3 Manual

Manual Edition 10/2004
Molded-case circuit-breakers
Important Information,
Contents
System Overview
1
System
Mounting
2
SENTRON VL
Connections
3
Manual Construction and Operating Principle of

4
the Circuit-breaker
Application
5
Circuit Diagrams
6
Selectivity
7
Maintenance Instructions
8
Troubleshooting
9
Edition: 10/2004
GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Safety information
This manual contains information which must be observed for your personal safety and to prevent damages
occurring. The information is indicated by a warning triangle. The different degrees of danger are listed below:
Safety information
is important information which is relevant for the acceptance test of this product and its safe installation.
Danger
means that death, severe personal injury or physical damage will occur if the specified warnings are not
followed.
Warning
means that death, severe personal injury or physical damage could occur if the specified warnings are not
followed.
Caution
means that slight personal injury or physical damage could occur if the specified warnings are not followed.
Caution
means that physical damage could occur if the specified warnings are not followed.
Attention
is important information about the product, the operation of the product or a part of the documentation to
which particular attention should be paid.
Qualified personnel
The commissioning and usage of the device may only be carried out by qualified personnel. Qualified
personnel in the sense of the safety information in this manual are defined as people who have permission to
commission, ground and label devices, systems and circuits according to the safety standards.
Usage in compliance with specifications

Consider the following:
Warning
The device may only be used for the applications specified in the catalog and technical documentation and
only in connection with foreign devices recommended or permitted by Siemens.
The proper and safe operation of the product requires appropriate transport, storage, installation and mounting
as well as careful commissioning and operation.
Trademarks
All the designations marked with the copyright symbol ® are registered trademarks of Siemens AG. The
remaining designations in this document may be copyrighted, and their proprietary use may infringe on the
rights of the owners.
Copyright Siemens AG 2004 All rights reserved Exclusion of liability

The transfer or reproduction of this documentation, exploitation or We have checked the contents of this manual with the hardware and
communication of its contents is forbidden unless expressly software described. However, variations cannot be excluded and as
permitted. Violations will lead to compensation being sought such we do not take any responsibility for complete conformity. The
for damages. All rights reserved, particularly where patents or utility information in this manual is checked regularly, and required
patents have been granted. corrections will be contained in the following editions. We are
grateful for suggestions about improvements.
Technical Assistance: Telephone: +49 (0) 911-895-5900 (8°° - 17°° CET) Fax: +49 (0) 911-895-5907
E-mail: technical-assistance@siemens.com
Internet: www.siemens.com/lowvoltage/technical-assistance
Technical Support: Telephone: +49 (0) 180 50 50 222
Siemens AG
Automation and Drives Department
Low-Voltage Controls and Distribution division © Siemens AG 2004
90327 Nuremberg, Germany Subject to change without prior notice.
Siemens AG
Contents
1 SENTRON VL System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
1.1 Service conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

1.2 Application overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
1.3 SENTRON VL overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
1.4 Switching capacity overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
1.5 Technical overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
1.6 Standards and specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
1.7 Degree of protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8
1.8 Application conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
1.8.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
1.8.2 Shock resistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
1.8.3 Current limitation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
1.9 Derating factors at high altitudes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
1.10 Derating factors for special environmental conditions . . . . . . . . . 1-10
1.10.1 Thermomagnetic overcurrent release. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10
1.10.2 Thermomagnetic overcurrent release + RCD module . . . . . . . . . . 1-12
1.10.3 Electronic overcurrent release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13
1.10.4 Thermomagnetic overcurrent release. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14
1.11 Application in networks with different frequencies . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14
1.11.1 Influence of network frequency and harmonics on the operation of
switching devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14
1.11.2 Thermal rating of the system components and conductor depending
on the network frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14
1.11.3 Current carrying capacity of circuit-breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
1.11.4 Usage in 16 2/3 Hz networks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
1.11.5 Usage in 50/60 Hz networks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
1.11.6 Circuit-breakers for 400 Hz applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
1.12 Influence of temperature and humidity on overcurrent release . . . . . 1-16
1.12.1 Thermomagnetic overcurrent release TM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16
1.12.2 Electronic overcurrent release ETU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16
1.12.3 Electronic overcurrent release LCD - ETU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16
1.13 Heat loss for fixed mounted circuit-breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
1.13.1 Heat loss for thermomagnetic overcurrent releases (TM). . . . . . . . 1-17
1.13.2 Heat loss for electrical overcurrent releases (ETU/LCD ETU) . . . . . . 1-18
1.14 Circuit-breakers with differential current protection – RCD module . . . 1-18
1.15 Overcurrent release system overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23
1.15.1 Thermomagnetic overcurrent release TM VL160X . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
1.15.2 Thermomagnetic overcurrent release TM VL160-VL630 . . . . . . . . 1-24
1.15.3 Electronic overcurrent release ETU VL160-VL1600 . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
1.15.4 Electronic overcurrent release LCD ETU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-26
1.15.5 Menu structure of the electronic trip unit LCD ETU . . . . . . . . . . 1-28
1.15.7 Overcurrent release system - functions overview . . . . . . . . . . . 1-32
1.16 Ground fault protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-33
1.16.1 Measurement method 1: Vectorial summation . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-33
SENTRON VL System Manual

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 iii
1.17 Rating plate and identification number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-34
2 Mounting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
2.2 Fixed mounted versions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

2.3 Plug-in versions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
2.4 Withdrawable versions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
2.5 Mounting and safety clearances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
2.5.1 Mounting/installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
2.6.1 Rated operational voltage: Ue ≤ 600 V AC/500 V DC . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
3 Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
3.1 Main conductor connection of the SENTRON VL fixed mounted version 3-2
3.1.1 Network connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
3.1.2 Multiple feed-in terminal for cable (copper/aluminum) . . . . . . . . . 3-2
3.1.3 Box terminals (copper cables or bars) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
3.1.4 Front connecting bars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
3.1.5 Front flared busbar extensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
3.1.6 Rear terminals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
3.1.7 Rear flat busbar terminals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
3.1.8 Connection with screw-type terminals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
3.1.9 Connection with cable lugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
3.2 Main conductor connection for plug-in and withdrawable versions . . . 3-7
3.2.1 Plug-in socket: Connection on the front with busbar extensions . . . . 3-7
3.2.2 Plug-in socket: Connection on the back with flat busbar terminals . . . 3-7
3.2.3 Withdrawable version: Connection on the front with busbar extensions 3-8
3.2.4 Withdrawable version: Connection on the back with flat busbar terminals 3-8
3.3 Location and position of the terminals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
3.3.1 Description of the terminals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
3.4 Conversion tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
3.4.1 Metric/US-American cross sections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
3.4.2 Other conversions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12
4 Design and Operating Principle of the Circuit-breakers . . . . . . . 4-1
4.1 Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

4.2 Drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
4.2.1 Toggle handle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
4.2.2 Rotary mechanism on the front. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
4.2.3 Door-coupling rotary operating mechanism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
4.3 Leading auxiliary switch for switching on/off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
4.3.1 Leading auxiliary switch for switching from OFF to ON (leading NO contact) 4-7
4.3.2 Leading auxiliary switch for switching off (leading NC contact) . . . . . 4-7
4.3.3 Technical data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
4.4 Locking devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
4.4.1 Locking device for the toggle handle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
4.4.2 Safety lock for the rotary operating mechanism and the motorized
operating mechanism. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8

iv GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
4.4.3 Mutual interlocking of two circuit-breakers (bowden wire) in the fixed
mounted, plug-in and withdrawable versions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
4.4.4 Mutual interlocking (rear interlocking modules) of two circuit-breakers
in the fixed mounted, plug-in and withdrawable versions. . . . . . . . 4-12
4.5 Stored energy operator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
4.5.1 Technical data: Stored energy operator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16
4.6 Undervoltage release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
4.6.1 Technical data: Undervoltage release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
4.7 Shunt release. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18
4.7.1 Technical data: Shunt release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18
4.8 Auxiliary and alarm switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19
4.8.1 Technical data: Auxiliary switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-20
4.9 Cover frames for door cutouts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-21
4.10 Terminal covers/phase barriers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-22
4.11 Phase barriers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-22
4.12 Toggle handle extension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
4.13 Further accessories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
4.13.1 Position signaling switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
4.13.2 Auxiliary conductor connection system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-24
4.13.3 Locking options for the guide frame . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-25
4.13.4 Guide frame crank handle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-25
4.13.5 Trip-to-test button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26
4.13.6 Portable tester . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26
5 Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
5.1 Combination including frequency converter and SENTRON VL

circuit-breaker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
5.1.1 General information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
5.1.2 SIRIUS soft starters and SENTRON VL circuit-breakers. . . . . . . . . 5-2
5.1.3 Frequency converters/variable speed drives and SENTRON VL
circuit-breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
5.2 Circuit-breakers for capacitor banks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
5.3 Using the SENTRON VL circuit-breaker in DC networks . . . . . . . . 5-5
5.4 Circuit-breakers for motor protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
5.4.1 Operating principle of the overcurrent release . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
5.4.2 Thermal memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
5.4.3 Circuit-breaker for motor protection with fixed release class ETU 10M . 5-10
5.4.4 Circuit-breaker for motor protection with adjustable release class
ETU 30M . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
ETU 40M . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
6 Circuit Diagrams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
7 Selectivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
7.1 Current selectivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

7.2 Time selectivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
7.3 Downloading the selectivity tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 v
7.4 Information about the calculated selectivity limits . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4
8 Maintenance Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
8.1 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2

8.2 Functionality test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2
9 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1
9.1 Information for troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2

vi GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Figures
Figure 1-1: SENTRON VL overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Figure 1-2: Thermal / magnetic TM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16
Figure 1-3: Standard ETU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16
Figure 1-4: ETU/LCD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16
Figure 1-5: VL160X with RCD module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
Figure 1-8: Left-side mounting for VL160X with RCD module . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
Figure 1-9: RCD module for VL160 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
Figure 1-10: Menu of the LCD display of the overcurrent release . . . . . . . . . . 1-27
Figure 1-11: Detail of the menu for the overcurrent release LCD ETU 40 . . . . . . 1-28
Figure 1-12: Example: Changing the type of protection of the overcurrent release
LCD ETU 40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-29
Figure 1-13: Detail of the menu for the overcurrent release LCD ETU 40 M . . . . 1-30
Figure 1-14: Example: Changing the type of protection of the overcurrent release
LCD ETU 40 M . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-31
Figure 1-15: Circuit-breaker in balanced system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-33
Figure 1-16: 3-pole circuit-breaker, current converter in neutral conductor current . 1-33
Figure 1-17: 4-pole circuit-breaker, current converter installed internally . . . . . . 1-33
Figure 1-18: 3-pole circuit-breaker, current transformer at the grounded star point
of the transformer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-34
Figure 1-19: Circuit-breaker – Labeling and control elements . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-34
Figure 2-1: Connection on the front of the mounting plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Figure 2-2: Connection on the back of the mounting plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Figure 2-3: Connection on the front of the mounting rail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Figure 2-4: Connection on the front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Figure 2-5: Connection on the back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Figure 2-6: Connection on the front of the mounting plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Figure 2-7: Connection on the back of the mounting plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Figure 2-8: Connection on the front of the mounting rails . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Figure 2-9: Connection on the back of the mounting rails . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Figure 2-10: Connection on the front of the withdrawable version . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Figure 2-11: Connection on the back of the withdrawable version . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Figure 2-12: Connected position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Figure 2-13: Disconnected position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Figure 2-14: Removable position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Figure 2-15: Mounting/installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Figure 2-16: Safety clearances: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Figure 2-17: Minimum clearance between two horizontally or vertically installed
circuit-breakers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
Figure 2-18: Minimum clearance between the circuit-breaker and metal . . . . . . 2-6

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 vii
Figure 2-19: Table of different connection types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Figure 2-20: Mounting using a cable connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Figure 2-21: Mounting using busbars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Figure 3-1: Supply types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Figure 3-2: Multiple feed-in terminals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Figure 3-3: Multiple feed-in terminal application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Figure 3-4: Box terminals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Figure 3-5: Box terminals with solid/flexible copper bars or cables . . . . . . . . 3-3
Figure 3-6: Front connecting bars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Figure 3-7: Application of front connecting bars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Figure 3-8: Flared busbar extensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Figure 3-9: Application of flared busbar extensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Figure 3-10: Round terminals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Figure 3-11: Application of the round terminals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Figure 3-12: Flat busbar terminal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Figure 3-13: Application of flat busbar terminals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Figure 3-14: Connection with screw-type terminal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Figure 3-15: Establishing a connection with a screw-type terminal . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Figure 3-16: Cable lug . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Figure 3-17: Application of cable lug no. 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Figure 3-20: Plug-in socket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Figure 3-21: Plug-in socket with front busbar extensions (busbar covers are
not shown) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Figure 3-22: Plug-in socket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Figure 3-23: Plug-in socket with rear flat busbar terminals . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Figure 3-24: Withdraw-able version with front busbar extensions and terminal covers 3-8
Figure 3-25: Withdraw-able version with front busbar extensions . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Figure 3-26: Withdraw-able version with rear flat busbar terminals . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Figure 3-27: Withdraw-able version with rear flat busbar terminals . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Figure 3-28: Location of the terminals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
Figure 3-29: Location of the terminals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
Figure 4-1: Internal view of MCCB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Figure 4-2: Toggle handle in the “ON” position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
Figure 4-3: Toggle handle positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
Figure 4-4: Rotary mechanism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Figure 4-5: Door-coupling rotary operating mechanism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Figure 4-6: Rotary operating mechanism with leading auxiliary switches . . . . . 4-7
Figure 4-7: Locking device for the toggle handle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
Figure 4-8: Rotary operating mechanism on the front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
Figure 4-9: Stored energy operator for the VL250 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

viii GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Figure 4-10: Stored energy operator with memory for the VL630 . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
Figure 4-11: With toggle handle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
Figure 4-12: With rotary operating mechanism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9
Figure 4-13: Possible mounting options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
Figure 4-14: Fixed mounted version . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
Figure 4-15: Plug-in version . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
Figure 4-16: Fixed mounted version . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
Figure 4-17: Plug-in version . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
Figure 4-18: Stored energy operator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
Figure 4-19: The stored energy operator is charged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
Figure 4-20: Display: Discharged stored energy operator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
Figure 4-21: The stored energy operator is discharged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
Figure 4-22: Display: Charged stored energy operator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
Figure 4-23: The stored energy operator is discharged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
Figure 4-24: Display: Charged stored energy operator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
Figure 4-25: Stored energy operator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
Figure 4-26: Local/remote change-over switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
Figure 4-27: Locking slide with padlock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
Figure 4-28: Locking slide with padlock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
Figure 4-29: Mechanical locking with safety lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16
Figure 4-30: Mechanical locking with safety lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16
Figure 4-31: Undervoltage release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
Figure 4-32: Shunt release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18
Figure 4-33: Cover frames for door cutouts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-21
Figure 4-34: 3VL9300-8BC00 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-21
Figure 4-35: 3VL9300-8BG00 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-21
Figure 4-36: 3VL9300-8BC00 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-21
Figure 4-37: 3VL9300-8BJ00/3VL9300-8BD00 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-21
Figure 4-38: Standard terminal cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-22
Figure 4-39: Extended terminal cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-22
Figure 4-40: Phase barriers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-22
Figure 4-41: Application of phase barriers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-22
Figure 4-42: Toggle handle extension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
Figure 4-43: Application of toggle handle extension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
Figure 4-44: Position signaling switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
Figure 4-45: Auxiliary conductor connection system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-24
Figure 4-46: Locking option for the guide frame device support: . . . . . . . . . . 4-25
Figure 4-47: Guide frame crank handle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-25
Figure 4-48: Trip-to-test button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26
Figure 4-49: Portable tester . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26
Figure 5-1: Frequency converter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Figure 5-2: ETU with release classes 5, 10, 15, 20 and 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 ix
Figure 5-3: The response time of the device after an overload release . . . . . . 5-9
Figure 5-4: Current-time curve before and after overload, with thermal memory . 5-10
Figure 6-1: Circuit diagram for VL160X - VL630 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Figure 6-2: Circuit diagram for VL160 - VL250 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Figure 6-3: Circuit diagram for VL400 circuit-breaker for motor protection and
VL400 - VL1600 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Figure 6-4: Stored energy operator for the VL160X - VL250, without undervoltage
release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Figure 6-5: Stored energy operator for the VL160X - VL250, with undervoltage
release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Figure 6-6: Stored energy operator for the VL400 - VL800, without undervoltage
release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
Figure 6-7: Stored energy operator for the VL400 - VL800, without undervoltage
release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
Figure 6-8: Stored energy operator for the VL1250 and VL1600, without
undervoltage release. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Figure 6-9: Stored energy operator for the VL1250 and VL1600, with undervoltage
release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Figure 6-10: Undervoltage and shunt release for VL160X to VL1600 . . . . . . . . 6-7
Figure 6-11: 3TX4701-0A delay unit for the undervoltage releases of the VL160X
to VL1600. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
Figure 6-12: 4-pole 3VL1 with RCD module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8
Figure 6-13: 4-pole circuit-breaker for VL160, VL1250, VL400 . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8

x GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Tables
Table 1-1: Switching capacity overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Table 1-2: Degree of protection overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8
Table 1-3: Derating factors at high altitudes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
Table 1-4: Thermomagnetic overcurrent release derating factors . . . . . . . . . 1-10
Table 1-5: Thermomagnetic overcurrent release derating factors (plug-in or
withdrawable versions) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11
Table 1-6: Thermomagnetic overcurrent release derating factors + RCD module
(fixed mounted versions) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12
Table 1-7: Thermomagnetic overcurrent release derating factors + RCD module
(plug-in or withdrawable versions) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12
Table 1-8: Electronic overcurrent release derating factors (fixed mounted versions) 1-13
Table 1-9: Electronic overcurrent release derating factors (plug-in or withdrawable
version) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13
Table 1-10: Thermomagnetic overcurrent release derating factors . . . . . . . . . 1-14
Table 1-11: Overview of deviating network frequencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
Table 1-12: Heat loss for thermomagnetic overcurrent releases (TM) . . . . . . . 1-17
Table 1-13: Heat loss for electrical overcurrent releases (ETU/LCD ETU) . . . . . 1-18
Table 1-14: Overview of the RCD modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
Table 1-15: Overcurrent release system overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23
Table 1-16: Order No. scheme (MRPD) for 3VL components . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-35
Table 2-1: Overview of the types of installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Table 2-2: Safety clearances between circuit-breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Table 2-3: Recommended cable mounting clearances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Table 2-4: Connection types (for Ue ≤ 600 V AC/500 V DC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
Table 2-5: Connection types (for Ue <= 600 V AC/500 V DC) . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Table 4-1: Accessory overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6
Table 4-2: Technical data for the leading auxiliary switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
Table 5-1: SENTRON VL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Table 5-2: Example selections for capacitor protective circuits . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
Table 5-3: Suggested circuits for 3-pole and 4-pole circuit-breakers . . . . . . . . 5-6
Table 5-4: Circuit-breaker for motor protection with fixed release class ETU 10M 5-10
Table 5-5: Circuit-breaker for motor protection with adjustable release class
ETU 30M . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
Table 5-6: Circuit-breaker for motor protection with adjustable release class
ETU 40M . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 xi
xii GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Important Information
Purpose of this manual

This manual is a reference document. The information contained within it enables you to
configure and use the SENTRON VL system.
Intended readers
This manual is designed for people who possess the required qualifications to commis-
sion and operate the SENTRON VL system.
Validity
This manual is valid for the following circuit-breakers:
SENTRON VL160X
VL160
VL250
VL400
VL630
VL800
VL1250
VL1600
Standards and licenses

SENTRON VL circuit-breakers conform to the following specifications:
• IEC 60947-1, EN 60947-1
• DIN VDE 0660, Part 100
• IEC 60947-2, EN 60947-2
• Circuit-breaker characteristics according to IEC 60947-3, EN 60947-3
Exclusion of liability
The products described here were developed to carry out protection tasks as part of a
complete plant or machine. In general, a complete safety system consists of sensors,
evaluation units, signaling devices and methods for safe switching off. It is the responsi-
bility of the manufacturer of the system or machine to ensure the safe functioning of the
complete system or machine. Siemens AG, its subsidiaries and associated companies
(herein referred to as "Siemens") is not in the position to guarantee every characteristic of
a complete plant or machine that is not designed by Siemens.
Siemens denies all responsibility for any recommendations that are given or implied in
the following description. No new guarantee, warranty or liability above those standard to
Siemens can be derived from the following description.

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 xiii
Important Information
Continuously updated information

Further support can be obtained by calling the following numbers:
Technical Assistance: Telephone: +49 (0) 911-895-5900 (8°° - 17°° CET)
Fax: +49 (0) 911-895-5907
or online at:
E-mail: technical-assistance@siemens.com
Internet: www.siemens.com/lowvoltage/technical-assistance
Technical Support: Telephone:+49 (0) 180 50 50 222
Correction sheet
A correction sheet is included at the end of this manual. Please use it to fill in improve-
ments, supplementations and correction suggestions and send it back to us. These help
us to improve the next version.

xiv GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
SENTRON VL System Overview 1

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 1-1
SENTRON VL System Overview
1.1 Service conditions

SENTRON VL circuit-breakers from Siemens are climate-proof. They are
intended for use in closed rooms where there are no excessive operating condi-
tions (e.g. dust, corrosive vapors or damaging gases).
Suitable enclosures must be provided if the circuit-breakers are to be installed in
dusty or humid locations. Sufficient fresh air supply must be provided if there
are harmful gases (e.g. hydrogen-sulfide vapor) in the ambient air.
The maximum permissible ambient temperature range and the rated operational
currents permitted at different ambient temperatures are listed in the technical
data.
1.2 Application overview
Line protection
The releases for line protection are designed to protect
cables, wiring, and non-motorized consumers against
overloads and short circuits.
Motor/generator protection
The overload and short-circuit releases are designed for
optimal protection and the direct-starting of three-phase
current squirrel-cage motors. The circuit-breakers for
motor protection possess phase loss sensitivity and a
thermal memory which protect the motor against over-
heating. The specifiable time lag class enables the user
to select the overload release settings for the start- up
conditions of the motor which is to be protected.
Starter combination
Starter combinations consist of:
Circuit-breaker + contactor + overload relay.
The circuit-breaker takes over the short circuit protection
and the isolating function. The contactor has the task of
switching the load feeder during operation. The overload
relay carries out the overload protection, which can be
specifically defined for the respective motor. The circuit-
breaker for the starter combination is thus equipped with
an adjustable, instantaneous short-circuit release.
Non-automatic circuit-breaker
These circuit-breakers are used as incoming circuit-
breakers, main switches or disconnectors without over-
load protection. They are equipped fixed short-circuit
releases so back-up fuses are not needed.

1-2 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
1.3 SENTRON VL overview
10
12
1
3
3
11
4
5
6
7
13
Figure 1-1: SENTRON VL overview
1 Switch unit
2 Interchangeable overcurrent release (TM, ETU, ETU-LCD)
3 Internal accessories
(Shunt release, undervoltage release, auxiliary and alarm switch)
4 Flared busbar extensions
5 Front connecting bars
6 Multiple feed-in terminal
7 Rear terminals
8 Terminal covers and phase barriers
9 Plug-in socket
10 Withdrawable version kit
11 Rotary/motorized operating mechanism
12 Cover frames
13 RCD module

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 1-3
1-4
1.4
Rated current In (A) 16 20 25 32 40 50 63 80 100 125 160 200 250 315 400 500 630 800 1000 1250 1600
For plant protection
3- and 4-pole VL160X
circuit-breakers VL160
VL250
VL400
VL630
VL800
VL1250
VL1600
For motor protection
3-pole circuit-breakers VL160
VL250
VL400
Table 1-1: Switching capacity overview

VL630
For starter combinations
3-pole circuit-breakers VL160
VL250
VL400
Switching capacity overview
VL630
Non-automatic
circuit-breakers VL160X
3- and 4-pole VL160
circuit-breakers
VL250
VL400
VL630
VL800
VL1250
VL1600
Standard switching capacity N
High switching capacity H
Very high switching capacity L

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
1.5 Technical overview
TYPE SENTRON VL160X VL160 VL250 VL400
Rated current at an ambient tem- 16 to 160 A 26 to 160 A 80 to 250 A 125 to 400 A

perature of 50 °C
Number of poles 3 4 3 4 3 4 3 4
Rated operational voltage Ue1)
(AC) 50 - 60 Hz [V] 690 690 690 690
(DC) 2) [V] 250 250 600 600 600 600 600 600
Overcurrent release
Thermomagnetic TM X X X X X X X X
Electronic release ETU – – X X X X X X
LCD – – X X X X X X
Interchangeability – – X X X X X X
mm A 105 139 105 139 105 139 139 183

mm B 157 157 175 175 175 175 279 279
mm C 81 81 81 81 81 81 102 102
mm D 107 107 107 107 107 107 138 138
SENTRON VL - N Interruption rating (kA) balanced (standard switching capacity)

Icu/Ics Icu/Ics Icu/Ics Icu/Ics
up to 240 V AC 65/65 65/65 65/65 65/65
415 V AC 40/40 40/40 40/40 45/45
440 V AC 25/20 25/20 25/20 35/26
IEC 500 V AC 18/14 25/20 25/20 25/20
60947-2 690 V AC 8/4 3) 12/6 12/6 15/8
up to 250 V AC 30 32 32 32
500 V DC – – – –
600 V DC – – – –
SENTRON VL - H Interruption rating (kA) balanced (high switching capacity)

up to 240 V AC 100/75 100/75 100/75 100/75
415 V AC 70/70 70/70 70/70 70/70
440 V AC 42/32 50/38 50/38 50/38
IEC 500 V AC 30/23 40/30 40/30 40/30
60947-2 690 V AC 12/6 3) 12/6 12/6 15/8
up to 250 V AC 30 32 32 32
500 V DC – 32 32 32
600 V DC – – – –
1) Rated insulation voltage of the main conducting path Ui=800 V AC

2) DC ratings are for thermomagnetic overcurrent releases only
3) For nominal currents above 25 A. The VL160X is not available with a nominal voltage of 690 V AC for nominal currents
of 16 A and 20 A.

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 1-5
TYPE SENTRON VL160X VL160 VL250 VL400

SENTRON VL - L Interruption rating (kA) balanced (very high switching capacity)
up to 240 V AC – 200/150 200/150 200/150
415 V AC – 100/75 100/75 100/75
440 V AC – 75/50 75/50 75/50
IEC 500 V AC – 50/38 50/38 50/38
60947-2 690 V AC – 12/6 12/6 15/8
up to 250 V AC – 32 32 32
500 V DC – 32 32 32
600 V DC – 30 30 30
TYPE SENTRON VL630 VL800 VL1250 VL1600
Rated current at an ambient tem- 252 to 630 A 320 to 800 A 400 to 1250 A 640 to 1600 A
perature of 50 °C
Number of poles 3 4 3 4 3 4 3 4
Rated operational voltage Ue1)
(AC) 50 - 60 Hz [V] 690 690 690 690
(DC) 2) [V] 600 600 – – – – – –
Overcurrent release
Thermomagnetic TM X X – – – – – –
Electronic release ETU X X X X X X X X
LCD
Interchangeability X X X X X X X X
mm A 190 253 190 253 229 305 229 305

mm B 279 279 406 406 406 406 406 406
mm C 102 102 114 114 152 152 152 152
mm D 138 138 151 151 207 207 207 207
SENTRON VL - N Interruption Rating (kA) balanced

up to 240 V AC 65/65 65/65 65/35 65/35
415 V AC 45/45 50/50 50/25 50/25
IEC 690 V AC 20/10 20/10 20/10 20/10
60947-2 up to 250 V AC 32 – – –
500 V DC – – – –
600 V DC – – – –
1) Rated insulation voltage of the main conducting paths Ui=800 V AC
2) DC ratings are for thermomagnetic overcurrent releases only

1-6 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
TYPE SENTRON VL630 VL800 VL1250 VL1600

SENTRON VL - H Interruption Rating (kA) balanced
up to 240 V AC 100/75 100/75 100/50 100/50
415 V AC 70/70 70/70 70/35 70/35
IEC 690 V AC 30/15 30/15 30/15 30/15
60947-2 up to 250 V AC 32 – – –
500 V DC 32 – – –
600 V DC – – – –
SENTRON VL - L Interruption Rating (kA) balanced

up to 240 V AC 200/150 200/150 200/100 200/100
415 V AC 100/75 100/75 100/50 100/50
IEC 690 V AC 35/17 35/17 35/17 35/17
60947-2 up to 250 V AC 32 – – –
500 V DC 32 – – –
600 V DC 30 – – –
1.6 Standards and specifications

The SENTRON VL circuit-breakers comply with:
• IEC 60947-1, EN 60947-1
• IEC 60947-2, EN 60947-2
Isolating characteristics according to:
• IEC 60947-3, EN 60947-3
Please contact SIEMENS for additional standards.
Furthermore, the overcurrent release of the circuit-breaker for motor protection

also complies with:
• IEC 60947-4-1
• DIN VDE 0660, Part 102.
Main switch:
• DIN EN 60204 and
• DIN VDE 0113 (see Application)
EMERGENCY STOP switch:
• DIN EN 60204 and
• DIN VDE 0113 (see Application)
The following certificates are available on request:
• CE document of conformity
• Certificate of conformance test - ICE 60947
• Certificate of conformance test - CCC (China)
• Type approvals for use on ships (GL, LRS, DNV)
• Letter of origin
• Halogen-free
• PVC free

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 1-7
1.7 Degree of protection

All Siemens SENTRON VL molded-case circuit-breakers are constructed with
degree of protection IP20, independent of their size and version.
A wide range of additional accessories are also available for the basic version of
the SENTRON VL circuit-breaker with IP20.
The accessories listed below are designed to provide an even higher degree of
protection:
The degree of protection according to IEC 60529 is listed in the following table:
Circuit-breaker IP20
Finger-proof
Protects against solid foreign objects with a diameter of 12.5
mm or larger
Circuit-breaker with terminal cover IP30

Prevents access to live parts with a tool
Protects against solid foreign objects with a diameter of
2.5 mm or larger
Plug-in circuit-breaker IP20

Finger-proof
IP30*
12.5 mm or larger
* When the circuit-breaker is installed and the supplied covers are
mounted.
Circuit-breaker with cover frame and motorized operating IP40
mechanism
Prevents access to live parts with a wire
1.0 mm or larger
Circuit-breaker with cover frame for door cutout IP40
1.0 mm or larger
Circuit-breaker with cover frame and rotary direct drive IP40

1.0 mm or larger
Circuit-breaker with rotary operating mechanism IP65

Protection against ingress of dust and water jets from any
direction.
Table 1-2: Degree of protection overview

1-8 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
1.8 Application conditions

1.8.1 General
Siemens SENTRON VL circuit-breakers are resistant to most climatic changes.

All Siemens SENTRON VL circuit-breakers are designed to function in 50/60 Hz
networks up to 50 °C without derating. Derating factors may have to be taken
into consideration when the circuit-breaker is used at higher ambient tempera-
tures, at altitudes above 2000 meters or in networks with different frequencies.
Please use the appropriate tables in Section 1.9 and Section 1.10.
SENTRON VL circuit-breakers have been designed for use in enclosed rooms, in
which no adverse operating conditions exist (e.g. dust, corrosive vapors, damag-
ing gases).
Suitable enclosures must be provided if the circuit-breakers are to be installed in
dusty or humid locations. Sufficient fresh air supply must be provided if there
are harmful gases (e.g. hydrogen-sulfide vapor) in the ambient air.
The maximum permissible ambient temperature range and the rated operational
currents permitted at different ambient temperatures are given in the technical
data.
1.8.2 Shock resistance
All Siemens SENTRON VL circuit-breakers are shock resistant in accordance

with test procedures outlined in IEC 68 Part 2
1.8.3 Current limitation
ALL of the Siemens SENTRON VL circuit-breakers are designed according to

the principle of magnetic contact repulsion. The contacts open before the pro-
spective peak value of the short-circuit current is reached. The magnetic contact
repulsion considerably reduces the thermal load I2t as well as the mechanical
load which occur during a short-circuit due to the maximum aperiodic short-cir-
cuit current of the system components IP.
1.9 Derating factors at high altitudes

The lower air pressure at altitudes above 2000 meters affects the electrical char-
acteristic data of the molded-case circuit-breakers. The following table lists the
derating factors that must be taken into consideration when using circuit-break-
ers at altitudes above 2000 meters.
Circuit-breaker Altitude [m]
2000 3000 4000
Dielectric strength 1.0 0.9 0.8
All Operating voltage 1.0 0.9 0.8
Factor x In at 50 °C 1.0 0.96 0.92
Table 1-3: Derating factors at high altitudes

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 1-9
1.10 Derating factors for special environmental conditions

A reduction (derating) of the rated operational current of the SENTRON VL cir-
cuit-breaker is necessary if the ambient temperature exceeds 50 °C. The limit
temperature is 40 °C for circuit-breakers with RCD modules or plug-in/withdraw-
able versions.
The permissible loads for various ambient temperatures in relationship to the
rated operational current of the circuit-breaker are shown in the Technical Data
list.
Furthermore, the following points must be taken into consideration, because
each one of these factors can influence the rated operational current and per-
missible load.
• Type of circuit-breaker (fixed mounted, plug-in and withdrawable versions)
• Type of main connection (vertical-horizontal busbar, cable)
• Ambient temperature of the circuit-breaker
• Altitude derating factors (see Section 1.9)
• Temperature derating factors based on the type of release and connection used (See
Section 1.10.2 to Section 1.10.4)
• Degree of protection (see Section 1.7)
1.10.1 Thermomagnetic overcurrent release
Fixed mounted versions:

Circuit- In Cross Cross Max. rated uninterrupted current
breaker at 50 °C section Cu section Al according to the ambient temperature
mm² min. mm² min. x In
40 °C 50 °C 60 °C 70 °C
VL160X 16 A 2.5 4 1 1 0.93 0.86
20 A 2.5 4
25 A 4 6
32 A 6 10
40 A 10 10
50 A 10 16
63 A 16 25
80 A 25 35
100 A 35 50
125 A 50 70
160 A 70 95
VL160 50 A 10 16 1 1 0.93 0.86
63 A 16 25
80 A 25 35
100 A 35 50
125 A 50 70
160 A 70 95
VL250 200 A 95 120 1 1 0.93 0.86
250 A 120 185
VL400 200 A 95 120 1 1 0.93 0.86
250 A 120 185
315 A 185 2x120
400 A 240 2x150
Table 1-4: Thermomagnetic overcurrent release derating factors

1-10 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Circuit- In Cross Cross Max. rated uninterrupted current

breaker at 50 °C section Cu section Al according to the ambient temperature
mm² min. mm² min. x In
40 °C 50 °C 60 °C 70 °C
VL630 315 185 2x120 1 1 0.93 0.86
400 240 2x150
500 2x150 2x185
630 2x185 2x240
Plug-in or withdrawable versions

Circuit-breaker Release Coefficient
thermomagnetic TM at
From [A] to [A] 40 °C 50 °C 60 °C 70 °C

VL160X 16 40 1 1 1 1
VL160 & 50 100 1 1 1 1
VL160X 125 160 1 0.9 0.9 0.9
VL250 200 250 1 0.9 0.9 0.9
VL400 200 250 1 1 1 1
315 400 1 0.9 0.9 0.9
VL630 315 400 1 1 1 1
500 630 1 0.85 0.85 0.85
Table 1-5: Thermomagnetic overcurrent release derating factors (plug-in or withdrawable versions)
Example for VL250:

• In = 200 A at 50 °C
• Ambient temperature = 60 °C
In = 200 x 0.93 = 186 A for fixed mounted version
In = 200 x 0.93 x 0.9 = 167 A for plug-in version

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 1-11
1.10.2 Thermomagnetic overcurrent release + RCD module

Circuit-breaker In at Cross Cross Max. rated uninterrupted current
50 °C section section according to the ambient temperature
Cu Al x In
[mm2] [mm2]
min. min. 40 °C 50 °C 60 °C) 70 °C
VL160X 16 A 2.5 4 1 1 0.93 0.80

20 A 2.5 4
25 A 4 6
32 A 6 10
40 A 10 10
50 A 10 16
63 A 16 25
80 A 25 35
100 A 35 50
125 A 50 70
160 A 70 95
VL160 50 A 10 16 1 1 0.93 0.80
63 A 16 25
80 A 25 35
100 A 35 50
125 A 50 70
160 A 70 95
VL250 200 A 95 120 1 1 0.86 0.80
250 A 120 185
VL400 200 A 95 120 1 1 0.86 0.80
250 A 120 185
315 A 185 2x120
400 A 240 2x150
Table 1-6: Thermomagnetic overcurrent release derating factors + RCD module (fixed mounted
versions)
Plug-in or withdrawable versions

Circuit-breaker Release Coefficient
thermomagnetic TM at
From [A] to [A] 40 °C 50 °C 60 °C 70 °C

VL160X 16 40 1 1 1 1
VL160 & 50 100 1 0.97 0.97 0.97
VL160X 125 160 1 0.88 0.88 0.88
VL250 200 250 1 0.85 0.85 0.85
VL400 200 250 1 0.97 0.97 0.97
315 400 1 0.85 0.85 0.85
Table 1-7: Thermomagnetic overcurrent release derating factors + RCD module (plug-in or
withdrawable versions)

1-12 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
1.10.3 Electronic overcurrent release

Circuit- In at 50 °C Cross Cross Max. permanent rated current
breaker section Cu section Al according to the ambient temperature
[mm2] [mm2] x In
min. min.
40 °C 50 °C 60 °C 70 °C)
VL160 63 A 16 25 1 1 1 0.80
100 A 35 50
160 A 70 95
VL250 200 A 95 120 1 1 1 0.80
250 A 120 185 1 1 0.95 0.80
VL400 315 A 185 2x120 1 1 1 0.80
400 A 240 2x150 1 1 0.95 0.80
VL630 630 A 2x185 2x240 1 1 0.95 0.80
VL800 800 A 2x 50x5 1 1 0.95 0.80
VL250 1000 A 2x 60x5 1 1 1 0.80
1250 A 2x 80x5 1 1 0.95 0.80
VL1600 1600 A 2x 100x5 1 1 0.95 0.80
Table 1-8: Electronic overcurrent release derating factors (fixed mounted versions)
Plug-in or withdrawable version

Circuit-breaker Electronic Coefficient
release ETU at
From [A] to [A] 40 °C 50 °C 60 °C 70 °C

VL160 63 100 1 1 1 1
125 160 1 0.9 0.9 0.9
VL250 200 250 1 0.9 0.9 0.9
VL400 315 400 1 0.9 0.9 0.9
VL630 630 1 0.85 0.85 0.85
VL800 800 1 0.9 0.9 0.9
VL1250 1000 1250 1 0.95 0.95 0.95
VL1600 1600 1 0.8 0.8 0.8
Table 1-9: Electronic overcurrent release derating factors (plug-in or withdrawable version)
Example for VL250:

• In = 250 A at 50 °C
In = 250 x 0.95 = 237 A for fixed mounted version
In = 250 x 0.95 x 0.9 = 213 A for plug-in version
• Set IR to next possible value

IR = 0.95 I n for fixed mounted version
IR = 0.8 I n for plug-in version

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 1-13
1.10.4 Thermomagnetic overcurrent release
The thermomagnetic overcurrent releases are calibrated to 50 °C. As a result,

the tripping times of the thermal overcurrent release increase for a constant cur-
rent at low temperatures.
In order to correct the tripping times, the thermal overcurrent release settings
must be changed by the following factor (lower settings)
Circuit-breaker At 0°C At 10°C At 20°C At 30°C At 40°C At 50°C

VL160X 0.80 0.83 0.87 0.90 0.95 1
VL160 0.80 0.83 0.87 0.90 0.95 1
VL250 0.80 0.83 0.87 0.90 0.95 1
VL400 0.80 0.83 0.87 0.90 0.95 1
VL630 0.80 0.83 0.87 0.90 0.95 1
Example for VL250:

• In = 250 A at 50 °C
Setting the thermal overcurrent release: 250A
Corrected setting = 250 x 0.87 = 217 A
1.11 Application in networks with different frequencies

1.11.1 Influence of network frequency and harmonics on the operation of
switching devices
If low-voltage switching devices designed for 50/60Hz are to be used at other

network frequencies, the following points must be taken into consideration:
• Thermal effects on the system components,
• Switching capacity
• Service life of the contact system,
• Tripping characteristics of the overcurrent release
• Behavior of the accessories
1.11.2 Thermal rating of the system components and conductor depending on

the network frequency
In contrast to direct current, alternating current does not flow uniformly through
the whole cross section of a conductor. The current density increases near the
surface. The phenomenon amplifies with increasing frequency. At very high fre-
quencies the center of the conductor carries almost no current and the current
actually only flows in a thin layer on the surface of the conductor. This is com-
monly known as the “skin effect”. As a result of this “skin effect”, the conductor
cross-section only partly carries current. The impedance of conductors
increases linearly with increasing frequency.

1-14 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
1.11.3 Current carrying capacity of circuit-breakers
Circuit-breakers designed for an AC voltage of 50/60Hz can be used for at least

the same rated currents at lower frequencies. In contrast to this however, the
permissible operational current must be reduced at frequencies above 100Hz to
ensure that the specified temperature rise limits are not exceeded. For exam-
ple, at 400 Hz the permissible current carrying capacity must be reduced by
between 50 % and 80 % compared to the current carrying capacity at 50 Hz.
1.11.4 Usage in 16 2/3 Hz networks
Circuit-breakers must be selected according to their DC switching capacities for

frequencies up to 16 2/3 Hz. These values are given in the Siemens LV30 cata-
log “Products and Systems for Power Distribution”. The rated operational current
of the circuit-breaker is the same at 16 2/3 Hz and 380/400 V as it is at 50/60 Hz
– 3-pole, whereby two poles are used in series. At 16 2/3 Hz and 500V, all three
poles must be used in series.
1.11.5 Usage in 50/60 Hz networks
These are the normal operating conditions. The required version can be
selected in the Siemens LV 30 catalog “Products and Systems for Power Distri-
bution” according to the required ambient temperature, switching capacity, etc.
Version Type VL used in networks with:

16 2/3 Hz 50/60 Hz 400 Hz DC
VL160X TM Yes Yes on req. Yes
ETU/LCD No Yes No No
VL160
TM Yes Yes on req. Yes
VL250
VL400
VL630
VL800 ETU/LCD No Yes No No
Table 1-11: Overview of deviating network frequencies
1.11.6 Circuit-breakers for 400 Hz applications
On request

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 1-15
1.11.7 Usage in DC voltage systems
Siemens SENTRON VL circuit-breakers with thermomagnetic overload releases

are suitable for use in DC networks.
However, SENTRON VL circuit-breakers that employ electronic overcurrent
releases are not suitable for DC networks.
The maximum rating information and the wiring configuration for DC switching
is shown in Section 5.3.
1.12 Influence of temperature and humidity on overcurrent

release
1.12.1 Thermomagnetic overcurrent release TM
Siemens thermomagnetic SENTRON VL overcurrent

releases are designed to be used in ambient tempera-
tures up to 70 °C and a non-condensing humidity of up
to 95%. The appropriate correction factors must be
Figure 1-2: Thermal / magnetic TM
applied for ambient temperatures above 50 °C.
–25 °C to + 50 °C, 6 95%
See Section 1.10.1 on Page 10.
1.12.2 Electronic overcurrent release ETU
The electronic SENTRON VL overcurrent releases are

designed for ambient temperatures up to 70 °C and a
non-condensing humidity of up to 95%. The appropri-
Figure 1-3: Standard ETU ate correction factors must be applied for ambient
-25 °C up to +70 °C, 6 95% temperatures above 50 °C.
1.12.3 Electronic overcurrent release LCD - ETU
The high-quality electronic SENTRON VL overcurrent

releases are designed for ambient temperatures up to
70 °C and a non-condensing humidity of up to 95%.
The appropriate correction factors must be applied for
Figure 1-4: ETU/LCD
ambient temperatures above 50 °C.
-25 °C up to +70 °C, 6 95%

1-16 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
1.13 Heat loss for fixed mounted circuit-breakers

1.13.1 Heat loss for thermomagnetic overcurrent releases (TM)
Heat loss for In for 3-phase balanced load
Type Rated current [A] Heat loss [W]

VL160X 16 12
20 19
25 12
32 12
40 18
50 16
63 19
80 30
100 24
125 33
160 42
VL160 50 16
63 20
80 25
100 25
125 35
160 45
VL250 200 45
250 55
Vl400 200 60
250 70
315 110
400 135
VL630 315 85
400 120
500 170
630 230
Table 1-12: Heat loss for thermomagnetic overcurrent releases (TM)

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 1-17
1.13.2 Heat loss for electrical overcurrent releases (ETU/LCD ETU)
Heat loss for In for 3-phase balanced load
Type Rated current [A] Heat loss [W]

VL160 63 7
100 16
160 40
VL250 200 42
250 60
VL400 315 60
400 90
VL630 630 160
VL800 800 250
VL1250 1000 135
1250 210
VL1600 1600 260
Table 1-13: Heat loss for electrical overcurrent releases (ETU/LCD ETU)
1.14 Circuit-breakers with differential current protection –

RCD module
The SENTRON VL RCD modules are available as accessories to the VL160X,
VL160, VL250 and VL400 circuit-breakers with thermomagnetic overcurrent
releases. This combination is referred to as a circuit-breaker with differential cur-
rent protection Type A. Type A means that the tripping operation is ensured for
faults in both sinusoidal alternating currents and pulsed direct currents. These
modules have an adjustable tripping time delay ∆t. The values for the rated fault
current I∆n can also be set.
In a faultless system, the sum of the currents in the summation current trans-
former of the RCD module is zero. A ground fault current appearing due to an
insulation fault in the protected circuit results in a differential current, which
induces a voltage in the secondary winding of the current transformer. The eval-
uation electronics monitors the induced voltage and sends a tripping command
to the RCD release if the trip criterium is fulfilled. The combination of the circuit-
breaker with the differential current protection is designed to cause the circuit-
breaker contacts to open when the residual current reaches a specified value.
The circuit-breaker with differential current protection is frequently used to
achieve a two-fold function:
• provide protection for the system against overload and short-circuit currents.
• provide protection for the wiring and electrical equipment against damage by ground
faults.
The VL160X – VL400 circuit-breakers equipped with a SENTRON VL RCD mod-
ule comply with IEC60947-2 (see Appendix B).
The SENTRON VL RCD module complies with IEC 61000-4-2 to 61000-4-6,
IEC 61000-4-11 and EN 55011, Class B (corresponds to CISPR 11) with regard to
electromagnetic compatibility.

1-18 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
The reference ambient temperature for the RCD module and the SENTRON VL
circuit-breaker is 40 °C. Integration of the SENTRON VL RCD module with the
SENTRON VL circuit-breaker has no effect on the characteristic data of the cir-
cuit-breaker, for example:
• Rated voltage (50/60 Hz), switching capacity
• Electrical and mechanical service life
• Connections
• Operating mechanisms (VL160, VL250, VL400)
• Auxiliary switch and release
For more information on the rated current, see Section 1.10
Standard Features
• Mechanical tripping display:
The reset button pops out when the RCD trips the circuit-breaker.
• Reset button:
must be manually reset after the RCD trips the circuit-breaker. The circuit-breaker can
not be reset and closed without first resetting the RCD.
• Cover:
Changeable settings for ∆t and I∆n.
A transparent sealable cover is available to prevent changes from being made.
• LED displays:
3 LEDs (green/yellow/red) display the level of the leakage/fault current. The LEDs will
flash to indicate that the SENTRON VL RCD is ready for operation.
– Green: I∆ = 25% of the specified value, voltage is applied to the
conductor
– Geen+yellow: 25% < I∆ < 50% of the specified I∆n value
– Green+yellow+red: I∆ = 50% of the specified I∆n value
• Test button:
The functioning of the RCD module can be checked with the test button. When the
test button is pressed, a differential current is simulated by one of the test windings of
the summation current transformer. If functioning correctly, the RCD module must trip
the circuit-breaker.
The test button must be depressed at least as long as the specified time delay ∆t.
• A network disconnecting device:
enables the evaluation electronics of the RCD module to be disconnected from the cir-
cuit without removing the primary cable or the busbar (e.g. before carrying out isola-
tion tests)
– Limit the maximum dielectric withstand voltage to an r.m.s. value of 3500 V AC for
this feature.
• Protective functionality down to 50 V AC between phase and the neutral conductor.
• The RCD module has a surge withstand strength of Ipeak = 2000 A. The standard
impulse wave is defined as an 8/20-µs waveshape.
• The RCD module will not trip on inrush currents
∆t ≥ 0 Irms = 3000A
∆t ≥ 60ms I peak = 20 × I n × 2
• The circuit-breaker and differential current protection combination can be fed from
both sides.
• Appropriate standard circuit-breaker accessories – terminal covers, phase barriers,
wire connectors

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 1-19
Special features of the VL160X

• The circuit-breaker is tripped via an electromechanical tripping relay, which is installed
in the compartment for circuit-breaker accessories to the left of the toggle handle. The
tripping unit is connected to the SENTRON VL RCD module and receives a tripping
command when the pre-set fault current levels are reached.
• Additional internal accessories can be installed in the SENTRON VL accessory com-
partment to the right of the toggle handle.
• The reset button functions in the same manner as for the VL160 to 400 RCD modules
and is accessible via the circuit-breaker accessory cover that is provided with this
module.
• A special kit is available for mounting the RCD module and the VL160X side by side.
The mounting adapter allows mounting onto a DIN 50023 rail. The collar of the combi-
nation is 45 mm wide over its entire length.
• Stored energy operators and rotary drives can not be installed in this product.
Special Features of the VL160, VL250, VL400

• The circuit-breaker is tripped via a direct-acting plunger from the RCD module to the
line circuit-breaker. The electromechanical trip unit is integrated in the RCD module.
• The reset button pops out above the surface of the RCD module cover to indicate that
the RCD module has tripped the line circuit-breaker. This device prevents the contacts
of the line circuit-breaker from being closed before the RCD module reset button is
manually reset.
• This construction is compatible with the line circuit-breaker accessories, including
those accessories for external operating mechanisms as well as for fixed mounted,
plug-in and withdrawable versions.
• An auxiliary switch (changeover switch) is included in the scope of supply. The con-
tacts change their state when the RCD module trips the line circuit-breaker. The con-
tact is suitable for
– 2 A 250 V AC applications (0.5 A inductive)
– 0.5 A 125 V DC.
The smallest switching capacity is 50 mA at 5V AC/DC.
• Remote tripping is also possible. The customer can connect a switch (NO contact) to
terminals X13.1 and X13.3 using a twisted pair cable. The switching contact should
possess a minimum switching capacity of 5 V/1 mA (e.g. SIEMENS 3SB3). The RCD
module trips if the NO contact is actuated. Terminals X13.1 and X13.3 are galvanically
isolated from the network using a transformer (functional extra-low voltage, FELV).
The max. tripping time of the circuit-breaker with differential current protection is 50
ms regardless of the specified tripping time delay ∆t. In special circumstances, e.g.
when the wiring is laid outdoors, it should be ensured that the overvoltage amplitude
(e.g. storm overvoltage) between the conductor and the ground is limited to 2.5 kV
through suitable installation or protective circuitry.
Special requirements:
• Every RCD module requires a separate conductor for remote tripping. It is not possible
to use one cable and to switch two or more RCD modules in parallel. The use of two
or more switches in parallel for remote control of one RCD module is allowed.
• The customer is to provide an unshielded or shielded twisted pair cable with a maxi-
mum capacitance of 36 nF and a maximum resistance of 50 Ohms (total length = go-
and-return).
Example: The maximum cable length for a cable with a capacitance of 120 nF/km is
300 m. When using a shielded cable, the shield may not be placed on the line PE con-
ductor.
• A separate conductor should connect terminal X13.2 to the ground bus (E or PE). This
connection is recommended in order to prevent electrostatic charging of the remote
tripping cable. This is particularly applicable when long cables (>10 m) are used. Other-
wise the remote tripping cable is floating.

1-20 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Design of the RCD module
Reset
Figure 1-5: VL160X with RCD Figure 1-6: VL160X with RCD Figure 1-7: VL160X with RCD
module module module
Reset
Figure 1-8: Left-side mounting for VL160X Figure 1-9: RCD module for VL160
with RCD module

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 1-21
RCD module Rated current Adjustable Time delay Rated

Circuit-breaker for In differential td operational
line protection: current I∆n adjustable voltage
3-pole and 4-pole Ue
A A V AC
VL160X
(mounting from 160 127 - 480
below) 0.03 Instantaneous
(mounting on the left) 0.10 0.06
0.30 0.10 127 - 480
VL160 160
0.50 0.25 230 - 690
1.00 0.50 127 - 480
VL250 250 3.00 1.00 230 - 690
127 - 480
VL400 400
230 - 690
Table 1-14: Overview of the RCD modules

1-22 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
VL160 to VL1600 Overcurrent Release System Overview
Overcurrent releases
1.15
Setting options
L S* I* G
GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02

Ir= x In Isd= x Ir tsd [s] Ii= x In Ig= x In
Plant protection
Motor protection
Generator protection
Function
with LC-Display
Thermal memory
Phase failure
Communication-
capable
Ground-fault protection
Number of poles
N Pole protected
I²t
Adjustable time-lag
Thermomagnetic
release
Electronic release
Electronic release
Order number
supplement
Release
LI 0.8-1 5-10 3 DC TM **

LI 0.8-1 5-10 4 EJ TM **
LI 0.8-1 5-10 4 EC TM **
LI 0.4-1 1.25-11 3 AP ETU 10 M**
LI 0.4-1 1.25-11 3 AB ETU 10
LI 0.4-1 1.25-11 4 BB ETU 10
LI 0.4-1 1.25-11 4 BA ETU 10
Table 1-15: Overcurrent release system overview

LIG 0.4-1 1.25-11 1 a 3 AC ETU 12
LIG 0.4-1 1.25-11 1 b 3 AD ETU 12
LIG 0.4-1 1.25-11 1 c 3 AJ ETU 12
LIG 0.4-1 1.25-11 1 b 4 BC ETU 12
LIG 0.4-1 1.25-11 1 b 4 BD ETU 12
LSI 0.4-1 1.5-10 0-0,5 11 3 AE ETU 20
LSI 0.4-1 1.5-10 0-0,5 11 4 BE ETU 20
LSI 0.4-1 1.5-10 0-0,5 11 4 BF ETU 20
LSIG 0.4-1 1.5-10 0-0,5 11 1 a 3 AG ETU 22
LSIG 0.4-1 1.5-10 0-0,5 11 1 b 3 AH ETU 22
LSIG 0.4-1 1.5-10 0-0,5 11 1 c 3 AK ETU 22
LSIG 0.4-1 1.5-10 0-0,5 11 1 b 4 BG ETU 22
Overcurrent release system overview
LSIG 0.4-1 1.5-10 0-0,5 11 1 b 4 BH ETU 22

LSI 0.4-1 6/8/11 3 AS ETU 30 M***
LSI 0.4-1 1.25-11 3 CP LCD ETU 40 M***
LI,LS,LSI 0.4-1 1.5-10 0-0,5 1.25-11 3 CH LCD ETU 40
LI,LS,LSI 0.4-1 1.5-10 0-0,5 1.25-11 4 CJ LCD ETU 40
LSIG 0.4-1 1.5-10 0-0,5 1.25-11 0.4-1 a 3 CL LCD ETU 42
LSIG 0.4-1 1.5-10 0-0,5 1.25-11 0.4-1 a/c 3 CM LCD ETU 42
LSIG 0.4-1 1.5-10 0-0,5 1.25-11 0.4-1 b 4 CN LCD ETU 42
* Dependant on frame size Ground-fault protection
** TM up to In= 630 A a) vectorial summation (3-conductor system) c) direct measurement of the ground-fault current
*** Motor protection up to In= 500 A b) vectorial summation (4-conductor system) in the star of the transformer
1-23
1.15.1 Thermomagnetic overcurrent release TM VL160X
Application: Line protection - TM, OFF

NSE-00539
TM ~ 63A
LI/LIN function (not interchangeable) =
50° C
CAT.A
Overload protection, fixed setting

L
short-circuit protection, fixed setting
I
2 4 6
Application: Line protection - TM, OFF

NSE-00540
63A
LI/LIN function (not interchangeable) TM ~=
50° C
CAT.A
Adjustable overload protection IR = 0.8 up to 1.0
x In
.8
IR
L
1 x In
I Short-circuit protection, fixed setting
2 4 6
1.15.2 Thermomagnetic overcurrent release TM VL160-VL630
Application: Line protection - TM, Ii

NSE-00541
I R 16 DC
1.0
Function LI/LIN 7 8
I n =160A
50 C
Adjustable overload protection IR = 0.8 up to 6 9
x In
TM ~
= CAT.A
IR I i
x I n .8
L 1 x In
5 10
I Adjustable short-circuit protection Ii = 5 to 10

x In for VL160 to VL630 2 4 6
1.15.3 Electronic overcurrent release ETU VL160-VL1600
General:
• No auxiliary voltage is needed for release system
• All ETUs have a thermal memory
• A flashing green LED indicates correct operation of the microprocessor
• Overload status (I > 1.05 x IR) is indicated by a permanently lit yellow LED (alarm)
• Integrated self-test function
• Socket contact for tester
Application: ETU10 for line protection, LI/LIN NSE-00542
Alarm
function IR
1.0 .4
tR (S)
30 2.5
Ii
11 1.25
>1.05 4 1.5
.95 .45 25 10
Overload protection IR = 0.4; 0.45; 0.5 to 0.95; .9 .5
tR
20 6 8 2
L .8
1 x In X3 .7 .63 .6 17
14 10
8 6
5 4
3
25 AB xIn IR Ii x In
I Time-lag class tR = 2.5 to 30 Active
CAT.A I n =250A ~ 25 AB
Short-circuit protection (instantaneous)
Ii = 1.25 up to 11 x In (dependent on frame size)
Application: ETU20 for line and generator pro- NSE-00543
L tection, LSI/LSIN function Alarm IR Isd t sd(S)

>1.05 1.0 .4 10 1.5 .4 0 I2t
.45 2
I t .3 .1
.95 2
8
Overload protection IR = 0.4; 0.45; 0.5 to 0.95; .9 .5 7 2.5 ON .2
OFF
.2
t sd
S 1 x In .8 .6 6 3
xIR
.1 .3
X3 .7 .63 IR Isd 5 4 .5 .4
x In
I Short-circuit protection (instantaneous) 25 AE Active
CAT.A I n=250A ~ 25 AE
NSE0_00920 I sd = 1.5 to 10 x I R , t sd = 0 to 0.5 s
I2t selectable, on/off
Ii = 11 x In (fixed setting, dependent on frame
size)

1-24 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Application: ETU12 for line protection, LIG/ NSE-00544
Alarm
LING function >1.05
IR
1.0 .4
t R(S)
30 2.5
Ii
11
1.25
.95 .45 25 4 10 1.5
L Overload protection IR = 0.4; 0.45; 0.5 to 0.95; .9 .5
tR
20 6 8 2
1 x In X3
.8
.7 .63
IR Ii
17
14 10
8 6
5 4
3
xIn x In
G I Time-lag class tR = 2.5 to 30 25 AD Active
CAT.A I n =250A ~ I n= I n
25 AD
NSE0_00693 Short-circuit protection (instantaneous)
Ground-fault protection:
Measuring method no. 1: (GR) vectorial summa-
tion in the three phases and neutral conductor (4-
conductor system); I∆n = In,
Versions “AC”, “AD”, “BC”, “BD”
Measuring method no. 2: (GGND) direct measure-
ment of the ground-fault current using a current
converter which is installed in the Ig = In (instan-
taneous) grounded star point; “AJ” versions
Application: ETU20 for line and generator pro- NSE-00545
L tection, LSI/LSIN function Alarm IR Isd t sd(S) 2

>1.05 1.0 .4 10 1.5 .4 0 I t
8 2 2 .1
.45 I t .3
Overload protection IR = 0.4; 0.45; 0.5 to 0.95; .95
.9 .5 7 2.5 ON.2 .2
OFF
S 1 x In .8 .6
t sd
6 3 x IR .1 .5 .4 .3
X3 .7 .63 5 4
x In IR Isd
G I Short-circuit protection (short-time delay) 25 AG Active
CAT.A I n = 250A~ I n= I n 25 AG
NSE0_00921 I sd = 1.5 to 10 x I R , t sd = 0 to 0.5 s
Ii = 11 x In (fixed setting, dependent on frame
size)
tion in the three phases and neutral conductor (4-
conductor system); I∆n = In,
“AG”, “AH”, “BG”, “BH” versions
converter, Ig = In (instantaneous); “AK” versions
Application: ETU10 for line protection, LI/LIN NSE-00546
L function Alarm
IR Ii IEC 60947-4
0.4 .10 .01 1.25 EN 60947-4
>1.05 .02 11 1.5
.09 10
Finely adjustable overload protection 0.5 + .08 .03 8 2
.04 xI
IR = 0.41; 0.42 to 0.98; 0.99; 1 x In, X3
0.9
0.8 0.7
0.6
xIn
.07.06 .05
IR Ii
6
5 4
3 n
I Trip class tC = 10 (fixed setting)

25 AP Active
CAT.A I n =250A ~ 25 AP
NSE0_00943 Thermal memory
with phase failure sensitivity
(see Section 5.4.2)
Application: ETU10 for motor protection, LI NSE0_01160
function Alarm
0.4 .10 .01 i =6x n
Finely adjustable overload protection >1.05
R
.09 .02
TC
20
30 10
20
L 0.5 .08 .03 10 30
IR = 0.41; 0.42 to 0.98; 0.99; 1 x In, 0.9 0.6 .07 .04 10A 10 Active
X3 0.8 0.7 x .06 .05 30 20
I Trip class tC = 10 A, 10, 20, 30 n
i =11x n i =8x n
Thermal memory
Ii = 6 up to 11 x In with phase failure sensitivity

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 1-25
1.15.4 Electronic overcurrent release LCD ETU
General:
• No auxiliary voltage is needed for release system
• Current display
• An illuminated LCD display indicates correct operation of microprocessor
• Overload status (I > 1.05 x IR) is indicated by ”Overload” on the LCD display
• Direct, user-friendly, menu-driven setting of the absolute values of the protection
parameters in Ampere values via keys
• Integrated self-test function
• Socket contact for tester
• Communication connection to PROFIBUS-DP
Application: ETU40 for line protection, LSI NSE-00547
L function, ETU40M motor/generator protection, ESC

L1=178; L2=181
LSI/LSIN function
L3=179; N=0
Overload protection IR = 0.4 to 1 x In
I
Trip class tC = 2.5 to 30 CAT.A I n =250A ~ I n= I n
25 CL
NSE0_00944 Thermal memory selectable, on/off

Short-circuit protection (short-time delay)
Isd = 1.5 to 10 x IR, tsd = 0 to 0.5 s
Short-circuit protection (instantaneous) Ii = 1.25
to 11 x In (dependent on frame size)
Application: ETU42 for line protection, LSIG/ NSE-00547
L LSING function ESC

L1=178; L2=181
Overload protection IR = 0.4 to 1 x In
L3=179; N=0
S Time-lag class tR = 2.5 up to 30
G I Thermal memory selectable, on/off CAT.A I n =250A ~ I n= I n
25 CL
NSE0_00697 Short-circuit protection (short-time delay)

Isd = 1.5 to 10 x IR, tsd = 0 to 0.5 s
tion of the currents in the three phases and neu-
tral conductor (4-conductor system) I∆n = 0.4 to 1
x In,
“CL”, “CM”, “CN” versions
converter, Ig = 0.4 to 1 x In, tg=0.1 to 0.5 s;
“CM” versions

1-26 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
MENU on the LCD display of the overcurrent release

The following languages are available:
• English (default)
• Spanish
• German
• French
Main menu Submenu 1.1 Submenu 1.1.1 Submenu 1.1.1
Default Screen
(Basic Metering
and Setup)
View Line
View Line
Protection
View Protection
View Motor
View Motor
Protection
View Setpoints View System
View ZSI
Change Line
Change Line
Protection
Change
Protection
View Motor
Change Motor
Protection
Change
Setpoints Change ZSI
<Password>
Change
Password
Breaker Action
"Emergency"
Figure 1-10: Menu of the LCD display of the overcurrent release

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 1-27
1.15.5 Menu structure of the electronic trip unit LCD ETU
DEFAULT SCREEN
DEFAULT SCREEN
LSI / TRIP UNIT TOP OF LIST
TOP OF LIST VIEW SETPOINTS VIEW PROTECTION DATA
LAST TRIP PHASE LAST TRIP STATUS

VIEW SYSTEM DATA
TRIP TIME
dd/mm/yy h:m ONLY IF DATA
COM10 IS VIEW ZSI ( OPTION)
CONNECTED.
PHASE CURRENTS = COM10

VIEW COMM ADDRESS DATA
BOTTOM OF LIST
BOTTOM OF LIST
CIRCUIT BREAKER TRIPS
TOP OF LIST
OPTION -
INITIATE TRIP ACTION STARTED ENTER PASSWORD

CHANGE PROTECTION DATA
CHANGE SETPOINTS
INITIATE TRIP IN 10 SECOND

INITIATE
CHANGE ZSI DATA
ACTION
( OPTION )
= YES
= NO INITIATE INITIATE BREAKER ACTION

TRIP IN 1 TRIP
SECOND CHANGE COM DATA
ADDRESS
TEST ZSI ACTION STARTED

BOTTOM OF LIST SELECT LANGUAGE DATA
TEST ZSI 1 ZSI

INITIATE SECOND PULSE TEST DATA
ACTION CHANGE PASSWORD
= YES
= NO BOTTOM OF LIST
TEST ZSI 10
SECOND PULSE
Figure 1-11: Detail of the menu for the overcurrent release LCD ETU 40

1-28 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
TOP OF LIST
TOP OF LIST
CONTINUOUS AMPS CONTINUOUS AMPS SETTING 100 AMP
SAVE CHANGES ?
DATA
CHANGE SAVED =YES
CHANGE NOT SAVED =NO CONTINUOUS AMPS SETTING 250 AMP
LONG TIME DELAY LONG TIME DELAY SETTING 2.5 SEC
SAVE CHANGES ?
DATA
CHANGE SAVED =YES
CHANGE NOT SAVED =NO LONG TIME DELAY SETTING 30 SEC
SHORT TIME SHORT TIME DELAY OFF
SAVE CHANGES ?
DATA
CHANGE SAVED =YES
CHANGE NOT SAVED =NO SHORT TIME DELAY ON
SHORT TIME PICKUP SHORT TIME PICKUP = 150 A
SAVE CHANGES ?
DATA
CHANGE SAVED =YES
CHANGE PROTECTION
CHANGE NOT SAVED =NO SHORT TIME PICKUP = 1000 A
SHORT TIME MODE SHORT TIME MODE FIXED
SAVE CHANGES ?
DATA
CHANGE SAVED =YES
CHANGE NOT SAVED =NO SHORT TIME MODE (I^2)T
SHORT TIME DELAY SHORT TIME DELAY SETTING .100 SEC
SAVE CHANGES ?
DATA
CHANGE SAVED =YES
CHANGE NOT SAVED =NO SHORT TIME DELAY SETTING .500 SEC
IOC AMPS INSTANTANEOUS CURRENT = 312 AMPS
SAVE CHANGES ?
DATA
CHANGE SAVED =YES
CHANGE NOT SAVED =NO INSTANTANEOUS CURRENT = 2750 AMPS
THERMAL MEMORY THERMAL MEMORY IS OFF
SAVE CHANGES ?
DATA
CHANGE SAVED =YES
CHANGE NOT SAVED =NO THERMAL MEMORY IS ON
PREALARM ENABLE PREALARM IS OFF
SAVE CHANGES ?
DATA
CHANGE SAVED =YES
CHANGE NOT SAVED =NO PREALARM IS ON
PREALARM PREALARM SET AT 80 AMPS
SAVE CHANGES ?
DATA
CHANGE SAVED =YES
CHANGE NOT SAVED =NO PREALARM SET AT 100 AMPS
BOTTOM OF LIST
Figure 1-12: Example: Changing the type of protection of the overcurrent release LCD ETU 40

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 1-29
DEFAULT SCREEN
DEFAULT SCREEN
MOTOR PROTECTION TRIP UNIT TOP OF LIST
TOP OF LIST VIEW PROTECTION DATA

VIEW SETPOINTS
LAST TRIP PHASE LAST TRIP STATUS

VIEW SYSTEM DATA
TRIP TIME
dd/mm/yy h:m ONLY IF DATA
COM10 IS VIEW COM ADDRESS
CONNECTED.
PHASE CURRENTS = COM10

BOTTOM OF LIST
BOTTOM OF LIST
CIRCUIT BREAKER TRIPS

TOP OF LIST
OPTION -
INITIATE TRIP ACTION STARTED ENTER PASSWORD

CHANGE PROTECTION DATA
CHANGE SET POINTS
INITIATE TRIP IN 10 SECOND

INITIATE
ACTION CHANGE COM DATA
ADDRESS
= YES
= NO INITIATE INITIATE BREAKER ACTION

TRIP IN 1 TRIP
SECOND SELECT DATA
LANGUAGE
BOTTOM OF LIST CHANGE PASSWORD DATA
BOTTOM OF LIST
Figure 1-13: Detail of the menu for the overcurrent release LCD ETU 40 M

1-30 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
TOP OF LIST
TOP OF LIST
CONTINUOUS AMPS CONTINUOUS AMPS SETTING 100 AMP
SAVE CHANGES ?
DATA
CHANGE SAVED =YES
CHANGE NOT SAVED =NO CONTINUOUS AMPS SETTING 250 AMP
TRIP CLASS TRIP CLASS SETTING = 5
SAVE CHANGES ?
DATA
CHANGE SAVED =YES
CHANGE NOT SAVED =NO TRIP CLASS SETTING = 30
IOC AMPS INSTANTANEOUS CURRENT = 312 AMPS
SAVE CHANGES ?
DATA
CHANGE SAVED =YES
CHANGE PROTECTION
CHANGE NOT SAVED =NO INSTANTANEOUS CURRENT = 2750 AMPS
UNBALANCE UNBALANCE AMPS SET TO 5 %
SAVE CHANGES ?
DATA
CHANGE SAVED =YES
CHANGE NOT SAVED =NO UNBALANCE AMPS SET TO 50 %
THERMAL MEMORY THERMAL MEMORY IS OFF
SAVE CHANGES ?
DATA
CHANGE SAVED =YES
CHANGE NOT SAVED =NO THERMAL MEMORY IS ON
PREALARM ENABLE PREALARM IS ON
SAVE CHANGES ?
DATA
CHANGE SAVED =YES
CHANGE NOT SAVED =NO PREALARM IS OFF
PREALARM PREALARM SET AT 54 AMPS
SAVE CHANGES ?
DATA
CHANGE SAVED =YES
CHANGE NOT SAVED =NO PREALARM SET AT 108 AMPS
INSTALL BREAKER POSITION SWITCH BRKR POSITION SW INSTALLED
SAVE CHANGES ?
DATA
CHANGE SAVED =YES
CHANGE NOT SAVED =NO BRKR POSITION SW NOT INSTALLED
BOTTOM OF LIST
Figure 1-14: Example: Changing the type of protection of the overcurrent release LCD ETU 40 M

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 1-31
1.15.6 Commissioning
The overcurrent release must be activated in order to parameterize it. A mini-

mum load current of approx. 20% of the respective rated current ‘In’ of the cir-
cuit-breaker is required.
The “LCD ETU” release is preset during production with the maximum settings
for the overload release and the short-circuit release. This means that activation,
and hence parameterization, is possible when a load is connected with a mini-
mum current of at least 20% of the respective rated current ‘In’.
Changing the parameters for the overload and short-circuit releases during oper-
ation to a value under the present operating value causes instantaneous trip-
ping.
If this minimum load current is not available, the required auxiliary power can be
supplied using the 3VL9000-8AK00 hand-held tester. The release in circuit-
breakers with communication capabilities is supplied with power by the
COM10.
Note:
The hand-held tester can be borrowed from the Instrument Center (SIRENT) in
Erlangen (Germany):
Address of SIRENT Rentals, Sales and Service. Rental and sales of tools and
measuring and test devices:
SIEMENS AG
SIRENT Rentals, Sales and Service
I&S IS 3 SCE ITC
Günther-Scharowsky-Str. 2
91058 Erlangen, Germany
Tel. +49 (0) 9131-7-33310
Fax. +49 (0) 9131-7-33320
sirent.az@erl9.siemens.de
http://intranet.siemens.de/sirent
The conditions for borrowing these devices can be viewed by entering the
device number “S7P460” of the Instrument Center.
1.15.7 Overcurrent release system - functions overview
L LTD → Long-time delay Overload protection

S STD → Long-time delay Short-circuit protection (short-time
delay)
I INST → Instantaneous Instantaneous short-circuit protection
G GF → Ground fault Ground fault protection
N N → Neutral Neutral conductor protection
Labeling overview
TM → Thermomagnetic overcurrent release
ETU → Electronic overcurrent release
LCD ETU → Electronic overcurrent release with LCD display

1-32 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
1.16 Ground fault protection

Description
The ground-fault release “G” detects fault currents which flows into the ground
and could cause fires in the system. Several circuit-breakers connected in series
can be given time-graded discrimination by means of the adjustable delay time.
The following measurement methods can be used to detect neutral conductor
and ground-fault currents:
1.16.1 Measurement method 1: Vectorial summation
Ground-fault detection in balanced systems

The three phase currents are evaluated using vectorial summation
L1
3VL L2
L3
PE
NSE0_00685
Figure 1-15: Circuit-breaker in balanced system
Ground-fault detection in unbalanced systems

The neutral conductor current is measured directly. Only the ground-fault cur-
rent is evaluated for the 3-pole circuit-breakers. In the case of the 4-pole circuit-
breakers, the neutral conductor overload protection is also evaluated.
The overcurrent release calculates the ground-fault current using the vectorial
summation of the three phase currents and the neutral conductor current.
The 4th current converter of the neutral conductor is installed internally in the
case of 4-pole circuit-breakers.
L1
3VL L2
L3
N
T5 PE
NSE0_00686
Figure 1-16: 3-pole circuit-breaker, current converter in neutral conductor current
L1
L2
3VL L3
N
PE
NSE0_00687
Figure 1-17: 4-pole circuit-breaker, current converter installed internally

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 1-33
Measurement method 2: Direct detection of the ground-fault current via a current

transformer at the grounded star point of the transformer
The current converter is installed directly at the grounded star point of the trans-
former.
L1
L2
3VL
L3
T6
PE
NSE0_00688
Figure 1-18: 3-pole circuit-breaker, current transformer at the grounded star point of the transformer
1.17 Rating plate and identification number
Frame sizes
Accessory cover
(removable)
Standards
Circuit-
breaker type
Switching capacity
Toggle handle with 3

positions Switching capacity
Accessory
identification
Test button
Catalog no.
(MRPD)
Short-circuit
release/
setting
Overcurrent
setting
Reference temperature In Nominal current of the

circuit-breaker
Overcurrent release type TM
(Thermomagnetic)
Figure 1-19: Circuit-breaker – Labeling and control elements

1-34 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
1.17.1 MRPD system overview
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
3 V L N N N N N A A N N N A A N
Frame size
Version
(ANSI/UL - IEC)
Rated current
Breaking capacity
Overcurrent
release
Number of poles
Type of install.
and connections
Voltage & under-
volt. release
Auxiliary current
and alarm switch
Table 1-16: Order No. scheme (MRPD) for 3VL components
(N = numerical value, A = alphanumerical value)

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 1-35

1-36 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Mounting 2

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 2-1
Mounting
2.1 Overview
The SENTRON VL circuit-breakers are available in fixed mounted, plug-in or
withdrawable versions, with either three or four poles.
Withdraw-
Circuit-breaker type Fixed Plug-in
able
VL 160X x x –
VL 160 x x x
VL 250 x x x
VL 400 x x x
VL 630 x x x
VL 800 x – x
VL 1250 x – x
VL 1600 x – x
Table 2-1: Overview of the types of installation
2.2 Fixed mounted versions

SENTRON VL circuit-break-
ers can be directly con-
nected to the mounting
plate. If busbars or terminals
are used to connect the cir-
cuit-breaker on the back of
the mounting plate, the
appropriate safety clear-
ances must be observed
(see Chapter 1.5).
Figure 2-1: Connection on the Figure 2-2: Connection on the
front of the mounting plate back of the mounting plate
Siemens SENTRON VL cir-
cuit-breakers can be
mounted directly onto
mounting rails supplied by
the customer. The appropri-
ate safety clearances must
be observed.
Figure 2-3: Connection on the

front of the mounting rail
Busbars and cables can be
directly connected to the
front of busbar extensions
or to bolts for connections
on the back. If using straight
busbar extensions, it is rec-
ommended to use terminal
covers or phase barriers.

front back

2-2 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Mounting
2.3 Plug-in versions

Plug-in sockets with pad-
type terminals on the front
or rear are available for di-
rectly connecting cables and
busbars. The plug-in socket
is directly attached to the
mounting plate or mounting
rails supplied by the custom-
er.
front of the mounting plate back of the mounting plate
The appropriate safety clear-
ances must be observed.
Terminal covers and phase
barriers are available for con-
necting the circuit-breaker to
the front of the connecting
bars. A circuit-breaker in the
“ON” position cannot be
removed from the plug-in
socket. The circuit-breaker
will switch to the “tripped”
front of the mounting rails back of the mounting rails
position if attempts are
made to remove it while it is
in the “ON” position.
2.4 Withdrawable versions

Connections:
SENTRON VL circuit-break-
ers may be used as with-
drawable devices. They may
be connected on either the
front or the back. Safety cov-
ers are provided and re-
quired for final installation.

front of the withdrawable back of the withdrawable
version version

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 2-3
Mounting
Positions:
Figure 2-12: Connected position Figure 2-13: Disconnected

Figure 2-14: Removable position
position
In the connected position the circuit-breaker is completely engaged, and all con-
tacts - supply, outgoing and auxiliary contacts - are connected to the guide
frame. The circuit-breaker is ready for operation.
A safety interlock prevents the circuit-breaker from being removed when it is
switched on. The safety interlock causes the circuit-breaker to switch off so that
the arc which occurs inside the circuit-breaker when current flows can be extin-
guished.
The circuit-breaker can be installed in and removed from the guide frame when
it is in the removable position.
2.5 Mounting and safety clearances

2.5.1 Mounting/installation
All SENTRON VL circuit-breakers can be mounted in the shown positions:
90°°
90 90°
90 ° 90°
90 ° 90°°
30
Figure 2-15: Mounting/installation

2-4 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Mounting
2.5.2 Safety clearances:
During a short circuit interruption, high temperatures, ionized gases and high
pressures are present in and above the arc chutes of the circuit-breaker.
Safety clearances are required to:
• allow the pressure to be distributed
• prevent fire or damage caused by any escaped ionized gases
• prevent a short circuit to grounded sections
• prevent arcing or short-circuit currents to live sections
C
A
D
B
Figure 2-16: Safety clearances:
Permitted safety clearances according to IEC 60947

Circuit- Switching A A B C D
breaker capacity ≤ 415 V >415 - 690 V ≤ 690 V ≤ 690 V ≤ 690 V
type with or with- without cov- with covers
out covers ers
VL160X Standard 35 mm 70 mm 35 mm 25 mm 25 mm 35 mm
High
VL160 Standard 50 mm 100 mm 50 mm 25 mm 25 mm 35 mm
High
Very high
High
Very high
High
Very high
High
Very high
High
Very high
High
Very high
High
Very high
Definition of the permitted safety clearances in [mm] between
A: circuit-breaker and current paths (uninsulated and grounded metal)
B: circuit-breaker phase terminal and lower panel
C: side of circuit-breaker and side panels (uninsulated and grounded metal)
D: circuit-breaker and non-conductive parts with at least 3 mm thick insulation (insulator, insulated bar, painted plate)

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 2-5
Mounting
If uninsulated conductors are connected to terminals 1, 3, 5 and 7, they must be

insulated from one another. This can be achieved using phase barriers or termi-
nal covers.
Terminal covers should be used for the main terminals at voltages of ≥ 600 V AC
or ≥ 500 V DC.
E=0
Figure 2-17: Minimum clearance between two horizontally or vertically installed circuit-breakers.
Minimum clearance between two horizontally or vertically installed circuit-breakers.

Ensure that the busbar or cable connection does not reduce the air insulation
distance. The permissible clearance between two circuit-breakers applies for
both fixed mounted and plug-in versions. Some accessories may increase the
width of the circuit-breaker. Refer to outline drawings.
Figure 2-18: Minimum clearance between the circuit-breaker and metal
The clearance between the terminal and the grounded metal must be
G ≥ 12 mm.
If the clearance to ground G < 12 mm, live parts must be insulated or a suitable
barrier must be installed.
Caution
Depending on the application, appropriate air and creepage distances must be
observed, e.g. see IEC 60439-1.

2-6 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Mounting
2.5.3 Safety clearances between circuit-breakers
Minimum clearance between two circuit-breakers which are installed above one
another with different kinds of connections
Insulation
Insulation Insulation
Busbar
A B C D
A Connection on the front with cable, direct

B Connection on the front with cable lug
C Connection on the front with pad-type terminal
D Connection on the back with plug-in socket or busbar terminals
Figure 2-19: Table of different connection types
Circuit-breaker VL160X VL160 VL250 VL400 VL630 VL800 VL1250 VL1600

type
Switching capac- NH NHL NHL
tity
A 160 mm 200 mm
≤ 690 V
Table 2-2: Safety clearances between circuit-breakers
The clearances given in the table are necessary to enable any ionized gasses
that arise during a short-circuit to disperse.

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 2-7
Mounting
2.5.4 Mounting cables and busbars
SENTRON VL molded-case circuit-breaker can be connected using cables, flexi-

ble copper bars or busbars. Either copper or aluminum can be used.
Thermal and electrodynamic loads affect these conductors if a short circuit
occurs. In order to avoid dangerous effects, it is necessary to size them properly
and to correctly ground them.
The diagrams and tables below show the recommended maximum clearance
between the circuit-breaker and the first support.
A
B
Figure 2-20: Mounting using a cable connection Figure 2-21: Mounting using busbars
Support dimen- VL160X VL160 VL250 VL400 VL630 VL800 VL1250 VL1600
sions
A cable mm 100 100 130 150 300
B cable mm 400 400 400 400 600
C bar mm 250
Table 2-3: Recommended cable mounting clearances
This table applies for all switching capacities

2-8 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Mounting
2.6 Overview of cable and busbar mounting methods

2.6.1 Rated operational voltage: Ue ≤ 600 V AC/500 V DC
(data about switching capacity Icu is based on 400/415 V AC)
Circuit-breaker dimensions VL160X VL160 VL250 VL400 VL630
Switching capacity for Ue ≤ 600 V AC/500 V DC Icu max Icu max Icu max Icu max Icu max
70 kA 100 kA 100 kA 100 kA 100 kA

• Directly mounted cable
• Insulated up to the circuit-breaker
Accessories:
• none
PP
!PP
70 kA 100 kA 100 kA 100 kA 50 kA

• Cable with cable lug
• Insulation 8 mm above the phase barrier
Accessories:
• Phase barriers
• Weitkowitz cable lug
• Connection with screw-type terminals
8 mm
• Cable with cable lug 70 kA 100 kA 100 kA 100 kA 50 kA

• Front connecting bars, standard
Accessories:
• Phase barriers
Table 2-4: Connection types (for Ue ≤ 600 V AC/500 V DC)

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 2-9
Mounting
8 mm

70 kA 100 kA 100 kA 100 kA 50 kA
• Front connecting bars, increased
pole clearance
Accessories:
• Phase barriers
40 kA 40 kA 40 kA 45 kA 50 kA
• Connecting bars, directly mounted
• Without insulation
Accessories:
• Phase barriers
70 kA 100 kA 100 kA 100 kA 100 kA

• With extended connection cover
Accessories:
• Extended connection cover
REVERSE
70 kA 100 kA 100 kA 100 kA 100 kA

• Incoming supply from the overcurrent release
side
Accessories:
• Phase barriers

2-10 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Mounting
PP
70 kA 100 kA 100 kA 100 kA 100 kA

• Insulation 250 mm from the circuit-breaker
Accessories:
250 mm
8 mm
70 kA 100 kA 100 kA 100 kA 50 kA

• Insulation 8 mm above the phase barrier and
250 mm from the circuit-breaker
Accessories:
• Phase barriers
> 8 mm
• Connecting bars
70 kA 100 kA 100 kA 100 kA 50 kA
Accessories:
• Phase barriers
> 8 mm
• Connecting bars
• Front connecting bars, increased 70 kA 100 kA 100 kA 100 kA 50 kA
pole clearance
Accessories:
• Phase barriers

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 2-11
Mounting
70 kA 100 kA 100 kA 100 kA 100 kA

• Connecting bars
Accessories:
• Connecting bars
70 kA 100 kA 100 kA 100 kA 100 kA
Accessories:

2-12 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Mounting
2.6.2 Rated operational voltage: Ue ≤ 690 V AC/600 V DC

(Data about switching capacity Icu based on 690 V AC)
12 kA 12 kA 12 kA 15 kA 35 kA
• Directly mounted cable
• Accessories:
• Standard connection cover

12 kA 12 kA 12 kA 15 kA 35 kA
• Weitkowitz cable lug
• Accessories:
8 kA 12 kA 12 kA 15 kA –
• Accessories:
12 kA 12 kA 12 kA 15 kA 35 kA
• Accessories:
Table 2-5: Connection types (for Ue <= 600 V AC/500 V DC)

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 2-13
Mounting
• Connecting bars 12 kA 12 kA 12 kA 15 kA 35 kA
• Accessories:
REVERSE
• Connecting bars, directly mounted 12 kA 12 kA 12 kA 15 kA 35 kA

• Incoming supply from the overcurrent release
side
• Accessories:
• Phase barriers
Table 2-5: Connection types (for Ue <= 600 V AC/500 V DC)

2-14 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Connections 3

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 3-1
Connections
3.1 Main conductor connection of the SENTRON VL fixed

mounted version
3.1.1 Network connection
SENTRON VL circuit-breakers can be supplied with power from above and

below.
Network: Load: Network Load
3VL 3VL 3VL 3VL
RCD RCD
Load Network
Load Network
Network: incoming supply
Load: outgoing feeder
Figure 3-1: Supply types
3.1.2 Multiple feed-in terminal for cable (copper/aluminum)
These multiple feed-in terminals for the in-

coming supply and outgoing feeders con-
sist of an aluminum body with tin plating to
prevent oxidation. Both aluminum or cop-
per cables may be used. Only one conduc-
tor is permitted per terminal.
Multiple feed-in terminals are available for
the SENTRON VL 160X to VL 1250 circuit-
breakers. Additional screw-type terminals
Figure 3-2: Multiple Figure 3-3: Multiple are required for the SENTRON VL 160X and
feed-in terminals feed-in terminal applica- VL 160 circuit-breakers.
tion
VL160X/ VL250 VL400 VL400 VL630 VL800 VL1250

VL160
Stranded cable Al 10-95 50-240 120-400 50-120 50-240 50-240 120-240
cross section Cu 10-95 50-240 95-240 50-120 50-240 50-240 120-240
(mm2)
Cable connection 1 1 1 2 2 3 4
possibilities
Torque Nm 16-20 6 25-35 14 95- 31 31 34 42 42
25-45 9 50- 31 120
50-95 14 185 150- 56
400
Tool (hex wrench) 4 8 12 8 8 8 8
Fixing screw Nm – 13 15 15 15 15 24
Torque
Tool (Allen key)* – 4 6 6 6 8 8
* For the fixing screws of the connection pieces

3-2 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Connections
3.1.3 Box terminals (copper cables or bars)
The steel box terminal is supplied as stan-

dard for use with the SENTRON VL160X
and VL160 circuit-breakers. It is optional for
VL250 to VL400. The terminal is designed
to connect either a conductor or a solid/
flexible copper cable.
Figure 3-4: Box termi- Figure 3-5: Box termi-

nals nals with solid/flexible
copper bars or cables
Type of cable VL160X/VL160 VL250 VL400

Solid/stranded mm2 2.5-70 25-150 50-240
Stranded with end mm2 2.5-50 25-120 50-185
sleeves
Busbar dimensions mm 12 x 10 x 19 17 x 10 x 24 25 x 10 x 46
WxHxD
Tightening torque mm 4/8 12 25
Tool (Allen key) 4 5 8
3.1.4 Front connecting bars
Connecting bars are used to connect the

circuit-breakers to busbars or cables in
electrical systems. Front connecting bars
are supplied with the SENTRON VL1600 as
standard. Phase barriers are also included.
Extended terminal covers can be fitted if
necessary.
Screw-type terminals with a metric thread
(See 3.1.8.) are required for the SENTRON
VL160X VL 160.
Figure 3-6: Front con- Figure 3-7: Application
necting bars of front connecting bars

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 3-3
Connections
Di- VL160X/ VL250 VL400 VL630 VL800 VL1250/

men- VL160 VL1600
sions
(mm)
W 20 22 30,5 42 50 60
L 44.5 44.5 81.75 69.75 91.5 102.25
D 10 13 15 15 15 20
T 6.5 6.5 9.5 9.5 9.5 16
Ø 7 11 11 11 13 13
3.1.5 Front flared busbar extensions
Front flared busbar extensions are used to

establish busbar connections in switch-
boards or other electrical equipment. Nor-
mal application enables them to be
matched to the next biggest circuit-breaker.
See Table 1.1.4 above for the jumper dimen-
sions.
Phase barriers are also included in the
scope of supply.
Figure 3-8: Flared bus- Figure 3-9: Application Warning: Not compatible with extended
bar extensions of flared busbar exten- terminal cover!
sions
Additional screw-type terminals are re-
quired for the SENTRON VL160 VL and
160X.
VL160X/ VL250 VL400 VL630 VL800

VL160
P (mm) 44.5 44.5 63.5 76 76
3.1.6 Rear terminals
Rear terminals are used to adapt the SEN-

TRON VL circuit-breakers to switchboards
or other applications that require rear con-
nection. They are bolted directly to a stan-
dard SENTRON VL circuit-breaker without
requiring any modification. Circuit-breakers
mounted in switchboards or other electrical
equipment may be removed from the front
by removing the fixing screw that connects
Figure 3-10: Round ter- Figure 3-11: Applica- the circuit-breaker to the terminal.
minals tion of the round termi-
nals

3-4 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Connections
Thread VL160X/ VL250 VL400

Round terminal VL160
Short length (Ls) 54 54 56.5
mm
Long length (Ll)mm 110 110 116
Thread M12 M12 M12
Pad-type terminal VL160X/ VL250 VL400
VL160
Short length (Ls) 51.5 51.5 56
mm
Long length (Ll)mm 108.5 108.5 116
Bore Ø 11 11 11
W/W/T 25/25/4 25/25/4 28/28/8
3.1.7 Rear flat busbar terminals
Rear flat busbar terminals are used to adapt

SENTRON VL630 to VL1600 circuit-break-
ers to switchboards or other applications
that require rear connection.
The rear flat busbar terminals are bolted di-
rectly to a standard SENTRON VL circuit-
breaker without requiring any modification.
A vertical or horizontal connection is estab-
lished depending on the way the busbar
terminals are mounted to the rear of the
circuit-breaker. Circuit-breakers mounted in
switchboards or other electrical equipment
using rear flat busbar terminals may be re-
Figure 3-12: Flat bus- Figure 3-13: Applica- moved from the front by removing the fix-
bar terminal tion of flat busbar ter- ing screw that connects the circuit-breaker
minals to the busbar.
mm VL630 VL800 VL1250 VL1600

W 32 50 50 60
L 66.5 159 159 178
ØD 11 13 (2x) 13 (2x) 13 (2x)
Spanner opening 6 6 6 18
Torque 15 15 15 30
Fixing screw

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 3-5
Connections
3.1.8 Connection with screw-type terminals
The screw-type terminal with metric thread

slides onto the incoming and outgoing ter-
minal of the SENTRON VL circuit-breaker
and acts as a threaded adapter for connect-
ing busbars and cable lugs. The customer
is responsible for the provision of screws
and washers for the terminals and busbars
if the size specified below is exceeded.
Screw-type terminals are supplied for use
with the SENTRON VL250 to VL1250 as
Figure 3-14: Connection Figure 3-15: Establish- standard.
with screw-type termi- ing a connection with a
nal screw-type terminal
Circuit- VL160X VL160 VL250 VL400 VL630 VL800 VL1250

breaker
Screw M5 x 20 M5 x 20 M8 x 20 M8 x 20 M6 x 30 M8 x 30 M8 x 40
(2x) (2x) (2x)
Customer mm 1-7 1-7 1-7 3-10 5-10 10-15 15-20
busbar T
Max. torque Nm 4.5 4.5 10 15 15 24 24
Busbar
dmax
Wmax mm 6 9 9 10 10 13 13
mm 19 24 24 32 42 50 50
3.1.9 Connection with cable lugs
Figure 3-16: Cable lug Figure 3-17: Applica- Figure 3-18: Applica- Figure 3-19: Applica-
tion of cable lug no. 1 tion of cable lug no. 2 tion of cable lug no. 3
Cable lugs (ring cable lugs) are used to connect the cables to the terminals of
Weitkowitz cable lugs with a narrow flange are recommended (VL1 to VL4).

3-6 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Connections
3.2 Main conductor connection for plug-in and

withdrawable versions
3.2.1 Plug-in socket: Connection on the front with busbar extensions
Plug-in sockets simplify the installation and

removal of SENTRON VL circuit-breakers.
The circuit-breaker has been developed to-
gether with the plug-in socket such that
they cannot be separated when the circuit-
breaker is in the “ON” position. Busbars or
cables may be connected on the front. A
terminal cover is provided and should be
used for both the incoming and outgoing
ends. An additional phase barrier can be
added to provide insulation between the
Figure 3-20: Plug-in Figure 3-21: Plug-in
terminals (see Section 4.10 and Section
socket socket with front bus-
bar extensions (busbar
4.11). When the circuit-breaker is in the
covers are not shown) connected position, the primary voltage is
supplied using special multiple clamping
contacts in the guide frame.
3.2.2 Plug-in socket: Connection on the back with flat busbar terminals
Busbars and cables can be connected on

the back. Vertical and horizontal connec-
tions are possible depending on the config-
uration of the busbar terminal.
Figure 3-22: Plug-in Figure 3-23: Plug-in

socket socket with rear flat
busbar terminals

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 3-7
Connections
3.2.3 Withdrawable version: Connection on the front with busbar extensions
The withdrawable version enables the in-

sertion and removal of the SENTRON VL
circuit-breaker without requiring incoming
or outgoing cables or busbars to be discon-
nected. A special operating mechanism,
which is attached to the stationary assem-
bly, is used to insert or remove the circuit-
breaker. A mechanical interlock prevents
the circuit-breaker from being moved from
the connected position to the disconnected
Figure 3-24: Withdraw- Figure 3-25: Withdraw- position when it is switched on. The circuit-
able version with front able version with front breaker will trip before the multiple clamp-
busbar extensions and busbar extensions ing contacts between the circuit-breaker
terminal covers and the guide frame open. A locking device
with padlock is provided on the stationary
arm of the withdrawable unit. The cus-
tomer can lock the circuit-breaker in either
the withdrawn or connected position.
3.2.4 Withdrawable version: Connection on the back with flat busbar terminals
The bus configuration is arranged for hori-

zontal connections when the withdrawable
assembly with rear flat busbar terminals is
used. A separate kit is available for circuit-
breakers up to and including VL250 for ver-
tical connections.
Figure 3-26: Withdraw- Figure 3-27: Withdraw-

able version with rear able version with rear
flat busbar terminals flat busbar terminals

3-8 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Connections
3.3 Location and position of the terminals
X21
X5, X6, X7
Rotary
mechanism
X22
X20
Motorized operating mechanism
Plug-in socket
Figure 3-28: Location of the terminals
X18, X19
X24 Portable
Neutral tester
sensor
X4 X2 X1
X3 X16
X14
X12
X13
RCD module
X17 X15
X14
Figure 3-29: Location of the terminals

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 3-9
Connections
3.3.1 Description of the terminals
Where are the circuit-

Number breakers/ Description
accessories?
X1 Right-hand acces- Shunt release and Undervoltage release X1.1 + X1.2
sory compartment of Auxiliary & alarm switches
the circuit-breaker VL160X to VL400 X1.1 to X1.6
VL630 to VL1600 X1.1 to X1.8
X2 Left accessory com- Auxiliary & alarm switches
partment of the cir- VL160X to VL400 X2.1 to X2.6
cuit-breaker VL630 to VL1600 X2.1 to X2.8
X3 Connection socket I/O connection for portable tester or communi-
to ETU/LCD cations adapter.
X4 Left accessory com- Auxiliary & alarm switches
partment of the cir- VL160X to VL400 X4.1 to X4.6
cuit-breaker (only for VL630 to VL1600 X4.1 to X4.8
4-pole versions)
X5 Auxiliary current plug- Motorized operating mechanism X5.1 to X5.5
in connection for Remote tripping RCD module X5.6 to X5.8
plug-in socket/guide If no motorized operating mechanism is avail-
frame able: Remote tripping display RCD module X5.1 to X5.3
X6 Auxiliary current plug- Shunt release or Undervoltage release X6.1 to X6.2
in connection for Auxiliary & alarm switches
plug-in socket/guide If no motorized operating mechanism is avail- X6.3 to X6.8
frame able:
Remote tripping display RCD module X6.6 to X6.8
X7 Auxiliary current plug- VL400 to VL1600 only
in connection for Auxiliary & alarm switches X7.1 to X7.8
plug-in socket / guide
frame
X8 Reserved
X9 Reserved
X10 (plug) Reserved
X11 (plug) Reserved
X12 RCD module VL160 to VL400 only Remote tripping display X12.1 to X12.3
X13 RCD module VL160 to VL400 only Remote Control X13.1 to X13.3
X14 COM 10 (Profibus module)
X15 COM 10 (Profibus connection)
X16 LCD ETU (COM 10 connection)
X17 COM 10 (circuit-breaker connection)
X18, X19 Hand-held tester for Reserved
ETU/LCD ETU
X20 Motor X20.1 N/L- voltage supply
X20.2 ON (electr. ON)
X20.3 OFF (electr. OFF)
X20.4 L1/L+ voltage supply
X20.5 protective conductor
X21 Rotary mechanism Leading NO contacts NC/NO
Leading auxiliary con- X21.1 to X21.3 switch A
tacts X21.4 to X21.6 switch B
(Connecting cables) Leading NC contacts NC/NO
X21.7 to X21.9 switch A
X21.10 to X21.12 switch B

3-10 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Connections
Where are the circuit-

Number breakers/ Description
accessories?
X22 Plug-in socket Position signaling contacts
Withdrawable device X22.1 to X22.3 switch A
Position switch X22.4 to X22.6 switch B
3.4 Conversion tables

3.4.1 Metric/US-American cross sections
Metric cross sections according to VDE (Verband Deutscher Elektringenieure:

Association of German Electrical Engineers) (mm2) ↔. Conductor cross sec-
tions according to AWG (American Wire Gauge) and MCM (Thousand Circular
Mils)
AWG/MCM mm2
20 0.52
18 0.82
16 1.3
14 2.1
12 3.3
10 5.3
8 8.4
AWG
6 13.3
4 21.2
2 33.6
1 42.4
1/0 53.5
2/0 67.4
3/0 85.0
4/0 107.2
250 126
300 152
350 177
400 203
MCM
500 253
600 304
800 405
1000 507
1500 760
2000 1010

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 3-11
Connections
3.4.2 Other conversions
Power
1 kilowatt (kW) = 1.341 horsepower (hp)
1 horsepower (hp) = 0.7457 kilowatt (kW)
Length
1 inch (in.) = 25.4 millimeters (mm)
1 centimeter (cm) = 0.3937 inches (in.)
Weight
1 ounce (Oz.) = 28.35 grams (g)
1 Pound (lb.) = 0.454 kilograms (kg)
1 kilogram (kg) = 2.205 pounds (lb.)
Temperature
100 degrees Centigrade (°C) = 212 degrees Fahrenheit (°F)
80 = 176
60 = 140
40 = 104
20 = 68
0 = 32
-5 = 23
-10 = 14
-15 = 5
-20 = -4
-25 = -13
-30 = -22
Torque
1 Newton-meter (Nm) = 8.85 pound-inches (lb.in.)

3-12 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Design and Operating Principle of the
Circuit-breakers 4

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 4-1
Design and Operating Principle of the Circuit-breakers
4.1 Design
All SENTRON VL circuit-breakers possess a trip-free mechanism which enables
a tripping event, even if the operating mechanism is blocked or manually held in
the "ON" position.
The contacts are opened and closed using a toggle handle located in the middle.
This is located on the front of all of the circuit-breakers.
All SENTRON VL circuit-breakers are "joint trip units". This means all contacts
open or close simultaneously when the circuit-breaker toggle handle is moved
from”OFF” to ”ON” or from ”ON” to ”OFF”, as well as when the trip mecha-
nism is activated by either an overcurrent event or the use of an auxiliary
release (shunt or undervoltage release).
VL 160X circuit-breakers
The most important components of the VL160X circuit-breaker are the three
conducting paths with incoming and outgoing terminals. The fixed and move-
able contacts are configured in such a manner that a magnetic repulsion of the
contacts is produced. In conjunction with the arc quenching chutes, a dynamic
impedance is generated that causes current limitation by reducing the damag-
ing effects of I2t and the Ip energy created during short circuits.
The overcurrent release is a thermomagnetic device that is installed as stan-
dard. It is equipped with a permanently set short-circuit release and either a per-
manently set or adjustable overload release in every pole.
A double insulated accessory compartment for installing auxiliary and alarm
switches, as well as shunt and undervoltage releases, is located to the right and
left of the central toggle handle of every SENTRON VL circuit-breaker.
VL160 to VL630 circuit-breakers
The arrangement of the conducting paths, contact configuration and the breaker
mechanism of the VL160 to VL630 circuit-breakers is identical to the VL160X cir-
cuit-breaker. The difference in design is related to the overcurrent release.
• The overcurrent releases are available in both a thermomagnetic and an electronic ver-
sion.
• The overcurrent releases can be installed or interchanged on site without requiring any
special tools.
• The thermomagnetic overcurrent release are available with adjustable overload and
short-circuit releases.
VL800 to VL1600 circuit-breakers
As with the VL160X to VL630 circuit-breakers, the arrangements of the conduct-
ing paths and operating mechanisms are identical.
However, the VL800 to VL1600 circuit-breakers are only available with an elec-
tronic overcurrent release. As with all electronic overcurrent releases for the
Siemens SENTRON VL circuit-breakers, the current converters (one per phase)
are located within the overcurrent release housing. They supply a signal propor-
tional to the load current to the electronic overcurrent release system.
All of the SENTRON VL circuit-breakers with electronic releases measure the
actual RMS current. This type of measurement assures the most accurate
means of measuring currents in electrical distributions systems with very large
numbers of harmonics.

4-2 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Overcurrent release systems

1. Overcurrent release of the SENTRON VL160X to VL630 circuit-breakers, thermomag-
netic, TM.
The overcurrent and short-circuit releases function with bimetals and mag-
netic coils. They are available with fixed or adjustable settings.
The 4-pole circuit-breakers for line protection can be supplied with overcur-
rent releases in all 4 poles or without an overcurrent release in the 4th (N)
pole. Starting with 100 A, the releases in the 4th (N) pole are set to 60% of
the current in the 3 main conducting paths to ensure safe protection of the
neutral conductors with reduced cross-sections.
These circuit-breakers for starter combination applications are usually com-
bined with motor contactors and corresponding overload relays.
The circuit-breakers have an integrated self-protection against short-circuits,
meaning that no back-up fuses are required. These circuit-breakers do not
have any overload protection. 4-pole circuit-breakers do not have a short-cir-
cuit release in the 4th (N) pole.
2. Overcurrent release of the SENTRON VL160 to VL1600 circuit-breakers,
electronic, ETU/LCD ETU
The electronic overcurrent release system consists of:
• Current converters
• Evaluation electronics with microprocessor
• Closing solenoid
The left-hand accessory compartment of the SENTRON VL160 and VL250
contains the closing solenoid.
No auxiliary voltage is required for the release system.
A minimum load current of approx. 20% of the respective rated current of
the circuit-breaker, In, is required to activate the microprocessor release.
A closing solenoid is located at the output of the electronic overcurrent
release module, which trips the circuit-breaker if an overload or short circuit
occurs.
(1)
(2) (1) Housing
(2) Main terminals
(3) Arc chute
(3) (4) Moveable contact arm
(5) Breaker locking device
(6) Overcurrent release
(4)
(5)
(6)
Figure 4-1: Internal view of MCCB

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 4-3
4.2 Drives
4.2.1 Toggle handle
The basic version of the SENTRON VL circuit-breakers have a toggle handle as a

drive, which also serves as a switching position indicator. In addition to “ON”
and “OFF”, the position of “TRIPPED” is also indicated.
The toggle handle moves to the “TRIPPED” position when the internal tripping
mechanism is activated through an overcurrent event such as an overload or a
short-circuit.
The activation of an undervoltage release or shunt release will also cause the
toggle handle to move to the ”TRIPPED” position.
The toggle handle must be returned to
the “OFF/RESET” position before the
circuit-breaker can be turned back on
again. This enables the internal release
mechanism to be reset.
Figure 4-2: Toggle handle in the “ON” position
ON OFF Tripped
RESET
Figure 4-3: Toggle handle positions

4-4 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
4.2.2 Rotary mechanism on the front
The rotary mechanism on the front is

directly mounted onto the circuit-
breaker. It converts the vertical move-
ment of the toggle handle into a rotary
motion.
SENTRON VL circuit-breakers with
rotary mechanism comply with the
"Network disconnecting device" condi-
tion of DIN VDE 0113.
Figure 4-4: Rotary mechanism
Degree of protection
The rotary mechanism on the front provides degree of protection IP30.
Locking
Lockable in the OFF position with up to 3 padlocks.
In addition, a safety lock can also be used.
Application
Standard application:
Black knob
Gray indicator plate
Emergency Stop application:
Red knob
Yellow indicator plate
Accessories
As an option, up to 4 changeover contacts may be used.
Two contacts can be used as leading NO contacts and two contacts as leading
NC contacts. These are equipped with 1.5 m long connection cables.
4.2.3 Door-coupling rotary operating mechanism
Door-coupling rotary operating mecha-

nisms are available for installation in
control cabinets and distribution boards.
SENTRON VL circuit-breakers with door-
coupling rotary operating mechanisms
comply with the "Network disconnect-
ing device" condition of DIN VDE 0113.
Figure 4-5: Door-coupling rotary operating

mechanism
The door-coupling rotary operating mechanism is connected as follows:

• Rotary direct drive on the front with shaft stub (without knob)
• Shaft coupling
• 300 mm extension shaft (600 mm optional, clip required)
• Knob

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 4-5
Degree of protection
This device provides degree of protection IP65.
Locking
Lockable in the "OFF" position with up to 3 padlocks. In addition, a safety lock
can also be used.
Application
Standard application:
Black knob
Gray indicator plate
Emergency Stop application:
Red knob
Yellow indicator plate
Accessories
As an option, up to 4 changeover contacts may be used.
Two contacts can be used as leading NO contacts and two contacts as leading
NC contacts. These are equipped with 1.5 m long connection cables.
Knob can be locked with padlock, with masking
frame and display plate, actuator plate for shafts,
Circuit-breaker
extension shaft (300 mm), coupling for extension
shaft
Emergency-
Rated Drive witho Standard drive
Type Extension shaft stop drive
current ut knob
Order No. Order No.
VL160X 16…160 3VL9300- 8 x 8 mm
3HE00
8UC6262-6BD22 8UC6272-8BD22
VL160 50…160 " 8 x 8 mm
VL250 200…250 " 8 x 8 mm
VL400 200…400 3VL9400- 12 x 12 mm
3HE00
VL630 315…600 3VL9600- 12 x 12 mm
3HE00
8UC6314-1BD44 8UC6324-3BD44
VL800 320…800 " 12 x 12 mm
VL1250 400…1250 3VL9800- 12 x 12 mm
3HE00
VL1600 640…1600 " 12 x 12 mm
Table 4-1: Accessory overview

4-6 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
4.3 Leading auxiliary switch for switching on/off

Leading auxiliary switches (changeover contacts) are available as accessories for
the door-coupling rotary operating mechanism and the rotary operating mecha-
nism on the front.
The following versions are available:
• Leading auxiliary switch for switch-
ing from ON to OFF.
• Leading auxiliary switch for switch-
ing from OFF to ON.
Each version of the leading auxiliary
switch for switching on/off can be
equipped with one or two changeover
contacts.
The auxiliary switch connection cables
are 1.5 m long.
Figure 4-6: Rotary operating mechanism with leading

auxiliary switches
4.3.1 Leading auxiliary switch for switching from OFF to ON (leading NO

contact)
0 1 Leading auxiliary switch

L1, L2, L3 ON, “S4“
S4 with rotary direct drive
Circuit-breaker ON 0 1
closed
opened
Example application:
If the circuit-breaker is equipped with an undervoltage release and the leading
auxiliary switches are installed in the rotary operating mechanism, the leading
NO contacts allow the undervoltage release to be supplied with voltage before
the main contacts can be closed.
4.3.2 Leading auxiliary switch for switching off (leading NC contact)
1 0 Leading auxiliary switch

L1, L2, L3 OFF, “S4“
S4 with rotary direct drive
Circuit breaker OFF 1 0
closed
opened
Example application:
For applications with thyristors, it is necessary to reset the power electronics of
the static frequency changer before the main circuit is switched off.
Circuit-breakers with leading auxiliary switches create a leading signal which
enables the targeted resetting of the thyristor.

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 4-7
4.3.3 Technical data
Technical data: Leading auxiliary switch for rotary mechanisms

VL160X- VL1600
Thermal rated current Ith [A] 2
Rated making capacity [A] 2 resistive (0.5 inductive)
Alternating current cos ϕ 0.7
Rated operational voltage [V] 230
Rated operational current [A] 2
Rated breaking capacity [A] 2 resistive (0.5 inductive)
Back-up fuses [A] 2
Table 4-2: Technical data for the leading auxiliary switch
4.4 Locking devices

4.4.1 Locking device for the toggle handle
The locking device for the toggle handle

is designed to be easily attached to the
circuit-breaker collar.
This device allows the handle to be
locked in the ”OFF” position.
The locking device for the toggle handle
can be installed in 3-pole and 4-pole cir-
cuit-breakers. Up to 3 padlocks with
shackle diameters ranging from 5 to
8 mm may be used. (Not for the VL160X
with RCD module)
Figure 4-7: Locking device for the toggle handle
4.4.2 Safety lock for the rotary operating mechanism and the motorized
operating mechanism
A safety lock can be used for both the rotary operating mechanism and the
motorized operating mechanism.
The safety lock is used to lock the circuit-breaker in the OFF position. The key
can only be removed when the circuit-breaker is in the OFF position. The key
cannot be removed when the rotary operating mechanism or the motorized
operating mechanism is in the ON position.
Each safety lock is supplied with its own locking system as standard.

4-8 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Figure 4-8: Rotary operating mechanism on the Figure 4-9: Stored energy operator for the VL250
front
Figure 4-10: Stored energy operator with memory for the VL630
4.4.3 Mutual interlocking of two circuit-breakers (bowden wire) in the fixed

mounted, plug-in and withdrawable versions.
Figure 4-11: With toggle handle Figure 4-12: With rotary operating mechanism

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 4-9
R>60 mm
Y
96
69
150.5
89
78
76
X X
NSE00898
NSE00896
52.5
85
Y
68.5
112
127 R>60 mm
Y
112
127
Y
112
216
151
66
66
X X
NSE00897
94
94
NSE0_01239
Figure 4-13: Possible mounting options

4-10 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
3VL9300-8LA00 3VL9400-8LA00 3VL9600-8LA00 3VL9800-8LA00

for the VL160X, for the VL400 for the VL630 for the VL250
VL160 and VL250 and VL800 and VL1600
3VL9300-8LA00
for the VL 160X,
VL160 and VL250
3VL9400-8LA00
for the VL400
3VL9600-8LA00
for the VL630 and
VL800
3VL9800-8LA00
for the VL1250 and
VL1600
Possible combinations
Two SENTRON VL circuit-breakers can be mutually mechanically interlocked

using a bowden cable and the locking modules.
Modules with the same dimensions or those with the dimensions specified
above (e.g. VL250 and VL400) can be successfully locked together.
The use of this accessory kit means that only one of the circuit-breakers is in
the ”ON” position at any time.
Fixed mounted and plug-in circuit-breakers use different locking modules, which
are, however, compatible with each other. This enables both to be used in lock-
ing circuits.
Two circuit-breakers can be mounted side by side or one above each other. The
distance between them depends on the length of the bowden cable and its min-
imum bending radius. The cable comes in lengths of 0.5 m, 1.0 m and
1.5 m. The minimum bending radius of each cable is 60 mm. The length of the
bowden cable must not be altered by the customer. The bowden cable has a
mechanical endurance of 10,000 operations. Each bowden cable must be
ordered separately.
Note:
Not possible in combination with the motorized operating mechanism.

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 4-11
4.4.4 Mutual interlocking (rear interlocking modules) of two circuit-breakers in

the fixed mounted, plug-in and withdrawable versions.
Figure 4-14: Fixed mounted version Figure 4-15: Plug-in version
Figure 4-16: Fixed mounted version Figure 4-17: Plug-in version
The rear interlocking module enables the mutual mechanical interlocking of two
SENTRON VL circuit-breakers with the same dimensions. The rear interlocking
module is attached behind the circuit-breakers to the mounting plate supplied by
the customer.
A tappet on each end of the rocker automatically accesses the circuit-breaker
through an opening in the mounting plate and the base of the circuit-breaker.
The rear interlock module prevents both circuit-breakers from being in the ”ON”
position at the same time.
The rear interlock module can be used with fixed mounted, plug-in and with-
drawable circuit-breakers.
Cross wiring of internal accessories via the rear of the circuit-breaker is not pre-
vented.
This locking version is possible with all drive mechanism types (toggle handle,
rotary operating mechanism and motorized operating mechanism).

4-12 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
4.5 Stored energy operator

Motorized operating mechanisms enable the circuit-breaker to be switched ON
and OFF locally or by remote control. They are equipped with a locking device
for padlocks (standard) and an (optional) locking device with safety lock to elec-
trically and mechanically lock the operating mechanism. Motorized operating
mechanisms can also be operated by hand. Two types of mechanisms are avail-
able.
Stored energy operators for the VL160X-VL800

• Stored energy operators are suitable for synchronization tasks.
• The motor charges a spring-loaded mechanism (operator) and moves the SENTRON
VL toggle handle to the “OFF/RESET” position.
• The spring-loaded mechanism (operator) discharges when it is actuated, quickly
switching the SENTRON VL toggle handle to the ”ON” position.
• A change-over switch allows local (Manual) or remote (Auto) operation to be selected.
• The manual actuator handle is located on the front of the drive cover.
Motorized operating mechanism for the VL1250-1600

• The motor drives a mechanism which switches the SENTRON VL toggle handle to the
”ON” and ”OFF/RESET” positions.
• The manual actuator handle is located on the front of the drive cover.
• A change-over switch allows local (Manual) or remote (Auto) operation to be selected.
Figure 4-18: Stored energy operator

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 4-13
Description of the function of the stored energy operator:

Assumption: Supply voltage is applied
Status Actuation Display
The stored energy operator is Local operation: "ON/Discharged"
"charged". The SENTRON VL To switch on: Press the "ON"
toggle handle is in the “OFF/ button.
RESET” position. Remote operation:
To switch on: "ON" signal
The stored energy operator "dis-

charges" and moves the SEN-
TRON VL toggle handle to the
"ON" position. Figure 4-20: Display: Discharged
stored energy operator
Figure 4-19: The stored energy

operator is charged
("Charged"). The SENTRON VL
toggle handle is in the”OFF/
RESET” position.
The stored energy operator is Local operation: "OFF/Charged"
”discharged”. The SENTRON VL To switch off: Press the "OFF"
toggle handle is in tripped posi- button
tion. Remote operation:
To switch off: "OFF" signal
The SENTRON VL toggle handle

moves to the "OFF" position.
The motor "charges" the stored
energy operator. Figure 4-22: Display: Charged
stored energy operator

operator is discharged
("Discharged"). SENTRON VL tog-
gle handle is in the ”ON” or
tripped position
The stored energy operator is Local operation: "OFF/Charged"
”discharged”. The SENTRON VL To switch off: Press the "OFF"
toggle handle is in tripped posi- button
tion. Remote operation:
To switch off: "OFF" signal
The SENTRON VL toggle handle

moves to the "RESET" position.
The motor "charges" the stored Figure 4-24: Display: Charged
energy operator. stored energy operator

operator is discharged
("Discharged"). SENTRON VL tog-
gle handle is in the ”ON” or
tripped position

4-14 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02

Local operation is not possible
when the operating mode is set
to Auto. The local operating
control is deactivated. The man-
ual clamping handle works
when the drive is in the “ON/
discharged” position.
Only local operation is possible
Figure 4-25: Stored energy in the manual operating mode.
operator Remote signals are blocked.
Automatic (remote)/manual The ”ON” button operates
(local) change-over switch mechanically and releases the
stored energy operator. The
Figure 4-26: Local/remote
”OFF” button operates the
change-over switch
motor that charges the stored
energy operator. Using an inter-
nal mechanical locking device,
the "OFF" button can be config-
ured such that the SENTRON
VL will trip when the button is
pressed. This makes it possible
to immediately trip the circuit-
breaker. When this occurs, the
toggle handle initially goes into
the "tripped" position. Then the
motor movement moves it into
the "OFF/RESET" position.
The auto/manual change-over
switch must be set to the man-
ual operating mode in order to
locally lock the circuit-breaker
into the "OFF" position.
Between 1 and 3 padlocks with
shackle diameters ranging
between 4 and 8 mm can be
accommodated on the locking
slide. The drive cover cannot be
removed.
Compatible for locking with the
safety lock feature.
Figure 4-28: Locking slide with
padlock
Figure 4-27: Locking slide with

padlock

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 4-15

The auto/manual change-over
switch must be set to the man-
ual operating mode in order to
locally lock the circuit-breaker
into the "OFF" position. The
locking device with safety key
prevents local and remote oper-
ation. The key can only be
Figure 4-30: Mechanical locking removed in the locked switch
with safety lock position (“OFF”).
The locking slide protrudes out
of the drive cover to indicate
that the drive is locked. The
drive cover cannot be removed
when it is locked. Compatible
with the padlock feature.
Figure 4-29: Mechanical locking
with safety lock
4.5.1 Technical data: Stored energy operator
Type
VL160X
VL1600
VL1250
VL400
VL800
VL160
VL250
VL630
Synchronizable X X X X X X – –
Operating range V 0.85 - 1.1 US
Minimum command duration at Us ms 50
Total closing time ms <100 <5000
Break-time s <5
Re-closing after approximately s 1 50
Max. permissible switching frequency 1/h 120 60 30
Command duration ms Jog or pushbutton command
Electrical data
Power consumption VA 100, 200, 250, 250, 500
Rated control supply 50 - 60 Hz V 48, 60, 110/127, 230/250
voltage US AC
DC V 24, 48, 60, 110/127, 230/250
Fuse (time-lag) A 4, 4, 4, 2, 2
Circuit-breaker, C char. A 4, 4, 4, 2, 2

4-16 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
4.6 Undervoltage release

The undervoltage release causes the
circuit-breaker to trip when the voltage
fails or falls to an operating level
between 70 – 35% x US. Re-closure of
the circuit-breaker contacts is only pos-
sible once the voltage has reached a
value of at least 85% x US.
Undervoltage releases can be installed
for electronic locking.
Figure 4-31: Undervoltage release
Undervoltage releases are installed in the right accessory compartment of the

SENTRON VL circuit-breakers.
4.6.1 Technical data: Undervoltage release VL160X
VL1600
VL1250
VL400
VL800
VL160
VL250
VL630
Transformer operating voltage [V]
• Drop (circuit-breaker trips) 0.7 - 0.35 Us 0.7 - 0.35 Us
• Rise (circuit-breaker can be switched on) 0.85 - 1.10 Us 0.85 - 1.10 Us
Power consumption
• AC 50/60 Hz [VA] 110 - 127 V 1.5 1.1
220 - 250 V 1.5 2.1
208 V 1.8 2.2
277 V 2.1 1.6
380 - 415 V 1.6 2.0
440 - 480 V 1.8 2.3
500 - 525 V 2.05 2.9
600 V 2.4 3.4
• DC [W] 12 V 0.75 1.2
24 V 0.8 1.4
48 V 0.8 1.5
60 V 0.8 1.6
110 - 127 V 0.8 1.2
220 - 250 V 0.8 1.5
Max. opening time [ms] 50 80

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 4-17
4.7 Shunt release

The shunt release is used to remotely
trip the circuit-breaker. It is designed for
short-time operation and is therefore
equipped with an interrupt contact for
self-protection.
Shunt releases are installed in the right-
hand accessory compartment of the
SENTRON VL circuit-breakers.
Figure 4-32: Shunt release
4.7.1 Technical data: Shunt release
Group 1 Group 2
VL160X
VL1600
VL1250
VL400
VL800
VL160
VL250
VL630
Transformer operating voltage:
Rise (circuit-breaker trips)[V] 0.7 - 1.10 Us 0.7 - 1.10 Us
Power consumption
• AC 50/60 Hz [VA] 48 - 60 V 158 - 200 300 - 480
110 - 127 V 136 - 158 302 - 353
208 - 277 V 274 - 350 330 - 439
380 - 600 V 158 - 237 243 - 384
• DC [W] 12 V 110 50
24 V 110 360
48 - 60 V 110 - 172 500 - 820
110 - 127 V 220 - 254 302 - 353
220 - 250 V 97 - 110 348 - 397
Max. load duration [s] automatic interruption
Max. opening time [ms] 50
Fuse (time-lag) [A] 4
(AC 48-60V, 110-127V, 208-277V)
2
(all others)
Circuit-breaker, [A] 5
C characteristics

4-18 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
4.8 Auxiliary and alarm switches

Auxiliary and alarm switches are used to indicate the switching status of the cir-
cuit-breaker.
Auxiliary switches show the position of the main contact ("ON" or "OFF").
Alarm switches transmit a signal when the circuit-breaker trips due to a short-
circuit or overcurrent or when the shunt release, undervoltage release, test but-
ton or RCD module trips.
Group 1 Group 2
VL160X
VL1600
VL1250
VL400
VL800
VL160
VL250
VL630
Possible configuration of the insulated accessory compartment
N - 4th pole Left-hand Right-hand

Accessory compartment accessory compartment accessory compartment
Max. Max. Max.

Max. Max.
3 HS 2 HS + U< 2 HS +
3 HS 3 HS
1 AS 1 AS
Max. Max.
Max. Max. Max.
2 HS + U< 2 HS +
3 HS 3 HS 3 HS
1 AS 1 AS
Max. Max. Max.
Max. Max.
3 HS 2 HS + U< 2 HS +
3 HS 3 HS
1 AS 1 AS
Max. Max.
Max. Max.
3 HS 2 HS + U<
3 HS 3 HS
1 AS
Max. Max.
Max. Max.
4 HS 2 HS + U<
4 HS 4 HS
2 AS
Max. Max.
Max. Max.
4 HS 2 HS + U<
4 HS 4 HS
2 AS
Max. Max.
Max. Max.
4 HS 2 HS + U<
4 HS 4 HS
2 AS
Max. Max.
Max. Max.
4 HS 2 HS + U<
4 HS 4 HS
2 AS
VL160X mit RCD:

Left-hand accessory compartment contains closing solenoid.
VL160/VL 250 with electronic overcurrent release (ETU or LCD ETU):

Left-hand accessory compartment contains closing solenoid.
U< Shunt release or undervoltage release,

HS: Auxiliary switch, HS: Alarm switch (1 NO or 1 NC contact respectively)
Note: Maximum of 6 contact blocks (HS) per circuit-breaker VL160X to VL400
Maximum of 6 contact blocks (HS) per circuit-breaker VL160X to VL400

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 4-19
4.8.1 Technical data: Auxiliary switch
Rated insulation voltage Ui

with degree of pollution according to IEC 60947-1 Class 3
• Elements with screw-type terminal 400 V
Rated impulse withstand voltage Uimp
• Screw-type terminal, spring-loaded terminal 6 kV
Conventional thermal current Ith 10 A
Rated operational current Ie
with rated operational voltage Ue
• Alternating current 50/60 Hz, AC-12 with Ue Ie
- Screw-type terminal 24 V 10 A
48 V 10 A
110 V 10 A
230 V 10 A
400 V 10 A
• Alternating current 50/60 Hz, AC-15 with Ue Ie
- Screw-type terminal 24 V 6A
48 V 6A
110 V 6A
230 V 6A
400 V 3A
• Direct current, DC-12 with Ue Ie
- Screw-type terminal 24 V 10 A
48 V 5A
110 V 2.5 A
230 V 1A
• Direct current, DC-13 with Ue Ie
- Screw-type terminal 24 V 3A
48 V 1.5 A
110 V 0.7 A
230 V 0.3 A
Contact stability
Test voltage/test current 5 V/1 mA
Short-circuit protection weld-free
according to IEC 60947-5-1
• DIAZED-fuse links, utilization category gL/gG 10 A TDz, 16 A Dz
• Miniature circuit-breaker with c characteristics 10 A
according to IEC 60898 (VDE 0641)
Terminal cross section
• Screw-type terminal
- finely stranded, with end sleeves according to DIN 46228 2 × (0.5 ... 1.5) mm²
- solid 2 × (1 ... 2.5) mm²
- solid, with end sleeves according to DIN 46228 2 × (0.5 ... 0.75) mm²
- solid or stranded 2 × AWG 18 ... 14
Tightening torque
• Terminal screws 0.8 Nm
Rated voltage
• Contact block AC 300 V
Uninterrupted current 10 A
Switching capacity A 300, R 300,
A 600 same polarity

4-20 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
4.9 Cover frames for door cutouts
Cover frames for door cutouts

raise the IP degree of protection
of the circuit-breaker and help it
fit into control cabinets better.
Cover frames for door cutouts
are available for fixed mounted,
plug-in and withdrawable circuit-
breakers with rotary operating
mechanisms, motorized operat-
ing mechanisms and RCD mod-
ules.
The cover frames for door cut-
outs are attached to the door
with 4 fixing elements.
Figure 4-33: Cover frames for door cutouts
Figure 4-34: 3VL9300-8BC00 Figure 4-35: 3VL9300-8BG00
Figure 4-36: 3VL9300-8BC00 Figure 4-37: 3VL9300-8BJ00/3VL9300-8BD00

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 4-21
4.10 Terminal covers/phase barriers
Sealable terminal covers can be

installed on the input and output
side of the SENTRON VL circuit-
breaker. They provide degree of
protection IP30 for fixed
mounted or withdrawable circuit-
breakers in the connected posi-
tion.
In addition, extended terminal
covers provide a separation
between the phases if uninsu-
lated busbars or cables are used.
Figure 4-38: Standard Figure 4-39: Extended

terminal cover terminal cover
4.11 Phase barriers
Phase barriers provide insulation

on the input and output side of
They can be mounted in the spe-
cially formed slots on the input
and output sides of the circuit-
breaker.
They may be used in conjunction
with other connection accesso-
ries (except terminal covers).
The phase barriers can be used
with fixed mounted, plug-in and
withdrawable circuit-breakers.
Terminal covers must be used if
the circuit-breakers are mounted
directly next to each other (see
Section 2.5).
Figure 4-40: Phase barriers Figure 4-41: Application of

phase barriers

4-22 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
4.12 Toggle handle extension
Toggle handle extensions facili-

tate operation of the circuit-
breaker toggle handle.
VL 160X to VL 400:
A toggle handle extension is not
required.
VL 630 to VL 800:
available as an option.
VL 1250 to VL 1600:
Toggle handle extension included
in scope of supply.
Figure 4-42: Toggle handle Figure 4-43: Application of

extension toggle handle extension
4.13 Further accessories

4.13.1 Position signaling switch
Figure 4-44: Position signaling switch

When a circuit-breaker is mounted in a withdrawable or plug-in assembly, the
position signaling switch, which is equipped with a change-over contact, is used
to indicate whether the circuit-breaker is in the connected or withdrawn posi-
tion. Two position signaling switches can be mounted in each withdrawable or
plug-in base.

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 4-23
Technical data for the position signaling switch

General
Terminal cross sections
Screw-type terminal standard cross sections (DIN 46228)
Tightening torques
Cable connection screws 0.5 Nm
Rated operational temperature –40 °C to +85 °C
Data according to IEC/EN 61058
Rated operational current Ie with rated
operational voltage Ue with Ue Ie
Standard operation 250 V AC/400 V AC 16 A/10 A
Rated making capacity At 250 V AC At 400 V AC
16 A 10 A
Rated thermal current Ith 16 A
Rated operational voltage 250 V AC 400 V AC
Rated breaking capacity At 250 V AC At 400 V AC
16 A 10 A
Back-up fuse (link) At 250 V AC At 400 V AC
16 A 10 A
Data according to UL 1054
Rated operational current Ie with rated
operational voltage Ue With Ue, capacity,
Alternating current [horsepower] Ie
Standard operation 125/250 V AC, 1HP 16 A
Flammability
Class UL94V-0
4.13.2 Auxiliary conductor connection system
If a SENTRON VL circuit-breaker
is installed in a withdrawable or
plug-in assembly, the auxiliary
conductor connection system
connects the internal and exter-
nal accessories (e.g. auxiliary
switch and alarm switch, shunt
release, undervoltage release,
motorized operating mechanism)
to the terminals on the plug-in
socket.
Figure 4-45: Auxiliary conductor connection system
The plug-in connection enables two identically equipped and wired circuit-break-
ers to be interchanged easily. Each socket contains 8 terminals.
The VL160X, VL160 and VL250 circuit-breakers can be equipped with two sock-
ets or a total of 16 terminals.
The VL400, VL630, VL800, VL1250 and VL1600 circuit-breakers may have 3
sockets or 24 terminals.

4-24 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
4.13.3 Locking options for the guide frame
Locking option for the guide frame device support:

The guide frame device support
for the SENTRON VL circuit-
breakers can be locked with up to
3 padlocks (shackles ranging from
4 to 8mm in diameter, padlocks
not supplied). The circuit-breaker
is prevented from moving from
the connected position to the dis-
connected position if the device
support is secured with a pad-
lock.
Figure 4-46: Locking option for the guide frame device

support:
The padlocked device support also prevents a circuit-breaker from being installed in an
empty device support. A safety lock (not supplied) can be used to lock the circuit-breaker
in the connected or the disconnected position.
4.13.4 Guide frame crank handle
Crank handle for the guide frame:

The crank handle is used to move
the circuit-breaker into the con-
nected or the disconnected posi-
tion.
Figure 4-47: Guide frame crank handle

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 4-25
4.13.5 Trip-to-test button
The SENTRON VL circuit-break-

ers are equipped with trip-to-test
buttons.
When the circuit-breaker is in the
connected ”ON” position, the
user may test the tripping func-
tion mechanically by pressing the
trip-to-test button. The circuit-
breaker can be reset afterwards.
Figure 4-48: Trip-to-test button
4.13.6 Portable tester
External connection of the The portable tester is a local test

voltage supply device for SENTRON VL circuit-
Electronic connection breakers with electronic overcur-
overcurrent release (ETU) rent releases.
It can also be used as an external
ON switch voltage supply for the electronic
overcurrent release (ETU and
LCD ETU).
The portable tester is powered by
three 9 volt batteries (included
with device). An external voltage
supply can optionally also be sup-
plied.
Test functions:
• Current converter test
• Test release
Figure 4-49: Portable tester

4-26 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Application 5

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 5-1
Application
5.1 Combination including frequency converter and

SENTRON VL circuit-breaker
5.1.1 General information
SENTRON VL circuit-breakers can be employed as primary connection protec-

tion devices in systems in which frequency converters, variable speed drives
and electronic motor control devices are used. The thermomagnetic and elec-
tronic releases of the SENTRON VL circuit-breaker can be used for these appli-
cations. The SENTRON VL releases are not influenced by harmonic effects due
to the r.m.s. measurement.
Note: Alternative SIRIUS 3RV circuit-breakers can be used for applications up to
approx. 45 kW.
Up-stream: Downstream:
400 V…690 V, 50/60 Hz Circuit-breaker Converter
Q1 3VL
Application Release
G1 Converter Motor
electronic yes
protection
electronic yes
Line
protection
M1 M Thermo-
yes
magnetic
Figure 5-1: Frequency converter Table 5-1: SENTRON VL
5.1.2 SIRIUS soft starters and SENTRON VL circuit-breakers
For further detailed information, please refer to the soft starter catalogs and the
selection guides.
Visit us on the internet at: http://www.siemens.de/softstarter
5.1.3 Frequency converters/variable speed drives and SENTRON VL circuit-

breakers
Please refer to the respective catalogs for information about the new SINAMICS
series (catalogs D11, D11.1, D21.2 and D21.3), the MICROMASTER 4 (catalog
DA51.2) and the SIMOVERT MASTERDRIVES (DA65.10 and DA65.11).

5-2 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Application
5.2 Circuit-breakers for capacitor banks

Application
In general, reactive power compensation is undertaken in order to reduce sys-
tem losses and voltage drops in the power distribution system. As a result, the
power fed into the system is used as active power and costs will be saved
through a reduction in the capacitive and inductive power factors.
A combination of fixed and central compensations are used depending on the
design of the low-voltage system and the loads involved.
Circuit-breaker for switching and protecting capacitor banks

According to the relevant standards DIN VDE 0560 Part 41 / EN 60831-1/IEC 70,
capacitors must function under normal operating conditions with the current
having a r.m.s. value up to 1.3 times the rated current of the capacitor. In addi-
tion, a further tolerance of up to 15% of the real value of the power must be
taken into consideration.
The maximum current with which the selected circuit-breaker can be constantly
loaded, and which it must also be able to switch, is calculated as follows:
IN max = IN x 1.5 (r.m.s. value, r.m.s. current)
Important values for selection of circuit-breakers

QN = capacitor bank rated power in kVA
UN = Rated voltage of the capacitor
IN = Rated current of the capacitor bank
IN max = Maximum expected rated current
Ii = Value for setting the instantaneous short-circuit release
IN = Q N / √3
IR = IN max = IN x 1.5
Value for setting the current-dependent delayed overload release
Ii> 9 x IR (minimum)

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 5-3
Application
Selection of circuit-breaker for protecting and switching capacitors

This table only takes some typical applications and combinations into consider-
ation. The selection for all other applications must be chosen accordingly.
Rated voltage Qc capacitor Capacitor rated Upstream circuit-breaker
(50Hz) bank power current x 1.5 = IR SENTRON VL
(kvar) of the SENTRON
VL (A) SENTRON IR (A) Ii (A)
VL type
230V 15 56 VL 160 50 - 63 600
30 113 VL 160 100 - 125 1000
400V 25 54 VL 160 50 - 63 600
50 108 VL 160 100 - 125 1000
100 216 VL 250 200 - 250 2000
415 20 42 VL 160 40 - 50 600
40 84 VL 160 80 - 100 1000
525 25 42 VL 160 40 - 50 600
50 84 VL 160 80 - 100 1000
Table 5-2: Example selections for capacitor protective circuits

5-4 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Application
5.3 Using the SENTRON VL circuit-breaker in DC networks

SENTRON VL in DC networks:
Siemens SENTRON VL circuit-breakers for line protection with thermal overload
and magnetic short-circuit releases are suitable for usage in DC networks.
SENTRON VL circuit-breakers with electronic overcurrent releases are not suit-
able for DC networks.
Circuit-breaker selection criteria

When selecting the optimal circuit-breaker for protecting a DC network, the fol-
lowing criteria should be noted in particular:
• The rated current determines the rating and size of the circuit-breaker
• The rated voltage determines the number of poles in series necessary for breaking
• The maximum short-circuit current at the connection point determines the breaking
capacity
• The type of network determines the circuit design
Load carrying capacity of the conducting path

The rated current values are the same for both DC and AC applications.
DC switching capacity
In AC circuits, arc quenching is facilitated by the fact that the current flows
through the zero point. These preconditions aren't true for DC.
In this case, a high arc voltage must be developed in order to interrupt the DC
current.
Therefore the switching capacity depends on the arc quenching method and the
network voltage. Several switching contacts can be connected in series in order
to achieve a higher arc voltage.
Furthermore, the kind of effects that are to be expected in the event of an
ground fault or double ground fault must also be taken into consideration.
Setting range of the trip values

• Thermal overload release:
Same setpoints as in 50 / 60 Hz networks
• Instantaneous short-circuit release:
The response threshold increases by 30 to 40%.
Example:
At the Ii = 4000 A setting the overcurrent release responds at approx. 5200 A ±20%.
Depending on the voltage, a series connection of 2, 3 or 4 conducting paths is
required.
The following circuits are recommended since the current must flow through all
current paths in order to conform to the thermal tripping characteristic curve.
The threshold values of the instantaneous short-circuit release (“I” release)
increase by 30 to 40% for DC.

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 5-5
Application
5.3.1 Suggested circuits for DC networks
3-pole and 4-pole circuit-breakers

Max. DC Switching suggestion Rated Comments
voltage breaking
capacity for
DC
250V DC1) 250V DC circuit-breaker 2-pole switching
(non-grounded system)
L L
32 kA 2)
M
500 V DC 500V DC circuit-breaker 2-pole switching
(grounded system)
L L The grounded pole should always
32 kA be assigned to the single con-
ducting path so that 2 conduct-
ing paths are always connected
M in series if a short-circuit occurs.

(grounded system)
L L 3 conducting paths in series.
30 kA The grounded pole is assigned to
the unswitched conducting path.
M
250V DC1) 250V DC circuit-breaker 1-pole switching

(non-grounded system)
L L
20 kA
M
(grounded system)
L L The grounded pole should always
be assigned to the unswitched
20 kA
conducting path so that 2 con-
ducting paths are always con-
M nected in series if a short circuit
occurs.
Table 5-3: Suggested circuits for 3-pole and 4-pole circuit-breakers
1) NEMA interruption at 250 V DC may use single or two-pole configurations.
2) with VL 160X 30 kA

5-6 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Application
5.4 Circuit-breakers for motor protection

General
The overload and short-circuit releases are designed for optimal protection and
the direct-starting of three-phase AC current squirrel-cage motors. The motor
protection circuit-breakers are sensitive to phase losses and have an adjustable
release class.
The overcurrent releases function with a microprocessor.
Area of application
Machine tools, manufacturing systems, presses, fans, air-conditioning units and
packing machines all require motors which must be protected. This is the main
area of application of the SENTRON VL circuit-breakers for motor protection.
5.4.1 Operating principle of the overcurrent release
Overload protection
The tripping characteristic curves of the current-dependent delayed overload
releases are specially designed for overload protection of 3-phase AC motors.
In current-dependent delayed overload releases, the value for IR can be set to be
0.4 to 1.0 times the rated current In of the circuit-breaker. This occurs in 0.01
increments (e.g. 0.40, 0.41, 0.42 ... 0.99, 1.00 x In) so that the circuit-breaker
exactly matches the nominal current of the motor to provide optimal protection.
The current converters in SENTRON VL circuit-breakers don't only measure the
load current, they also supply power to the electronic overcurrent release.
This independence from an external energy supply guarantees a high standard
of safety.
See also Section 1.15 "Overcurrent release system overview" on page 1-23.
Release class
The SENTRON VL circuit-breakers offer the option of selecting from various
releases with fixed or adjustable release classes that are suitable for differing
motor applications.
ETU 10 M
This version is equipped with a thermal memory, phase failure sensitivity and
the fixed release class 10.
See Section 5.4.3 on page 5-10.
ETU 30 M
This version is equipped with an adjustable release class of 10A to 30 in addition
to the thermal memory and phase failure sensitivity.
ETU 40 M
This version enables the parameters and the release class to be configured step
by step using a menu on the LCD display that is built into the release.
Release class
The 10A release class is used for motors which have a very simple start-up
behavior (those with a short start-up time and a small moment of inertia). The
class 30 releases are used to protect motors that have to withstand difficult
start-up behavior (those with a long start-up time and a large moment of inertia).
The motor must be suitable for difficult start-ups.
The release class must be selected so that it corresponds to the overload factor
of the motor under operating conditions. See Figure 5-4: Page 5-10.

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 5-7
Application
Definition of the release class

The release class specifies the release time for balanced 3-pole loads, starting
from the cold state, with 7.2 times the set current Ir according to IEC 60947-4-1.
Combinations with Class 10 are generally used.
Applications that require a longer start-up time, such as fans with large blades,
require a higher release class.
5.4.2 Thermal memory
All SENTRON VL circuit-breakers possess a "thermal memory" which takes the

pre-loading of the AC motor into consideration. The tripping times of the cur-
rent-dependent delayed overload releases are only valid for the unloaded (cold)
state.
The pre-loading of the 3-phase AC motor must be taken into consideration in
order to prevent damage from occurring to the motor, e.g. after being frequently
switched on without sufficient cooling time.
Siemens SENTRON VL circuit-breakers with fixed thermal memory are offered
in order to provide maximum protection for motors.
Operating principle of the thermal memory

The response time of a circuit-breaker with thermal memory is reduced to such
an extent after an overload release of the circuit-breaker that further overloads
cannot damage the motor windings. The motor is switched off within a time
limit that is specified by the pre-loading.
The current required to switch the motor on again could also be considered to
be an overload.
The tripping times are reduced after an overcurrent release according to the trip-
ping characteristic curve. See Figure 5-3: Page 5-9.
A cooling time defined by the size of the motor is required before the motor can
be switched on again. The circuit-breaker prevents the motor from being turned
on again during this time interval. This prevents the motor from being too highly
thermally loaded by a current immediately after an overload release occurs.

5-8 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Application
Phase failure sensitivity

The "phase failure sensitivity" function is also integrated into the SENTRON VL
circuit-breakers for motor protection. This ensures that the motor is reliably pro-
tected from overheating if a phase interruption or a large fluctuation occurs.
The specified operational current IR is automatically reduced to 80% of the set
value if the r.m.s. values of the operational currents in the three phases differ by
more than 50%.
Differences of more than 50% mean that the value of the current in the least
loaded phase drops to an amount more than 50% smaller than the value of the
current at the maximum loaded phase.
10,000
NSK-1134b
5,000
2,000
Closing time in s
1,25x 1,5 2 3 4 5 6 8 10 11x

1,000
500
200
100
50
20
10
TC=30
5 TC=20
TC=15
2 TC=10
1 TC=5
.5
.2
.1
.05
.02
.01
.005
.002
.001
1 2 4 6 10 20 40 60 100 200 400 2,000
Figure 5-2: ETU with release classes 5, 10, 15, 20 and 30 A I
Tripping characteristic curve for a circuit-breakers with electronic overcurrent release.

Icu 100 kA maximum at 415 V
Tripping time
100
% ① ②
50
0 5 min10
Time after W
Figure 5-3: The response time of the device after an overload release
1 Without "thermal memory"

2 With "thermal memory"

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 5-9
Application
Opening time
Set
overload protection
characteristic curve
Overload protection characteristic curve

immediately after the overload release
Figure 5-4: Current-time curve before and after overload, with thermal memory
5.4.3 Circuit-breaker for motor protection with fixed release class ETU 10M
These circuit-breakers possess an adjustable overload and short-

circuit release and a fixed release class.
They are current-limiting and have phase failure sensitivity.
Circuit- Rated Max. rated power of Adjustable Adjustable Release

breaker current In motor at 50Hz AC range of the range of the class
overload short-circuit
380/415 V 500 V protection IR protection II
[A] [kW] [kW] [A] [A] TC [s]
VL160 63 30 37 25-63 1.5-11xIn 10
100 37, 45 55 40-100 1.5-11xIn 10
160 55, 75 75, 90 63-160 1.5-11xIn 10
VL250 200 90, 110 110, 132 80-200 1.5-11xIn 10
250 132 160 100-250 1.5-11xIn 10
VL400 315 160 200 126-315 1.5-11xIn 10
315 200 250 126-315 1.5-11xIn 10
VL630 500 250 355 200-500 1.5-11xIn 10
Table 5-4: Circuit-breaker for motor protection with fixed release class ETU 10M

5-10 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Application

ETU 30M

circuit release and an adjustable release class.
They are current-limiting and have phase failure sensitivity.
Circuit- Rated Max. rated power of Adjust- Adjustable Release class

breaker current In motor at 50Hz AC able range of the
range of short-circuit
380/415 V 500 V the protection II
overload
protec-
tion IR
[A] [kW] [kW] [A] [A] TC [s]
VL160 63 30 37 25-63 6/8/1xIn 5/10/15/20/30
100 37, 45 55 40-100 6/8/1xIn 5/10/15/20/30
160 55, 75 75, 90 63-160 6/8/1xIn 5/10/15/20/30
VL250 200 90, 110 110,132 80-200 6/8/1xIn 5/10/15/20/30
250 132 160 100-250 6/8/1xIn 5/10/15/20/30
VL400 315 160 200 126-315 6/8/1xIn 5/10/15/20/30
315 200 250 126-315 6/8/1xIn 5/10/15/20/30
VL630 500 250 355 200-500 6/8/1xIn 5/10/15/20/30
Table 5-5: Circuit-breaker for motor protection with adjustable release class ETU 30M

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 5-11
Application

ETU 40M

circuit release and an adjustable release class. They are current-
limiting and have phase failure sensitivity. Furthermore, they are
equipped with an LCD display to display the current and the param-
eterization.
Communication via Profibus is possible.
Circuit- Rated Max. rated power of Adjust- Adjustable Release class

breaker current In motor at 50Hz AC able range of the
range of short-circuit
380/415 V 500 V the protection II
overload
protec-
tion IR
[A] [kW] [kW] [A] [A] TC [s]
VL160 63 30 37 25-63 1.5-11xIn 5/10/15/20/30
100 37, 45 55 40-100 1.5-11xIn 5/10/15/20/30
160 55, 75 75, 90 63-160 1.5-11xIn 5/10/15/20/30
VL250 200 90,110 110,132 80-200 1.5-11xIn 5/10/15/20/30
250 132 160 100-250 1.5-11xIn 5/10/15/20/30
VL400 315 160 200 126-315 1.5-11xIn 5/10/15/20/30
315 200 250 126-315 1.5-11xIn 5/10/15/20/30
VL630 500 250 355 200-500 1.5-11xIn 5/10/15/20/30
Table 5-6: Circuit-breaker for motor protection with adjustable release class ETU 40M

5-12 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Circuit Diagrams 6

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 6-1
Circuit Diagrams
The symbols used in the device circuit diagrams indicate the type, circuitry and
mode of operation of the switching devices in accordance with DIN 40-713, but
do not describe their construction.
It is not possible to show all the possible combinations here. For versions that
differ from those shown, the diagrams should be modified or supplemented
accordingly.
Circuit-diagrams are shown only where they are necessary to better understand
the mode of operation of the equipment concerned.
Rotary actuator
Leading auxiliary switch
3 2 6 5 HS
EMS N 1 3 5
1 4 1 3
8 9 11
2 4
EBS
7 10 I> I> I> I> Auxiliary switch
NSE 00758a
N 2 4 6
AS
C1 D1
U< 5 7
C2 D2
6 8
Alarm switch
Figure 6-1: Circuit diagram for VL160X - VL630
3 and 4-pole circuit-breaker with thermomagnetic overcurrent release for line protection
Q1 Main contacts A1 Electronic overcurrent release

F1 Closing solenoid for A1 F2 Undervoltage release
F3 Shunt release HS Auxiliary switch
AS Alarm switch
EBS Leading auxiliary switch (integrated into the rotary operating mechanism) ON
EMS Leading auxiliary switch (integrated into the rotary operating mechanism) OFF
T1…T4 Current converter

6-2 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Circuit Diagrams
N 1 3 5
F3 F2
C1 D1 14 A1
C2 D2
K1HS F1 +
1 3 -
15
2 4
Aux. switch Q1
AS
Rotary actuator 5 7
Leading 6 8 K
auxiliary switch T1
Alarm switch
3 2 6 5 L K
EMS 1 T2
4
L K
8 9 11 12
T3
EBS 7 10
K L
NSE0_00759c T4
L
N 2 4 6
T5
T6
Figure 6-2: Circuit diagram for VL160 - VL250

3 and 4-pole circuit-breaker with electronic overcurrent release for line and motor protection
N 1 3 5
F3 F2
C1 D1 A1
C2 D2
F1 + >
HS
1 3
_
>
2 4
Aux. switch Q1
AS
Rotary actuator 5 7
Leading
6 8 K
auxiliary switch
Alarm switch T1
3 2 6 5 L K
EMS T2
1 4
8 9 11 12 L K
EBS T3
7 10 K L
NSE0_00760d T4
L
N 2 4 6
T5
T6
Figure 6-3: Circuit diagram for VL400 circuit-breaker for motor protection and VL400 - VL1600
3 and 4-pole circuit-breakers with electronic overcurrent release for line protection

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 6-3
Circuit Diagrams
L1 (L+)
F
S1 ON
S0 OFF
2 3 4 Stored energy operator

S2A S2B MANUAL
OFF/
CHARGE
AUTO/ HANDLE
OFF/0 ON/1 MANUAL
LOCAL
LOCK
OFF
Y1
OPEN CLOSED M
CIRCUIT 5
BREAKER PE
F
N (L2,L-) 1
NSE0_00762b
Figure 6-4: Stored energy operator for the VL160X - VL250, without undervoltage release
S0 OFF (provided by the customer) S1 ON (provided by the customer)
S2 Auto/manual selector switch Y1 Closing solenoid
F Control circuit fuse
L1 (L+)
F
7
S1 ON
EIN
8
S01 S0 OFF
AUS Alarmschalter
Alarm switch
K1
2 3 4 Motorantrieb mit Speicher
Stored energy operator
S2A S2B Manual
MANUELL
off/
AUS/
AUTO/ Charge
HEBEL
LOKAL
Local AUS/ 0 EIN/
OFF/0 ON/1
Auto/
1 MANUELL
manual
handle
SPANNEN
AUS
OFF
SPERRE
Lock
Y1
K1
U< Circuit
Breaker
M
LSOPEN LS
CLOSED 5
OFFEN GESCHL PE
1
N (L2,L-)
NSE00591b
F
Figure 6-5: Stored energy operator for the VL160X - VL250, with undervoltage release
S2 Auto/manual selector switch Y1 Closing solenoid
F Control circuit fuse S01 Remote cmd. (provided by the customer)
K1 Aux. protection (provided by the customer)
Note:
A separate alarm switch contact (7-8) can be connected for automatic charging after a tripping
event has occurred. Automatic closing is not recommended for a tripped circuit-breaker to avoid a
fault from occurring on the protected circuit.

6-4 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Circuit Diagrams
L1 (L+)
F
S1 EIN
ON
S0 AUS
OFF

S2A S2B MANUELL

Manual
AUS/
off/
HEBEL
Charge
AUTO/
Auto/ SPANNEN
handle
AUS/0 EIN/1 MANUELL
OFF/0 ON/1 manual
LOKAL
Local SPERRE
AUS
OFF Lock
Y1
Circuit
Breaker
LS LS M
OFFEN
OPEN GESCHL
CLOSED 5
PE
S4
N (L2,L-) 1
NSE00762a
F
Figure 6-6: Stored energy operator for the VL400 - VL800, without undervoltage release
S0 OFF S1 ON
S2 Auto/manual selector switch S4 Interlock “Open”
Y1 Closing solenoid F Control circuit fuse
L1 (L+)
F
7
S1 ON
EIN
8
S01 S0 OFF
AUS Alarm switch
Alarmschalter
K1
S2A S2B MANUELL
Manual
AUS/
off/
HEBEL
Charge
Auto/
AUTO/ SPANNEN
OFF/0
AUS/0 ON/1 manual
EIN/1 MANUELL handle
LOKAL
Local
AUS
OFF SPERRE
Lock
Y1
K1
U< Circuit
LS
Breaker LS M
OFFEN
OPEN GESCHL
CLOSED 5
PE
S4
N (L2,L-) 1
NSE00763a
F
Figure 6-7: Stored energy operator for the VL400 - VL800, without undervoltage release
S2 Auto/manual selector switch S4 Interlock “Open”
Y1 Closing solenoid F Control circuit fuse
S01 Remote cmd. (provided by the customer) K1 Aux. protection (provided by the customer)
Note:
event has occurred. The automatic switching on of the circuit-breaker must be prevented. Other-
wise ia short circuit could automatically occur after a tripping event.

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 6-5
Circuit Diagrams
L1 (L+)
F
S1 ON
EIN
S0 OFF
AUS
Motorantrieb
Motorized operating mechanism 2 3 4
LOKAL
Local LOKAL
Local
EIN
ON AUS
OFF
M
SPERRE
Lock Circuit Breaker
SCHALTER SCHALTER
OFFEN GESCHLOSSEN
S4 S2
OPEN CLOSED 5
PE
Interlock open
1 VERRIEG. OFFEN Lock
SPERRE
N (L2,L-)
NSE00764a
F
Figure 6-8: Stored energy operator for the VL1250 and VL1600, without undervoltage release.
S2 Lock S4 Interlock “Open”
F Control circuit fuse
L1 (L+)
F 7
S1 ON
EIN
K1 8
S0 OFF
AUS Alarm switch
Alarmschalter
S01 Motorantrieb
Motorized operating
mechanism 2 3 4
Local
LOKAL Local
LOKAL
ON
EIN OFF
AUS
M
SPERRE
K1 Lock Circuit Breaker
U< SCHALTER SCHALTER
OFFEN
OPEN GESCHLOSSEN
CLOSED
S4 S2 5
Interlock open PE
1 VERRIEG. OFFEN Lock
SPERRE
N (L2,L-)
NSE00592a
F
Figure 6-9: Stored energy operator for the VL1250 and VL1600, with undervoltage release
S2 Lock S4 Interlock “Open”
F Control circuit fuse S01 Remote control
K1 Auxiliary protection
Note:
event has occurred. The automatic closing of a tripped circuit-breaker is not recommended in order
to prevent a fault from occurring in the protected circuit.

6-6 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Circuit Diagrams
L1(L+) L1(L+)
F4 F4
S0
S0
"S contact" is
integrated in the
shunt release
S
D1
F2 C1
F3
D2 C2
N(L2,L-) N(L2,L-)
F5 F5
Figure 6-10: Undervoltage and shunt release for VL160X to VL1600
AC 400 V L1
L2
L3
N
21
S02
22 Z1 X1 S01 21
D1 22
1 3 5
3VL D2
2 4 6 Y2 Y1 X2
NSE0_00768
Figure 6-11: 3TX4701-0A delay unit for the undervoltage releases of the VL160X to VL1600.
S01 Delayed release
S02 Instantaneous release for the EMERGENCY STOP loop (if required)
Protective circuit with

UVR tripping time
UVR (220 V to 250 V DC)
only Y2 3 seconds
Y2 and Y1 bridged 6 seconds

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 6-7
Circuit Diagrams
N 1 3 5
+ -
X12.1 X12.3 A
TEST
Power
disconnect
NSE0_00769
N 2 4 6
Figure 6-12: 4-pole 3VL1 with RCD module

shown: 3-pole version is similar, but without N pole.
Q0 Circuit-breaker A Evaluation electronics
F0 Closing solenoid with local Test Test button
trip indication and reset
N 1 3 5 Q0
N 2 4 6
N 1 3 5 X12.1
X12.2
6 8 X12.3
F0
Tripping signal
5 S0
I RESET
X13.1
A
X13.3
TEST X13.2 PE
Power
disconnect
N 2 4 6 NSE0_00770
Figure 6-13: 4-pole circuit-breaker for VL160, VL1250, VL400

circuit-breakers with remote trip and RCD alarm switch 3-pole is similar, but without N pole.
Q0 Circuit-breaker A Evaluation electronics
F0 Closing solenoid with local trip
indication and reset
S0 Remote trip (provided by the customer) Test Test button

6-8 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Selectivity 7
SENTRON VL Systemhandbuch
GWA 4NEB 110 0110-01 7-1
Selectivity
In the case of circuit-breakers connected in series, the overload and short-circuit

protection is described as "selective" when – from the point of view of the
energy flow – only the circuit-breaker directly upstream from the fault switches
off.
7.1 Current selectivity

The selectivity can be calculated in the overload range by comparing the current
characteristic curves and the time characteristic curves. In the short-circuit
range, this comparison leads to values that are too low. The reason for this is
that the release behaves differently in the case of short-circuit currents com-
pared to its long-term behavior, e.g. in the case of overloads.
If there are sufficiently different short-circuit currents at the points where two cir-
cuit-breakers are mounted, the instantaneous short-circuit releases can nor-
mally be set such that if a short-circuit occurs downstream from the circuit-
breaker which itself is downstream from the short-circuit release, only the
downstream one is addressed.
If the short-circuit currents are approximately the same at the points where the cir-
cuit-breakers are mounted, the time grading of the tripping current of the short-
circuit release only enables selectivity up to a specific short-circuit current.
This current is referred to as the selectivity limit.
If the values determined by the short-circuit current calculation (e.g. according
to DIN VDE 0102) at the mounting point of the downstream circuit-breaker lie
below the selectivity limit listed in the respective table for the selected combi-
nation, selectivity is guaranteed for all possible short-circuit reductions at the
mounting point.
If the calculated short-circuit current at the mounting point is higher than the
selectivity limit, selective tripping by the downstream circuit-breaker is only
ensured up to the value listed in the table. The project engineer must judge
whether the value can be considered to be sufficient. This is the case, for exam-
ple, if the probability of the maximum short-circuit current occurring is low. Oth-
erwise, a circuit-breaker combination should be chosen whose selectivity limit
lies above the maximum short-circuit current.
7-2 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-01
Selectivity
7.2 Time selectivity

Time selectivity is an alternative possibility for securing selectivity if the short-
circuit currents are approximately the same at the mounting points. In order to
achieve this, the upstream circuit-breaker requires delayed short-circuit
releases, so that if a fault occurs, only the downstream circuit-breaker will dis-
connect the part of the system affected by the fault from the network.
Both the tripping delays and the tripping currents of the short-circuit releases
are graded.
Zone-Selective Interlocking (ZSI) has been developed for the Siemens SEN-
TRON VL circuit-breakers to prevent long, undesired release times when several
circuit-breakers are connected in series.
ZSI enables the tripping delay to be reduced to a maximum of 100 ms for the
circuit-breaker which is upstream from the point where the short circuit occurs.
When selecting a circuit-breaker, the circuit-breaker must be capable of dealing
with the initial balanced short-circuit current IK at the mounting point.
7.3 Downloading the selectivity tables

The following selectivity tables are available by clicking this button in the link
below:
Selectivity limits for selected and frequently requested Siemens device combi-
nations. The device combinations listed cover the majority of practical applica-
tions requested.
German:
http://www.ad.siemens.de/cd/energie/html_00/support_selektivitaet.htm
English:
http://www.ad.siemens.de/cd/energie/html_76/support_selektivitaet.htm
GWA 4NEB 110 0110-01 7-3
Selectivity
7.4 Information about the calculated selectivity limits
1. The selectivity values given here refer to

1.1 The dynamic selectivity
i.e. the dynamic behavior of the upstream and down-
stream protective devices in the time period up to 80 ms is Q1
displayed. This time period is the tripping range of the
instantaneous short-circuit release (I release) of circuit-
breakers.
1.2 The rated operational current Ue up to 415 V and 50 Hz
1.3 Short-circuit values of a dead three-phase short-circuit.
However, in practice approx. 70 - 80% of short-circuits are
single-phase short circuits with low values.
(2) In addition to taking the dynamic selectivity limits into consid-
eration (= the values in this table), selectivity can also be de-
termined by comparing the characteristic curves of the device
in the overload range (L range) and the short-time delayed
short-circuit range (S range).
For some combinations, the use of release options such as
"selectable characteristic curves" or ZSI can solve the prob- Ik max
lem of overlap.
(3) For circuit-breakers with LI and LSI characteristics, it is impor-
tant to ensure that the appropriate Ii and/or Isd protection set- Q1
tings fulfill the protection function in TN/TT/IT networks. This
means that the Ii and/or Isd protection setting must switch off
a short-circuit within 5 s (for fixed loads) or 0.4 s (for mobile
loads) respectively.
Caution: The Ii and Isd protection settings also influence
the selectivity behavior of upstream and downstream
devices.
(4) Current selectivity:

In general, only partial selectivity can be achieved using current grading (current se-
lectivity through the use of LI releases)! Furthermore, complete selectivity can only
be achieved up to the setpoint value of the instantaneous short-circuit release of the
upstream protection device IiQ1 minus 20%, rather than up to the maximum short-
circuit current Ik max! (see EN 60947 T2)
(5) Circuit-breakers with an adjustable time delay are often required in order to achieve
total selectivity between two protective devices. To calculate the selectivity limit val-
ues, the time delay tsd of the LSI releases is always set to the first time level and Id
to the maximum value.
(6) Time selectivity:
If the maximum short-circuit currents at the mounting points are approximately the
same (e.g. on the main distribution board), the upstream circuit-breaker (Q1) requires
a delayed short-circuit release (S release). An instantaneous release (I release) may
not be connected unless the I function is turned off. Zone-Selective Interlocking (ZSI)
controlled by a microprocessor has been developed by SIEMENS to prevent long, un-
desired tripping times. ZSI enables the tripping delay to be reduced to a maximum of
50 ms for the circuit-breaker which is upstream from the point where the short cir-
cuit occurs.
7-4 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-01
Selectivity
(7) Further information is available from SIEMENS about this subject:

Additional selectivity limit tables can be obtained on request from our
Technical Assistance
Characteristic curves programs
Simaris deSign - configuration software
(8) No characteristic/releases are listed for fuses.
The different types of fuses have the following operating classes:
Type Operating class
3NA gL/gG
5SA1 "quick-response"
5SA2 „time-lag“
5SB1/3 "quick-response"
5SB2/4 "time-lag"
5SC1 "quick-response"
5SC2 "time-lag"
5SD4/5 gR
5SD6 "quick-response"
5SE2 gL/gG
(9) Explanation of the abbreviations:
line = for line protection
motor = for motor protection
starter = starter combinations
Isolation cb = insulated circuit-breaker
IR = Current value of the overload release
Isd = Current value of the short-time delayed short-circuit release
tsd = TIme delay of the short-time delayed short-circuit release
Ii = Current value of the instantaneous short-circuit release
Icn = Rated short-circuit breaking capacity
TM = thermomagnetic release
ETU = Electronic Trip Unit
Settings of the LI and LSI releases of the upstream and downstream protective
devices for calculating the selectivity limits:
IR = 1 x In
Isd = max
tsd = ³ 100 ms
Ii = max
GWA 4NEB 110 0110-01 7-5
Selectivity
7-6 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-01
Maintenance Instructions 8
GWA 4NEB 110 0110-01 8-1
Maintenance Instructions
8.1 Maintenance
SENTRON 3VL molded-case circuit-breakers are maintenance-free.
8.2 Functionality test

We recommend that the system and the circuit-breaker are inspected periodi-
cally (annually) to ensure that the power distribution systems operate reliably.
Siemens points out: Functionality tests should only be carried out by qualified
personnel due to the dangers associated with electrical equipment.
The following tests can be carried out in an insulated environment:
• Test the operating lever to check the mechanical functioning of the circuit-breaker con-
tacts.
• Operate the push-to-trip button if present. Return the circuit-breaker to the starting
position after each operation.
• Examine all visible surfaces for oxidation, residues or other adverse effects.
• Remove residues with a clean dry cloth.
(Never use chemical cleaners or water)
• Carry out a sample check of the input and output cables.
• Check the terminal screws for proper torque values.
• Carry out a sample check of the terminal accessories
• Replace damaged terminal accessories after cleaning terminal area.
• Firmly tighten the cable screws.
• Electronic circuit-breaker releases may only be tested using the specially supplied
tester.
Caution
Never attempt to carry out repairs on the molded-case or the inside of the cir-
cuit-breaker! Molded-case circuit-breakers only contain maintenance-free com-
ponents.
8-2 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-01
Troubleshooting 9

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 9-1
Troubleshooting
9.1 Information for troubleshooting
Circuit-breaker
Causes Corrective Action
status
Overload causes Excessive current The circuit-breaker is functioning correctly and switches
circuit-breaker to off an overload that occurs. Check to see if the opera-
trip: tional current has exceeded the thermal tripping limit.
Carry out a visual inspection of the terminals. A discolor-
ation indicates that terminals are loose. The proper
torque values for the terminals are listed in the operating
manual supplied with every circuit-breaker. See also the
figures in Sections 3.1.2 and 3.1.3.
Connecting cables not Visually inspect the terminals for discoloration. Cables
correctly connected to can become loose during service due to various reasons,
the circuit-breaker e.g. vibrations (tool machine applications) and cold flow
(for aluminum cables)
Incorrect cable cross The correct cable size is important since the connected
section cable is used to dissipate heat. For example: If a cable
rated 90 Amperes was carrying 150 Amperes, this would
cause the cable and the circuit-breaker to excessively
overheat.
Ambient temperature This can be a problem on hot summer days or in areas
too high subject to extreme heat. Although all Siemens SENTRON
VL circuit-breakers are calibrated for application at an
ambient temperature of 50° C, the temperatures in the
housings can exceed this level. It may be necessary to
consider derating the In or IR rated values. See Sections
1.10, 1.11 and 1.12.
Overcurrent release If none of the above suggestions are the cause, the over-
not correctly con- current release should be removed from the circuit-
nected to the circuit- breaker and inspected for discoloration. The tightening
breaker. torque values are listed in the operating manual supplied
with every circuit-breaker.
Short circuit Excessive making cur- Adjust the magnetic trip rating to the next highest setting
causes circuit- rent e.g. motor or until the circuit-breaker does not trip when the motor
breaker to trip: is started.
High current peaks, A current peak of up to 20 times the nominal current of
e.g. when changing the motor can occur when changing from star to delta. In
from star to delta in this case, the short-circuit release “I” must be set to a
star-delta starters. higher value. However, this may cause the desired higher
motor protection function to be lost.

9-2 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Troubleshooting
Circuit-breaker
Causes Corrective Action
status
Mechanical and High humidity The circuit-breakers should not be used in environments
electrical functions: with high humidity, since this can cause dielectric and
insulation problems. In such environments, appropriate
measures need to be taken such as placing the circuit-
breaker in an enclosure.
Corrosion The circuit-breakers are not designed to be used in
aggressive environments.
In such environments, the circuit-breaker should be
installed in a housing.
Function of the inter- Determine what type of internal accessory is installed.
nal accessories Remove the circuit-breaker cover and determine the type
of accessory using the circuit-breaker order number.
Then check its correct functioning.
• Intervoltage release:
Ensure that the correct voltage is connected to the
undervoltage release, since otherwise the circuit-
breaker cannot be tripped.
• Shunt release:
Ensure that voltage is not applied to the shunt
release, since this also can prevent the circuit-breaker
from tripping.
• Auxiliary and alarm switches:
The auxiliary and alarm switches do not have any
effect on the functioning of the circuit-breaker.

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02 9-3
Troubleshooting

9-4 GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Sender (please fill in)
Name
To
SIEMENS AG
A&D CD MM3 Company / department
P.O. Box 1954
92220 Amberg, Germany Address
Fax: +49 (0) 9621 / 80-3337
SENTRON VL Operating Manual
Did you come across any errors while reading this manual?
If so, please let us know using this form.
We are grateful for your comments and suggestions.

GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
GWA 4NEB 110 0110-02
Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
Automation and Drives

Low Voltage Controls and Distribution
Postfach 48 48
D-90327 Nuernberg
www.siemens.de/ s e n t r o n

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Manual Edition 10/2004

Manual Construction and Operating Principle of

Usage in compliance with specifications

Copyright Siemens AG 2004 All rights reserved Exclusion of liability

1 SENTRON VL System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

1.1 Service conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

SENTRON VL System Manual

2.2 Fixed mounted versions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

4 Design and Operating Principle of the Circuit-breakers . . . . . . . 4-1

4.1 Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

SENTRON VL System Manual

5.1 Combination including frequency converter and SENTRON VL

6 Circuit Diagrams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1

7.1 Current selectivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

SENTRON VL System Manual

8 Maintenance Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1

8.1 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2

9.1 Information for troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2

SENTRON VL System Manual

SENTRON VL System Manual

SENTRON VL System Manual

SENTRON VL System Manual

SENTRON VL System Manual

SENTRON VL System Manual

Purpose of this manual

Standards and licenses

SENTRON VL System Manual

Continuously updated information

Technical Support: Telephone:+49 (0) 180 50 50 222

SENTRON VL System Manual

SENTRON VL System Manual

1.1 Service conditions

1.2 Application overview

SENTRON VL System Manual

1.3 SENTRON VL overview

Figure 1-1: SENTRON VL overview

SENTRON VL System Manual

Table 1-1: Switching capacity overview

Standard switching capacity N

High switching capacity H

Very high switching capacity L

SENTRON VL System Manual

1.5 Technical overview

TYPE SENTRON VL160X VL160 VL250 VL400

Rated current at an ambient tem- 16 to 160 A 26 to 160 A 80 to 250 A 125 to 400 A

mm A 105 139 105 139 105 139 139 183

SENTRON VL - N Interruption rating (kA) balanced (standard switching capacity)

SENTRON VL - H Interruption rating (kA) balanced (high switching capacity)

1) Rated insulation voltage of the main conducting path Ui=800 V AC

SENTRON VL System Manual

TYPE SENTRON VL160X VL160 VL250 VL400

TYPE SENTRON VL630 VL800 VL1250 VL1600

mm A 190 253 190 253 229 305 229 305

SENTRON VL - N Interruption Rating (kA) balanced

SENTRON VL System Manual

TYPE SENTRON VL630 VL800 VL1250 VL1600

SENTRON VL - L Interruption Rating (kA) balanced

1.6 Standards and specifications

Please contact SIEMENS for additional standards.

Furthermore, the overcurrent release of the circuit-breaker for motor protection

SENTRON VL System Manual

1.7 Degree of protection