MCCB with starter-protection duty and high interrupting capacity
The Siemens SENTRON 3VA2163-7MS32-0CH0 is a 3-pole molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) rated for 63 A continuous current, with a product version designated for starter protection. Its interrupting capacity reaches 330 kA at 240 V, 242 kA at 415 V and 440 V, 187 kA at 500 V, and 52.5 kA at 690 V — figures that cover most industrial fault-current scenarios without cascading upstream. The overcurrent release is an ETU310M electronic trip unit, and an undervoltage release (UVR) is integrated. Auxiliary contacts are configured as 2 auxiliary switches plus 1 trip alarm switch (HQ).
What the ratings mean for fit
The 63 A rating holds flat from 40 °C through 50 °C; derating begins at 55 °C (60.48 A) and drops to 56.7 A at 70 °C. For a panel that runs warm — say a motor control center at 55 °C ambient — the breaker still carries 60.48 A, so a 63 A feeder or motor circuit is safe. The 330 kA interrupting capacity at 240 V is the headline number, but the 242 kA at 415 V is the one that governs most 400 V-class industrial distribution. That figure means the breaker can safely clear a fault up to 242 kA without rupturing or welding contacts — a key coordination point when sizing upstream protection.
Panel integration and dimensions
The breaker measures 105 mm wide, 181 mm high, and 86 mm deep. It mounts on a DIN rail or can be screw-fixed to a backplate. The 86 mm depth is the dimension that matters for enclosure depth — a standard 200 mm deep enclosure leaves clearance for wiring and the arc chamber. The 105 mm width fits a 3-pole MCCB footprint; adjacent breakers or contactors in a multi-unit lineup need that pitch respected.
Environmental and endurance limits
Operating temperature range is -25 °C to 70 °C; storage range is -40 °C to 80 °C. The latching endurance is rated at 20,000 operations — this is the mechanical life under no-load conditions, not the electrical endurance under fault. Maximum power loss is 75 W, which should be factored into enclosure thermal calculations if the breaker is in a sealed cabinet with other heat sources.