What is a primary purpose of using a pressure gauge in pneumatic troubleshooting?

A pressure gauge plays a pivotal role in pneumatic troubleshooting by ensuring that the system operates at the correct pressure levels. In pneumatic systems, maintaining the right pressure is crucial for optimal performance, efficiency, and safety. If the pressure is too low, the system may not function properly, leading to inadequate operation of actuators or tools. Conversely, excessive pressure can cause damage to components or even pose safety risks.

Using a pressure gauge allows technicians to monitor the system's pressure accurately and make necessary adjustments based on the readings. This capability helps in diagnosing issues quickly, validating system performance, and ensuring that all components are functioning within their specified pressure ranges.

While monitoring temperature changes, measuring flow rate, and detecting air leaks are also important aspects of pneumatic systems, they are not the primary function of a pressure gauge specifically. The focus on pressure levels underlines the critical nature of maintaining appropriate pressure for optimal system functionality.