overheating

Overheating is a condition in which an object or system accumulates more heat than it can safely dissipate, causing the temperature to rise above a design limit or surrounding environment. It can affect mechanical systems, electrical devices, and living organisms, with safe operating temperatures varying by use and design.

Causes include insufficient cooling, high ambient temperatures, restricted airflow, heavy load, or component failure. In electronics and machinery, heat is produced by operation and must be removed by cooling systems; when cooling fails, temperatures rise and performance degrades. In humans, overheating results from heat production exceeding loss due to exercise, heat, dehydration, or clothing, potentially leading to heat-related illnesses.

Risks from overheating include accelerated wear, reduced efficiency, and failure of components or lubricants in machines; in living beings, heat-related illness such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke, which can be life-threatening without prompt treatment.

Detection and response depend on the context. For equipment, indicators such as warning lights, abnormal noise, throttling, or alarms signal overheating. Immediate action is to power down or reduce load, improve cooling, and inspect cooling circuits, vents, and fans. For the human body, move to a cooler place, drink water, remove excess clothing, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

Prevention focuses on regular maintenance, proper cooling design, adequate ventilation, temperature monitoring, and operating within rated limits. Strategies include cleaning or replacing filters, ensuring coolant flow, using thermal throttling or speed controls, and planning for heat dissipation in hot environments.