Siemens 3VA5225-7GC41-0AA0 Molded Case Circuit Breaker
Key Selection Trade-offs (3VA52 Series)
The following comparison dimensions reflect documented spec fields for this Siemens 3VA52-series molded case breaker (4P, 250A, 100KA, FTAM):
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Pole count — 4P vs 3P: The primary unit carries four poles. Alternates in the same family include 3-pole (3VA5225-7EC31-0AA0) and 2(3)-pole (3VA5225-7EC61-0AA0) variants. Four-pole construction provides dedicated neutral protection in split-neutral schemes but requires additional enclosure width and increases branch coordination complexity.
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Trip unit type — FTAM vs ATAM vs FTFM: The primary MPN decodes to "Fixed Thermal, Adjustable Magnetic" (FTAM) on the upstream side, meaning the thermal element is non-adjustable while the magnetic (instantaneous) pickup is field-settable. ATAM variants (e.g., 3VA5225-7GF41-0AA0) imply a different frame variant with adjustable thermal/magnetic or purely thermal modes. The choice affects coordination granularity with downstream devices in selective coordination schemes.
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Breaking capacity — 100KA: The interrupting rating of 100 kA is specified. Installations where prospective short-circuit currents exceed this threshold require either a higher frame rating or upstream current-limiting coordination. The records do not include voltage rating data, so breaking capacity versus applied voltage should be confirmed against the specific system nominal.
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Actuator — lever only, no illumination: The breaker uses a mechanical lever handle; illuminated operators are not listed in the primary record. This is typical for standard branch protection; motor operator or motorized remote reset variants exist within the broader 3VA52 range but are separate MPNs not present in this comparison set.
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RoHS non-compliant: The product is marked non-compliant with RoHS. For equipment destined for markets with substance restrictions, or for green building certification projects, this field may be a disqualifying factor regardless of electrical performance.
Specifications (3VA5225-7GC41-0AA0)
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Current Rating | 250 A |
| Number of Poles | 4 |
| Interrupting Rating | 100 kA (stated) |
| Actuator Type | Lever |
| Illumination | None |
| Mounting Type | DIN Rail |
| Encapsulation | Box |
| Approval Agency | CCC, CE, CSA, EAC, UL489 |
| RoHS Compliance | Non-compliant |
| Product Status | Active |
Catalog Comparison (3VA52 Family, 250A Frame)
The table below shows side-by-side spec fields shared between the primary and in-catalog alternates. All items require reader qualification before use.
| MPN | Poles | Trip Unit | Actuator | Illumination | Mounting | Similarity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3VA5225-7GC41-0AA0 | 4 | FTAM | Lever | None | DIN Rail | — |
| 3VA5225-7GF41-0AA0 | 4 | ATAM | Lever | None | DIN Rail | 0.96 |
| 3VA5225-7GD41-0AA0 | 4 | FTFM | Lever | None | DIN Rail | 0.96 |
| 3VA5225-7EC41-0AA0 | 4 | FTAM | Lever | None | DIN Rail | 0.92 |
| 3VA5225-7ED41-0AA0 | 4 | FTFM | Lever | None | DIN Rail | 0.92 |
| 3VA5225-7EF41-0AA0 | 4 | ATAM | Lever | None | DIN Rail | 0.92 |
| 3VA5225-7EC31-0AA0 | 3 | FTAM | Lever | None | DIN Rail | 0.92 |
| 3VA5225-7EC61-0AA0 | 2(3) | FTAM | Lever | None | DIN Rail | 0.92 |
| 3VA52257EC320AA0 | 3 | FTAM | Lever | None | DIN Rail | 0.92 |
Why These Parts Are Similar
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3VA5225-7GF41-0AA0: Shares the same 4-pole DIN-rail frame at 250A and 100KA. The ATAM trip unit designation suggests a different trip characteristic variant within the 3VA52 frame family, but the functional difference in protection behavior depends on trip curve parameters not included in the records.
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3VA5225-7GD41-0AA0: Matches primary on pole count, mounting, and 100KA rating. The FTFM designation (Fixed Thermal, Fixed Magnetic) removes the adjustability present in the FTAM primary, narrowing coordination flexibility in selective systems.
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3VA5225-7EC41-0AA0: Identical electrical spec profile (4P, FTAM, 250A, 100KA) with a slightly different MPN prefix pattern, suggesting a regional distribution variant or packaging difference.
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3VA5225-7EC31-0AA0: Reduces pole count to three with additional VDE approval retained (primary omits VDE). Suitable for three-phase loads without dedicated neutral protection.
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3VA5225-7EC61-0AA0: Two-pole or selectable three-pole configuration (2(3)P) with VDE approval; provides flexibility for applications requiring switched neutral with reduced pole count.
Ordering Context (3VA52 Series)
The 3VA52 series from Siemens is the replacement generation for the earlier 3VL/3WL molded case lines in certain market segments. The MPN suffix "-0AA0" typically denotes the standard packing unit (individual box). The prefix "3VA5225" establishes the frame size (225–250A frame) and series generation. The middle digit block (e.g., "7GC") encodes the trip unit function and connection configuration; "7G" generally indicates specific accessories or connection styles, while the trailing character identifies the breaking capacity class.
FAQ
What does "FTAM" mean on the 3VA5225-7GC41-0AA0? FTAM stands for Fixed Thermal, Adjustable Magnetic — the thermal element uses a fixed calibration while the instantaneous (magnetic) pickup is settable, allowing coordination adjustment within the 250A frame.
Can this breaker be mounted on a standard DIN rail? Yes — the primary record lists DIN Rail as the mounting type. Verify that the enclosure DIN profile depth accommodates the 3VA52 frame depth and that side-by-side mounting clearance meets local code for heat dissipation.
Is the 3VA5225-7GC41-0AA0 suitable for use in RoHS-restricted projects? No — the record lists RoHS compliance as non-compliant. For European Union installations or projects targeting environmental certification, a RoHS-compliant alternative would be required.