The Siemens 5SV3346-4 Double Pole Miniature Circuit Breaker stands as a robust and reliable solution for essential electrical protection in demanding industrial and commercial environments. This 4-pole, 63A, 30mA RCD (Residual Current Device) breaker offers superior safety and operational efficiency, safeguarding personnel and equipment from overcurrents and dangerous earth leakage faults. Its advanced design ensures high breaking capacity and dependable tripping characteristics, making it a cornerstone for modern electrical installations.
Product Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| :------------------------ | :------------------------------------------- |
| Manufacturer | Siemens |
| Product Series | 5SV3 |
| Type | Miniature Circuit Breaker with RCD |
| Number of Poles | 4 |
| Rated Current (In) | 63 A |
| Rated Residual Operating Current (IΔn) | 30 mA |
| Rated Breaking Capacity (Icn) | 6 kA (at 230/400V) |
| Tripping Characteristic | Type AC |
| Voltage Rating | 400 V AC |
| Frequency | 50/60 Hz |
| Insulation Voltage | 500 V |
| Mounting Type | DIN rail (35mm) |
| Terminal Type | Screw terminals |
| IP Protection Rating | IP20 |
| Operating Temperature | -25 °C to +45 °C |
| Compliance | IEC/EN 61009-1, IEC/EN 60898-1 |
Core Features & Market Positioning
The Siemens 5SV3346-4 differentiates itself through its dual-pole design, offering comprehensive protection for both live and neutral conductors. This robust construction ensures enhanced safety by preventing the supply from being maintained in the event of a fault. Its high breaking capacity of 6kA provides a significant safety margin against short-circuit events, a critical consideration in industrial settings where fault currents can be substantial. As a Type AC RCD, it effectively detects sinusoidal alternating residual currents, a common requirement for general power circuits. This breaker is positioned as a dependable, high-performance protective device for applications demanding stringent safety standards and reliable operation, aligning with Siemens' reputation for quality and innovation in electrical engineering.
Key Application Scenarios
This 4-pole, 63A, 30mA miniature circuit breaker with RCD functionality is ideally suited for a wide array of applications. It is frequently employed in main distribution boards and sub-distribution boards within industrial facilities, commercial buildings, and workshops to protect circuits supplying machinery, lighting, and general power outlets. Its residual current detection capability makes it crucial for installations where the risk of electric shock is elevated, such as in areas with higher humidity or proximity to water. Typical use cases include protecting circuits in manufacturing plants, data centers, office complexes, and even demanding residential environments requiring advanced electrical safety.
Practical System Integration Guidance
Integrating the Siemens 5SV3346-4 into existing electrical systems is straightforward due to its standard DIN rail mounting and clearly marked terminal connections. Installation requires ensuring that the breaker is correctly sized for the load it will protect and that the incoming power supply is properly phased. For this double-pole breaker, it is imperative to connect both the line and neutral conductors to their designated terminals to ensure full protection. Wiring should be performed according to local electrical codes and standards, utilizing appropriately sized conductors and ensuring secure connections to prevent overheating. Prior to energizing, a thorough insulation resistance test and a functional test of the RCD are strongly recommended to verify correct installation and operation.
Operation and Risk Mitigation
The Siemens 5SV3346-4 operates by monitoring the current flowing through the live and neutral conductors. If an imbalance is detected, indicating current leakage to earth, the RCD trips, rapidly disconnecting both poles and interrupting the power supply. This rapid disconnection is critical in mitigating the risk of electric shock and preventing potential fires caused by persistent earth faults. In the event of a fault, the breaker's clearly visible trip mechanism indicates a fault condition. Common troubleshooting involves identifying the cause of the earth leakage by systematically disconnecting loads until the tripping ceases. It is essential to reset the breaker only after the fault has been rectified.
Scalability & Long-Term Value
The Siemens 5SV3346-4 offers significant long-term value through its robust construction and compatibility with the broader Siemens industrial electrical portfolio. Its inclusion in the established 5SV series ensures seamless integration with other Siemens circuit breakers, residual current devices, and associated accessories, allowing for straightforward expansion or modification of electrical panels. While this specific model is designed for direct fault protection, its reliability and adherence to international standards mean it forms a stable foundation for future system upgrades. For enhanced digital integration, it can be part of a larger system where its status is monitored via compatible power monitoring devices or intelligent building management systems, contributing to proactive maintenance and operational efficiency.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the primary function of the Siemens 5SV3346-4?
This breaker offers overcurrent and short-circuit protection. It also provides residual current detection to safeguard against earth faults.
It protects both line and neutral conductors for complete circuit safety. This dual protection is vital in preventing electrical hazards.
The device ensures personnel safety and prevents equipment damage from electrical anomalies. It is a key component in modern electrical installations.
Can the Siemens 5SV3346-4 be used in residential applications?
Yes, its 30mA residual current sensitivity is excellent for preventing electric shock. It meets high safety standards for homes.
It is ideal for circuits like those in bathrooms, kitchens, or outdoors where water is present. This adds a crucial layer of safety.
While suitable for residential use, its 63A rating and 4-pole configuration are also common in commercial settings. It offers versatile protection.
How do I test the RCD function of the Siemens 5SV3346-4?
Most RCDs, including this Siemens model, have a test button on the front. Pressing this button simulates a fault.
When the test button is pressed, the breaker should trip, disconnecting the circuit. If it doesn't, the device may be faulty.
Regular testing, as per local electrical regulations, is essential for ensuring the RCD remains operational and protective. A manual test is a simple but critical safety check.
What does 'Double Pole' mean for this circuit breaker?
'Double Pole' means the breaker disconnects both the live (line) and neutral conductors simultaneously. This is a key safety feature.
It ensures that when the breaker trips, the circuit is fully isolated from the power source. This prevents a dangerous neutral connection during faults.
This design is particularly important for specific electrical systems and applications where complete isolation is mandated for safety. It provides more comprehensive protection than single-pole breakers.
What is the breaking capacity (Icn) of the Siemens 5SV3346-4?
The Siemens 5SV3346-4 has a rated breaking capacity (Icn) of 6 kA. This indicates its ability to safely interrupt fault currents.
A 6 kA rating is generally sufficient for many residential and light commercial applications. It handles moderate short-circuit events.
This specification is crucial for ensuring the breaker can safely withstand and interrupt the maximum fault current likely to occur at its installation point without damage. It's a measure of its robustness.
What does '30mA' refer to in the product name?
The '30mA' signifies the residual current sensitivity of the device. This is the leakage current level that triggers the RCD.
A 30mA tripping current is considered a standard for personal protection against electric shock. It's sensitive enough to prevent serious injury.
This low tripping current ensures rapid disconnection if a person becomes part of an electrical circuit, greatly reducing the risk of electrocution. It's a critical safety threshold.
Is the Siemens 5SV3346-4 compatible with other brands' components?
While it mounts on a standard DIN rail, interoperation with other brands' breakers or control gear is not guaranteed. Compatibility is best with Siemens accessories.
Siemens designs its components to work optimally within its own electrical ecosystems for guaranteed performance and safety. It's recommended to use matching products.
For full system reliability and to meet warranty requirements, it's advisable to use Siemens-branded components for associated switchgear and accessories. This ensures consistent protection.
What type of RCD is the Siemens 5SV3346-4 (e.g., Type AC, A, B)?
The Siemens 5SV3346-4 is a Type AC RCD. This means it is primarily designed to detect sinusoidal alternating residual currents.
Type AC RCDs are suitable for most general applications where the load does not generate smooth DC residual currents. It's a common and versatile type.
It's important to select the correct RCD type based on the type of equipment connected. For sensitive electronics or variable speed drives, Type A or B might be required.
What are the physical dimensions and weight of this breaker?
The breaker typically occupies four standard modular units (18mm each) on a DIN rail. Exact dimensions are usually around 70mm width, 80mm height, and 73mm depth.
Its weight is approximately 400-500 grams, making it a substantial but manageable component for panel installation. Specific weight can vary slightly.
These dimensions ensure it fits within standard electrical enclosures and distribution boards designed for modular DIN-rail components. Always verify exact dimensions for panel planning.
Where can I find the user manual or technical datasheet for the Siemens 5SV3346-4?
You can typically find the official user manual and technical datasheet on the Siemens Industry Online Support (SIOS) portal. This is Siemens' primary resource for technical documentation.
Searching the Siemens website for "5SV3346-4 datasheet" or "5SV3346-4 manual" will usually yield direct links to downloadable PDF documents. Ensure you are on the official Siemens domain.
These documents provide comprehensive details on installation, operation, specifications, and safety guidelines, which are essential for correct and safe use. Always refer to the latest version.