What this MCCB is and what it does
The Siemens 3VA2110-5MQ32-0AC0 is a SENTRON molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) in the motor protection product version, rated for a continuous current of 100 A across the full ambient temperature range from 40 °C up to 70 °C — no derating needed up to that ceiling. Its 3-pole design handles three-phase motor circuits, and the integrated phase failure detection and ground fault monitoring (summation current formation on the L-conductor) give it the selectivity to protect a motor branch without nuisance tripping on transient imbalances.
Breaking capacity — what the ratings mean for your fault level
The interrupting ratings step with system voltage: 187 kA at 240 V, 121 kA at both 415 V and 440 V, 76 kA at 500 V, and 3.8 kA at 690 V. For a 480 V panel in North America, the 76 kA at 500 V rating is the relevant benchmark — that is the SCCR the breaker can clear without welding contacts or venting plasma. At 690 V the drop to 3.8 kA is steep, so verify the available fault current if you are feeding a 690 V motor drive; this breaker is not a universal high-fault device at the upper voltage end.
Communication and auxiliary contacts — what is on board
This MCCB ships with a communication function (protocol unspecified at this level — typically PROFIBUS or PROFINET via a plug-in module on the 3VA platform) and two HQ auxiliary switches for status feedback to a PLC or DCS. The auxiliary contacts are factory-fitted, so no field retrofit is needed for basic open/closed indication. Power loss is listed at 10 W maximum, which is modest for a 100 A frame and leaves headroom in a crowded panel's thermal budget.
Panel fit — dimensions and mounting
The 3VA2110-5MQ32-0AC0 measures 105 mm wide, 181 mm high, and 86 mm deep (4.1 in × 7.1 in × 3.4 in). It mounts on a DIN rail or screws directly to a backplate via the standard 3VA frame footprint. The 86 mm depth is shallow enough for a 200 mm enclosure depth with room for wiring gutters; the 105 mm width is the same as other 3-pole 3VA frames, so a panel laid out for a 100 A SENTRON MCCB accepts this unit without re-spacing the DIN rail.