Line protection breaker, 160 A frame, TM240 release
The Siemens SENTRON 3VA1116-3EF32-0KC0 is a 3-pole molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) rated for 160 A continuous current, with a TM240 thermal-magnetic overcurrent release. It carries 75.6 kA interrupting capacity at 240 V, 52.5 kA at 415 V, and 32 kA at 440 V — figures that govern its fault-clearing capability in a distribution panel or motor control center. The IP40 front protection means it's suited for installation inside a dead-front enclosure where the operator side is protected from tool or finger contact. The TM240 release is a fixed thermal-magnetic trip unit — no adjustable long-time or short-time pickup, which simplifies specification for a dedicated feeder or branch circuit where the load current is known and stable. The breaker includes a shunt trip (STL) auxiliary release for remote tripping, plus two HQ auxiliary switches for status feedback to a PLC or annunciator panel.
Current rating and thermal derating
The 160 A rating holds flat from 40 °C through 50 °C ambient. Above that, the breaker derates: 153.6 A at 55 °C, 150.4 A at 60 °C, 147.2 A at 65 °C, and 144 A at 70 °C. For a panel that runs warm — say a packed MCC lineup at 55 °C — the effective continuous current drops to 153.6 A, so the connected load must stay under that figure to avoid nuisance tripping.
Integration and mounting
The breaker measures 76.2 mm wide, 130 mm high, and 70 mm deep — a standard 3-pole MCCB footprint that fits most Siemens SENTRON panelboards and switchboard cubicles without adapter plates. The shunt trip (STL) and auxiliary switches are factory-integrated; no field-add-on kit required. Latching endurance is rated at 15,000 operations, which covers routine switching in a motor-starting or feeder application.