What is a "low-water cutoff" device?

A low-water cutoff device serves as a critical safety mechanism in boiler systems. Its primary function is to monitor the water level within the boiler. If the water level drops below a predetermined point, the low-water cutoff activates and shuts down the boiler to prevent it from operating in a low-water condition. This is essential in protecting the boiler from potential damage that can occur due to overheating, which may lead to no water available for cooling and, consequently, a risk of boiler failure or explosion.

The monitoring provided by the low-water cutoff ensures that the boiler operates safely and efficiently, making it an indispensable component in maintaining boiler integrity and safety in various industrial and commercial applications. Other device types mentioned, such as those that treat water chemically or measure temperature, do not fulfill the specific safety function that the low-water cutoff is designed to accomplish.