Siemens 5SV3446-8 Leakage protection switch 4P 63A 100mA

The Siemens 5SV3446-8 Leakage Protection Switch is a critical component for safeguarding electrical installations against residual currents, offering advanced protection for personnel and equipment. This 4-pole, 63A device with a 100mA sensitivity provides robust safety features essential for demanding industrial and commercial applications. Its primary advantage lies in its reliability and compliance with stringent safety standards, ensuring continuous operational integrity. Key technical parameters include its 4-pole configuration for comprehensive circuit coverage, a rated current of 63A suitable for medium to high-load circuits, and a residual current sensitivity of 100mA, which is ideal for detecting moderate leakage currents and preventing electrical hazards.

Product Specifications

| Feature             | Specification                  |

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

| Product Type        | Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCCB) |

| Poles               | 4                              |

| Rated Current (In)  | 63 A                           |

| Rated Residual Current (IΔn) | 100 mA                         |

| Rated Voltage (Un)  | 400 V AC                       |

| Frequency           | 50/60 Hz                       |

| Breaking Capacity (Icn) | 10 kA                          |

| Protection Type     | AC Type                        |

| Mounting Type       | DIN Rail                       |

| Operating Temperature | -25 °C to +45 °C               |

| Protection Class    | IP20                           |

Core Features & Market Positioning

The Siemens 5SV3446-8 stands out in the market due to its robust construction and Siemens' reputation for quality and reliability in electrical engineering. This residual current device (RCD) is engineered for high performance and durability, making it a preferred choice for applications where consistent protection is paramount. Its Type AC sensitivity is specifically designed to detect sinusoidal alternating residual currents, a common occurrence in many industrial settings. The 4-pole design ensures that all live conductors, including the neutral, are switched in the event of a fault, providing a higher level of safety compared to 2-pole devices. This comprehensive protection capability positions the 5SV3446-8 as a superior solution for critical infrastructure and demanding operational environments.

Key Application Scenarios

This 4-pole, 63A, 100mA leakage protection switch is extensively utilized across various industrial sectors. It is an essential component in power distribution panels for manufacturing plants, data centers, and commercial buildings, protecting sensitive machinery and ensuring personnel safety from electric shock. In control cabinets for automated systems, the Siemens 5SV3446-8 safeguards complex circuitry from ground faults. Furthermore, it finds application in areas with a higher risk of moisture or conductive dust, such as in food processing facilities or chemical plants, where enhanced residual current detection is crucial. Its adaptability makes it suitable for protecting large motor loads or distribution circuits requiring dependable fault current interruption.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Integrating the Siemens 5SV3446-8 into existing electrical systems is straightforward due to its standard DIN rail mounting and familiar terminal design. For a 4-pole application, ensure that all three phase conductors (L1, L2, L3) and the neutral conductor (N) are correctly connected to their respective terminals on the switch. The incoming power supply should be connected to the upper terminals, and the outgoing protected circuits to the lower terminals. Proper grounding of the entire installation is paramount for the effective operation of any residual current device. Before energizing, a thorough visual inspection of all connections and a functional test using a dedicated RCD tester are highly recommended to verify correct tripping characteristics and confirm system integrity.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

The primary function of the Siemens 5SV3446-8 is to detect imbalances in the current flowing into and out of a circuit. When a leakage current exceeding 100mA flows to ground, the device rapidly interrupts the circuit, minimizing the risk of electric shock, fire, and equipment damage. To mitigate risks, regular testing of the RCD is essential. This can be performed using the integrated test button (if available) or, more reliably, with an external RCD test instrument. Ensure the switch is installed in an accessible location for maintenance and testing. Avoid overloading the circuit beyond its 63A rating, as this can lead to premature wear or nuisance tripping, compromising overall protection. Always de-energize the circuit before performing any maintenance or wiring changes.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

The Siemens 5SV3446-8 leakage protection switch is designed for long-term operational value and integrates seamlessly within the broader Siemens industrial automation ecosystem. Its compatibility with standard busbar systems and terminal blocks ensures easy expansion or replacement within existing distribution boards. While this specific model is a fixed-sensitivity device, Siemens offers a range of RCDs and related protection devices that can be combined to create scalable safety solutions for growing infrastructure needs. For advanced monitoring and integration into Industrial IoT (IIIoT) platforms, consider pairing the 5SV3446-8 with intelligent energy management systems or smart meters that can log tripping events and provide remote diagnostics, enhancing predictive maintenance and operational efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of the Siemens 5SV3446-8?

The Siemens 5SV3446-8 is a residual current device. It protects electrical circuits from dangerous earth leakages. It also safeguards people from electric shock hazards.

It detects imbalances in current flow. If leakage exceeds 100mA, it trips instantly. This rapid response is crucial for safety.

This device is vital for preventing fires. It also protects sensitive electrical equipment from damage. Its main purpose is enhanced electrical safety.

How does the 4-pole configuration benefit an electrical system?

A 4-pole design protects all live conductors and neutral. This offers comprehensive safety in three-phase systems. It ensures balanced interruption during faults.

The neutral conductor is switched alongside the phases. This provides superior protection against certain fault conditions. It is essential for systems where neutral current flow is significant.

This configuration is ideal for industrial machinery. It ensures that the entire circuit is safely isolated. It prevents dangerous voltage buildup on the neutral line.

What types of electrical faults does the 5SV3446-8 detect?

This switch specifically detects residual currents. These occur when current leaks to earth. It is designed for AC type leakage currents.

It does not provide overcurrent or short-circuit protection. That function is handled by separate circuit breakers. The 5SV3446-8 focuses solely on earth leakage faults.

It is important to combine it with appropriate fuses or MCBs. This ensures complete protection against all electrical fault types.