Switch Disconnector, 160 A Frame — What It Is and What It Does
The Siemens SENTRON 3VA1116-1AA36-0HC0 is a 3-pole switch disconnector in the IEC-frame 160 platform, rated for a continuous current Iu of 160 A. It is built in MCCB design but configured as a dedicated disconnector — no overload or short-circuit protection elements onboard. That means it serves as a manual load-break isolator for a 160 A circuit, not as a circuit breaker. The 160 A rating sets the maximum uninterrupted current the main contacts can carry; the switch is intended for infrequent switching of loads under rated conditions, with a mechanical latching endurance of 15,000 operations. Rated insulation voltage Ui is 800 V, and the maximum operational voltage is 690 V AC (50/60 Hz) or 500 V DC. The front terminal connection accepts lug-type conductors, and the IP40 front-face protection keeps dust out of the enclosure cutout. Operating temperature range is -25 °C to +70 °C; storage range extends from -40 °C to +80 °C. This unit ships with a factory-installed shunt trip (STL) release, energized at 12-30 V DC or 24 V AC 50/60 Hz. The shunt trip allows remote tripping of the disconnector via a control signal — useful for emergency-stop circuits or interlocking schemes where a hard-wired trip command must open the load circuit independently of the handle position. Two HQ auxiliary switches (form C, 2 CO contacts) are integrated, providing status feedback to a PLC or panel indication.
Mounting and Panel Integration
The 3VA1116-1AA36-0HC0 occupies a 76.2 mm wide footprint on the DIN rail or panel-mount surface, with a depth of 70 mm behind the panel and a height of 130 mm. The front terminal arrangement keeps the main power conductors accessible from the front, which simplifies wiring in a dense panel layout. An optional motor drive can be added for remote motorized operation.
Lifecycle and Sourcing
The lifecycle stage for this order code is current production. It is sourced to order against an RFQ through independent distribution; availability and current pricing are confirmed at quote time.