The Siemens 5SY4601-7CV is a 3-pole-plus-neutral miniature circuit breaker rated for a 15 kA breaking capacity (Icu) at 400 V AC, with a C1 tripping characteristic. The 3P+N configuration means it switches all three phases and switches the neutral, but does not protect the neutral — the neutral pole is switched only, not monitored for overcurrent. This is a standard arrangement for TN and TT systems where the neutral is not distributed as a protected conductor.
What the ratings mean for fit
The 15 kA Icu at 400 V is the ultimate short-circuit breaking capacity — the maximum fault current the breaker can safely interrupt once without needing replacement. For most industrial distribution boards fed by a transformer in the 630 kVA to 1000 kVA range, the prospective short-circuit current at the main panel can exceed 10 kA; this breaker gives headroom above that typical level. The C1 curve (magnetic trip at 5 to 10 times In) is the standard for motor-starting and transformer inrush loads where a B curve would nuisance-trip on the inrush peak. With a 1 A rating (C1), this breaker is sized for control circuits, signal transformers, or small auxiliary loads — not for power distribution.
Panel integration note
The 5SY4601-7CV snaps onto standard 35 mm DIN rail per EN 60715. The 3P+N width is 4 module spaces (72 mm at 18 mm per pole). Busbar stabs on the line side accept the standard Siemens pin-and-fork busbar system for group feeding. The neutral terminal is marked and located on the right side of the assembly — verify the busbar orientation if using a pre-wired distribution block.