Siemens SENTRON 5SN6216-7CN — 2-pole C-curve MCB, 16 A, 6 kA
The Siemens SENTRON 5SN6216-7CN is a 2-pole miniature circuit breaker with C tripping characteristic, rated at 16 A and 400 V AC, with a 6 kA breaking capacity according to EN 60898. It occupies 2 modular width units (36 mm) on a DIN rail, making it a standard fit for residential and commercial distribution boards where overcurrent and short-circuit protection of lighting, socket outlets, and small appliance circuits is required.
What the ratings mean for fit
The C-curve (tripping between 5 and 10 times rated current) is the most common characteristic for general-purpose final circuits with moderate inrush — think lighting banks, socket outlets, and small motorized loads like pumps or fans. The 6 kA breaking capacity at 400 V AC per EN 60898 is sufficient for most residential and light commercial installations where the prospective short-circuit current at the panel does not exceed that level. The 2-pole design switches both phase and neutral, though the neutral is not switched separately (no neutral conductor switching). The 16 A rating matches standard 2.5 mm² copper circuit protection in many regional wiring codes. The 36 mm width (2 MW units) means it occupies two standard 18 mm module positions on a DIN rail — a common footprint for 2-pole MCBs in this class.
Panel integration notes
Mounts on standard 35 mm DIN rail per EN 60715, in any position. Depth is 76 mm (70 mm installation depth behind the panel surface). The IP20 rating applies with conductors connected — standard for enclosed distribution boards. The housing is halogen-free and silicon-free, which matters for installations in environments sensitive to corrosive off-gassing (e.g., data centers, medical facilities). Supplementary devices (auxiliary switches, shunt trips, alarm contacts) can be installed on the right side via the product extension feature. Terminals accept solid conductors up to 25 mm², sufficient for the 16 A rating with ample headroom. The sealable design allows the installer to lock the toggle position after commissioning, preventing unauthorized switching.