Siemens SENTRON 3VA2163-6HL36-0AH0 — 63 A MCCB, Line Protection, 3-Pole
The Siemens SENTRON 3VA2163-6HL36-0AH0 is a 3-pole molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) rated for 63 A continuous current, designed for line protection in distribution panels. It carries a maximum breaking capacity of 242 kA at 240 VAC, dropping to 187 kA at 415/440 VAC, 121 kA at 500 VAC, and 3.7 kA at 690 VAC — the voltage-dependent curve governs where it can be applied as a main or feeder breaker. The rated insulation voltage is 800 V, and the unit draws a maximum power loss of 4 W.
Breaking Capacity and Application Context
The 242 kA at 240 V is the headline interrupting rating — it tells you this breaker can clear very high fault currents on a 240 VAC secondary, typical of large transformer-fed services. At 415/440 V the rating is still 187 kA, which covers most industrial low-voltage distribution. The sharp drop to 3.7 kA at 690 V means this variant is not intended for 690 V line-to-line applications; a higher-voltage-rated frame would be needed there. For a 480 V panel (common in North America), the 121 kA at 500 V gives ample margin for most installations. The 63 A continuous rating is the load current it can carry indefinitely without tripping. Because it holds at 70 °C ambient, it suits high-density switchgear where internal temperatures rise. The 3-pole design handles three-phase loads (motors, transformers, feeders) and the line-protection characteristic (not motor-protection) means it trips on overcurrent without the inverse-time curve shaped for motor inrush — use it for cable and busbar protection, not direct motor starting.
Physical Fit and Auxiliary Switching
Dimensions are 105 mm wide, 181 mm high, 86 mm deep — a standard SENTRON 3VA frame size that fits Siemens panelboards and distribution blocks. The 105 mm width is the critical dimension for multi-pole grouping in a panel; verify the mounting footprint against your existing busbar or lug kit. The breaker includes 2 auxiliary switches plus 1 trip alarm switch (HQ configuration), which provides status feedback for remote monitoring or PLC inputs without requiring an external accessory.