What it is and what it does
The Siemens 3VA2225-5KP32-0HC0 is a SENTRON molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) rated for 250 A continuous current (Iu) with an ETU850 electronic trip unit. Three-pole construction, line protection version. This is the variant with a shunt trip (STL) auxiliary release and two built-in auxiliary switches (HQ). The interrupting ratings climb steeply at lower voltages: 187 kA at 240 V, 121 kA at 415 V and 440 V, 79 kA at 500 V, and 5.1 kA at 690 V — so it handles high-fault-current distribution panels at 240–480 V common in North American and European industrial plants. Rated insulation voltage is 800 V.
Thermal derating matters at panel design
The 250 A rating holds flat up to 50 °C. Above that, it derates: 238 A at 55 °C, 225 A at 60 °C, 213 A at 65 °C, 200 A at 70 °C. If this breaker sits in a crowded enclosure near other heat sources, you lose capacity — plan the thermal budget. Maximum power loss is 48 W. Ambient operating range is -25 °C to 70 °C; storage range is -40 °C to 80 °C.
Physical fit and integration
Dimensions are 105 mm wide, 181 mm high, 86 mm deep. Standard SENTRON 3VA panel footprint — mounts on a mounting plate or into a distribution board. The auxiliary contact block (2 HQ switches) and shunt trip are integrated; no external add-on required for remote tripping. Communication function is onboard (ETU850 supports Modbus or PROFIBUS via the 3VA communication module). No undervoltage release, no ground-fault monitoring on this variant.