What is the primary function of a cook-off in artillery systems?

The primary function of a cook-off in artillery systems is to initiate the propelling charge due to heat. A cook-off occurs when the temperature within the chamber rises to a level that can ignite the propellant without the need for a firing device. This situation can arise from prolonged exposure to heat, such as during rapid firing or exposure to high ambient temperatures. Understanding cook-off is crucial for maintaining safety in artillery operations, as it can lead to unintentional fires if the temperature of the ammunition reaches its ignition point.

In contrast, cleaning the cannon tube is a separate maintenance task and unrelated to the process of propellant ignition. Similarly, measuring the temperature of the tube is a monitoring function that helps ensure safe operation but does not directly relate to the cook-off itself. Lastly, while increasing reload speed may be a goal in artillery operations, it is not a function of cook-off; in fact, cook-off can pose safety risks that impact loading procedures.