What this MCCB is and where it fits
The Siemens 3VM1196-3ED12-0AA0 is a 1-pole SENTRON molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) designed for line protection in distribution panels. It carries a TM210 thermal-magnetic trip unit, rated 16 A continuously at ambient temperatures from 40 °C up to 55 °C, derating to 15 A at 60–70 °C. The 25.4 mm width (1 inch) lets it snap onto standard DIN rail alongside other SENTRON modular devices, saving panel space.
Interrupting capacity and what it means for your fault level
Rated interrupting capacity reaches 53 kA at 240 V AC and 8 kA at 415 V AC — the 240 V figure covers common North American panel feeds, while the 415 V rating suits European 400 V distribution. The maximum 320 A short-circuit current rating is the withstand capability of the breaker frame; the actual trip threshold is set by the 16 A TM210 unit. For DC applications the interrupting values are not listed here; refer to the 3VA MCCB manual for DC performance.
Thermal derating and panel integration
The breaker holds full 16 A rating from 40 °C to 55 °C without derating, then steps to 15 A at 60–70 °C. If your panel ambient runs above 55 °C, account for the 1 A drop. The IP40 front protection keeps dust and tools out of the terminal area but is not rated for washdown — keep it in a closed enclosure. Operating range spans -25 °C to 70 °C, storage from -40 °C to 80 °C.
Lifecycle and sourcing posture
Listed as current production — no phase-out or last-time-buy notice on record. The part is sourced and quoted to order against an RFQ through independent distribution; availability and current pricing are confirmed at quote time. No official second-source cross-reference exists within the SENTRON family for this exact 1-pole 16 A TM210 variant.