the positive displacement pump in a fire suppression system?

The main purpose of a positive displacement pump in a fire suppression system is to move a specific volume of fluid with each revolution. This type of pump operates by trapping a fixed amount of fluid and then forcing it through the discharge pipe, ensuring a consistent and measurable flow rate regardless of the pressure in the system.

This characteristic is particularly important in fire suppression systems, where the reliable delivery of water to extinguish fires is critical. The ability to provide a uniform flow ensures that the sprinklers or other suppression mechanisms can operate effectively during an emergency. By delivering the correct volume of water consistently, positive displacement pumps help maintain the effectiveness of the fire protection system, ensuring that any fires can be suppressed efficiently.

The other options do not align with the primary function of a positive displacement pump in this context. For instance, reducing pressure in fire hoses, cooling water, or temporarily storing excess water do not directly relate to the pump's operation of moving a specific volume.