What this MCCB is and what the ratings mean
The Siemens 3VA1196-4EE42-0AA0 is a SENTRON molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) rated for line protection — a 4-pole, 16 A frame with a TM220 thermal-magnetic trip unit. The 16 A rating holds steady from 40 °C up to 55 °C, then derates to 15 A at 60 °C and above, so in a warm panel you lose an amp. The interrupting rating is the headline: 121 kA at 240 V AC, dropping to 75.6 kA at 415 V, 52.5 kA at 440 V, and 11.9 kA at both 500 V and 690 V. That 121 kA figure at 240 V means it handles high available fault current on a 240 V distribution bus without needing a current-limiting fuse upstream — useful for main or feeder duty in a 240 V panel.
Panel fit and integration
The 3VA1196-4EE42-0AA0 measures 130 mm high, 101.6 mm wide, and 70 mm deep. That's a standard 4-pole MCCB footprint — it mounts on a DIN rail or directly to a backplate. The front face carries an IP40 protection rating, so it's fine for a clean indoor panel but not for washdown or outdoor exposure without an enclosure. Rated insulation voltage is 800 V, which covers most industrial distribution voltages up to 690 V phase-to-phase.