MCCB for line protection — 4-pole, 32 A, high interrupting capacity
The Siemens SENTRON 3VA1132-4ED46-0AA0 is a 4-pole molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) rated for 32 A continuous at 40 °C, with a TM210 thermal-magnetic trip unit. It is designed for line protection in distribution panels, meaning it protects cable runs and busbars from overloads and short circuits rather than a specific motor or load. The 121 kA breaking capacity at 240 V AC gives substantial fault-current headroom for high-capacity secondary switchboards or main feeders in industrial and commercial installations.
Breaking capacity across voltages — selectivity planning
Interrupting capacity drops as system voltage rises: 121 kA at 240 V, 75.6 kA at 415 V, 52.5 kA at 440 V, and 11.9 kA at both 500 V and 690 V. For a 480 V panel (common in North America) the relevant figure is the 440 V rating of 52.5 kA — enough for most service-entrance and feeder applications. At 690 V the 11.9 kA figure is notably lower; if your fault-current study shows a higher prospective short-circuit current at that voltage, step up to a higher-rated frame in the 3VA series.
Thermal derating and ambient temperature
The breaker holds full 32 A rating up to 50 °C ambient. Above that it derates to 31 A at 55–60 °C and 30 A at 65–70 °C. In a sealed, uncooled enclosure near other heat sources, account for the derating — the 30 A at 70 °C figure is the floor. The rated insulation voltage is 800 V, and maximum power loss is 10.6 W, which matters for internal enclosure temperature rise calculations.
Panel integration — dimensions and mounting
The 3VA1132-4ED46-0AA0 measures 130 mm high, 101.6 mm wide, and 70 mm deep. It mounts on a DIN rail or directly to a backplate via screw terminals. The front face carries an IP40 protection rating — suitable for enclosed distribution boards where no water jets are present. Operating temperature range is -25 °C to +70 °C; storage range is -40 °C to +80 °C.