What it is and what it does
The Siemens 5SV1316-6LK13 is a SENTRON RCBO — a combined residual-current and overcurrent protective device — in a 1-pole+N configuration (switching the line, monitoring the neutral) that fits a single 18 mm modular-width slot on a DIN rail. Rated 13 A at 30 °C with a B tripping characteristic, it provides instantaneous overcurrent protection for resistive and light inductive loads where inrush is low — typical for lighting circuits, socket outlets, and general-purpose final subcircuits in residential or light commercial panels. The residual-current element is a short-time delayed G type (super resistant K design), meaning it tolerates brief leakage pulses from equipment like drives or switched-mode supplies without nuisance tripping, while still clearing sustained earth faults.
Breaking capacity and selectivity
Rated short-circuit capacity is 6 kA per EN 60898 and 15 kA per IEC 60947-2 — the higher figure applies when the device is used as a standalone circuit breaker under the industrial standard, giving headroom for fault currents in commercial or light industrial distribution boards. Energy limitation class 3 means the RCBO lets through relatively low let-through energy during a fault, which helps achieve selectivity with upstream devices and reduces stress on downstream wiring.
Thermal derating and installation constraints
The 13 A rating is at 30 °C ambient; the device must be derated in warmer enclosures — at 40 °C it carries 12.35 A, at 50 °C it carries 11.57 A, and at 70 °C it carries 10.01 A. This derating curve is built into the design and should be applied when grouping multiple RCBOs in a panel to avoid nuisance tripping from internal heat buildup. Mounting position is any, and the supply can enter from either top or bottom, which simplifies wiring in tight enclosures. The 77 mm depth and 70 mm installation depth fit standard consumer unit and distribution board form factors. IP20 protection applies when installed in a distribution board with conductors connected — the device itself is not sealed against dust ingress or moisture, so it must live inside a closed enclosure.
Environmental and compliance profile
Halogen-free and silicon-free construction, rated for ambient temperatures from -40 °C to +75 °C, with a pollution degree 2 and overvoltage category III rating — suitable for fixed installations downstream of the main distribution board. The lifecycle stage is current production, so this order code is the active manufacturing variant — no NRND or phase-out notice applies to this specific part number.