What this MCCB does and where it fits
The Siemens 3VM1196-3EE46-0AA2 is a SENTRON molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) rated for 16 A continuous current at 40 °C, with a 4-pole configuration and a TM220 thermal-magnetic release. It carries a switching capacity class N, meaning it's built for standard industrial distribution panels where fault currents can reach 76 kA at 240 V AC or 53 kA at 415 V AC — that's enough to handle most downstream feeder faults without cascading upstream. The frame is sized for up to 160 A, so this 16 A unit leaves headroom for future load growth if you swap the trip unit.
Breaking capacity across voltages
The interrupting ratings drop as voltage rises: 76 kA at 240 V, 53 kA at 415 V, 32 kA at 440 V, and 11.9 kA at 500 V AC. At 500 V DC the maximum rated operational voltage is 500 V. That 11.9 kA at 500 V AC is the number to check if you're feeding a 480 V panel — it's still adequate for most North American 480Y/277 V services, but verify your available fault current.
Thermal derating and ambient limits
The breaker holds its full 16 A rating from 40 °C up to 55 °C. At 60 °C it derates to 15 A, and it stays at 15 A through 70 °C. Operating ambient range is -25 °C to 70 °C; storage range is -40 °C to 80 °C. That derating curve is flat enough that you don't need to oversize for a warm panel — just watch the 60 °C threshold.
Panel integration notes
Front-connected box terminals accept copper or aluminum conductors. The IP40 front protection means it's suitable for enclosed panel mounting — not for washdown environments. No auxiliary contacts are fitted as standard (0 CO contacts), so if you need alarm or trip indication, plan for an external auxiliary switch module.