Breaking capacity and selectivity planning
The 3VA1196-3GD46-0AA0 is a 4-pole SENTRON molded case circuit breaker rated for line protection, carrying a continuous current Iu of 16 A. Its interrupting capacity varies sharply with system voltage: 75.6 kA at 240 V AC, 52.5 kA at 415 V, 32 kA at 440 V, and 11.9 kA at both 500 V and 690 V. That voltage-dependent curve means the same breaker can serve high-fault panels at lower voltages but needs coordination review when applied at 480/277 V or 690 V systems where the available fault current must stay under 11.9 kA.
Thermal derating and release setup
The TM210 thermal-magnetic release holds full 16 A rating from 45 °C through 55 °C ambient. At 60 °C it derates to 15 A, and holds that level through 70 °C. The adjustable short-circuit release (li) goes up to 320 A, giving flexibility to coordinate with downstream branch breakers. The N-conductor is protected at 100% rating, so this breaker handles full-phase unbalance on a 4-wire system without derating the neutral pole.
Panel fit and environment
Footprint is 101.6 mm wide by 130 mm tall by 70 mm deep — a standard SENTRON 4-pole MCCB envelope that drops into existing 3VA panel layouts without re-drilling. Front face carries IP40 protection (finger-safe, not sealed), so it belongs in a closed enclosure. Operating range spans -25 °C to 70 °C; storage range extends from -40 °C to 80 °C. Maximum power dissipation is 10.6 W, which matters for thermal budgeting in a densely packed panel.