Product Overview

The Schneider ATS22D62Q Soft Starter is an industrial motor starting controller from the Schneider Electric Altistart 22 (ATS22) series. It is engineered to provide controlled acceleration and deceleration of three-phase AC induction motors, helping reduce electrical inrush current and mechanical stress during motor startup and stopping.

Industrial motors often drive pumps, fans, compressors, conveyors and other heavy mechanical equipment that experience significant torque and current surges during direct-on-line (DOL) starting. The ATS22D62Q minimizes these effects by gradually increasing the motor voltage, allowing equipment to accelerate smoothly while protecting both electrical and mechanical components.

Unlike a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD), which continuously regulates motor speed by changing voltage and frequency, the ATS22D62Q is designed specifically for smooth starting and stopping. Once the motor reaches full operating speed, it runs directly from the power supply according to the system configuration, making the soft starter an economical and reliable choice for constant-speed applications.

With overall dimensions of 295 × 145 × 207 mm and a weight of approximately 12 kg, the ATS22D62Q features a rugged industrial design suitable for installation in motor control centers (MCCs), switchboards and industrial control cabinets across a wide range of automation systems.

Technical Specifications

Function and Working Principle

The ATS22D62Q regulates the voltage supplied to a three-phase induction motor during startup and stopping.

Instead of applying full voltage instantly, internal thyristors progressively increase the motor voltage according to configured acceleration parameters.

The operating sequence is:

Three-Phase Power Supply

↓

ATS22D62Q Soft Starter

↓

AC Induction Motor

↓

Driven Equipment

During startup:

• Output voltage increases gradually.
• Starting current is limited.
• Motor torque builds progressively.
• Mechanical shock is reduced.
• Equipment accelerates smoothly.

During stopping:

• Motor voltage decreases gradually.
• Deceleration becomes more controlled.
• Mechanical impact on equipment is minimized.

This controlled operation helps protect motors, couplings, belts, shafts and connected machinery.

Motor Starting Principle

Traditional direct-on-line starting immediately applies full supply voltage, resulting in:

• High inrush current
• Sudden acceleration
• Mechanical shock
• Belt slippage
• Gearbox stress
• Voltage fluctuations

The ATS22D62Q provides:

• Controlled voltage ramp
• Progressive torque increase
• Reduced starting current
• Smooth motor acceleration
• Stable mechanical operation

This significantly improves system reliability and equipment lifespan.

Role in Industrial Motor Control Systems

The ATS22D62Q functions as the interface between the power supply and the motor.

A typical motor control architecture is:

Power Distribution System

↓

Motor Protection Breaker

↓

ATS22D62Q Soft Starter

↓

Three-Phase Motor

↓

Industrial Equipment

The PLC or automation controller determines when the motor should start or stop, while the ATS22D62Q manages the acceleration and deceleration process to ensure safe operation.

This separation of responsibilities simplifies automation programming while protecting valuable mechanical assets.

Industrial Applications

The Schneider ATS22D62Q is suitable for numerous industrial sectors, including:

• Water treatment plants
• Water pumping stations
• Wastewater facilities
• HVAC systems
• Ventilation equipment
• Industrial fans
• Centrifugal pumps
• Air compressors
• Screw compressors
• Conveyor systems
• Material handling equipment
• Mining machinery
• Cement production
• Chemical processing
• Food and beverage manufacturing
• Packaging equipment
• Pulp and paper mills
• Textile machinery
• General industrial automation

Its soft-start capability is especially valuable for equipment with high starting torque or frequent start/stop cycles.

Benefits of Soft Starting

Using the ATS22D62Q instead of direct-on-line starting offers several advantages.

These include:

• Reduced motor starting current
• Lower voltage disturbances
• Reduced mechanical wear
• Longer bearing life
• Less gearbox stress
• Lower maintenance costs
• Reduced pump water hammer
• Improved conveyor stability
• Increased equipment reliability
• Extended motor service life
• Improved process stability

These benefits contribute to greater operational efficiency and lower total cost of ownership.

Installation and System Integration

Correct installation is essential for reliable long-term performance.

Mechanical Installation

Before installation, verify:

• Correct model number
• Sufficient panel space
• Proper ventilation
• Vertical mounting orientation
• Secure mechanical fixing
• Ambient environmental conditions

The dimensions of 295 × 145 × 207 mm should be considered when designing the control cabinet.

Electrical Connections

Typical wiring includes:

• Three-phase incoming power
• Motor output terminals
• Protective earth connection
• Control terminals
• PLC control interface
• Protection devices

Power cables and low-voltage control wiring should be routed separately whenever practical to reduce electromagnetic interference.

Commissioning Procedure

A recommended commissioning process includes:

1. Mount the ATS22D62Q.
2. Verify all electrical connections.
3. Confirm motor compatibility.
4. Check protective devices.
5. Configure acceleration parameters.
6. Configure stopping parameters.
7. Verify PLC control signals.
8. Energize the system.
9. Test motor startup without load.
10. Test startup under operating load.
11. Observe motor current.
12. Confirm stable operation.

Compatible System Components

The ATS22D62Q is commonly integrated with the following industrial equipment.

These components work together to create a comprehensive industrial motor control solution.

Typical Application – Pumping System

Large pumping systems often suffer from hydraulic shock when motors start abruptly.

Using the ATS22D62Q:

PLC Start Command

↓

Soft Starter

↓

Controlled Motor Acceleration

↓

Pump Operation

↓

Stable Water Flow

The gradual acceleration reduces water hammer and helps protect pumps, valves and pipelines.

Typical Application – Conveyor System

In conveyor applications, sudden motor startup can cause:

• Belt slippage
• Product displacement
• Gearbox shock
• Bearing wear

The ATS22D62Q minimizes these problems by providing controlled acceleration.

Typical operating sequence:

PLC

↓

ATS22D62Q

↓

Motor

↓

Conveyor Belt

↓

Product Transport

Smooth startup improves production stability and reduces mechanical wear.

Installation Considerations

When replacing an existing soft starter, engineers should verify:

• Motor specifications
• System voltage
• Control wiring
• Cabinet space
• Cooling requirements
• Protection devices
• PLC configuration
• Application requirements

Selecting a replacement based only on physical dimensions is not recommended.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Routine maintenance should include:

• Inspect terminal tightness.
• Clean ventilation passages.
• Verify cooling airflow.
• Inspect wiring insulation.
• Review operating parameters.
• Check grounding connections.
• Test control signals.
• Inspect motor condition.

Preventive maintenance helps maximize equipment availability.

Common Fault Conditions

A systematic inspection should always be completed before replacing the soft starter.

Recommended Alternative Models

Depending on motor size and application requirements, the following Schneider Electric products may also be suitable.

Selection should always be based on motor ratings, application characteristics and system design.

Key Advantages

• Designed for Schneider Electric Altistart 22 motor control systems
• Smooth motor acceleration and deceleration
• Reduces inrush current during startup
• Protects motors and driven equipment
• Minimizes mechanical shock
• Improves equipment service life
• Suitable for pumps, compressors and conveyors
• Easy integration with PLC-based automation systems
• Industrial-grade construction
• Suitable for continuous-duty applications
• Compact panel-mounted design
• Dimensions: 295 × 145 × 207 mm
• Weight: 12 kg

Technical FAQs

What is the Schneider ATS22D62Q?

The ATS22D62Q is a soft starter from Schneider Electric’s Altistart 22 series, designed to provide controlled starting and stopping of three-phase AC induction motors.

What is the primary function of the ATS22D62Q?

Its primary function is to reduce motor inrush current and mechanical stress by gradually controlling motor voltage during startup and stopping.

What are the dimensions of the ATS22D62Q?

The unit measures 295 × 145 × 207 mm.

How much does it weigh?

The specified weight is approximately 12 kg.

Is the ATS22D62Q a Variable Frequency Drive?

No. A soft starter controls motor voltage during startup and stopping only. A Variable Frequency Drive continuously adjusts both voltage and frequency to regulate motor speed.

Which motors are compatible with this soft starter?

It is designed for three-phase AC induction motors used in industrial automation systems.

Where is the ATS22D62Q typically installed?

It is commonly installed in industrial control cabinets and motor control centers (MCCs).

Can it be used for pump applications?

Yes. It is widely used for pumps where smooth acceleration helps reduce hydraulic shock and mechanical stress.

Is it suitable for conveyor systems?

Yes. Controlled motor acceleration minimizes belt slippage and reduces stress on conveyor components.

What should be checked before replacing the ATS22D62Q?

Verify motor specifications, system voltage, wiring configuration, protection devices, cabinet space and application requirements before selecting a replacement.

Conclusion

The Schneider ATS22D62Q Soft Starter is a dependable motor control device designed to improve the startup and stopping performance of three-phase AC induction motors. As part of the Altistart 22 family, it helps reduce inrush current, minimize mechanical shock and enhance the reliability of industrial equipment operating at constant speed.

With compact dimensions of 295 × 145 × 207 mm and a weight of approximately 12 kg, the ATS22D62Q is well suited for installation in industrial control cabinets and motor control centers. It is widely applied in pumping systems, HVAC installations, compressors, conveyors, material handling equipment and many other industrial applications.

When integrated with PLC controllers, motor protection devices and industrial communication systems, the Schneider ATS22D62Q provides a reliable and efficient motor starting solution that supports long-term equipment protection, reduced maintenance costs and improved operational performance.