Product Overview

The Schneider ATS22D32S6 is an Altistart 22 soft starter designed for controlled starting and stopping of three-phase asynchronous motors. With a 32 A starter rating and a 230 V AC control circuit, it is intended for industrial motor applications where controlled acceleration, reduced starting stress, and reliable motor operation are required.

Three-phase asynchronous motors can draw several times their normal operating current during direct-on-line starting. This high inrush current can place additional demand on the electrical distribution system, while the sudden torque produced during startup can place stress on shafts, couplings, gearboxes, belts, pumps, fans, and other mechanical components.

The ATS22D32S6 addresses these issues by providing controlled motor starting and stopping. Instead of allowing the motor to accelerate immediately at full electrical impact, the soft starter manages the starting process using torque control and current limitation.

The ATS22D32S6 belongs to Schneider Electric’s Altistart 22 product family and is designed for three-phase asynchronous motors. It is commonly associated with applications such as pumps, fans, compressors, conveyors, and other fixed-speed industrial machinery.

The model has an IcL starter rating of 32 A when connected in the motor supply line for standard applications. Its rated supply range is approximately 230…600 V AC, while the control circuit requires approximately 230 V AC at 50/60 Hz.

The ATS22D32S6 has a compact enclosure measuring approximately 265 × 130 × 169 mm, with a product weight of approximately 7 kg. These dimensions are useful when designing electrical cabinets, planning cable routing, selecting mounting arrangements, and checking replacement compatibility.

Although the ATS22D32S6 is a legacy Altistart 22 model, it remains relevant for existing industrial installations where maintenance teams need to replace an installed unit or maintain an established motor-control system. For new system designs, newer Schneider soft starter families may also be considered.

Technical Specifications

What Is the Schneider ATS22D32S6?

The Schneider ATS22D32S6 is a 32 A Altistart 22 soft starter used to control the starting and stopping characteristics of compatible three-phase asynchronous motors.

A soft starter is installed in the motor power circuit to provide a more controlled transition from standstill to normal motor operation. When a conventional motor is started directly across the line, the motor can draw a high inrush current and produce a strong initial torque.

The ATS22D32S6 reduces the impact of this starting process by controlling the electrical conditions applied to the motor. The result is a progressive acceleration profile rather than an immediate full-impact start.

This is particularly useful for equipment where mechanical shock is undesirable. Pumps, fans, compressors, conveyors, and other rotating machinery can experience reduced stress when the motor accelerates progressively.

The ATS22D32S6 is not intended to replace a variable frequency drive when continuous speed control is required. Instead, it is primarily used when the motor normally operates at a fixed line frequency and the main requirement is controlled starting and stopping.

This makes the ATS22D32S6 a practical solution for fixed-speed industrial motor applications where starting performance is more important than variable-speed operation.

Function and Working Principle

The basic motor-control architecture can be represented as:

Three-Phase AC Supply → Circuit Protection → ATS22D32S6 → Three-Phase Motor → Mechanical Load

When a start command is received, the ATS22D32S6 begins its configured starting sequence. The soft starter controls the motor acceleration by regulating the starting conditions instead of allowing the motor to experience the full impact of direct-on-line starting.

The ATS22D32S6 uses torque-controlled starting with current limitation. The starting current can be limited to approximately 3.5 times the configured motor current, depending on application conditions and parameter settings.

During acceleration, the motor gradually reaches its normal operating condition. The required acceleration time depends on several factors, including motor characteristics, load inertia, starting torque requirements, current limitation, and configured parameters.

Once the motor has reached normal operation, the integrated bypass function can reduce the losses associated with the electronic starting stage. This is useful for continuous-duty applications because it can help reduce heat generation within the cabinet.

The soft starter can also control the motor stopping process. Controlled stopping can be beneficial when an abrupt stop could cause mechanical shock or process instability.

For example, stopping a pump too quickly can create undesirable hydraulic effects. Similarly, abruptly stopping a conveyor can place additional stress on belts, couplings, and transported material.

ATS22D32S6 Electrical Characteristics

The ATS22D32S6 has an IcL starter rating of 32 A for standard applications when installed in the motor supply line.

The rated supply voltage is approximately 230…600 V AC, with supply voltage limits extending to approximately 195…660 V. The unit is designed for three-phase 50/60 Hz power systems.

The associated motor power ratings include approximately 7.5 kW at 230 V, 15 kW at 400 V, 15 kW at 440 V, and 18.5 kW at 500 V.

The factory-set current is approximately 27 A. During commissioning, the motor current parameter should be adjusted according to the actual motor nameplate and application requirements.

The control circuit voltage is approximately 230 V AC. This is one of the most important characteristics to check when replacing the ATS22D32S6 because similar Altistart 22 models can use different control-voltage configurations.

Role in Industrial Control Systems

The ATS22D32S6 can operate as the motor-starting and stopping component within a larger industrial automation system.

A typical control architecture may include:

• PLC controller
• HMI operator interface
• ATS22D32S6 soft starter
• Three-phase asynchronous motor
• Incoming circuit breaker
• Motor protection equipment
• Switching or isolation contactor
• Emergency stop circuit
• Pressure sensors
• Flow sensors
• Temperature sensors
• Modbus RS485 communication network
• 230 V AC control power supply

The PLC is normally responsible for machine logic and process control, while the ATS22D32S6 manages the motor’s starting and stopping behavior.

For example, in a pump station, the PLC may monitor tank level and pressure. When the process requires the pump to operate, the PLC sends a start command to the soft starter. The ATS22D32S6 then controls the motor acceleration while the PLC continues to monitor the process.

This architecture allows the motor-control function and process-control function to work together without requiring a variable frequency drive when continuous speed regulation is unnecessary.

Industrial Applications

Pump Systems

Pumps are among the most common applications for soft starters. A controlled starting process can reduce sudden current demand and mechanical shock.

The ATS22D32S6 can be applied to compatible water pumps, circulation pumps, process pumps, cooling systems, and industrial utility pumps.

Fans and Blowers

Fans and blowers can have considerable rotating inertia. Starting them directly across the line can create a sudden mechanical load on the motor shaft and connected drive system.

The ATS22D32S6 can provide progressive acceleration for compatible fixed-speed fan and blower applications.

Compressors

Industrial compressors can require significant starting torque depending on the compressor design and operating condition. A correctly selected soft starter can help control the electrical starting process.

The ATS22D32S6 can be considered for compatible compressor applications where motor current and starting duty remain within the starter’s rating.

Conveyor Systems

Conveyor systems often contain belts, rollers, gearboxes, couplings, and material loads. Abrupt motor starting can create sudden torque throughout the mechanical system.

The ATS22D32S6 can provide a smoother acceleration profile for suitable fixed-speed conveyors.

Material Handling

Material-handling systems can benefit from controlled acceleration because sudden torque changes may affect belts, gears, couplings, and transported materials.

The ATS22D32S6 is suitable for consideration in applications where the motor and mechanical load match the starter’s electrical and starting requirements.

Industrial Machinery

Other potential applications include ventilation equipment, mixers, process machinery, utility systems, and other fixed-speed industrial machines using compatible three-phase asynchronous motors.

Installation and System Integration

Correct installation is essential for reliable ATS22D32S6 operation. The motor nameplate, electrical supply, control voltage, protection system, cabinet environment, mechanical load, and communication requirements should all be evaluated before commissioning.

Check the Motor Nameplate

Verify the motor’s rated voltage, rated current, frequency, power, connection configuration, and operating duty.

The soft starter should be selected according to the actual motor current and application conditions rather than relying only on motor kW.

Verify the Supply Voltage

The ATS22D32S6 supports three-phase AC supply applications in the approximately 230…600 V range.

The site supply voltage should be verified before energizing the equipment. The motor connection must also correspond to the applicable supply voltage.

Verify the Control Supply

The ATS22D32S6 requires a 230 V AC control circuit.

The control supply should be checked before installation because using an incorrect control voltage can prevent the soft starter from operating correctly.

Install Suitable Protection

The complete motor-control system should include suitable short-circuit protection, isolation, grounding, and motor protection.

Protection devices should be selected according to the motor, starter, installation environment, cable system, and applicable electrical requirements.

Mechanical Mounting

The ATS22D32S6 measures approximately 265 × 130 × 169 mm and weighs approximately 7 kg.

The electrical cabinet and mounting structure should safely support the unit and provide sufficient space for power cables, control wiring, ventilation, inspection, and maintenance.

Cooling and Ventilation

The ATS22D32S6 uses forced-convection cooling and is supplied with a heat-sink assembly.

Cabinet ventilation should therefore be considered during installation. Other heat-producing devices inside the cabinet should also be included in the thermal calculation.

Power Wiring

Incoming three-phase supply cables and motor cables should be correctly sized according to motor current, cable length, installation method, ambient temperature, and applicable electrical standards.

Before energizing the system, verify phase connections, grounding, insulation condition, cable termination, and terminal tightness.

Control Wiring

The ATS22D32S6 provides three logic inputs and two relay outputs. These interfaces can be integrated into a PLC control system for start commands, operating status, alarm indication, and fault monitoring.

Control wiring should be properly routed and separated from high-current motor wiring where necessary to reduce electrical interference.

Modbus Communication

The ATS22D32S6 supports Modbus communication through an RS485 multidrop interface.

This communication capability allows the soft starter to exchange operating and diagnostic information with compatible automation equipment.

Communication parameters such as the network address and transmission speed should be configured consistently with the Modbus master and other devices on the network.

Commissioning

Commissioning should include verification of incoming supply voltage, 230 V control power, motor wiring, motor rotation, acceleration behavior, motor current, stopping characteristics, alarm status, and communication operation.

The first startup should be performed under controlled conditions. If the motor fails to accelerate properly, the motor current, starting torque, acceleration settings, mechanical load, and protection settings should be checked before further startup attempts.

Compatible System Components

Recommended Alternative Models

When selecting an alternative to the ATS22D32S6, the complete electrical and application specification should be compared rather than selecting a replacement based only on the 32 A rating.

The motor current, supply voltage, control voltage, motor power, starting duty, load type, number of starts, cabinet dimensions, cooling requirements, communication interface, and installation method should all be checked.

The ATS22D32S6 is a 32 A Altistart 22 model with a 230 V AC control circuit. Because different Altistart variants have different voltage configurations, the complete model number is important when sourcing a replacement for an existing installation.

For new projects or modernization work, the newer ATS430D32S6 is a particularly important alternative to evaluate. It provides a newer Altivar Soft Starter platform with a 32 A rating, a broader 208…600 V AC supply range, and a 110…230 V AC control supply range.

Key Advantages

• 32 A Altistart 22 soft starter
• Designed for three-phase asynchronous motors
• 230…600 V AC rated supply range
• 230 V AC control circuit
• 7.5 kW motor rating at 230 V
• 15 kW motor rating at 400 V
• 15 kW motor rating at 440 V
• 18.5 kW motor rating at 500 V
• Torque-controlled starting
• Current limitation to approximately 3.5 × In
• Internal bypass function
• Modbus communication capability
• RS485 multidrop communication
• Three logic inputs
• Two relay outputs
• PTC probe input
• IP20 protection rating
• Forced-convection cooling
• Heat-sink construction
• Suitable for PLC-based automation systems
• Suitable for pump applications
• Suitable for fan and blower applications
• Suitable for compressors
• Suitable for conveyors and material handling
• Compact cabinet installation
• Dimensions of approximately 265 × 130 × 169 mm
• Weight of approximately 7 kg

Technical FAQs

What is the Schneider ATS22D32S6?

The Schneider ATS22D32S6 is a 32 A Altistart 22 electronic soft starter designed to control the starting and stopping of compatible three-phase asynchronous motors.

What is the main function of the ATS22D32S6?

Its primary function is to provide controlled motor acceleration and stopping, helping reduce the electrical and mechanical impact associated with direct-on-line motor starting.

What is the current rating of the ATS22D32S6?

The ATS22D32S6 has an IcL starter rating of 32 A for standard connection in the motor supply line.

What control voltage does the ATS22D32S6 use?

The ATS22D32S6 uses a 230 V AC control circuit at 50/60 Hz.

What supply voltage does the ATS22D32S6 support?

The ATS22D32S6 is designed for three-phase AC supply applications from approximately 230 to 600 V, with supply voltage limits of approximately 195…660 V.

What motor power can the ATS22D32S6 handle?

The typical motor power ratings include 7.5 kW at 230 V, 15 kW at 400 V, 15 kW at 440 V, and 18.5 kW at 500 V.

Does the ATS22D32S6 have an internal bypass?

Yes. The ATS22D32S6 includes an internal bypass function that helps reduce power losses and heat generation during normal motor operation.

Does the ATS22D32S6 support Modbus?

Yes. The ATS22D32S6 supports Modbus communication through an RS485 multidrop interface.

Can the ATS22D32S6 be connected to a PLC?

Yes. The ATS22D32S6 can be integrated into PLC-based industrial automation systems using its logic inputs, relay outputs, and Modbus communication capability.

What are the typical applications of the ATS22D32S6?

Typical applications include pumps, fans, blowers, compressors, conveyors, material-handling systems, and other fixed-speed industrial machinery.

Is the ATS22D32S6 a variable frequency drive?

No. The ATS22D32S6 is a soft starter. It is designed primarily for controlled motor starting and stopping rather than continuous variable-speed control.

What are the dimensions of the ATS22D32S6?

The supplied dimensions are approximately 265 × 130 × 169 mm.

How much does the ATS22D32S6 weigh?

The supplied product weight is approximately 7 kg.

What protection rating does the ATS22D32S6 have?

The ATS22D32S6 has an IP20 protection rating and is intended for installation within a suitable electrical cabinet or protected control environment.

What cooling method does the ATS22D32S6 use?

The ATS22D32S6 uses forced-convection cooling with a heat-sink assembly. Appropriate cabinet ventilation and thermal management should therefore be considered during installation.

Is the ATS22D32S6 still available for new installations?

The ATS22D32S6 is a legacy Altistart 22 product. It remains relevant for existing systems and maintenance requirements, but newer installations should also evaluate current-generation Schneider soft starter products.

What is the recommended replacement for the ATS22D32S6?

The ATS430D32S6 is the important current-generation replacement to evaluate. It provides a 32 A rating, a 208…600 V AC supply range, and a 110…230 V AC control supply range. Replacement projects should still verify wiring, dimensions, protection, communication, and application requirements before installation.

Conclusion

The Schneider ATS22D32S6 Soft Starter is a 32 A Altistart 22 motor-control device designed for controlled starting and stopping of three-phase asynchronous motors. Its main purpose is to reduce the electrical and mechanical impact that can occur when industrial motors are started directly across the line.

With a rated supply range of approximately 230…600 V AC, a 230 V AC control circuit, and motor ratings extending from approximately 7.5 kW at 230 V to 18.5 kW at 500 V, the ATS22D32S6 can be used in a wide range of fixed-speed motor applications.

The torque-controlled starting method, current limitation, internal bypass, Modbus communication, logic inputs, relay outputs, and PTC monitoring capability make the ATS22D32S6 suitable for integration into industrial automation systems.

Typical applications include pumps, fans, compressors, conveyors, material-handling equipment, and other industrial machinery where smoother motor acceleration is preferred over direct-on-line starting.

The physical dimensions of approximately 265 × 130 × 169 mm and weight of approximately 7 kg should be considered when planning cabinet installation or replacing an existing unit. The IP20 enclosure, heat-sink design, and forced-convection cooling also make cabinet ventilation an important part of the installation design.

For maintenance engineers, OEMs, system integrators, and industrial automation professionals, the ATS22D32S6 remains a useful reference for existing Altistart 22 installations. Because this model is now a legacy product, engineers planning modernization should also evaluate the ATS430D32S6 as a current-generation alternative while carefully checking electrical compatibility, control voltage, communication requirements, mounting dimensions, and application duty.