Which device is used as a secondary means of determining boiler water level?

The device that serves as a secondary means of determining boiler water level is try cocks. Try cocks are small valves installed on a boiler that allow operators to manually check the water level. By opening these valves, operators can observe steam or water escaping, which provides a direct visual confirmation of the water level inside the boiler.

Using try cocks is essential for safety and operational accuracy, especially in the case where the primary method, such as a level gauge, may fail or provide inaccurate readings. Try cocks act as a reliable backup, ensuring that the operator can still maintain awareness of the boiler water level.

While a level gauge provides a consistent and continuous indication of water levels, and float switches can help automate water level monitoring, try cocks afford direct manual verification, which is critical in maintaining boiler safety. Hydrostatic pressure gauges can indicate water level indirectly by measuring pressure, but they are not as straightforward for confirming the exact water level as try cocks.