What this MCCB delivers on the panel
The Siemens SENTRON 3VA2116-7HL42-0BD0 is a 4-pole molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) rated for 160 A continuous current, designed for line protection in distribution panels. Its 330 kA breaking capacity at 240 VAC means it can safely clear a fault up to that level without upstream devices needing to trip — critical for high-fault installations like transformer secondaries or large motor control centers. The breaker carries a full set of auxiliary switches (3 auxiliary switches HQ) and an undervoltage release (UVR), so it integrates directly into safety circuits that need to drop the load on loss of control voltage.
Breaking capacity across voltage levels
The interrupting rating drops as system voltage rises: 330 kA at 240 V, 242 kA at 415 V and 440 V, 187 kA at 500 V, and 3.7 kA at 690 V. That steep drop at 690 V means this breaker is not suited for 690 V distribution — the 3.7 kA rating is below typical fault currents in industrial 690 V networks. For 400 V class panels, the 242 kA figure covers most utility-transformer fault levels.
Thermal performance and derating
The breaker holds its full 160 A rating across the entire operating temperature range from -25 °C to 70 °C — no derating needed up to 70 °C ambient. That simplifies panel design in warm enclosures or near heat sources. Maximum power loss is 28 W, which is moderate for a 160 A frame; factor that into enclosure ventilation calculations.
Physical fit and integration
Dimensions are 181 mm height, 140 mm width, 86 mm depth. The 140 mm width is standard for a 4-pole MCCB in the SENTRON 3VA frame — verify panel cutout and busbar spacing against your existing layout. The breaker ships with the undervoltage release and auxiliary switches pre-installed; no field assembly of those options required.