What it is and what it does
The Siemens SENTRON 3VA2225-5JQ32-0HC0 is a 3-pole molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) rated for line protection, with a full-scale current of 250 A and a minimum setting of 375 A. It carries a maximum interrupting capacity of 187 kA at 240 V, dropping to 121 kA at 415 V and 440 V, 75.6 kA at 500 V, and 4.5 kA at 690 V — the 690 V figure tells you this is a 240 V–480 V class breaker, not a 690 V main. The thermal-magnetic trip is adjustable from 50 A initial value up to 250 A full-scale, so it covers a wide range of downstream feeder or branch circuits. Current rating is temperature-sensitive: it holds 250 A from 40 °C through 50 °C, then derates 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, size the breaker for the derated value — not the 250 A nameplate. Operating range is -25 °C to 70 °C; storage range is -40 °C to 80 °C. This MCCB includes a communication function (Ethernet or fieldbus via the SENTRON communication module) and a shunt trip (STL) for remote tripping. It also carries two HQ auxiliary switches for status feedback. The basic switch assembly is order code 3VA2225-5JQ32-0AA0. Maximum power loss is 48 W — plan for heat dissipation in a sealed enclosure.
Physical fit and panel integration
Dimensions: 105 mm wide, 181 mm tall, 86 mm deep. It mounts on a DIN rail or directly to a backplate via the molded case's integral mounting points. The 3-pole footprint is standard for a 250 A frame MCCB — verify the busbar or cable lug spacing matches your panel layout. The 86 mm depth leaves clearance for rear-connected accessories like the shunt trip or communication module.
Selectivity and coordination notes
For selectivity studies: the 187 kA at 240 V and 121 kA at 415 V give substantial headroom for high-fault-current service entrances. The adjustable trip (375 A minimum to 2500 A maximum) allows fine coordination with downstream breakers. The undervoltage release is not fitted on this variant — if you need UVR, specify a different order code or add an external release module.