The Siemens 3VM1096-2ED32-0AA0 is a SENTRON 3-pole molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) rated for a maximum current of 320 A, designed for line protection in distribution panels. It carries a TM210 thermal-magnetic overcurrent release, meaning the thermal element is fixed at the breaker's frame rating and the magnetic pickup is adjustable — a common setup for feeder circuits where you need short-circuit coordination without nuisance tripping on motor inrush.
Interrupting ratings and thermal derating
This MCCB delivers 53 kA interrupting capacity at 240 V AC, 32 kA at 415 V, 14 kA at 440 V, and 8 kA at 500 V — the numbers drop as system voltage rises, which is typical for a thermal-magnetic breaker with no current-limiting arc chamber. For a 400 V panel, the 32 kA SCCR covers most industrial service-entrance and feeder applications; at 480 V you're down to 14 kA, so verify the available fault current at the point of installation. Thermal performance is flat from 40 °C to 55 °C at 16 A per pole, then derates to 15 A at 60 °C, 14 A at 65 °C, and holds 14 A at 70 °C. That means in a warm enclosure — say a non-ventilated panel near a process line — you lose about 12 % of the continuous current rating at 70 °C ambient. The maximum power loss is 11 W per pole, so heat buildup in a multi-breaker lineup is manageable but not negligible.
Dimensions, mounting, and environment
The breaker measures 130 mm high, 76.2 mm wide, and 70 mm deep — a standard 3-pole MCCB footprint that fits most DIN-rail or panel-mount enclosures without re-drilling. The front face carries an IP40 rating, so it's protected against tools and wires >1 mm but not against dust ingress; keep it inside a closed panel. Operating range is -25 °C to 70 °C, storage from -40 °C to 80 °C.