What this MCCB does for the line
The Siemens 3VA1196-4EF36-0DC0 is a SENTRON molded case circuit breaker rated for a continuous current Iu of 16 A, with a thermal-magnetic TM240 overcurrent release. Its interrupting capacity hits 121 kA at 240 V and 75.6 kA at 415 V, so it clears high-fault bolted shorts on a 480 V distribution panel without upstream coordination headaches. Three poles, line-protection version, no communication module inside — this is a straight-ahead feeder or branch breaker for a control cabinet.
What the ratings mean for fit
Rated continuous current holds flat at 16 A from 40 °C up to 50 °C, then derates to 15.36 A at 55 °C and 14.4 A at 70 °C. That means a panel running at 50 °C ambient gets full 16 A capacity; at 65 °C you lose about 1.3 A. The 15 000 mechanical endurance cycles (latching) tell you this breaker is meant for occasional switching, not daily motor starting. It carries a built-in undervoltage release (UVR) and two HQ auxiliary switches, so it integrates with a safety circuit or PLC input without an add-on module. Dimensions are 76.2 mm wide, 130 mm high, 70 mm deep — fits a standard DIN-rail or panel-mount footprint. IP40 on the front means it's fine inside a clean enclosure; no washdown rating here.