The sensor is damaged, can we short-circuit the output signal

For analog sensors, it depends on whether they are integrated sensors. Integrated sensors generally include processing circuits such as transmitters, output standard voltage and current signals, or fieldbus signals. In this case, the sensor output generally cannot be short circuited, and even if the output terminal has a short circuit protection function, it is best not to short circuited.
If it is not an integrated sensor, it can be divided into resistance, voltage, and current outputs. For resistance outputs, such as thermal resistors, they can be short-circuited for a short time because a short/open circuit in the thermal resistor will cause an alarm and affect system operation. It is best not to short-circuit for a long time. For current/voltage outputs, such as thermocouples, similar to thermal resistors.
If the sensor is damaged and the output signal is short circuited, it is not only a problem of whether the sensor itself will overheat, but also related to the operation of the connected controller. If the sensor output signal is short circuited, it may be an abnormal operation of the controller.
Therefore, the best solution for sensor damage is not to discuss whether it is possible to short circuit the output signal, as this varies depending on the situation, but to promptly detect and replace it.