What it is and what it does
The Siemens SIRIUS 3RT2016-2KB42-ZW96 is a coupling contactor in the compact S00 frame size, designed for switching DC loads up to 24 V rated value where it handles 10 A, and up to 3 A at 400 V AC. It is a current-production part, still actively manufactured. The coil is 24 VDC with spring-type terminals, so no screwdriver is needed for the control wiring — just strip and push. The main contacts use the same spring-cage system, accepting 0.5 to 4 mm² solid or stranded wire, and can take two conductors per clamp.
Mounting and panel fit
Mounts on 35 mm DIN rail per EN 60715, using either the integrated snap-on latch or screws. The 45 mm width means it occupies one standard 45 mm module slot — plan your rail accordingly. Depth is 73 mm, height 70 mm, so it fits most shallow enclosures. Mounting position is flexible: ±180° rotation on a vertical surface, and can be tilted forward/backward by ±22.5°. Clearance requirements are 10 mm upward, 10 mm downward, 10 mm forward, and 6 mm at the sides — tight enough for dense panel layouts.
Switching ratings and duty cycles
This is a coupling contactor — it's built for frequent switching, not just holding closed. Mechanical life is 30 million operations typical. Electrical life depends on load: at AC-1 (resistive) it can cycle 1000 times per hour; at AC-3 (motor starting) it's rated 750 cycles/h; at AC-4 (plugging/inching) drop to 250 cycles/h. The DC switching time is 7 to 20 ms, arcing time 10 to 15 ms. No auxiliary switch is included on this variant — if you need auxiliary contacts for feedback or interlocking, you'll add a separate block. The main contact range is 20 to 12, meaning it's sized for small motor or resistive loads typical of S00 contactors.