The Siemens SENTRON 3VA2225-5JP32-0HC0 is a 3-pole molded case circuit breaker rated for 250 A continuous at 40 °C, with a breaking capacity of 187 kA at 240 V and 121 kA at 415 V. That 187 kA figure at 240 V means it handles high-fault utility feeds or transformer secondaries without cascading upstream — the interrupting rating is the one number that decides whether the breaker survives a bolted fault or vents. It's designed for line protection, not motor or generator duty, so the trip curve is shaped for feeder and distribution circuits. Carries a shunt trip (STL) auxiliary release and two HQ auxiliary switches, plus an onboard communication function.
Footprint and derating
Measures 105 mm wide, 181 mm tall, and 86 mm deep. Thermal derating is published from 40 °C through 70 °C: it holds 250 A up to 50 °C, then drops to 238 A at 55 °C, 225 A at 60 °C, 213 A at 65 °C, and 200 A at 70 °C. If your panel ambient runs above 50 °C — say, a sealed cabinet next to a furnace line — you need to size up one frame or accept the 200 A ceiling at 70 °C. The 48 W maximum power loss at rated current is manageable for natural convection in a ventilated enclosure, but a crowded panel with multiple breakers side-by-side will need airflow or a larger cabinet to stay under the 70 °C operating max.