Siemens 5SV3612-6 5SV3 Series Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB) 2P 25A 300mA

The Siemens 5SV3612-6, a 2-pole, 25A, 300mA Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB) from the robust 5SV3 series, stands as a pinnacle of reliable circuit protection for diverse electrical installations. Engineered for demanding industrial and commercial environments, this MCB offers superior tripping characteristics and robust construction, ensuring enhanced safety and operational continuity. Its compact design facilitates easy integration into standard distribution boards, while its high breaking capacity provides critical defense against overcurrents and short circuits. The 300mA sensitivity is particularly vital for applications requiring enhanced protection against earth faults, safeguarding personnel and equipment from dangerous leakage currents.

Siemens 5SV3612-6: Product Specifications

| Parameter                  | Specification                               |

| :------------------------- | :------------------------------------------ |

| Product Type               | Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB)             |

| Series                     | 5SV3                                        |

| Number of Poles            | 2                                           |

| Rated Current (In)         | 25A                                         |

| Rated Residual Current (IΔn) | 300mA                                       |

| Tripping Characteristic    | Type B                                      |

| Breaking Capacity (Icn)    | 6 kA                                        |

| Voltage Rating (Ue)        | 230/400V AC                                 |

| Frequency                  | 50/60 Hz                                    |

| Terminal Type              | Screw Terminal                              |

| Mounting Type              | DIN Rail                                    |

| IP Protection Rating       | IP20                                        |

| Ambient Temperature Range  | -25°C to +45°C                              |

| Certifications             | IEC, CE                                     |

Core Features & Market Positioning

The Siemens 5SV3612-6 MCB distinguishes itself through its unwavering reliability and adherence to stringent international standards, positioning it as a preferred choice for critical infrastructure protection. Its Type B tripping curve ensures swift disconnection for low inrush currents, making it suitable for lighting circuits and sensitive electronic loads where rapid fault detection is paramount. The robust construction, a hallmark of Siemens' electrical engineering prowess, guarantees longevity and consistent performance even in harsh operational conditions, setting it apart from lower-tier alternatives. The 6 kA breaking capacity offers substantial protection against high fault currents, a crucial factor in industrial settings where equipment damage can lead to significant downtime and financial losses.

Key Application Scenarios

This Siemens 5SV3612-6 MCB is ideally suited for protecting electrical circuits in residential, commercial, and light industrial settings, particularly where enhanced earth leakage protection is mandated. Its 2P configuration is standard for single-phase circuits, and the 25A rating makes it a versatile choice for distribution boards supplying power to lighting, socket outlets, and smaller appliance circuits. The 300mA residual current sensitivity is critical for preventing electric shock in areas with increased risk, such as damp environments or locations accessible to the general public. It is frequently deployed in building management systems, retail environments, and office complexes to ensure compliance with safety regulations and prevent nuisance tripping from minor earth faults.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Integrating the Siemens 5SV3612-6 MCB into existing electrical systems is straightforward due to its standard DIN rail mounting and user-friendly screw terminals. Ensure the main power supply is isolated before commencing any installation work. Connect the live and neutral conductors to the corresponding incoming terminals, and the outgoing conductors to the load terminals, adhering strictly to local electrical codes and best practices. Proper torque should be applied to the screw terminals to ensure a secure connection and prevent overheating. For applications requiring coordinated protection, consider pairing this MCB with upstream protective devices that possess a higher breaking capacity, ensuring selectivity and preventing cascading trip events.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

The primary function of the Siemens 5SV3612-6 MCB is to automatically interrupt electrical circuits when an overcurrent (overload or short circuit) or a significant earth leakage current is detected, thereby preventing equipment damage, fires, and electric shock. In the event of a fault, the breaker will trip, indicated by the toggle moving to the "OFF" position. To reset, the toggle must first be moved to the "ON" position and then firmly to the "OFF" position before returning it to "ON" to re-establish power. Should the breaker trip repeatedly, it indicates an underlying issue such as a persistent overload, a short circuit, or a recurring earth fault that requires professional diagnosis and rectification. Never attempt to force a tripped breaker back into the "ON" position without addressing the root cause.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

The Siemens 5SV3612-6 MCB is designed for robust performance and long-term reliability, forming a dependable component within any electrical distribution system. While MCBs themselves are primarily for protection and not inherently scalable in the traditional sense, their compatibility with the broader Siemens ecosystem of switchgear and distribution boards ensures seamless integration and future expandability of the overall electrical infrastructure. For systems requiring advanced monitoring or remote control capabilities, this MCB can be part of a larger intelligent power distribution solution when combined with compatible metering and communication modules, aligning with trends towards smart buildings and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the 300mA sensitivity on the Siemens 5SV3612-6?

The 300mA residual current sensitivity is designed to detect dangerous earth leakage currents. This level of sensitivity is crucial for enhanced safety, protecting people from electric shock. It helps prevent fires caused by insulation faults in electrical equipment.

This sensitivity provides an additional layer of protection beyond standard overcurrent devices. It is often a regulatory requirement for certain types of installations. The 5SV3612-6 acts as a primary safety device in these scenarios.

By quickly interrupting the circuit when a fault occurs, it minimizes the risk of severe injury or property damage. This feature is vital in environments like residential buildings or commercial spaces.

How do I install the Siemens 5SV3612-6 MCB?

Before installation, always de-energize the circuit completely. Mount the MCB securely onto a standard 35mm DIN rail. Connect the line (live) conductor to the top terminal and the neutral conductor to the other top terminal for a 2-pole breaker.

Connect the outgoing load conductors to the respective bottom terminals. Ensure all connections are tight and comply with local electrical wiring regulations. Use appropriate torque settings for screw terminals to guarantee a safe and reliable connection.

After installation and wiring checks, restore power. Test the MCB by manually switching it ON and OFF. In case of any fault, the MCB will trip, indicating its protective function is operational.

What are the main applications for a 2-pole, 25A, 300mA MCB like the Siemens 5SV3612-6?

This MCB is commonly used for protecting single-phase circuits in residential and commercial buildings. It's ideal for circuits supplying socket outlets and lighting installations. The 25A rating suits moderate power loads.

The 300mA residual current protection makes it suitable for circuits requiring enhanced safety against earth faults. This includes areas with higher risk of electric shock, like bathrooms or kitchens. It also helps in preventing fires from insulation failures.

Its robust design and 6kA breaking capacity also allow for use in light industrial applications where overcurrent protection is needed. It ensures reliable operation and fault disconnection.

What does the "Type B" tripping characteristic mean for the Siemens 5SV3612-6?

Type B tripping characteristics mean the MCB will trip between 3 to 5 times its rated current. This is suitable for circuits with low inrush currents, like lighting or resistive loads. It prevents nuisance tripping from brief, harmless current surges.

For higher inrush currents, such as those from motors or transformers, a Type C or Type D MCB would be more appropriate. The Type B curve ensures quick disconnection for low-level faults. It offers a good balance of sensitivity and immunity to transient currents.

Using the correct tripping characteristic is vital for effective circuit protection. It ensures the MCB trips when needed but not unnecessarily. The 5SV3612-6's Type B is selected for specific protection scenarios.

Can the Siemens 5SV3612-6 be used in high-temperature environments?

The Siemens 5SV3612-6 MCB has an operating ambient temperature range of -25°C to +45°C. Operating outside this range can affect its performance and lifespan. High temperatures can lead to nuisance tripping or reduced breaking capacity.

If installed in an enclosure that might exceed 45°C, consider ventilation or using a breaker rated for higher temperatures. Ensure adequate air circulation around the MCB for optimal heat dissipation. Overheating can degrade insulation and components over time.

Adhering to the specified temperature range is crucial for maintaining the reliability and safety of the electrical installation. Always consult the manufacturer's datasheet for detailed environmental specifications.

What is the breaking capacity (Icn) of the Siemens 5SV3612-6 MCB?

The Siemens 5SV3612-6 MCB features a breaking capacity of 6 kA (kiloamperes). This indicates the maximum fault current it can safely interrupt without sustaining damage. It is designed to protect circuits from severe short-circuit events.

A higher breaking capacity is essential in installations where the potential for high fault currents exists. This includes industrial facilities or areas close to power sources. The 6 kA rating is suitable for most standard residential and commercial applications.

Ensuring the MCB's breaking capacity exceeds the maximum prospective fault current at its installation point is a critical safety requirement. This prevents catastrophic failure of the protective device during a major fault.

How does the Siemens 5SV3612-6 protect against earth faults?

The MCB detects imbalances between the live and neutral conductors, indicating current flowing to earth. When this leakage current exceeds 300mA, the MCB trips. This function is also known as residual current protection.

This protective feature is vital for preventing electric shock hazards. If a person touches a live wire and earth, a leakage current flows through them, and the MCB will quickly disconnect power. It also helps prevent fires caused by faulty wiring or appliances.

The 5SV3612-6 combines overcurrent protection with earth leakage protection in a single device. This dual functionality enhances overall electrical safety in various installations.

Is the Siemens 5SV3612-6 compatible with other Siemens electrical components?

Yes, the Siemens 5SV3612-6 MCB is designed to be fully compatible with Siemens' extensive range of low-voltage switchgear and distribution boards. This ensures seamless integration into Siemens-based electrical systems. It fits standard DIN rail mounting systems.

This compatibility allows for easy expansion and modification of electrical installations. It also ensures consistent performance and adherence to Siemens' quality standards across the entire system. Building around a compatible ecosystem simplifies maintenance and future upgrades.

When designing or upgrading an electrical system, using components from the same manufacturer often leads to better performance and easier installation. The 5SV3 series is part of a well-established product family.

What troubleshooting steps should I take if the Siemens 5SV3612-6 trips frequently?

First, identify the cause of the trip. If it trips immediately upon resetting, there is likely a short circuit. If it trips after some time, it could be an overload condition or a persistent earth leakage fault.

Visually inspect the circuit and connected appliances for any signs of damage, loose wiring, or overheating. Test individual appliances or sections of the circuit by switching them on one by one after resetting the MCB.

If the problem persists, it is recommended to consult a qualified electrician. They can perform detailed testing to diagnose the fault accurately and safely correct the issue. Do not attempt to bypass or defeat the MCB's protective function.

What are the safety certifications for the Siemens 5SV3612-6?

The Siemens 5SV3612-6 MCB adheres to international safety standards, indicated by its IEC and CE certifications. These certifications confirm that the product has been tested and meets rigorous requirements for electrical safety and performance. The IEC standard signifies compliance with international electrotechnical standards.

The CE marking indicates that the product conforms to health, safety, and environmental protection standards for products sold within the European Economic Area (EEA). These markings provide assurance to users about the product's reliability and safety for its intended applications.

Always verify that any electrical protective device bears appropriate safety markings relevant to your region's regulations. These certifications are crucial for ensuring the safe and compliant operation of electrical installations.