MCCB for line protection with high interrupting capacity
The Siemens SENTRON 3VA1116-6EF32-0KC0 is a 3-pole molded case circuit breaker rated for line protection, carrying a continuous current Iu of 160 A. Its interrupting capacity reaches 220 kA at 240 V, 154 kA at 415 V, and 75.6 kA at 440 V — figures that cover most industrial fault-current scenarios without needing an upstream current-limiting fuse. The TM240 thermal-magnetic overcurrent release provides fixed thermal and magnetic trip settings, so the breaker is sized for a specific load range and does not require field adjustment. A shunt trip (STL) auxiliary release is integrated, allowing remote tripping via a control signal. Two HQ auxiliary switches are built in, giving status feedback for the open/closed position without needing an external contact block. The front face carries IP40 protection, suitable for enclosed panel mounting where dust ingress is limited.
Current derating and thermal performance
The breaker holds its full 160 A rating up to 50 °C ambient. Above that, current must be derated: 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 running warm — say 55 °C internal ambient — the effective continuous current drops about 4 %, which matters when sizing for a near-full bus. Operating temperature range is -25 °C to 70 °C; storage range is -40 °C to 80 °C. The insulation voltage Ui is rated 800 V, confirming suitability for 690 V systems with margin.
Panel fit and integration
Dimensions are 130 mm height, 76.2 mm width, and 70 mm depth — a compact footprint that fits standard MCCB mounting positions in distribution panels. The breaker accepts plug-in or fixed connections depending on the base adapter; verify the panel's busbar pitch against the 76.2 mm width before committing the cutout.