Breaking capacity — what those kA numbers actually mean for your fault-current study
The 3VA1196-6EF32-0KH0: This breaker is rated to interrupt 220 kA at 240 V, 154 kA at 415 V, 121 kA at 440 V, and 17 kA at 690 V. For a 480 V panel on a 415 V system, the 154 kA figure is the one your arc-flash study uses — not the 220 kA at 240 V. Show me the rating, then size the upstream protection accordingly.
Thermal derating — the 16 A rating holds to 50 °C, then it drops
At 55 °C it derates to 15.36 A, at 60 °C to 15.04 A, at 65 °C to 14.72 A, and at 70 °C to 14.4 A. The TM240 release's thermal element responds to both load current and ambient heat; ignoring the curve means nuisance tripping or, worse, a breaker that doesn't hold its rating.
Integrated accessories — shunt trip and auxiliary contacts are built in
The integrated auxiliary release is order code 3VA9688-0BL33, which matters for parts traceability if the release needs replacement.
Physical fit — dimensions and panel integration
The 3VA1196-6EF32-0KH0 measures 130 mm high, 76.2 mm wide, and 70 mm deep. Front-face protection is IP40 — dust-protected but not water-sealed, so it belongs inside a rated enclosure, not on a washdown wall.