Product Overview

The Schneider ATS01N222QN Soft Starter for Asynchronous Motor is a compact motor control device designed to provide controlled starting and stopping for three-phase asynchronous motors. It is part of the Schneider Altistart 01 family and is intended for applications where a smoother motor startup is preferred over direct-on-line starting.

When an asynchronous motor is connected directly to the supply, it can draw a high current during acceleration and produce a sudden increase in torque. On machines with belts, couplings, pumps, fans, or other rotating equipment, this abrupt response can place unnecessary stress on the mechanical transmission.

The ATS01N222QN provides a controlled voltage ramp during the starting process. Rather than applying the full motor supply condition immediately, the device allows the motor to build up speed progressively. This can make the transition from standstill to normal operation smoother and more predictable.

The soft starter is intended for fixed-speed motor applications. It is therefore better suited to machines that need controlled starting but do not require continuous speed adjustment during normal operation.

With dimensions of 154 × 45 × 131 mm and a stated weight of 0.56 kg, the ATS01N222QN provides a compact installation footprint while offering a larger physical body than some lower-capacity models in the same product family.

Technical Specifications

Product Features

The ATS01N222QN is intended for motor-driven equipment where the starting process needs to be controlled without requiring the full functionality of a variable frequency drive.

Key features include:

• Controlled starting for asynchronous motors
• Progressive motor acceleration
• Soft stopping capability for suitable applications
• Helps reduce sudden mechanical torque
• Helps make motor startup smoother
• Compact 45 mm wide construction
• Suitable for industrial control cabinets
• Suitable for fixed-speed motor applications
• Compatible with conventional motor control arrangements
• Practical for pumps, fans, conveyors, and other rotating machinery

The compact enclosure allows the soft starter to be incorporated into motor control panels without occupying excessive cabinet width.

Working Principle

The ATS01N222QN manages the motor voltage during the acceleration stage.

When the motor receives a start command, the soft starter establishes an initial controlled voltage condition. The voltage is then increased progressively so that the asynchronous motor can accelerate toward its normal operating speed without the abrupt electrical transition associated with direct-on-line starting.

The operating sequence includes:

• Receiving a start signal from the control circuit
• Establishing the initial starting voltage
• Increasing the applied voltage progressively
• Allowing the motor to accelerate
• Reducing sudden torque transmission to the mechanical load
• Bringing the motor into normal operation

Where the application requires controlled stopping, the soft starter can also provide a gradual reduction in motor voltage during the stopping process.

This method is particularly useful when abrupt acceleration could cause belt movement, vibration, pressure changes, or excessive mechanical loading.

Role in Industrial Motor Control Systems

The ATS01N222QN forms part of the motor starting section within an industrial electrical control system.

The soft starter should be installed together with appropriate circuit protection and motor protection equipment. It is not intended to replace the complete protection and isolation system required for an industrial motor installation.

Industrial Applications

The ATS01N222QN can be used in applications where the motor normally runs at a constant speed but benefits from controlled acceleration.

For conveyor systems, a controlled acceleration profile can reduce sudden belt tension. In pump applications, smoother motor acceleration can also help reduce abrupt mechanical loading.

Installation and System Integration

The ATS01N222QN should be installed according to the motor characteristics, electrical supply, driven load, and protective equipment used in the complete system.

Recommended installation steps include:

• Confirm the ATS01N222QN model before installation.
• Check the motor rated voltage and current.
• Verify the supply configuration.
• Confirm that the selected soft starter matches the application.
• Install the unit securely inside the control cabinet.
• Provide appropriate upstream circuit protection.
• Connect the supply and motor conductors correctly.
• Install suitable motor overload protection.
• Connect the control circuit.
• Configure the starting characteristics according to the load.
• Inspect all terminals and wiring before energizing.
• Carry out a controlled motor startup test.

The mechanical characteristics of the driven equipment should be considered when setting the starting process. High-inertia machinery may require a different acceleration profile from a lightly loaded fan or pump.

Compatible System Components

The ATS01N222QN normally operates together with several other motor control components.

The motor, soft starter, protective equipment, and control system should be selected as a coordinated installation rather than as independent components.

Recommended Alternative Models

When selecting an alternative, the motor rated current, supply voltage, motor power, starting duty, load characteristics, control requirements, protection coordination, and available installation space should all be checked. Similar dimensions do not necessarily mean that two soft starters are electrically interchangeable.

Key Advantages

• Provides controlled starting for asynchronous motors
• Helps reduce mechanical shock during acceleration
• Supports smoother motor startup
• Suitable for fixed-speed motor applications
• Suitable for pumps, fans, conveyors, and industrial machinery
• Compact 154 × 45 × 131 mm construction
• Lightweight 0.56 kg design
• Suitable for space-conscious control cabinets
• Integrates into conventional industrial motor control systems
• Provides a practical solution when continuous variable-speed operation is not required

Technical FAQs

How does the ATS01N222QN affect the starting torque of an asynchronous motor?

The soft starter controls the voltage applied during acceleration, which changes the way motor current and torque build up from standstill. The result is a more gradual torque response than a conventional direct-on-line start, helping reduce sudden loading on the driven equipment.

Is the ATS01N222QN suitable for equipment with significant rotational inertia?

It can be considered for high-inertia applications, but the actual motor rating, load inertia, acceleration time, starting frequency, and thermal conditions need to be evaluated. A machine with a large inertial load may require a different starting profile from a lightly loaded motor.

Why is the ATS01N222QN physically larger than some other ATS01 models?

Different soft starter ratings can require different internal power components and thermal arrangements. Therefore, models within the same family may have different enclosure dimensions even when their basic functions are similar.

What information is needed before selecting a replacement for the ATS01N222QN?

The most important information includes the motor rated current, supply voltage, motor power, phase configuration, load type, starting frequency, required acceleration behavior, control method, protection arrangement, and available cabinet space. These factors should be checked together before choosing an alternative model.