MCCB for motor branch circuits
The Siemens 3VA2163-7MS36-0DC0 is a 3-pole SENTRON molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) in the starter protection version, rated for 63 A continuous current at 40 °C. Its ETU310M electronic trip unit is configured for motor-starting duty, where high inrush currents must pass without nuisance tripping while still providing short-circuit protection. The interrupting capacity hits 330 kA at 240 V and 242 kA at 415 V — figures that cover most industrial service-entrance and sub-distribution fault levels without cascading upstream.
What the ratings mean for fit
The 63 A rating holds steady from 40 °C up to 50 °C, then derates to 60.48 A at 55 °C and 56.7 A at 70 °C — so in a warm enclosure you size the breaker for the actual ambient, not the nameplate. The 800 V rated insulation voltage (Ui) means this MCCB can be used on 480 V, 600 V, and even 690 V systems (where interrupting drops to 52.5 kA). The 20 000 mechanical endurance cycles reflect a robust mechanism for frequent switching in motor starter duty.
Panel integration notes
Dimensions are 181 mm high by 105 mm wide by 86 mm deep — this is a standard SENTRON 3VA2 frame size, so it fits the same panel cutouts and bus-bar spacing as other 3VA2 breakers. The auxiliary contact version ships with 2 HQ (high-availability) switches pre-installed, saving a slot in the accessory compartment. Maximum power loss is 75 W; factor that into enclosure thermal calculations.