What this MCCB is and the ratings that decide fit
The Siemens SENTRON 3VA1180-3EF36-0HA0 is a 3-pole molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) designed for line protection — the primary role is protecting cable runs and distribution buswork against overload and short-circuit faults. It carries a continuous current rating of 80 A at 40 °C, and the thermal-magnetic overcurrent release (type TM240) handles the trip curve. The 75.6 kA breaking capacity at 240 V AC means it can safely interrupt a fault current of that magnitude without welding its contacts or venting arc gas into the panel — a critical spec when the available fault current at the service entrance is high. Breaking capacity drops across higher voltages: 52.5 kA at 415 V, 32 kA at 440 V, and 11.9 kA at both 500 V and 690 V. That derating curve is typical for MCCBs, but it means the same breaker cannot be applied at full fault rating across all system voltages — the 690 V figure governs if the line-neutral voltage exceeds 500 V. Rated insulation voltage is 800 V, so the internal creepage and clearance distances are sized for 690 V systems with margin. This variant includes a shunt trip (STL) auxiliary release — a separate control voltage triggers the breaker to open remotely, useful for emergency-stop circuits or interlocking schemes. There is no undervoltage release, no ground-fault monitoring, and no communication function on this order code. The 70 mm depth and 76.2 mm width fit standard MCCB panel cutouts; the 130 mm height is within the compact SENTRON 3VA frame envelope.
Thermal derating and operating limits
The breaker holds its full 80 A rating from 40 °C through 50 °C ambient. Above that, derating is gradual: 78 A at 55 °C, 77 A at 60 °C, 75 A at 65 °C, and 74 A at 70 °C. If the panel internal temperature runs hot — say a sealed enclosure with multiple breakers — the 70 °C figure is the one to size against, not the 40 °C nameplate. Maximum power dissipation is 19.2 W, which contributes to enclosure heating and should be summed across all devices in the same cabinet. Operating temperature range is -25 °C to 70 °C; storage range is -40 °C to 80 °C. The storage limit is wider because the breaker is not carrying current or under mechanical stress while stored — that range governs warehousing and shipping, not running conditions.
Physical integration notes
Dimensions are 70 mm deep, 76.2 mm wide, 130 mm high. The 76.2 mm (3-inch) width is a standard MCCB footprint for 3-pole frames in the 80 A class — fits existing panel cutouts and busbar spacing without rework. No trip indicator on the front face; the shunt trip coil requires a separate control signal to trigger remote opening.