The Siemens 3RB3046-2XW1 is a SIRIUS solid-state overload relay — an electronic overload release with an integrated auxiliary switch, designed to protect motor circuits against sustained overcurrent. The rated thermal current is 115 A at 480 V and 600 V, so this relay handles motor full-load currents up to that level in a 480 V or 600 V distribution system. The operating frequency is 50 to 60 Hz, matching standard line frequencies worldwide. Mounting is stand-alone installation — it's not a snap-on DIN-rail unit, so plan for screw-mounting on a panel plate or sub-panel. The S3 size (70 mm wide, 106 mm high, 124 mm deep) gives you the envelope for panel layout. Any mounting position is allowed, which helps in tight enclosures.
Where it's used and deployment context
This relay lives in the motor branch circuit of a control panel, typically paired with a contactor. The straight-through transformer design for the main current circuit means the power conductors pass through the relay's current transformers — no separate CTs to wire. It's sized for the SIRIUS S3 contactor frame, so verify the contactor's AC-3 rating matches the motor full-load amps. The auxiliary switch is integrated and provides a remote trip indication signal. The note "for message 'tripped'" tells you the auxiliary contacts change state when the relay trips, so you can wire that into a PLC input or an alarm lamp. The auxiliary contact ratings cover common control voltages: 2 A at 24 V, 4 A at 120 V, 3 A at 230 V — enough for most pilot-duty circuits. Storage and transport range is -40 to +80 °C. Vibration resistance is 1-6 Hz at 15 mm amplitude, 6-500 Hz at 20 m/s² for 10 cycles; shock resistance is 8g for 11 ms. That's robust enough for industrial panel environments with moderate vibration from nearby contactors or drives.