What this MCCB is and where it fits
The Siemens 3VA1225-5EF32-0AE0 is a 3-pole SENTRON molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) rated for 250 A continuous current, configured as a line protection device with a TM240 thermal-magnetic overcurrent release. It carries a 187 kA interrupting rating at 240 V, 121 kA at 415 V, 36 kA at 440 V, and 17 kA at 690 V — so the same unit covers both low-voltage distribution and higher-voltage motor branch circuits without a frame-size bump. The IP40 front protection means it is suited for installation inside a dry enclosure; the breaker itself is not rated for washdown or outdoor exposure.
Thermal derating and continuous current
Rated continuous current Iu is 250 A, and the thermal-magnetic release TM240 is fixed at that value — no field-adjustable rating plug. The breaker holds full 250 A up to 50 °C ambient; above that it derates linearly to 223 A at 70 °C. For a panel that runs hot (say 55 °C inside the enclosure), the usable current drops to 243.3 A, so the load calculation needs to account for the actual ambient, not the nameplate.
Auxiliary contacts and integration
This variant ships with four auxiliary switches (HQ type) built in — no separate add-on module needed for status feedback to a PLC or remote indication. The auxiliary contacts are wired directly; verify the contact rating against your control voltage before commissioning. The breaker occupies 105 mm width on the DIN rail or mounting plate, 158 mm tall, 70 mm deep — standard footprint for a 250 A frame in the 3VA family.