What the ratings mean for fit
The Siemens SENTRON 3VA1096-4ED32-0AH0 is a 3-pole molded case circuit breaker rated for line protection, carrying a continuous current Iu of 16 A. The TM210 thermal-magnetic release provides fixed overload and short-circuit protection — no adjustable trip curve, which simplifies specification but locks you into the factory calibration. Breaking capacity hits 121 kA at 240 V and 75.6 kA at 415 V, so it handles high-fault-current panels without cascading upstream. The 800 V rated insulation voltage (Ui) confirms it is suited for 400/480 V distribution boards with headroom to spare. Thermal derating is minimal through 50 °C — still rated 16 A — then drops gradually to 14.4 A at 70 °C. For a panel running warm near the top of the enclosure, you lose about 1.6 A off the nameplate; plan the load accordingly if ambient exceeds 55 °C.
Panel integration and footprint
The breaker occupies 76.2 mm width on the DIN rail, with a depth of 70 mm and height of 130 mm. Front face carries IP40 protection — fine for a dry indoor enclosure, but not for washdown zones. The auxiliary contact block (2 auxiliary switches + 1 trip alarm switch HQ) is fitted as standard, so you get remote status and trip indication without an add-on module.
