160 A MCCB with shunt trip and auxiliary switch block
The Siemens 3VA2116-5HL36-0KL0 is a SENTRON molded case circuit breaker rated for 160 A continuous current across the full ambient range from -25 °C to 70 °C, with no derating needed up to 70 °C. Its 187 kA interrupting capacity at 240 V makes it suitable for high-fault-current service entrance or distribution panels where available fault current is substantial. The 3-pole design is configured for line protection, so the internal trip curve is set for feeder or main breaker duty rather than motor or generator protection.
Auxiliary and release configuration
This breaker ships with a factory-fitted auxiliary switch block: two auxiliary switches, one trip alarm switch, and one electrical alarm switch (HQ type). It also includes a shunt trip release (STL) for remote tripping. The auxiliary switch configuration is useful for status feedback to a PLC or for interlocking schemes — the HQ alarm switch signals a trip event independently of the main contacts. The shunt trip allows a remote pushbutton or safety relay to open the breaker, which is common in emergency-stop circuits or undervoltage protection schemes where a separate undervoltage release is not fitted (this unit has no undervoltage release).
Physical footprint and panel fit
Dimensions are 105 mm wide, 181 mm high, and 86 mm deep. The 105 mm width fits existing cutouts for a 3-pole 160 A frame.
Breaking capacity across voltage levels
The interrupting rating drops significantly as system voltage rises: 187 kA at 240 V, 121 kA at 415 V and 440 V, 75.6 kA at 500 V, and 3.7 kA at 690 V. The steep drop at 690 V means this breaker is not intended for 690 V line-to-line applications with high fault current — at that voltage it is only rated for 3.7 kA, which is below typical industrial distribution fault levels. For 400 V class systems (415/440 V), the 121 kA rating covers most high-fault installations.