Siemens 3VA2340-5HL32-0AA0 Molded Case Circuit Breaker

The Siemens 3VA2340-5HL32-0AA0 is a 3-pole molded case circuit breaker (MCCB) from the 3VA2 series. It is rated for 400 A continuous current and has a breaking capacity of 55 kA at 415 V AC and 55 kA at 690 V AC. The breaker features a thermal-magnetic trip unit: thermal overload protection (adjustable) and instantaneous magnetic short-circuit protection. It is designed for industrial power distribution, motor branch circuits, and as a main incoming breaker in switchboards. The 3VA series offers high switching performance, compact dimensions, and a wide range of accessories.

Technical Specifications

Number of poles: 3. Rated current (In): 400 A. Rated operational voltage (Ue): up to 690 V AC. Insulation voltage (Ui): 800 V. Impulse withstand voltage (Uimp): 8 kV. Breaking capacity (Icu): 55 kA at 415 V AC, 55 kA at 690 V AC. Trip unit: TM (thermal-magnetic). Thermal adjustment range: 0.7 to 1.0 × In (280-400 A). Magnetic trip fixed: 10 × In (4000 A). Mechanical life: 20,000 operations. Electrical life: 10,000 operations. Dimensions: 210 mm (H) × 140 mm (W) × 110 mm (D). Weight: 3.5 kg. Terminals: box lugs for cable up to 300 mm². Operating temperature: -25°C to +70°C. Storage: -40°C to +85°C. Protection: IP20 (finger-safe terminals). Approvals: IEC 60947-2, UL 489 (pending), CE, CCC.

Key Features

• 400 A rated current, 3-pole

• High breaking capacity: 55 kA at 415V/690V

• Thermal-magnetic trip unit with adjustable overload (0.7-1.0×In)

• Fixed magnetic trip at 10×In (4000A)

• Compact size for high current rating

• IP20 finger-safe terminals

• Rotary handle operation (handle not included, order separately)

• Compatible with auxiliary switches, shunt trips, undervoltage releases

Protection Functions

The thermal element provides inverse-time overload protection (class 10 or 20, depending on setting). The magnetic element provides instantaneous short-circuit protection. The adjustable thermal dial allows matching to the load current. For applications requiring more precise protection (e.g., electronic trip units), other 3VA models are available.

Applications

This breaker is used as main disconnect in industrial control panels, branch protection for large motors (up to 400A), feeder protection in power distribution systems, and as incoming protection for PLC power supplies (though 400A is very large; typically for main switchboards).

Installation

Mount the breaker on a DIN rail (35 mm) or on a backplate with screws. Connect line and load conductors to the terminals (torque as specified, typically 45 N·m). The breaker has a toggle switch for on/off; an optional rotary handle can be mounted on the door of the enclosure. The neutral is not switched (3-pole). For 3-phase 4-wire systems, a separate neutral bar is required.

Accessories

Available accessories include: auxiliary contact (1NO+1NC), alarm contact, shunt trip (24V DC or 230V AC), undervoltage release, and motor operator. All accessories are field-installable.

Maintenance

Test the breaker annually by switching it on and off under no load. Check terminal tightness. No internal user-serviceable parts. Replace the breaker if the toggle handle is damaged or if the unit fails to trip during a test.

Conclusion

The Siemens 3VA2340-5HL32-0AA0 MCCB offers reliable overcurrent protection for high-current industrial applications. Its 55kA breaking capacity and adjustable thermal overload make it suitable for main switchboards and feeder circuits.