What is the primary purpose of a pressure gauge?

The primary purpose of a pressure gauge is to display the internal pressure of a system. Pressure gauges are critical instruments used in various engineering applications, particularly in systems such as boilers, compressors, and pipelines, where pressure levels need to be monitored closely to ensure safe and efficient operation.

By providing real-time pressure readings, these gauges help operators to make informed decisions regarding system performance and safety. Maintaining pressure within specific limits is essential for preventing equipment failures, leaks, or even explosions in cases where pressure exceeds safe operating levels.

While measuring boiler water level, monitoring ambient temperature, and controlling a boiler's firing rate are all important operational tasks in a power engineering context, they are not the primary function of a pressure gauge.