What is typically used to measure liquid levels in tanks?

The use of a sight gauge is a common and effective method for measuring liquid levels in tanks. A sight gauge is essentially a transparent tube or a visual indicator that allows a person to directly observe the level of the liquid inside the tank. This method is straightforward, providing immediate visual feedback without the need for complex calculations or readings.

Sight gauges work by utilizing the principle of hydrostatic pressure, where the liquid elevation in the tube reflects the liquid level in the tank. This makes them particularly useful in applications where precise monitoring of liquid levels is required, and they can be easily read without the risk of equipment malfunction that can occur with more complex measuring devices.

In contrast, a pressure gauge measures the pressure exerted by the liquid in the tank, which can indirectly indicate liquid level but may not provide as immediate or clear a reading as a sight gauge. A flow meter measures the rate of flow of the liquid, making it useful for tracking liquid movement rather than static level measurements. A nozzle indicator typically refers to a device that shows the performance or flow rate of a nozzle, which does not pertain to measuring liquid levels in a tank directly.