Siemens 3VA1116-1AA42-0AC0 — 160 A Switch Disconnector in MCCB Form Factor
The Siemens SENTRON 3VA1116-1AA42-0AC0 is a 4-pole switch disconnector built in an MCCB design, rated for a continuous current Iu of 160 A. It is designed to isolate and disconnect loads in distribution panels — it provides no overload or short-circuit protection, so it is strictly a disconnecting means, not a circuit breaker. The 160 A rating means it can handle the full load current of a large motor control center feeder or a sub-distribution board without derating at 40 °C ambient. Rated operational voltage reaches 690 V AC (50/60 Hz) and 600 V DC, covering standard 400/480 V three-phase systems and many DC bus applications. The insulation voltage Ui is 800 V, giving headroom for grounded or ungrounded systems up to that level. This unit carries 2 auxiliary switches (HQ type) for remote status indication, and the design accepts an optional motor drive for remote switching. Main circuit connection is via front busbar terminals, typical for panel-mounted disconnect switches in MCCB footprints.
Ratings and What They Mean for Fit
The 160 A rated continuous current (Iu) is the key selection parameter: this disconnector is sized for feeders or loads drawing up to 160 A continuously. The limited short-time withstand rating (2 kA for 1 s, 2 kA for 0.5 s) means it can survive a fault current up to 2 kA without damage while upstream protection clears — adequate for most secondary distribution panels where the available fault current is below 2 kA. With 4 poles, it switches all three phases plus neutral in a single handle operation — essential for TN-S or TN-C-S systems where the neutral must be disconnected for safe isolation. The mechanical endurance of 15,000 latching operations suits frequent switching in process or maintenance isolation roles. IP40 protection on the front means it is protected against solid objects over 1 mm (tools, wires) but not against water ingress — suitable for dry indoor panel environments only. The operating temperature range of -25 °C to +70 °C covers most industrial control rooms and heated enclosures.
Lifecycle and Sourcing Reality
No official successor order code exists because the part is active. The SENTRON 3VA platform is the current generation; there is no need to cross-reference to an older series.
Panel Integration Notes
Dimensions: 70 mm depth, 101.6 mm width, 130 mm height. The MCCB footprint means it mounts on a DIN rail or direct panel via the included nut keeper kit (per the description). Front busbar terminals accept standard busbar systems for the main circuit — plan for busbar drop connections rather than cable lugs. Maximum power loss of 38 W at rated current means the enclosure must dissipate that heat — factor it into the thermal budget for a multi-disconnect panel. The 2 auxiliary switches (CO contacts) provide two independent sets of changeover contacts for status feedback to a PLC or indication lamp.