What this 3VA1116-5EE32-0DA0 is and what it does
The SENTRON 3VA1116-5EE32-0DA0 is a 3-pole molded case circuit breaker rated for 160 A continuous at 40 °C, designed for line protection. It includes a TM220 thermal-magnetic release and an undervoltage release.
Breaking capacity — what the numbers mean for your fault current
This breaker's short-circuit breaking capacity is rated at 187 kA at 240 V AC, 121 kA at 415 V, 75.6 kA at 440 V, and 17 kA at both 500 V and 690 V. That's a steep derating curve above 440 V, which is typical for MCCBs in this class — the arc extinction physics get harder as voltage climbs. For a 480 V system (common in North America), the 75.6 kA at 440 V is the closest published figure; expect the actual rating at 480 V to fall somewhere between that and the 17 kA at 500 V. If your available fault current at the panel is above 75 kA at 480 V, you'll want to verify coordination with a series-rated upstream device or step up to a higher-frame breaker. The 187 kA at 240 V covers most low-voltage distribution and sub-feed applications comfortably.
Thermal derating — it's 160 A only up to 50 °C
The continuous current rating holds at 160 A from 40 °C through 50 °C ambient, then begins to taper: 158 A at 55 °C, 155 A at 60 °C, 153 A at 65 °C, and 150 A at 70 °C. That's a 6.25% drop from the 50 °C baseline to the 70 °C ceiling, which is relatively mild — the thermal-magnetic element is designed to track the conductor ampacity derating curve. If you're packing this breaker into a tightly enclosed panel with other heat sources, plan for the 150 A effective limit at the upper end. The operating temperature range is -25 °C to 70 °C, with storage from -40 °C to 80 °C. Power dissipation at full load is 40.5 W maximum — not negligible in a dense panel; factor that into your enclosure ventilation calcs.
Physical fit and panel integration
The breaker measures 130 mm high, 76.2 mm wide, and 70 mm deep. It is a 3-pole unit with rated insulation voltage of 800 V.