What this MCCB delivers
The Siemens 3VA1116-3EF42-0AA0 is a SENTRON molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) designed for line protection in distribution panels. It carries a continuous current rating of 160 A at 40 °C, with thermal derating to 150 A at 70 °C — so the full 160 A holds across typical panel ambient temperatures up to 50 °C, and only drops 5 A by 60 °C. That thermal curve matters when you're packing breakers into a confined enclosure. The TM240 overcurrent release combines a thermal-magnetic trip with a fixed 240 A magnetic pickup. This is a line-protection device, not a motor-protective breaker — it's sized for cable and busbar protection, not overload relay curves. The 4-pole configuration suits three-phase plus neutral or switched-neutral applications.
Breaking capacity — what the numbers mean for your fault level
Rated short-circuit breaking capacity (Icu) is 75.6 kA at 240 V AC, 52.5 kA at 415 V, 32 kA at 440 V, and 11.9 kA at both 500 V and 690 V. At typical 400 V class distribution voltages, the 52.5 kA rating covers most industrial service-entrance and sub-distribution fault levels. The 11.9 kA at 690 V is adequate for 690 V drives or mining panels where the available fault current is lower. Rated insulation voltage is 800 V, so the breaker is electrically rated for 690 V systems with margin. The IP40 front protection means it's suitable for enclosed panel mounting — not for washdown or outdoor exposure without an additional enclosure.
Physical fit and panel integration
Dimensions are 130 mm height, 101.6 mm width, 70 mm depth. The 70 mm depth is shallow enough for most 200 mm deep enclosures, leaving room for rear cable routing. Width at 101.6 mm is standard for a 4-pole MCCB in this class — verify the mounting centres match your existing busbar or DIN-rail adapter before committing the BOM line. Maximum power loss is 38 W. In a sealed, non-ventilated enclosure with multiple breakers, that heat adds up — factor it into your thermal calculation if the panel is densely populated.