Which component is essential for protecting electrical equipment from overload?

The fuse cutout is essential for protecting electrical equipment from overload because it serves as a safety device that disconnects the circuit when it detects excessive current flow. This protective mechanism is designed to prevent damage to electrical equipment by interrupting the circuit before an overload can cause overheating or failure. When an overload occurs, the fuse element in the cutout melts, breaking the circuit and ultimately safeguarding transformers, conductors, and other components from potential damage.

In comparison to the other components mentioned, a capacitor primarily stores electrical energy and can correct power factor but does not specifically address overload protection. A lightning arrestor is designed to protect electrical systems from surge currents caused by lightning strikes but is not used for overload situations. A transformer, while crucial for voltage conversion, does not inherently provide protection against overload. Therefore, the fuse cutout plays a critical role in maintaining system integrity by protecting against overload conditions.