The Siemens SENTRON 3VA1116-3FD42-0AA0 is a 4-pole molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) rated for 160 A continuous current at 40 °C, with a TM210 thermal-magnetic overcurrent release. It's designed for line protection in distribution panels and motor control centers where a 4-pole disconnect is needed for three-phase plus neutral switching. The interrupting capacity is 75.6 kA at 240 V AC, 52.5 kA at 415 V AC, 32 kA at 440 V AC, and 11.9 kA at both 500 V and 690 V AC — so the SCCR headroom is highest at the lower voltages common in North American 240/480 V panels, while still holding 11.9 kA at the 690 V AC rated operational voltage. For DC applications, the maximum rated operational voltage is 600 V DC. The TM210 release means the thermal element is fixed at 160 A (the frame rating) and the magnetic pickup is adjustable — typical for motor branch circuits where you need to ride through inrush without nuisance tripping. The N-conductor protection is set at 50% of the phase rating, standard for 4-pole breakers protecting a neutral that carries only unbalanced current.
Physical fit and panel integration
The breaker measures 70 mm deep, 101.6 mm wide, and 130 mm high. The 4-pole width (101.6 mm) is the key dimension for DIN-rail or mounting-plate layout — it occupies the same footprint as other SENTRON 160 A frame 4-pole units, so a panel designed for a 3VA1 frame will accept this drop-in without re-drilling. Front IP40 protection means it's suited for enclosed distribution boards where tools or fingers won't contact live parts through the front face. Maximum power loss is 38 W at rated current — relevant for thermal budgeting inside a sealed enclosure. Operating temperature range is -25 °C to 70 °C, with a storage range of -40 °C to 80 °C. The continuous current derates above 55 °C (158 A at 55 °C, 155 A at 60 °C, 153 A at 65 °C, 150 A at 70 °C), so if the panel ambient runs hot, the breaker must be applied at the derated value, not the 160 A nameplate.