What this 3VA2 is and what it does
The 3VA2340-5HL42-0AC0: The ETU320 overcurrent release handles the trip curve; no undervoltage release, no voltage trigger, no ground-fault monitoring on this variant. Two auxiliary switches (HQ type) are built in for status feedback to a PLC or panel lamp.
Breaking capacity — what the numbers mean for your fault level
Rated breaking capacity is 187 kA at 240 V, 121 kA at 415 V and 440 V, 75.6 kA at 500 V, and 17 kA at 690 V. These are the maximum fault currents the breaker can safely interrupt at each voltage level — critical for verifying the SCCR at the transformer secondary or generator bus. The 187 kA at 240 V is a high-interrupt rating, typical for large LV switchboards close to the utility transformer. At 690 V the 17 kA figure still covers most industrial motor-drive branches.
Thermal derating and panel fill
Full 400 A is available up to 50 °C ambient; above that it derates linearly to 340 A at 70 °C. If your enclosure runs hot — say a packed MCC lineup — check the 55 °C / 385 A and 65 °C / 355 A points against your load. Dimensions are 248 mm high, 184 mm wide, 110 mm deep — fits standard SENTRON 3VA2 mounting pattern. Front IP40 protects against tool entry; the body is open-frame behind the panel.
Sourcing and fit
This is a current-production Siemens SENTRON part, sourced from multiple distribution channels. Availability and pricing confirmed at RFQ time — send the order code for a quote. Rated insulation voltage Ui is 800 V, so it's suitable for 690 V systems with margin. No communication module, no phase-failure detection — this is a straightforward line-protection breaker, not a power-monitoring device.