Integrator note — 3VA1096-4ED32-0DC0
The Siemens SENTRON 3VA1096-4ED32-0DC0 is a 3-pole molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) rated for line-protection duty, with a continuous current Iu of 16 A and a TM210 thermal-magnetic release. Breaking capacity hits 121 kA at 240 V AC, 75.6 kA at 415 V, and 52.5 kA at 440 V — figures that cover most industrial service-entrance and feeder applications. The undervoltage release (UVR) is built in, and two high-quality auxiliary switches (form C) are integrated for status feedback to a PLC or safety circuit. Panel builders should note the 70 mm depth and 76.2 mm width; it occupies a standard three-pole MCCB footprint on a DIN rail or mounting plate.
Breaking capacity and selectivity planning
At 415 V the 75.6 kA interrupting rating gives solid headroom for high-fault panels, especially when coordinating downstream with smaller MCCBs or MCBs. At 690 V the rating drops to 11.9 kA — still adequate for most 690 V distribution, but verify against the transformer impedance and cable length. The thermal derating curve is published: the breaker holds 16 A up to 50 °C, then steps down to 15.36 A at 55 °C, 15.04 A at 60 °C, 14.72 A at 65 °C, and 14.4 A at 70 °C. For panels running above 50 °C ambient, factor the continuous load against these numbers rather than the 16 A nameplate.