The Siemens 3VA1163-5MH32-0KC0 is a 3-pole IEC frame 160 circuit breaker with breaking capacity class M, rated Icu=55kA at 415 V. It is configured for starter protection with a TM120M release, set at In=63 A, and provides adjustable short-circuit protection Ii=5...15 x In. The unit includes a shunt trip (STL) rated for 220-250 V DC or 208-277 V AC, plus two auxiliary switches (HQ).
What the ratings mean for fit
Breaking capacity class M at 55 kA / 415 V means this breaker safely interrupts fault currents up to that level in a 415 V three-phase system — critical for high-fault installations like motor control centers or large panelboards where upstream transformer capacity is substantial. The TM120M thermal-magnetic release is sized for motor starting duty: the thermal element tracks motor heating while the magnetic pickup (5–15x In) allows the inrush without nuisance tripping. The adjustable Ii range lets you coordinate with downstream devices; set it at 5x In (315 A) for a soft-start motor or 15x In (945 A) for a direct-on-line start with high locked-rotor current.
Deployment context
This breaker mounts on a DIN rail or panel in a standard enclosure, common in motor control centers and distribution boards. The integrated shunt trip allows remote tripping from a safety PLC or emergency-stop circuit, while the two auxiliary switches provide status feedback (open/closed/tripped) to the control system. The nut keeper kit (included per the order code suffix) secures the terminal connections against vibration in industrial environments.