What is the maximum allowable dropout voltage for an electric safety valve using a thermocouple?

The maximum allowable dropout voltage for an electric safety valve using a thermocouple is identified as 4 mV. In the context of safety systems, this parameter is critical because it ensures responsive operation of the safety valve when monitoring the thermal integrity of the system. The dropout voltage signifies the minimum voltage required for the safety valve to maintain its functional state; if the voltage drops below this level due to loss of signal from the thermocouple, the safety valve may close, potentially leading to unsafe conditions.

Setting this limit at 4 mV balances the need for sensitivity while minimizing the risk of nuisance tripping or false closure, as thermocouples convert temperature changes into voltage at precise levels. Therefore, adhering to this specific dropout voltage helps maintain operational safety protocols in commercial cooking equipment, ensuring that faults are detected promptly while not interrupting normal operational functionality unduly.