Circuit Breaker 3VM1196-3ED26-0AA2 – Key Ratings and Fit
The Siemens 3VM1196-3ED26-0AA2 is a 2-pole IEC frame 160 circuit breaker from the 3VM1 series, rated for breaking capacity class N with an Icu of 25 kA at 415 V AC. This means it can safely interrupt fault currents up to 25,000 A without damage, which is the standard requirement for most industrial distribution panels and motor control centers in a 400 V class installation. The 16 A fixed thermal overload setting (Ir=16 A, not adjustable) and the fixed magnetic short-circuit release at 20 x In (320 A) make it a line-protection device suited for feeder circuits or as a main disconnecting means for a fixed-load group, not for motor overload protection where adjustable trip curves are needed.
Deployment Context – Panel Integration
Mounts on a standard DIN rail in an enclosure. The 2-pole form factor occupies two module widths (approximately 36 mm per pole). Terminal connection type accepts copper conductors per IEC 60947-1; verify lug size against the panel's busbar or cable entry plan. The 25 kA SCCR at 415 V means it can be used in a panel with a fault current rating up to that level without requiring a current-limiting upstream device, simplifying coordination studies.