The Siemens 3VA1163-5MH36-0JC0 is a 3-pole IEC frame 160 molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) rated at 63 A continuous current, with a breaking capacity of 55 kA at 415 V AC (class M). It's configured for motor starter protection using a TM120M thermal-magnetic release with adjustable short-circuit pickup (Ii = 5–15 × In), but notably without integrated overload protection — that's handled separately by the starter. The unit includes a shunt trip (STL) for 110–127 V DC or AC 50/60 Hz remote tripping, plus two HQ auxiliary switches for status feedback. All connections are via clamp terminals.
What the Ratings Mean for Fit
The 55 kA Icu at 415 V is the ultimate short-circuit breaking capacity — the breaker can safely interrupt a fault up to that level once, after which it should be inspected or replaced. The class M designation indicates a medium breaking capacity tier within the 3VA1 family, suitable for most industrial distribution panels where fault currents are moderate. The TM120M release provides thermal-magnetic protection for motor circuits: the thermal element tracks overload heating (without tripping on starting inrush), while the magnetic element handles short circuits. The adjustable Ii range (5–15 × In) lets you set the instantaneous trip point between 315 A and 945 A, matching the motor's locked-rotor current. The shunt trip (STL) allows remote or emergency-stop tripping by applying 110–127 V AC/DC to the coil. The two HQ auxiliary switches provide normally open/closed contacts for PLC or status lamp feedback — HQ denotes high-quantity (high-reliability) contacts rated for signal-level switching.
Deployment Context
This breaker mounts on a DIN rail or panel-mount base within a standard IP40 or higher enclosure. The clamp terminals accept copper or aluminum conductors up to the rated cross-section for the frame size — no special lug kits needed for most panel builds. It's sized for motor control centers (MCCs), distribution boards, or as a feeder breaker in a sub-panel feeding motor starters.