What this part is and what it does
The Siemens 3VA1116-1AA36-0BA0 is a SENTRON 3VA1 switch disconnector in the IEC frame 160 footprint, rated for a continuous current Iu of 160 A across three poles. It is a pure disconnect — no overload or short-circuit protection elements onboard, which means it serves as a manual isolating point in a distribution circuit where upstream protection is already coordinated. The built-in undervoltage release (UVR) at 24 V DC provides automatic tripping on loss of control voltage, a requirement for safety disconnection in motor control centres or conveyor line sections where a voltage dip must open the load path. Rated insulation voltage Ui is 800 V, with maximum operational voltage at 690 V AC 50/60 Hz and 500 V DC. The short-time withstand rating is 2 kA limited to 1 s (and also 2 kA at 0.5 s), which tells you the disconnector can hold closed under fault current for that duration while an upstream breaker clears — provided the prospective fault current at the panel does not exceed that figure. Power loss at full load is 38 W, so factor that into enclosure thermal rise calculations if the disconnector is grouped with other heat sources.
Panel integration and physical fit
The disconnector measures 70 mm deep, 76.2 mm wide, and 130 mm tall — the 3VA1 frame 160 footprint shared across the SENTRON 3VA family. Front terminals for the main circuit, clamp-type connection, so it accepts copper or aluminium conductors up to the frame rating without lug adaptors. IP40 on the front face is standard for enclosed distribution boards; no special sealing required for dry indoor panels. The optional motor drive (product extension noted as available) means the disconnector can be remote-operated for automated load shedding or emergency stop sequences, though the base unit is manual.
Why the UVR matters for your circuit
The undervoltage release on this disconnector is designed to trip when the control voltage drops below a threshold — standard for applications where a loss of 24 V DC control power must positively isolate the load. Unlike a shunt trip (which requires a deliberate voltage pulse to trip), the UVR holds the disconnector closed only as long as the control voltage is present. If your safety circuit expects a drop-out on power loss, this is the correct release type. The UVR does not carry a leading contact, so it cannot signal its own state ahead of the main contacts — factor that into your auxiliary contact planning if feedback is required.