The Siemens 3VA1116-4EF32-0KC0 is a SENTRON molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) rated for 160 A continuous current Iu across a 3-pole configuration, built for line protection duty. Its TM240 thermal-magnetic release handles overload and short-circuit curves without an external trip unit, and the integrated shunt trip (STL) allows remote tripping via a voltage trigger. The interrupting capacity hits 121 kA at 240 V and 75.6 kA at 415 V — figures that govern selectivity coordination downstream, not just the fault rating at the board.
Thermal derating and ambient limits
The 160 A rating holds flat from 40 °C through 50 °C ambient. Above that the curve steps down: 153.6 A at 55 °C, 150.4 A at 60 °C, 147.2 A at 65 °C, and 144 A at 70 °C. If the panel sits near a curing press or steam line, size the load side for the derated figure at your ambient — the breaker won't nuisance-trip, but it also won't carry a full 160 A into a 65 °C enclosure without margin.
Breaking capacity across voltage levels
The interrupting ratings step with system voltage: 121 kA at 240 V, 75.6 kA at 415 V, 52.5 kA at 440 V, and 11.9 kA at 690 V. For a 400 V three-phase distribution board the 75.6 kA figure gives headroom for most transformer-fed fault levels. At 690 V the 11.9 kA rating is the binding constraint — verify the available fault current at that voltage before committing the BOM line.
Physical fit and panel integration
The case measures 130 mm high, 76.2 mm wide, and 70 mm deep. Front IP40 rating means it's protected against tools and wires larger than 1 mm — standard for a dead-front panel, but not rated for washdown or outdoor exposure. The auxiliary contact block ships as two HQ-form switches, and the integrated shunt trip (order code 3VA9688-0BL33) is factory-fitted, not field-addable on this variant. No undervoltage release, no ground-fault module, no communication function — this is a straight thermal-magnetic line protection breaker with remote trip capability.