What this MCCB is and what it does
The Siemens 3VA1196-5EF32-0JA0 is a SENTRON molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) designed for line protection in distribution panels. It is a 3-pole unit rated at 16 A continuous current across ambient temperatures from 40 °C up to 55 °C, derating to 15 A at 60 °C through 70 °C. The overcurrent release is a TM240 thermal-magnetic type, which means it combines a thermal bimetal for overload protection and a magnetic coil for short-circuit response. Breaking capacity is specified per voltage: 187 kA at 240 V AC, 121 kA at 415 V, 75.6 kA at 440 V, and 17 kA at both 500 V and 690 V. The rated insulation voltage is 800 V. This breaker includes a shunt trip (STL) auxiliary release for remote tripping, but no undervoltage release, ground-fault monitoring, or communication function. Physical dimensions: 70 mm depth, 76.2 mm width, 130 mm height. Maximum power loss is 10.6 W. Operating temperature range is -25 °C to 70 °C; storage range -40 °C to 80 °C.
Panel integration and mounting
The 76.2 mm width (3 inches) and 70 mm depth fit standard MCCB mounting footprints in distribution panels. The 3-pole form factor occupies three module spaces on a DIN rail or panel-mount base. The shunt trip release requires a separate control signal; verify polarity and voltage rating per the installation manual before wiring.
What the ratings mean for your selection
The 16 A continuous rating is maintained up to 55 °C ambient; above that, derate to 15 A. This matters if the breaker is installed in a warm enclosure or near other heat-generating devices. The 187 kA breaking capacity at 240 V is exceptionally high for a 16 A frame, meaning it can interrupt very high fault currents without upstream coordination issues. The TM240 release is calibrated for line protection — not motor or generator protection — so it is the correct choice for feeder and branch-circuit applications per IEC 60947-2.