Line protection MCCB with high interrupting capacity
The Siemens SENTRON 3VA1196-3EF32-0BC0 is a 3-pole molded case circuit breaker rated for 16 A continuous current at 40 °C, with a TM240 thermal-magnetic overcurrent release. Its interrupting capacity reaches 75.6 kA at 240 V AC and 52.5 kA at 415 V AC — enough for high-fault utility feeds or transformer secondaries where standard MCBs would weld shut.
Thermal derating and ambient limits
Above that, the TM240 release derates linearly: 15.36 A at 55 °C, 15.04 A at 60 °C, 14.72 A at 65 °C, and 14.4 A at 70 °C. The IP40 front protection means it's rated against tools and solid objects over 1 mm, but not sealed against water — keep it out of washdown zones unless enclosed.
Integration and panel fit
The 76.2 mm width (3-inch pitch) matches standard 3-pole MCCB cutouts in Siemens SENTRON distribution panels and most third-party enclosures. The integrated auxiliary trip (order code 3VA9608-0BB11) is a factory-fitted shunt trip accessory — verify compatibility if the panel spec calls for a different trip unit. Latching endurance rated at 15 000 operations — sufficient for typical panel-switch duty but not for frequent motor starting. For high-cycle applications, consider a contactor ahead of this breaker.