Final answer:
Plug fuses with a 15 ampere rating or lower have a hexagon configuration for easy identification. This helps to prevent the incorrect use of fuses, which could potentially lead to circuit damage or fire hazards when multiple appliances are connected to the same electrical circuit.
Step-by-step explanation:
Plug fuses rated 15 amperes and lower are identified by a hexagon configuration of the window, cap, or other prominent part to distinguish them from fuses with a higher ampere rating. This enables quick identification and ensures that the correct fuse is used in an electrical circuit to protect appliances and prevent overheating or potential fire hazards caused by overloading the circuit with too much current.
For example, if multiple appliances like an 1800-W toaster, a 1400-W electric frying pan, and a 75-W lamp—all having different current draws—are connected to a circuit protected by a 15-A fuse, it is critical to ensure that their combined current does not exceed the 15-A limit. This is because the current drawn by each appliance can add up, and if they collectively draw more than 15 amperes, it will cause the fuse to blow to protect the circuit from overheating and potential damage.