What this MCCB delivers on the line side
The Siemens SENTRON 3VA1163-5EE32-0HC0 is a 3-pole molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) rated 63 A at 40 °C, with a 187 kA interrupting capacity at 240 V AC — that SCCR covers most utility transformer secondaries and large motor branch circuits without needing a current-limiting fuse upstream. At 415 V it still interrupts 121 kA, and at 690 V it holds 17 kA, so it handles industrial 400 V distribution panels and 690 V drives as well. The thermal-magnetic trip curve is factory set for line protection (cable/feeder), not motor overload. If you need a motor-protective characteristic, this is the wrong variant — look for the 3VA1 with a different design suffix. Power loss at full load is 17.3 W — negligible for panel thermal budgeting in a standard enclosure, but worth noting if you pack multiple breakers in a sealed cabinet.
Integration and footprint
Mounts on a DIN rail or panel-mount plate. Dimensions: 130 mm height, 76.2 mm width (3 inches), 70 mm depth. The 3-pole width is standard for a 63 A frame — fits a 3-module slot on a DIN-rail assembly. Comes with two auxiliary switches (HQ type) built in — these give you two independent signal contacts for status feedback to a PLC or annunciator panel. No separate auxiliary switch block needed for basic open/closed indication. Includes a shunt trip release (STL) for remote tripping via a control signal — useful for emergency-stop circuits or remote load shedding. No undervoltage release is fitted (that would be a different order code).
Thermal derating — what the 63 A rating actually means
The 63 A rating holds steady from 40 °C up to 50 °C — no derating needed in a typical 40 °C panel. At 55 °C it drops to 62 A, at 60 °C to 61 A, and at 70 °C to 58 A. If your panel ambient runs above 50 °C, size the breaker one frame step up or accept the reduced ampacity. Operating temperature range is -25 °C to +70 °C; storage range is -40 °C to +80 °C. The storage limit governs handling during transport in cold climates — the breaker can sit in an unheated warehouse at -40 °C without damage.