What it is and what it does
The Siemens SENTRON 3VA2163-5KP32-0CH0 is a 3-pole molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) rated for 63 A continuous current, designed for line protection in distribution panels and industrial switchboards. Its interrupting capacity reaches 187 kA at 240 VAC, 121 kA at 415 V and 440 V, 75.6 kA at 500 V, and 3.7 kA at 690 V — the 187 kA figure at 240 V means it can safely clear a fault at that level without upstream cascading, critical for high-available-fault-current services like transformer secondaries or large motor control centers. The continuous current rating holds flat at 63 A from 40 °C through 70 °C ambient — no derating needed across the typical panel operating range, which simplifies panel design and spare stocking.
Built-in auxiliary and communication
This MCCB ships with an undervoltage release (UVR) and two auxiliary switches plus one trip alarm switch (HQ configuration), so it can signal status back to a PLC or safety circuit without an add-on module. A communication function is integrated — the breaker can report status and trip events over a bus, reducing panel wiring and enabling remote diagnostics. Power loss is 6.5 W maximum, which keeps heat rise manageable in a densely packed enclosure.
Lifecycle and sourcing reality
For a BOM line or critical-spare cabinet, this part is sourced and quoted to order against an RFQ — availability and current pricing confirmed at quote time through independent distribution.
Physical fit and environmental limits
Dimensions are 181 mm high, 105 mm wide, and 86 mm deep — the 105 mm width is standard for a 3-pole MCCB in the SENTRON 3VA frame, so it fits existing panel cutouts and busbar spacing without modification. Operating temperature range is -25 °C to 70 °C; storage range is -40 °C to 80 °C, covering most indoor and outdoor enclosure environments. The trip indicator is present, giving a local visual signal after a fault event — useful for troubleshooting without a connected communication system.