What this MCCB is and what it does
The Siemens 3VA2325-5MQ32-0AC0 is a SENTRON 3VA2 molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) in the motor protection version, rated for 250 A continuous current across the full 40 °C to 70 °C ambient range — no derating needed as the panel warms up. Its 3-pole design with phase failure detection and onboard communication function makes it suitable for motor branch circuits where you need both overcurrent protection and the ability to signal status back to a PLC or SCADA system.
Breaking capacity — what the numbers mean for coordination
At 240 V this MCCB interrupts 187 kA, dropping to 121 kA at 415 V and 440 V, then 75.6 kA at 500 V, and 7.5 kA at 690 V. These are the short-circuit ratings that govern selectivity with upstream devices — the 187 kA figure at 240 V covers most North American 277/480 V panel applications where the fault current at the main is high, while the 121 kA at 415 V suits European 400 V industrial distributions.
Integration notes for the panel builder
Mounts on a standard DIN rail or direct panel-mount; the 138 mm width and 110 mm depth fit a typical 250 A frame slot in a motor control center bucket. The 2 auxiliary switches HQ come pre-installed, saving a wiring pass for status feedback. Rated insulation voltage is 800 V, with operating temperature range -25 °C to 70 °C and storage from -40 °C to 80 °C. Maximum power loss is 37.5 W — factor that into the enclosure thermal budget.