What this part is and what it does
The Siemens 3VA1116-1AA36-0BH0 is a SENTRON switch disconnector in MCCB (molded case circuit breaker) design, built on the IEC frame 160. It is a 3-pole, 160 A rated disconnect that provides no overload or short-circuit protection — it is a straight isolator with an undervoltage release (UVR) for controlled opening under voltage-loss conditions. Rated 160 A continuously from 40 °C through 50 °C ambient, derating to 150 A at 70 °C. AC rated 690 V, DC rated 500 V, with an insulation voltage of 800 V. This is a load-break rated disconnect, not a circuit breaker — it switches load current but does not trip on overcurrent or short circuit.
Key ratings and what they mean for fit
The 160 A rating holds flat across the 40–50 °C band, which is typical for a panel with moderate ambient rise. At 70 °C it still carries 150 A — useful if the disconnect sits near transformers or drives. The 690 V AC rating covers 400 V and 480 V systems with headroom; the 500 V DC rating suits battery banks or DC bus disconnects in that voltage class. The undervoltage release (UVR) is a 24 V DC coil that drops the switch open when control voltage falls below its dropout threshold. This is common in safety circuits or emergency-stop chains where loss of control power must isolate the load. The UVR here does not have a leading contact, so the coil and main contacts open simultaneously — no delayed dropout. Two auxiliary switches (HQ) plus one trip alarm switch (HQ) give three CO contacts total for status feedback to a PLC or panel indicators. The trip alarm switch signals when the disconnect has opened due to UVR or manual operation — useful for remote status monitoring.
Where it fits in the panel
Front terminal connection with clamp terminals for the main circuit. Dimensions are 130 mm height, 76.2 mm width, 70 mm depth — a standard 3-pole MCCB footprint that fits most DIN-rail or panel-mount enclosures. IP40 on the front face means it is protected against tools and wires >1 mm, but not against water ingress; keep it inside a rated enclosure. Mechanical service life is 15 000 operating cycles typical. Power loss at rated current is 38 W maximum — factor that into enclosure thermal calculations if the disconnect is in a sealed cabinet with other heat sources.