Siemens 5SV3642-8 Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB) 4P 25A 300mA

The Siemens 5SV3642-8 Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB) is a robust four-pole device designed for reliable circuit protection in demanding industrial and commercial environments. It offers superior protection with a 25A rated current and a sensitive 300mA residual current tripping, effectively safeguarding personnel and equipment from electrical faults. Its advanced tripping mechanism ensures swift disconnection, minimizing damage and downtime. The 5SV series is engineered for high performance and longevity, making it a cornerstone for secure electrical installations.

Product Specifications

| Feature              | Specification                                      |

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

| Product Type         | Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB)                    |

| Poles                | 4P (Four-Pole)                                     |

| Rated Current (In)   | 25A                                                |

| Residual Current     | 300mA                                              |

| Breaking Capacity    | 6kA                                                |

| Tripping Characteristic| Type C                                             |

| Voltage Rating       | 400V AC                                            |

| Frequency            | 50/60 Hz                                           |

| Terminal Type        | Screw Terminal                                     |

| Mounting Type        | DIN Rail                                           |

| Protection Class     | IP20                                               |

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

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

Core Features & Market Positioning

The Siemens 5SV3642-8 stands out in the market due to its robust construction and Siemens' reputation for quality and reliability. Its four-pole design ensures complete isolation for all phases and the neutral conductor, a critical safety feature in many industrial applications. The 300mA residual current sensitivity provides enhanced protection against earth faults, reducing the risk of electric shock and fire. Positioned as a premium solution, this MCB offers a high breaking capacity of 6kA, capable of interrupting fault currents safely, thereby protecting downstream equipment from severe damage. The Type C tripping characteristic is ideal for circuits with moderate inrush currents, such as those found in motor control applications, offering a balance between overcurrent protection and nuisance tripping. This combination of features positions the 5SV3642-8 as a dependable choice for professionals prioritizing safety and operational continuity.

Key Application Scenarios

This 4-pole, 25A MCB with a 300mA residual current device (RCD) functionality is ideally suited for protecting circuits in environments where enhanced safety is paramount. Common applications include industrial facilities, commercial buildings, and workshops, particularly for circuits supplying machinery, pumps, and HVAC systems. It serves as an essential component in main distribution boards and sub-distribution panels, providing comprehensive protection against overloads, short circuits, and dangerous earth leakage currents. The 300mA tripping threshold makes it suitable for applications requiring protection against fire hazards originating from earth faults, such as in areas with combustible materials. For installations requiring the isolation of all live conductors, including neutral, the four-pole configuration ensures complete safety during maintenance or in fault conditions.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Integrating the Siemens 5SV3642-8 MCB into an electrical system is straightforward, leveraging standard DIN rail mounting. Ensure the main power supply is de-energized before installation. Connect the incoming live conductors (L1, L2, L3, and N for a four-pole setup) to the designated upper terminals, and the outgoing protected circuit conductors to the lower terminals, observing correct phase rotation if applicable. The breaker's terminal capacity accommodates standard wiring sizes for a 25A rating, typically up to 10mm² stranded or solid conductors, utilizing appropriate cable lugs or ferrules for secure connections. Tighten terminals to the manufacturer-specified torque to prevent overheating and ensure reliable contact. The MCB is designed to work within a system voltage of up to 400V AC at 50/60 Hz.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

The Siemens 5SV3642-8 MCB operates automatically, tripping and interrupting the circuit when it detects overcurrents (overloads or short circuits) or residual currents exceeding the 300mA threshold. The mechanical trip lever will move to the "OFF" position, visually indicating a fault condition. To reset the breaker after a fault has been cleared, simply move the lever fully to the "OFF" position and then firmly upwards to the "ON" position. It is crucial to identify and rectify the cause of the trip before resetting. Common troubleshooting involves checking for overloaded circuits, short circuits between conductors, or insulation breakdown to earth. Never force the breaker back on if it trips repeatedly; this indicates an unresolved fault that requires professional diagnosis. Ensure regular visual inspections for any signs of damage or overheating.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

The Siemens 5SV3642-8 MCB is part of Siemens' extensive SENTRON protection device portfolio, ensuring excellent compatibility with other Siemens components and systems. This allows for seamless integration into larger electrical installations and facilitates future expansions or upgrades. Its robust design and adherence to international standards contribute to a long operational lifespan, minimizing the need for premature replacements and reducing total cost of ownership. For facilities moving towards digitalization, while this specific MCB model might not have built-in communication, it can be integrated into smart electrical panels equipped with communication modules and sensors, enabling remote monitoring and data logging of circuit status and energy consumption. This backward compatibility and potential for future integration enhance its long-term value and adaptability to evolving industry needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the breaking capacity of the Siemens 5SV3642-8 MCB?

A1: This MCB possesses a robust breaking capacity of 6kA. It effectively interrupts fault currents up to this level. This ensures safety during severe electrical events.

A2: A 6kA breaking capacity is suitable for most residential and commercial installations. It provides ample protection against short circuits. This prevents widespread damage.

A3: Ensuring the local fault current level does not exceed 6kA is essential. This guarantees the MCB will operate as intended. Consult an electrician for verification.

Q2: Can the Siemens 5SV3642-8 be used for single-phase applications?

A1: While it is a 4-pole breaker, it can be adapted for single-phase systems. You would typically use two poles for the live and neutral conductors. The other two poles would remain unused or be safely insulated.

A2: Using a 4-pole breaker for single-phase offers enhanced safety by providing complete isolation. It also allows for future conversion to a 3-phase system if needed. Check wiring diagrams carefully.

A3: Ensure that the unused poles are properly terminated and insulated according to electrical codes. This prevents accidental contact and ensures safety. Consult the manual for specifics.

Q3: What type of protection does the 300mA residual current offer?

A1: The 300mA residual current setting provides protection against earth faults. It trips when an imbalance of current is detected. This helps prevent electrical fires.

A2: This sensitivity level is often chosen for fire protection applications. It is more sensitive than typical personal protection RCDs (like 30mA). It guards against significant leakage.

A3: It safeguards equipment and installations from damages caused by persistent earth leakage. This is crucial in environments with higher risk factors. Always follow local regulations.

Q4: What are the dimensions and mounting requirements for this MCB?

A1: This MCB is designed for standard DIN rail mounting (35mm). It occupies a specific number of modular units on the panel. Check dimensions for panel space planning.

A2: The compact design facilitates installation in distribution boards and enclosures. Ensure adequate clearance for ventilation and operation. Refer to the datasheet for exact measurements.

A3: Proper mounting ensures mechanical stability and electrical connection integrity. Securely clip it onto the rail. Verify it is firmly seated before connecting wires.

Q5: What does the "Type C" tripping characteristic mean?

A1: Type C indicates the MCB trips when the current is between 5 and 10 times the rated current (25A). This is suitable for loads with moderate inrush currents.

A2: This characteristic prevents nuisance tripping for inductive loads like motors or transformers. It allows for a temporary surge without interrupting power. It balances protection and usability.

A3: Type C is a common choice for industrial applications. It offers better protection than Type B for such loads. Type D is for very high inrush currents.

Q6: Is this Siemens MCB suitable for DC circuits?

A1: The Siemens 5SV3642-8 is primarily designed and rated for AC circuits (400V AC). Its performance and safety characteristics are not guaranteed for DC applications.

A2: Using AC-rated breakers on DC circuits can be dangerous. DC arcs are harder to extinguish than AC arcs. This can lead to breaker failure or fire.

A3: For DC circuits, specific DC-rated circuit breakers must be used. These are engineered with different arc-quenching mechanisms. Always select breakers for the correct current type.

Q7: How do I reset the Siemens 5SV3642-8 after it trips?

A1: To reset, first ensure the fault that caused the trip has been identified and rectified. Then, push the lever fully to the "OFF" position. Finally, move the lever firmly upwards to the "ON" position.

A2: If the breaker trips again immediately, do not force it. This indicates the fault is still present. Further investigation by a qualified electrician is required.

A3: Regular testing of RCDs is recommended to ensure their proper functioning. While this MCB has residual current protection, separate RCD testing may be required by code.

Q8: What is the operating temperature range for this MCB?

A1: The Siemens 5SV3642-8 is designed to operate reliably within an ambient temperature range of -25°C to +45°C. This covers a wide spectrum of industrial environments.

A2: Operating outside this range can affect the breaker's performance and lifespan. Extreme cold can make components brittle. Excessive heat can lead to premature aging.

A3: Ensure adequate ventilation around the breaker in its enclosure. This helps maintain the operating temperature within the specified limits. Avoid direct sunlight exposure if possible.

Q9: What standards does the Siemens 5SV3642-8 comply with?

A1: This MCB complies with international standards IEC/EN 60898-1 and IEC/EN 61009-1. These are key standards for circuit breakers and residual current devices.

A2: Compliance ensures the product meets stringent safety and performance requirements. This guarantees a level of quality and reliability expected from Siemens. It is suitable for worldwide applications.

A3: These certifications indicate the breaker has undergone rigorous testing. This confirms its ability to protect against electrical hazards effectively. Always verify compliance for your region.

Q10: What is the warranty period for this Siemens product?

A1: Siemens typically offers a standard warranty on their industrial products. The exact duration can vary based on region and specific sales agreements.

A2: For precise warranty details, it is best to consult the point of purchase or Siemens' official documentation. This information is often available through their local sales representatives.

A3: While warranty provides peace of mind, the robust design of Siemens MCBs generally ensures long-term operational reliability. They are built for demanding industrial use.