The Siemens 5SN6440-8CN High Breaking Capacity Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB) is engineered for robust motor protection in demanding industrial environments. This 4-pole, 40A device offers exceptional breaking capacity, ensuring safety and reliability for heavy-duty applications. Its advanced tripping characteristics and thermal overload protection make it a superior choice for safeguarding motors against damaging current surges and faults. Key technical parameters include a rated voltage of 400/415V AC, a breaking capacity of 36kA, and Type C tripping curve for motor applications, providing swift and effective protection.
Product Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| :------------------- | :-------------------------------- |
| Product Type | Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB) |
| Siemens Model | 5SN6440-8CN |
| Poles | 4 |
| Rated Current (Amps) | 40A |
| Rated Voltage (AC) | 400/415V |
| Breaking Capacity | 36kA |
| Tripping Curve | Type C |
| Protection Type | High Breaking Capacity, Motor |
| Mounting Type | DIN Rail |
| Ambient Temperature | -25 to +45 °C |
| Ingress Protection | IP20 |
Core Features & Market Positioning
The Siemens 5SN6440-8CN stands out due to its high breaking capacity (36kA), significantly exceeding standard MCB ratings, which is critical for motor circuits prone to high fault currents. Its Type C tripping curve is specifically designed to accommodate the inrush currents associated with motor startups, preventing nuisance tripping while still offering robust protection against sustained overloads and short circuits. This positions the 5SN6440-8CN as a premium solution for applications demanding uncompromising safety and operational continuity, differentiating it from lower-capacity or less specialized circuit breakers. The integration of advanced thermal overload protection ensures precise and reliable safeguarding of motor windings, extending equipment lifespan and minimizing downtime.
Key Application Scenarios
This Siemens MCB is ideally suited for protecting a wide array of industrial electric motors, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing, processing plants, and heavy machinery operations. Common applications include safeguarding pumps, fans, compressors, conveyors, and machine tools where reliable motor operation is paramount. The 4-pole configuration makes it suitable for three-phase motor protection, providing comprehensive circuit isolation. Its high breaking capacity is essential in installations with high prospective fault currents, common in robust industrial power distribution systems.
Practical System Integration Guidance
Installation of the Siemens 5SN6440-8CN is streamlined via standard DIN rail mounting, allowing for quick and secure integration into industrial control panels and distribution boards. For system integration, ensure proper torque is applied to the terminal connections to prevent overheating and ensure reliable electrical contact. The 4-pole design requires connection to all three phases and the neutral conductor for complete motor circuit protection. Proper upstream overcurrent protection should be coordinated with the MCB's breaking capacity to ensure selective tripping under fault conditions. Wiring should comply with local electrical codes and standards.
Operation and Risk Mitigation
The Siemens 5SN6440-8CN offers reliable protection through its thermal overload and electromagnetic short-circuit release mechanisms. Users can mitigate risks by ensuring correct sizing of the MCB for the specific motor's full-load current and considering the motor's starting characteristics. Regular inspection of the circuit breaker and its connections for signs of wear, damage, or overheating is recommended. In the event of repeated tripping, a thorough investigation of the motor and the electrical circuit for faults or excessive loads is necessary before resetting the MCB. Always ensure the power is isolated before inspecting or resetting the device.
Scalability & Long-Term Value
As part of Siemens' extensive electrical product portfolio, the 5SN6440-8CN offers inherent compatibility with other Siemens components, facilitating seamless integration into larger automation and control systems. This compatibility supports future system expansions or upgrades, providing long-term value and reducing the complexity of modifications. While specific IIoT integration details would depend on the broader control system architecture, Siemens' commitment to smart infrastructure means that devices like this MCB can be incorporated into networked monitoring solutions, enabling remote diagnostics and predictive maintenance when paired with appropriate gateways and software platforms.
FAQs
What is the primary purpose of the Siemens 5SN6440-8CN MCB?
This MCB is specifically designed for heavy-duty motor protection in industrial settings.
It safeguards electric motors from overloads and short circuits, preventing damage and downtime.
Its high breaking capacity ensures safety in circuits with significant fault current potential.
What does "High Breaking Capacity" mean for this MCB?
It signifies the MCB can safely interrupt very large fault currents without sustaining damage.
The 36kA rating indicates its robustness for demanding industrial power distribution systems.
This feature is crucial for protecting downstream equipment and personnel from severe electrical faults.
Why is a Type C tripping curve important for motor protection?
Type C curves accommodate higher inrush currents during motor startup, preventing nuisance tripping.
This ensures the motor starts reliably without the breaker unnecessarily interrupting the circuit.
It still provides rapid protection against short circuits once the motor is running.
Can the Siemens 5SN6440-8CN be used for single-phase applications?
While it's a 4-pole breaker, it can be adapted for specific single-phase circuits if needed.
However, its primary design and optimal use are for three-phase motor protection.
For standard single-phase loads, a 1 or 2-pole breaker might be more appropriate and cost-effective.
What is the rated current and voltage for the 5SN6440-8CN?
The MCB has a rated current of 40 Amps.
Its rated voltage is 400/415 Volts AC.
These ratings are essential for ensuring the breaker is correctly applied to the circuit load.
How do I install the Siemens 5SN6440-8CN MCB?
It mounts securely onto a standard 35mm DIN rail.
Ensure proper electrical connections are made to all four terminals for three-phase circuits.
Always disconnect power before commencing installation procedures.
What are the key advantages of using a 4-pole MCB for motor protection?
A 4-pole breaker provides protection for all three phases and the neutral conductor.
This offers comprehensive isolation and protection for three-phase motor circuits.
It ensures safety by breaking all current-carrying conductors simultaneously during a fault.
How does the thermal overload protection work in this MCB?
It uses a bimetallic strip that bends when heated by sustained overcurrent.
This bending action gradually triggers the trip mechanism to open the circuit.
It protects the motor from damage caused by prolonged low-level overloads.
What is the breaking capacity of the Siemens 5SN6440-8CN?
The breaking capacity is rated at 36 kA (kiloamperes).
This is a significant value, indicating its ability to handle substantial fault currents.
It ensures the safety of the electrical installation under severe short-circuit conditions.
Where can I find more detailed technical specifications and documentation?
Detailed specifications are typically available from Siemens official product catalogs or datasheets.
You can also find product information on authorized electrical distributor websites.
Consulting Siemens technical support is also an option for in-depth inquiries.