MCCB for high-fault panels
The Siemens 3VA2163-7MS32-0HA0 is a 3-pole SENTRON molded case circuit breaker rated for 63 A continuous current. Its headline breaking capacity hits 330 kA at 240 V, which means it can safely interrupt a fault of that magnitude without upstream devices needing to clear it — a key spec for high-available-fault-current panels like those near a large transformer or in a utility tie. The ETU310M electronic trip unit provides adjustable overload and short-circuit protection curves, and the shunt trip (STL) allows remote tripping from a PLC safety output or emergency-stop circuit.
Breaking capacity across voltages
This MCCB delivers 242 kA at both 415 V and 440 V, 187 kA at 500 V, and 52.5 kA at 690 V. That voltage-dependent curve is typical of current-limiting MCCBs — the arc energy scales with voltage, so the interrupting rating drops. For a 480 V panel (common in North America), the 187 kA figure still covers most utility transformer secondary faults. At 690 V, the 52.5 kA rating suits industrial loads like large motors or VFD input feeders where fault current is lower.
Thermal derating and ambient limits
The breaker holds full 63 A from 40 °C through 50 °C. Above that, it derates: 60.48 A at 55 °C, 59.22 A at 60 °C, 57.96 A at 65 °C, and 56.7 A at 70 °C. If the panel ambient runs hot — say near a furnace or in a poorly ventilated enclosure — you need to account for that drop. The maximum operating temperature is 70 °C, with storage from -40 °C to 80 °C. Power loss at full load is 75 W, which matters for enclosure heat calculations.
Starter protection version
This is the starter protection variant, meaning it's designed to coordinate with a contactor for motor starting duty. It includes a voltage trigger and the ETU310M release, but lacks an undervoltage release, auxiliary contacts, phase failure detection, ground fault monitoring, or communication functions. The mechanical endurance is 20,000 cycles — adequate for motor starting applications where the breaker sees infrequent switching (the contactor handles daily starts).
Dimensions and panel fit
The breaker measures 105 mm wide, 181 mm high, and 86 mm deep. That 105 mm width is standard for a 3-pole SENTRON 3VA frame — it fits the same mounting footprint as other 3VA2 breakers. The depth of 86 mm includes the case body; allow extra for wiring and the shunt trip coil protrusion. Mounting is via screw-clamp to a backplate or DIN rail adapter (not included).