What is the purpose of a pipe mock-up?

A pipe mock-up is primarily used to verify the design and fit of piping components within a specific installation context. It allows for a tangible representation of the planned piping system, enabling the mechanics and engineers to assess how various components interact and confirm that they will fit correctly in the intended environment. This verification process is crucial because it helps identify potential issues or conflicts in the layout before actual installation takes place, ultimately saving time and resources by reducing costly modifications later on.

In addition, while the other options may involve aspects of plumbing and piping, they do not specifically address the fundamental purpose of a mock-up. Creating decorative elements might be a secondary outcome in certain cases but is not the primary aim. Testing the durability of pipes or measuring the pipeline's expansion may be important engineering activities; however, these functions are typically conducted using different methodologies and equipment, rather than through mock-ups designed primarily for evaluating design and fit.