Product Overview

The Schneider Electric ATS48M10Q Altistart 48 Soft Starter is a high-power motor starting and stopping device designed for large three-phase asynchronous motors. As part of the Altistart 48 product family, it is intended for demanding industrial applications where controlled motor acceleration, torque management, and reduced mechanical stress are important.

Unlike a conventional direct-on-line starter, which applies full supply voltage to the motor immediately, a soft starter controls the voltage and motor torque during the starting process. This helps reduce starting shock and can limit the mechanical and electrical stresses associated with starting large motors.

The ATS48M10Q supports a rated supply voltage range of 230–415 V AC and is listed with a rated current of 855 A. Its application ratings vary according to supply voltage, motor connection method, and duty classification. It is designed for heavy industrial applications, including large pumps and other high-power motor-driven equipment.

The Altistart 48 range uses a Torque Control System (TCS) to manage motor starting and stopping. This approach is particularly useful in applications where a controlled acceleration and deceleration profile is required. In pumping systems, for example, controlled stopping can help reduce hydraulic transients and the mechanical effects associated with abrupt changes in flow.

The ATS48M10Q also provides motor and starter thermal protection functions, monitoring and control interfaces, and configurable operating parameters. Its design supports both line connection and connection to the motor delta terminals, subject to the applicable electrical and motor requirements.

This model is a large industrial unit with supplied dimensions of 890 × 770 × 315 mm and a weight of 115 kg. It is important to verify the full catalog number before purchasing because the ATS48Q and ATS48Y versions have different voltage ranges and current-transformer configurations.

Technical Specifications

Note: Motor power and current ratings depend on supply voltage, connection arrangement, and standard-duty or severe-duty operating conditions. Consult the applicable Schneider Electric selection tables before choosing the starter for a particular motor.

Function and Working Principle

The ATS48M10Q controls the starting and stopping process of a three-phase asynchronous motor. Instead of applying full voltage immediately, it regulates the motor’s electrical supply during acceleration and deceleration.

Its main operating functions include torque control, current management, thermal protection, and configurable starting and stopping parameters.

1. Controlled Motor Starting

When a large motor starts, it can draw a substantial current and produce significant mechanical torque. These effects can influence the electrical distribution system and place stress on connected machinery.

The ATS48M10Q gradually manages motor torque during startup. The operator or commissioning engineer can configure the starting parameters to suit the motor and driven load.

This controlled process can help reduce mechanical shock in equipment such as pumps, compressors, and industrial machinery.

2. Torque Control System

The Altistart 48 uses Schneider Electric’s Torque Control System. Rather than relying exclusively on a simple voltage ramp, the system controls motor torque during starting and stopping.

This is useful in applications where the load characteristics change during acceleration or where a controlled stopping profile is important.

For pumping equipment, torque-controlled stopping can help reduce pressure fluctuations and hydraulic transients. The actual result depends on the pump design, pipeline characteristics, fluid conditions, and configured stopping parameters.

3. Current Management

The soft starter manages the current drawn during motor acceleration according to its configuration and operating limits.

Current control can help reduce the electrical impact of starting large motors compared with direct-on-line starting. However, the required starting torque and acceleration time must still be considered.

If the current limit is set too low for the load, the motor may fail to accelerate properly. Commissioning should therefore account for the motor’s rated current, load inertia, and starting requirements.

4. Controlled Motor Stopping

The ATS48M10Q can manage motor stopping through its configured torque-control functions.

In pump applications, controlled stopping can help reduce abrupt flow changes. In other industrial machines, it can help reduce mechanical shock during the stopping sequence.

The stopping profile should be configured according to the driven equipment. A soft starter is not a substitute for a mechanical brake or a safety-rated stopping system where those functions are required.

5. Thermal Protection

The ATS48 product family includes thermal protection functions for the motor and starter.

Thermal monitoring helps identify operating conditions that could lead to excessive heating. Correct motor parameters and installation settings are necessary for reliable protection.

The starter’s protection functions should be coordinated with upstream circuit protection and the overall machine safety design.

Role in Industrial Control Systems

The ATS48M10Q can be integrated into an industrial motor-control architecture as the main starting and stopping device for a large asynchronous motor.

It may operate alongside PLCs, HMIs, circuit breakers, contactors, sensors, and other automation components.

PLC Integration

A programmable logic controller can coordinate the soft starter with the wider production process.

Depending on the system design, the PLC may issue start and stop commands, monitor operating status, and respond to alarms or process conditions.

The ATS48M10Q supports discrete control inputs and Modbus serial communication. Its RS-485 interface can be used in an appropriately configured communication network.

Engineers should confirm the communication settings, wiring, protocol configuration, and PLC compatibility before commissioning.

HMI and Operator Monitoring

An HMI can provide operators with information about motor operation, alarms, and process conditions.

In a typical installation, the HMI communicates with the PLC or the soft starter through the selected control architecture. Operators can use the interface to monitor equipment status and follow approved operating procedures.

Electrical Distribution Integration

Because the ATS48M10Q is designed for high-current motor applications, its installation must be coordinated with the electrical distribution system.

This includes suitable upstream protection, cable sizing, grounding, isolation arrangements, and heat management.

The starter should be installed in a properly designed electrical cabinet or enclosure that accounts for its IP00 protection rating and thermal dissipation requirements.

Industrial Applications

The ATS48M10Q is designed for large industrial motors and demanding applications. Its torque-control functions are particularly relevant to equipment where controlled starting and stopping can improve process stability.

1. Large Industrial Pumping Systems

Pumping systems are among the important application areas for the Altistart 48 range.

A controlled motor start can help reduce the electrical and mechanical effects of starting large pumps. Controlled stopping can also help reduce hydraulic transients in suitable installations.

Typical applications include:

• Industrial water supply systems
• Water treatment facilities
• Large circulation pumps
• Process-water systems
• Industrial drainage and transfer pumps

The starter must be selected according to pump load, motor current, starting frequency, and the hydraulic characteristics of the installation.

2. Industrial Compressors

Large compressors may require controlled motor starting to reduce mechanical stress and manage starting current.

The ATS48M10Q can be considered for compatible compressor installations where its electrical ratings and starting characteristics meet the application requirements.

Compressor unloading arrangements, starting torque, and restart frequency must be evaluated before selection.

3. Ventilation and Air-Handling Equipment

Industrial ventilation systems often use large motors to drive fans and air-handling equipment.

A soft starter can provide controlled acceleration and reduce sudden mechanical loading on fan assemblies, belts, and couplings.

The motor and starter must be selected according to the fan’s operating characteristics and the required starting duty.

4. Heavy Industrial Machinery

Large industrial machines may use high-power motors for material processing, mechanical handling, and production operations.

The ATS48M10Q can provide controlled starting and stopping where the motor and load are compatible with its ratings.

Engineers should evaluate load inertia, starting torque, acceleration time, and the number of starts per hour.

5. Water and Wastewater Treatment

Water and wastewater facilities use large pumps, blowers, and other motor-driven equipment.

A soft starter can support controlled motor operation and integration with plant-level automation systems. Its discrete inputs and Modbus communication capability can be used as part of an appropriately designed control architecture.

Installation and System Integration

Correct installation is essential for safe operation and reliable performance, particularly because the ATS48M10Q is a high-current industrial device.

1. Verify Supply Voltage and Motor Ratings

Before installation, confirm that the supply voltage is within the specified 230–415 V AC range.

Check the motor’s nameplate current, voltage, power, frequency, and connection arrangement. The starter must be selected according to the actual motor current and application duty, not just the motor’s nominal power.

2. Confirm the Motor Connection Method

The ATS48M10Q supports line connection and inside-delta connection, subject to the motor and installation requirements.

The Q version has a different current-transformer configuration from the Y version. The two versions should not be treated as interchangeable.

Before wiring, confirm the motor’s terminal arrangement, the starter’s connection diagram, and the correct application ratings.

3. Provide Appropriate Cabinet Installation

The supplied dimensions are 890 × 770 × 315 mm, and the listed weight is 115 kg.

The unit should be mounted securely with adequate support. Allow sufficient clearance for ventilation, wiring, maintenance, and heat dissipation.

The IP00 rating means the starter does not provide a complete protective enclosure. It must be installed in a suitable cabinet or electrical room arrangement that protects personnel and equipment from exposure to hazardous live parts and environmental contaminants.

4. Configure Motor Protection

Set the motor parameters and thermal protection functions according to the connected motor’s nameplate and operating conditions.

The configuration should reflect the actual motor current, starting duty, ambient temperature, and expected operating cycle.

Protection settings should be reviewed by qualified electrical personnel before the system is placed into service.

5. Configure Modbus Communication

The ATS48M10Q supports Modbus serial communication through an RS-485 interface.

When integrating the starter with a PLC or supervisory system, verify:

• Communication address
• Baud rate
• Data format and parity
• Network wiring and termination
• Communication timeout settings
• PLC communication driver compatibility

Correct communication configuration helps ensure reliable exchange of operating commands and status information.

6. Commissioning and Functional Testing

Before normal operation, inspect the power connections, control wiring, grounding, and protection devices.

Test the start and stop sequences under controlled conditions. Verify motor direction, acceleration, stopping behavior, alarms, thermal protection, and communication functions.

Record the final parameter settings and wiring information for future maintenance.

Compatible System Components

The ATS48M10Q is generally installed as part of a complete motor-control system.

These components are examples of equipment used in a complete installation. They are not necessarily included with the ATS48M10Q.

Alternative Models and Replacement Considerations

The ATS48M10Q has been discontinued. Schneider Electric identifies the ATS480M10Y Altistart 480 as its recommended replacement.

However, the replacement should not be treated as a direct plug-in substitution without engineering review.

Before replacing the ATS48M10Q, compare:

• Rated supply voltage and frequency.
• Motor rated current and power.
• Standard-duty or severe-duty requirements.
• Line or inside-delta connection.
• Starting torque and current limits.
• Stopping and deceleration requirements.
• Control input and output assignments.
• Modbus communication settings.
• Protection and monitoring functions.
• Cabinet dimensions, ventilation, and wiring.
• PLC logic and commissioning requirements.

The Q and Y versions require particular attention. Schneider Electric specifies different voltage capabilities and current-transformer arrangements for these versions. A replacement must be selected based on the complete motor and installation requirements.

Key Advantages

Controlled Starting of Large Motors

The ATS48M10Q manages motor torque during startup, helping reduce the abrupt mechanical effects associated with direct-on-line starting.

Torque Control System

Its TCS technology provides controlled starting and stopping behavior for applications requiring a managed torque profile.

Suitable for Heavy Industrial Applications

The Altistart 48 family is designed for demanding industrial motor applications, including large pumps and other high-power machinery.

Motor and Starter Thermal Protection

Thermal protection functions help monitor operating conditions and support equipment protection when correctly configured.

Modbus Communication

The RS-485 Modbus interface supports integration with compatible PLCs and industrial monitoring systems.

Flexible Motor Connection

The product supports line and inside-delta connection arrangements, subject to the motor configuration and applicable selection requirements.

Industrial Maintenance Compatibility

The ATS48M10Q may be relevant to maintenance and spare-parts projects involving existing Altistart 48 installations.

Technical FAQs

1. What is the Schneider Electric ATS48M10Q?

The ATS48M10Q is a high-power Altistart 48 soft starter designed for three-phase asynchronous motors. It provides controlled motor starting and stopping using torque-control technology.

2. What is the rated current of the ATS48M10Q?

Schneider Electric’s product information lists a rated current of 855 A. The applicable starter current and motor power depend on supply voltage, connection method, and duty classification.

3. What is the operating voltage range?

The specified supply voltage range is 230–415 V AC. The exact voltage must be checked against the motor and electrical installation.

4. What is the difference between ATS48Q and ATS48Y?

The Q version is designed for a maximum voltage of approximately 400/415 V and uses two current transformers. The Y version supports a higher voltage range up to 690 V and uses three current transformers.

Their connection arrangements and application ratings differ, so they should not be substituted without checking the manufacturer’s documentation.

5. Does the ATS48M10Q support Modbus?

Yes. The product supports Modbus serial communication through an RS-485 interface. Correct network configuration is required for PLC or supervisory-system integration.

6. What types of motors can it control?

It is designed for three-phase asynchronous motors. The motor’s current, voltage, power, connection method, and starting requirements must fall within the applicable starter ratings.

7. Is the ATS48M10Q suitable for pump applications?

Yes. The Altistart 48 family is intended for demanding pump applications. Its torque-control starting and stopping functions can help manage mechanical and hydraulic transients in suitable systems.

8. Is the ATS48M10Q still in production?

No. Schneider Electric lists the ATS48M10Q as discontinued. Its recommended replacement is the ATS480M10Y, subject to technical compatibility checks.

9. What are the dimensions and weight?

The supplied dimensions are 890 × 770 × 315 mm, and the listed weight is 115 kg. These values should be confirmed against the physical unit and shipping configuration.

10. Can ATS480M10Y directly replace ATS48M10Q?

Schneider Electric identifies ATS480M10Y as the recommended replacement, but a replacement project still requires verification of motor ratings, voltage, connection method, control wiring, communication settings, and cabinet requirements.

Procurement and Maintenance Recommendations

Because the ATS48M10Q is discontinued, procurement should begin with accurate identification of the full catalog number and the condition of the available unit.

When sourcing this model, verify the nameplate, rated current, voltage range, product configuration, and physical condition. Confirm whether the unit is new, unused stock, refurbished, or previously installed.

For a high-current soft starter, testing and inspection are particularly important. Request clear photographs of the front panel, power terminals, control terminals, nameplate, and any signs of overheating or physical damage. Where possible, obtain functional test information and confirm the supplier’s warranty and return conditions.

During maintenance, inspect power connections, control wiring, cooling arrangements, cabinet ventilation, and protective devices. Review the motor and starter thermal protection settings and retain a record of the configured parameters.

For replacement projects, evaluate the ATS480M10Y against the actual motor and system requirements rather than relying only on the manufacturer’s replacement recommendation. Differences in control terminals, communication configuration, dimensions, and installation requirements may require engineering changes.

Conclusion

The Schneider Electric ATS48M10Q Altistart 48 Soft Starter is a high-power motor starting device designed for three-phase asynchronous motors in demanding industrial environments. With a specified supply voltage range of 230–415 V AC, a product-listed rated current of 855 A, and torque-control functionality, it is suited to appropriately rated pump systems and other heavy industrial motor applications.

Its Modbus communication capability, thermal protection functions, and flexible motor connection arrangements make it a relevant component in existing industrial automation installations. Since the ATS48M10Q has been discontinued, accurate model identification and careful replacement assessment are essential for maintenance, procurement, and long-term equipment reliability.