At what temperature should fusible links melt?

Fusible links are critical safety devices used in heating systems, particularly those involving oil or gas. They are designed to melt at a specific temperature to allow a system to shut down safely in the event of overheating or fire.

The correct melting temperature for fusible links is typically set at 165 degrees Fahrenheit. When this temperature is reached, the fusible link will melt and break the circuit, thereby cutting off the fuel supply to the system. This failure-safe mechanism helps prevent potential hazards associated with overheating, such as fires or explosions, by ensuring that the heating equipment is turned off under emergency conditions.

In contrast, the other temperatures listed are either too low or too high for standard fusible links used in oil heating systems. A melting point of 150 degrees would be inadequate for many applications and may result in unintended shutdowns, while 175 and 180 degrees are higher than the standard threshold, potentially delaying safety responses during critical situations. Thus, the correct answer highlights the importance of setting safety features like fusible links at appropriately calibrated temperatures to ensure both efficiency and safety in heating systems.