160 A MCCB with TM240 trip — selectivity and SCCR headroom for distribution
The Siemens SENTRON 3VA1216-4EF32-0DF0 is a 3-pole molded case circuit breaker rated 160 A at 40 °C, carrying a TM240 thermal-magnetic trip unit. Breaking capacity runs 121 kA at 240 V, 75.6 kA at 415 V, and 52.5 kA at 440 V — figures that give solid SCCR headroom for most industrial panel designs without needing a current-limiting fuse upstream. At 690 V it still interrupts 11.9 kA, so it handles 690 V distribution as well.
Current derating and thermal performance
Rated current holds flat at 160 A from 40 °C through 50 °C, then steps down: 156 A at 55 °C, 151 A at 60 °C, 147 A at 65 °C, and 142 A at 70 °C. That derating curve means the breaker can be applied at full rating in a 50 °C enclosure without penalty — useful for non-climate-controlled panels in hot plant environments.
Integration notes — panel fit and auxiliary wiring
Dimensions are 105 mm wide, 158 mm high, 70 mm deep — the standard 3-pole SENTRON 3VA footprint. Fits onto DIN rail or panel-mount baseplate. The undervoltage release coil wiring needs to be routed to a control voltage that drops below dropout threshold on loss of mains; verify polarity for DC coils if the release is DC-powered.