Siemens 5SV3616-8 Miniature Circuit Breaker 2P 63A 300mA

The Siemens 5SV3616-8 Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB) stands as a robust solution for reliable overcurrent and short-circuit protection in demanding industrial environments. This 2-pole, 63A, 300mA Residual Current Device (RCD) integrated MCB offers essential safety features, advanced tripping characteristics, and high breaking capacity, making it a critical component for safeguarding electrical installations. Its design prioritizes operational efficiency and long-term system integrity, ensuring consistent performance where electrical safety is paramount.

Product Specifications

| Feature                 | Specification                             |

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

| Product Type            | Miniature Circuit Breaker with RCD      |

| Manufacturer            | Siemens                                   |

| Model Number            | 5SV3616-8                                 |

| Poles                   | 2                                         |

| Rated Current (In)      | 63 A                                      |

| Rated Residual Current  | 300 mA                                    |

| Tripping Characteristic | Type A                                    |

| Breaking Capacity (Icn) | 6 kA                                      |

| Voltage Rating          | 400 V AC                                  |

| Frequency               | 50/60 Hz                                  |

| Protection Type         | Overcurrent, Short-circuit, Residual Current |

| Mounting Type           | DIN Rail                                  |

| Compliance Standards    | IEC/EN 61009-1, IEC/EN 60898-1            |

Core Features & Market Positioning

The Siemens 5SV3616-8 distinguishes itself through its Type A tripping characteristic, offering enhanced protection against various fault currents, including AC and pulsating DC components, which is crucial for modern machinery and electronics. Its high breaking capacity of 6 kA ensures that it can safely interrupt even severe short-circuit faults, preventing catastrophic damage to connected equipment and preventing electrical fires. As a product from Siemens' established SENTRON protection device line, it embodies reliability and precision engineering, positioning it as a preferred choice for applications demanding stringent safety standards and dependable performance.

Key Application Scenarios

This 2-pole, 63A MCB is ideally suited for protecting single-phase circuits in industrial settings, such as manufacturing plants, data centers, and commercial buildings. Its 300mA residual current sensitivity makes it effective for general circuit protection against indirect contact, particularly in areas with higher risk of electric shock. It is commonly deployed in distribution boards to safeguard circuits feeding machinery, control panels, and lighting systems, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and minimizing downtime.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Installation of the Siemens 5SV3616-8 is designed for ease and efficiency, leveraging standard DIN rail mounting. Proper wiring is critical; connect the line conductor to terminal 'L' and the neutral conductor to terminal 'N' on the MCB. Ensure that the neutral conductor is connected to the corresponding terminal on the RCD part. For systems requiring residual current protection, the 300mA sensitivity of this device provides a vital safety layer against earth leakage faults. Correctly grounding all metallic parts of the equipment connected to the circuit is a fundamental safety prerequisite for effective operation of the RCD function.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

The 5SV3616-8 operates by continuously monitoring both the current flowing into and out of a protected circuit. If an imbalance exceeding 300mA is detected, indicating a current leakage, the device rapidly trips, interrupting the power supply. This mechanism significantly mitigates the risk of electric shock to personnel and prevents potential fires caused by faulty wiring or equipment. Regular testing of the RCD function using the integrated test button is recommended to ensure its continued operational readiness.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

As part of the broader Siemens SENTRON range, the 5SV3616-8 offers excellent compatibility with other Siemens protection and switching devices, facilitating straightforward integration into existing or expanding electrical systems. This modularity allows for future system upgrades and the addition of more sophisticated protection and monitoring components without requiring a complete overhaul. Its robust construction and adherence to international standards ensure a long service life and consistent protection, contributing to the overall long-term value and reliability of the electrical infrastructure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of a Siemens 5SV3616-8 MCB?

The primary function is to protect electrical circuits from overcurrents and short circuits. It also provides residual current protection to safeguard against earth leakage faults. This dual protection is vital for electrical safety.

This device offers essential circuit protection against common electrical faults. It ensures reliable operation of connected equipment by preventing damage from overloads and sudden surges. Its integrated RCD function adds a critical layer of safety for personnel.

The MCB acts as an automatic safety switch, interrupting power flow when fault conditions are detected. This prevents hazards like electrical fires, equipment damage, and electric shock, ensuring a safe operating environment.

What does "2P 63A 300mA" signify for the Siemens 5SV3616-8?

"2P" indicates it has two poles, suitable for single-phase circuits. "63A" is the rated current, defining the maximum continuous current it can handle. "300mA" is the residual current sensitivity, meaning it trips when leakage current exceeds this level.

This combination means the breaker protects two conductors (live and neutral) simultaneously. It's designed for circuits drawing up to 63 amperes under normal conditions. The 300mA threshold is a common setting for general fault protection.

The 63A rating ensures it can manage the power demands of substantial loads. The 300mA residual current detection provides enhanced safety against indirect contact in many industrial and commercial applications.

How do I properly install the Siemens 5SV3616-8 MCB?

Mount the device securely onto a standard 35mm DIN rail in a suitable enclosure. Connect the line conductor to the top 'L' terminal and the neutral conductor to the top 'N' terminal. Ensure the downstream circuit's neutral is connected to the bottom 'N' terminal.

Always ensure the power supply is completely isolated before commencing installation work. Verify all connections are tight and correct according to the wiring diagram provided. Proper installation is crucial for safe and effective operation.

For effective RCD function, ensure that all metallic parts of the protected equipment are properly grounded. This allows fault current to flow to earth, enabling the RCD to detect the imbalance and trip.

What type of circuits is the Siemens 5SV3616-8 best suited for?

It is highly suitable for protecting single-phase circuits in industrial and commercial distribution systems. Its features are ideal for feeders to machinery, control panels, and lighting circuits.

The device provides robust protection against overcurrents and faults common in demanding environments. Its residual current detection is beneficial where enhanced personnel safety is a requirement.

Applications include manufacturing facilities, workshops, and commercial buildings where reliable power and safety are paramount. It helps meet stringent electrical safety standards.

What does the "Type A" tripping characteristic mean?

Type A RCDs can detect AC and pulsating DC residual currents. This offers broader protection compared to Type AC, which only detects AC residual currents. It is essential for modern installations with electronic devices.

This characteristic is important as many electronic devices can generate pulsating DC fault currents. A Type A device ensures these are reliably detected and interrupted, preventing potential hazards.

The 5SV3616-8 with Type A is suitable for circuits feeding appliances with rectifiers or electronic power supplies, providing enhanced safety assurance. It offers more comprehensive fault current detection.

What is the breaking capacity (Icn) of this MCB?

The Siemens 5SV3616-8 has a breaking capacity of 6 kA. This indicates its ability to safely interrupt fault currents up to 6000 amperes without damage to itself or the surrounding system.

A higher breaking capacity is crucial for installations where significant short-circuit currents are possible. It ensures the MCB can effectively contain and extinguish fault arcs.

The 6 kA rating is standard for many industrial and commercial applications, providing adequate protection against severe fault conditions and ensuring system integrity.

Can this MCB be used for DC circuits?

No, this MCB is designed exclusively for AC circuits. It is not suitable for use in DC electrical systems as its tripping mechanisms are calibrated for alternating current.

Using an AC-rated MCB on a DC circuit can lead to dangerous malfunctions and failure to trip. Always use devices specifically designed for the type of current in your system.

For DC applications, specific DC circuit breakers with appropriate ratings and designs must be selected to ensure safety and reliable protection.

How often should I test the residual current function?

It is recommended to test the residual current function at regular intervals, typically monthly. Use the built-in test button on the device for this purpose.

Regular testing ensures that the RCD mechanism is functioning correctly and will trip when a leakage current fault occurs. This is a critical safety check.

If the RCD does not trip during a test, it indicates a fault and the device should be replaced immediately by a qualified electrician.

What standards does the Siemens 5SV3616-8 comply with?

This MCB complies with international standards IEC/EN 61009-1 and IEC/EN 60898-1. These standards ensure product quality, safety, and performance.

Compliance with these standards means the device has undergone rigorous testing for reliability and safety. It guarantees performance characteristics like breaking capacity and tripping behavior.

Adherence to IEC/EN standards ensures interoperability and widespread acceptance in electrical installations worldwide, providing confidence in its application.

Where can I find more detailed technical information?

Detailed technical specifications, datasheets, and installation manuals are available from Siemens directly or authorized distributors. These resources provide in-depth information on product features and application guidance.

Consulting the official product documentation is essential for any specific installation or integration queries. It contains all relevant technical parameters and safety instructions.

For advanced integration or troubleshooting, always refer to the manufacturer's comprehensive technical literature to ensure correct application and optimal performance.