What is the primary purpose of a tension gauge in rigging?

The primary purpose of a tension gauge in rigging is to measure the tension in cables for proper adjustments. In rigging applications, maintaining the correct tension in cables and other rigging components is crucial for safety and performance. Proper tension ensures that the loads are distributed evenly and prevents overloading or underloading, which could compromise the stability of the rigging system.

Utilizing a tension gauge allows riggers to accurately assess the amount of tension being applied to the cables, enabling them to make necessary adjustments that ensure the rigging operates effectively and safely. This is particularly important in applications such as aircraft operations, where the integrity of the rigging directly impacts safety and functionality.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the primary function of a tension gauge. Measuring the overall weight of an aircraft or evaluating structural integrity pertains to different equipment and methodologies. Checking the temperature of rigging materials is also a separate process that does not involve the tension gauge, nor does it address the crucial factor of cable tension in rigging setups.