What this MCCB is and where it fits
The Siemens SENTRON 3VA1196-3GF46-0AA0 is a 4-pole molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) rated for 16 A continuous current, designed for line protection in distribution panels. It uses a TM240 thermal-magnetic overcurrent release — the thermal element handles overloads, the magnetic element clears short-circuits. The interrupting capacity reaches 75.6 kA at 240 V and 52.5 kA at 415 V, giving it headroom for high-fault industrial feeds where a standard MCB would weld shut.
Ratings that decide the fit
The 16 A rating holds steady from 40 °C up to 55 °C, then derates to 15 A at 60 °C and above. That means in a warm cabinet — say a curing-press control panel — you don't lose capacity until the ambient hits 60 °C. The 4-pole design handles three-phase plus neutral, common for 400 V three-phase distribution where the neutral needs protection. Power loss is 10.6 W maximum, which matters for thermal budgeting in a sealed enclosure. Interrupting capacity is voltage-dependent: 75.6 kA at 240 V, 52.5 kA at 415 V, 32 kA at 440 V, and 11.9 kA at 500 V and 690 V. The 415 V figure is the one to check for standard European 400 V three-phase networks — 52.5 kA covers most transformer-fed industrial services. The front panel carries IP40 protection, so it's fine for dry indoor panels but not washdown zones.
Panel integration notes
Dimensions are 70 mm deep by 101.6 mm wide by 130 mm high. The 101.6 mm width (4 inches) is the standard 4-pole MCCB footprint for DIN-rail or screw-mount panels. Verify the busbar pitch matches your distribution block before committing the cutout.