In
electrical distribution, a
fuse cutout or
cut-out fuse is a combination of a
fuse and a switch, used in primary overhead feeder lines and taps to protect
distribution transformers from
current surges and overloads. An overcurrent caused by a fault in the transformer or customer circuit will cause the fuse to melt, disconnecting the transformer from the line. It can also be opened manually by
utility linemen standing on the ground and using a long insulating stick called a "
hot stick".