Siemens 5SU1656-1KK06 Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCCB) 6A 300mA 1P+N C

The Siemens 5SU1656-1KK06 is a high-performance Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCCB) designed for robust electrical protection. This 6A, 300mA, 1P+N (single-pole plus neutral) device, featuring a Type C tripping characteristic, offers crucial safety against residual currents, preventing electric shocks and fires in various industrial and commercial applications. Its compact design and reliable tripping mechanism make it a cornerstone for safeguarding sensitive equipment and personnel. The Siemens 5SU1656-1KK06 boasts a high breaking capacity and excellent tripping immunity, ensuring operational continuity while maintaining stringent safety standards.

Product Specifications

| Feature                 | Specification                                |

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

| Manufacturer            | Siemens                                      |

| Product Number          | 5SU1656-1KK06                                |

| Type                    | Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCCB)      |

| Rated Current (In)      | 6A                                           |

| Residual Current (IΔn)  | 300mA                                        |

| Number of Poles         | 1P+N (Single-pole plus neutral)              |

| Tripping Characteristic | Type C                                       |

| Rated Voltage (Un)      | 230V                                         |

| Frequency               | 50/60 Hz                                     |

| Breaking Capacity (Icn) | 10kA                                         |

| Mounting Type           | DIN rail                                     |

| Protection Class        | IP20 (operational part) / IP40 (enclosure) |

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

| Terminal Type           | Screw terminals                              |

Core Features & Market Positioning

The Siemens 5SU1656-1KK06 stands out in the market due to its advanced tripping technology, ensuring rapid and reliable detection of earth faults. Its 300mA sensitivity is ideal for applications requiring enhanced protection against fire hazards. The Type C characteristic offers robust immunity to nuisance tripping caused by inrush currents from inductive loads, a common challenge in industrial settings. This positions the 5SU1656-1KK06 as a premium choice for sectors demanding high reliability and safety assurance, differentiating it from standard RCCBs. Siemens' reputation for quality and durability further reinforces its market leadership in protective devices.

Key Application Scenarios

This Siemens RCCB is extensively deployed in commercial buildings, industrial facilities, and even sophisticated residential installations where enhanced safety is paramount. It is particularly effective in protecting circuits feeding motors, transformers, and lighting systems, which can generate significant inrush currents. The 6A rating makes it suitable for smaller distribution circuits, control panels, and specialized equipment. Its application extends to environments with increased risk of electrical fire, such as workshops or areas with combustible materials. The 300mA sensitivity is often specified for fire protection and supplementary protection against indirect contact.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Integrating the Siemens 5SU1656-1KK06 into existing electrical systems is straightforward due to its standard DIN rail mounting and clear terminal configurations. Ensure the incoming power supply (line and neutral) is connected to the designated terminals, observing correct polarity. The outgoing protected circuit conductors should then be connected to the output terminals. For proper functionality and safety, it is crucial that the neutral conductor is switched by the RCCB along with the live conductor. Proper grounding of the protected equipment remains essential for overall system safety, even with the presence of an RCCB. Always consult local electrical codes and standards for installation requirements.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

The Siemens 5SU1656-1KK06 operates by continuously monitoring the balance of current flowing through the live and neutral conductors. If an imbalance exceeding 300mA occurs, indicating a residual current (likely due to leakage to earth or a fault), the RCCB rapidly trips, interrupting the circuit and preventing potential hazards like electric shock or fire. While the Type C characteristic offers good immunity, persistent nuisance tripping could indicate an underlying insulation issue in the protected circuit or excessive inrush currents beyond its design capability. Regular testing of the RCCB using its integrated test button is crucial to verify its operational readiness and ensure ongoing risk mitigation.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

The Siemens 5SU1656-1KK06 offers excellent long-term value and compatibility within Siemens' broader electrical protection and automation ecosystems. Its modular design aligns with standard switchboard configurations, allowing for straightforward replacement or expansion. While this specific model is a standalone RCCB, its integration into larger Siemens control systems, such as those utilizing ALPHA distribution boards or SIMATIC PLCs, ensures a cohesive and scalable electrical infrastructure. This facilitates future upgrades and the implementation of advanced monitoring and control solutions, including potential integration with Industrial IoT (IIoT) platforms for predictive maintenance and energy management.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the primary function of the Siemens 5SU1656-1KK06 RCCB?

This device provides essential protection against earth faults. It detects imbalances in current flow. Its main goal is to prevent electric shocks and fires.

It trips rapidly when a residual current is detected. This safeguard protects both people and property. The 300mA sensitivity is key for fire prevention.

The 6A rating is suitable for specific load requirements. It ensures operational safety for connected equipment. This makes it vital for many installations.

Can the Siemens 5SU1656-1KK06 be used for overload protection?

No, this RCCB primarily protects against residual currents. It does not offer overload protection. For overload protection, a circuit breaker with thermal and magnetic tripping is needed.

Combined devices (RCBOs) integrate both functions. The 5SU1656-1KK06 is designed for specific fault detection. It complements other protective devices in a system.

Ensure your system has adequate overload protection alongside this RCCB. This guarantees comprehensive circuit safety. Consult a qualified electrician for system design.

What does the "C" in Type C tripping characteristic signify?

The "C" denotes its tripping curve, indicating how it responds to overcurrents. Type C breakers are designed to withstand higher inrush currents. This is common with inductive loads like motors.

They are less sensitive to brief current surges. This prevents nuisance tripping in industrial applications. It ensures operational stability for such equipment.

This characteristic makes it ideal for circuits feeding motors or transformers. It offers reliable protection without frequent, unnecessary interruptions. It is a key feature for industrial use.

How often should the test button on the Siemens 5SU1656-1KK06 be used?

The test button should be operated regularly, at least monthly. This verifies the internal tripping mechanism is functional. It ensures the RCCB is ready to protect.

Pressing the button simulates a fault condition. It disconnects the circuit when pressed correctly. This periodic testing is a crucial safety practice.

Refer to local electrical regulations for specific testing intervals. A qualified professional should perform these checks. This guarantees ongoing safety compliance.

What is the significance of the 300mA residual current rating?

The 300mA rating indicates the sensitivity to earth leakage current. This level is chosen for fire protection. It is higher than the 30mA typically used for personal protection.

It is suitable for installations where fire risk is a concern. This includes industrial settings and commercial premises. It provides an additional layer of safety against electrical fires.

While it offers some shock protection, its primary role at 300mA is fire mitigation. For direct personal protection, lower sensitivity RCCBs are recommended. Always match the rating to the application's risk assessment.

Is the Siemens 5SU1656-1KK06 suitable for DC circuits?

No, this RCCB is designed for AC circuits only. It is not intended for use in DC electrical systems. Using it on DC can lead to incorrect operation or failure.

AC RCCBs detect imbalances in alternating current. DC circuits have different fault characteristics. Specialized DC residual current devices are required for DC applications.

Always ensure the device's specification matches the circuit type. Using the wrong device poses a significant safety risk. Verify compatibility before installation.

What are the typical applications for a 6A rated RCCB?

A 6A rating is suitable for low-power circuits. This includes lighting circuits and control circuits. It is also used for smaller distribution boards.

It protects sensitive electronic equipment. This could be in commercial or light industrial settings. It's ideal for circuits with moderate current demands.

The combination with 300mA sensitivity makes it suitable for fire protection in such circuits. Ensure the total connected load does not exceed 6A. Proper circuit design is essential.

How does the 1P+N configuration differ from a 2P RCCB?

The 1P+N configuration switches both the live and neutral conductors. A 2P (two-pole) device also switches both. However, 1P+N devices are often more compact.

This means both conductors are simultaneously disconnected. This ensures complete isolation of the circuit. It is crucial for effective safety and maintenance.

The 1P+N is standard for single-phase AC circuits. A 2P version might be used for specific reasons or in different system designs. Both provide safe disconnection of both conductors.

What is the breaking capacity (Icn) of 10kA for this device?

The 10kA breaking capacity signifies the maximum fault current it can safely interrupt. This is a critical safety parameter. It ensures the device can withstand and clear severe short-circuit faults.

A higher breaking capacity provides greater protection. It prevents catastrophic failure of the RCCB during a major fault. This is crucial in industrial environments with high fault levels.

This rating ensures the 5SU1656-1KK06 can protect downstream equipment. It meets the requirements for many standard installations. It's a key indicator of its robustness.

Can this Siemens RCCB be installed in any environmental condition?

This RCCB is rated for specific operating temperatures, typically -25°C to +45°C. Extreme temperatures can affect its performance and lifespan. Ensure the installation environment falls within these limits.

It has an IP20 rating for the operational part, meaning it's protected against solid objects larger than 12mm. The enclosure offers IP40 protection against smaller objects. It's not designed for wet or dusty environments without additional enclosure.

Always install it in a suitable enclosure or distribution board to maintain its protection rating. Avoid direct exposure to moisture, corrosive substances, or excessive dust. This ensures reliable operation and longevity.