What instrument is commonly used to measure pressures or forces in boilers?

The instrument that is commonly used to measure pressures or forces in boilers is a manometer. A manometer measures pressure by comparing the pressure of a fluid to a reference pressure, which can often be atmospheric pressure. This device is specifically designed to provide a simple, direct reading of pressure in liquids and gases, making it ideal for applications in boilers, where monitoring pressure is crucial for safe operation and efficiency.

Strain gauges are typically used to measure the deformation (strain) of an object, primarily in structural applications, while thermocouples are used for measuring temperature. Flow meters measure the flow rate of liquids and gases, which is a different function than pressure measurement. Thus, the manometer stands out as the appropriate instrument for the task of measuring pressures in boiler systems.