MCCB for line protection — 160 A continuous, 3-pole, TM240 release
The Siemens SENTRON 3VA1116-4EF32-0AC0 is a 3-pole molded case circuit breaker rated for 160 A continuous current (Iu) and configured for line protection. Its TM240 thermal-magnetic overcurrent release handles overload and short-circuit protection without an undervoltage release, auxiliary release, or ground-fault monitoring module. Breaking capacity reaches 121 kA at 240 V and 75.6 kA at 415 V, which provides selectivity headroom for high-fault panelboards and main feeders. At 690 V the rating drops to 11.9 kA, so verify the available fault current at that voltage before specifying.
Thermal derating and ambient temperature
The 160 A rating holds flat from 40 °C through 50 °C. Above that it derates stepwise: 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 enclosure running at 60 °C ambient, plan for 150.4 A continuous — not the full 160 A. Operating range spans -25 °C to 70 °C; storage range is -40 °C to 80 °C. The IP40 front face keeps dust out of the enclosure but is not rated for washdown or outdoor exposure.
Dimensions and panel fit
The breaker measures 130 mm high, 76.2 mm wide, and 70 mm deep. At 76.2 mm (3 inches) wide, it occupies a standard 3-pole MCCB footprint on the DIN rail or mounting plate. The depth of 70 mm leaves room behind the panel door for wiring and auxiliary connections.
Auxiliary contacts and lifecycle
Two HQ auxiliary switches are integrated. The latching endurance is rated at 15,000 operations. No communication function, phase failure detection, or voltage trigger is present — this is a straight thermal-magnetic breaker for basic line protection.