Product Overview

The ABB PSE370-600-70-1 (1SFA897115R7001) Soft Starter is an industrial motor starting and stopping device designed for controlling large three-phase AC motors. It belongs to ABB’s PSE softstarter series and provides controlled motor acceleration, deceleration, current limitation, and integrated motor protection functions.

When a large motor starts directly across the supply, it can draw a high inrush current and generate substantial mechanical stress. This may affect the electrical distribution system, motor windings, couplings, belts, pumps, and other connected equipment. A soft starter helps manage this process by gradually controlling the voltage applied to the motor during startup.

The PSE370-600-70-1 has a rated operational current of 370 A and supports a main circuit voltage range of 208–600 V AC. Its control supply voltage is 100–250 V AC at 50/60 Hz. The model is designed for demanding industrial motor applications, including pumps, compressors, fans, and other machinery requiring controlled starting and stopping.

This model includes an integrated bypass function, electronic overload protection, current limitation, and adjustable starting and stopping parameters. The bypass function allows the power semiconductors to be bypassed during normal running conditions, reducing heat dissipation within the starter after the motor has reached operating speed.

The product identification number 1SFA897115R7001 is important when sourcing a replacement or spare unit. Buyers should verify the complete part number, electrical ratings, connection arrangement, and control supply requirements before ordering.

Technical Specifications

Note: Motor power ratings depend on supply voltage, duty classification, ambient conditions, and the manufacturer’s selection tables. Confirm the application-specific rating before selecting the starter.

Function and Working Principle

The ABB PSE370-600-70-1 controls motor startup and stopping by regulating the voltage supplied to the motor. Unlike a direct-on-line starter, which applies the supply voltage immediately, a soft starter gradually increases the motor voltage during acceleration.

1. Controlled Soft Starting

During startup, the soft starter increases the voltage applied to the motor according to the configured starting ramp. This allows motor torque and current to rise in a controlled manner.

The main benefits include:

• Reduced electrical inrush compared with direct-on-line starting.
• Lower mechanical shock during acceleration.
• Reduced stress on couplings, belts, and transmission components.
• More controlled acceleration of pumps, compressors, and other machinery.
• Improved coordination with the electrical distribution system.

The starting ramp and current limit must be selected according to the motor’s rated current, load characteristics, and required acceleration time.

2. Adjustable Current Limitation

The PSE370-600-70-1 supports current limitation to help control the electrical demand during motor startup.

This function is particularly relevant when a facility has restrictions on starting current or when several large motors share the same electrical distribution system.

The current limit should not be set too low. An excessively restrictive setting may prevent the motor from developing sufficient torque to accelerate the connected load.

3. Soft Stop Function

The soft stop function gradually reduces the motor voltage during stopping. This can help reduce abrupt mechanical changes in applications where sudden stopping may cause operational problems.

For example, in pumping systems, controlled stopping can help reduce pressure changes and water hammer under suitable hydraulic conditions.

The actual stopping behavior depends on the pump system, motor characteristics, and selected stop parameters.

4. Integrated Bypass

The PSE370-600-70-1 includes a built-in bypass function.

During startup, the soft starter’s power electronics control the motor voltage. Once the motor reaches the required operating condition, the bypass function reduces the time that current flows through the power semiconductors.

This helps reduce heat generation within the soft starter during normal operation and can improve the efficiency of the starting assembly.

5. Electronic Motor Overload Protection

The integrated electronic overload protection monitors motor operating conditions and helps protect against sustained overload.

Correct motor rated-current settings are essential. The overload protection must be configured according to the motor nameplate and the application’s operating requirements.

The soft starter’s protection functions should be used together with suitable upstream short-circuit protection and the installation’s required safety devices.

Role in Industrial Automation Systems

The ABB PSE370-600-70-1 is commonly installed as part of a motor control center or industrial electrical cabinet. It works alongside circuit protection, contactors, PLCs, operator interfaces, and motor equipment.

PLC Integration

A PLC can coordinate the soft starter with the rest of the production system. Depending on the control design, PLC outputs can provide start and stop commands, while available starter signals can be used for operating status and fault monitoring.

Typical automation functions include:

• Motor start and stop sequencing.
• Equipment interlocking.
• Pump duty and standby control.
• Compressor sequencing.
• Alarm handling.
• Motor operating status monitoring.

The exact signal arrangement should be confirmed against the installed control configuration and wiring documentation.

Motor Control Center Integration

The soft starter can be installed within an appropriately designed motor control center. The cabinet should provide sufficient space for wiring, ventilation, electrical isolation, and maintenance access.

For a 370 A device, cable sizing, busbar selection, short-circuit protection, and thermal management are especially important.

HMI and Operator Control

An HMI can provide operators with access to motor commands, process status, and fault information through the control system.

Depending on the installation, the operator interface may communicate with a PLC that manages the starter. The actual control and monitoring method should be selected according to the available interfaces and system architecture.

Industrial Applications

The PSE370-600-70-1 is intended for industrial motor applications where controlled starting and stopping are important.

1. Industrial Pumping Systems

Large pumps often experience high starting currents and mechanical stress during acceleration. A soft starter can gradually accelerate the motor and help reduce abrupt changes in the pumping system.

Typical applications include:

• Water treatment plants.
• Industrial water circulation.
• Cooling water systems.
• Process water pumps.
• Municipal pumping stations.
• Industrial wastewater systems.

The soft stop function may also help reduce pressure transients in suitable installations. Hydraulic system design remains essential for effective water hammer control.

2. Air Compressors

Industrial compressors often use large motors that require controlled starting. A soft starter can help reduce the electrical and mechanical impact of starting, particularly when the compressor is correctly unloaded or prepared for startup according to its operating requirements.

Applications include manufacturing plants, compressed-air stations, and industrial utility systems.

3. Industrial Fans and Blowers

Large fans and blowers may have substantial rotational inertia. Controlled acceleration can reduce mechanical stress on the motor, fan shaft, belts, and associated transmission components.

The PSE370-600-70-1 may be used in ventilation systems, industrial exhaust equipment, cooling towers, and process air systems when the motor ratings match the starter’s application requirements.

4. Conveyor Systems

Large conveyor systems may require controlled motor acceleration to reduce sudden mechanical loading.

A soft starter can help reduce stress on conveyor belts, gearboxes, couplings, and drive assemblies during startup.

For applications requiring continuous speed adjustment, a variable frequency drive may be more appropriate than a soft starter.

5. Industrial Processing Equipment

The soft starter can also be used with compatible motors in mixers, crushers, material-handling machinery, and other industrial equipment.

The motor’s starting torque requirements and load characteristics must be evaluated carefully. Some high-inertia or high-breakaway-torque applications may require a different starting method or a higher-rated starter.

Installation and System Integration

Correct installation is essential for the safe and reliable operation of the ABB PSE370-600-70-1.

1. Verify Electrical Ratings

Before installation, confirm that the incoming supply is within the supported 208–600 V AC main circuit range.

Also verify:

• Motor rated voltage.
• Motor rated current.
• Motor power.
• Supply frequency.
• Starting duty and frequency.
• Required overload protection.
• Available short-circuit current.

The starter should be selected according to the actual motor current and operating duty, not simply the motor’s kilowatt rating.

2. Confirm Control Supply

The specified control supply voltage is 100–250 V AC at 50/60 Hz.

Confirm that the control supply is compatible with the installation before energizing the device. Control wiring should be separated from high-current power wiring where required by the installation instructions.

3. Cabinet Mounting and Ventilation

The supplied dimensions are 435 × 190 × 237 mm, and the supplied weight is 10.6 kg.

Allow sufficient space around the starter for cooling airflow, electrical connections, inspection, and maintenance. The cabinet’s thermal design should account for the starter’s heat dissipation and the operating conditions of nearby components.

Do not obstruct ventilation openings or install the unit in an environment outside its specified operating conditions.

4. Power Wiring and Protection

The main power connections must be designed for the starter’s rated current and the motor’s operating requirements.

Use appropriately rated conductors, terminals, busbars, and upstream protective devices. The short-circuit protection arrangement must follow the manufacturer’s coordination recommendations and applicable electrical codes.

Grounding and bonding must be completed before commissioning.

5. Configure Motor Parameters

Enter the motor’s rated current and configure the relevant starting and stopping parameters.

Important settings include:

• Motor rated current.
• Starting ramp time.
• Current limit.
• Stopping ramp time.
• Overload protection.
• Applicable operating and protection settings.

The settings should be based on the actual motor and load. Incorrect settings can result in unsuccessful starting, excessive heating, nuisance trips, or inadequate motor protection.

6. Commissioning and Functional Testing

After installation, inspect the power and control wiring and verify the protective devices.

During commissioning, check:

• Correct supply voltage.
• Motor rotation direction.
• Starting behavior.
• Acceleration time.
• Current during startup.
• Bypass operation.
• Soft stop performance.
• Fault and alarm responses.

Record the final parameters and commissioning results for future maintenance.

Compatible System Components

The PSE370-600-70-1 is normally used with supporting electrical and automation components.

The listed components are typical parts of a complete motor-control installation and are not necessarily included with the soft starter.

Alternative Models and Replacement Considerations

When replacing the PSE370-600-70-1, the replacement must be selected according to motor current, voltage, duty classification, starting requirements, and cabinet design.

Before ordering a replacement, compare:

• Rated operational current.
• Main circuit voltage.
• Control supply voltage.
• Motor power at the applicable voltage.
• Starting duty and overload requirements.
• Built-in bypass arrangement.
• Protection functions.
• Control terminals and signals.
• Mounting dimensions.
• Cabinet ventilation and thermal requirements.

A soft starter with a similar current rating may still have different control functions or connection requirements. Confirm the complete part number and technical documentation before substitution.

Key Advantages

High Current Capacity

With a rated operational current of 370 A, the PSE370-600-70-1 is designed for large industrial motor applications.

Wide Main Circuit Voltage Range

The 208–600 V AC operating range supports use in a variety of industrial electrical systems, subject to the applicable motor and supply ratings.

Controlled Motor Starting

The soft-start function gradually increases motor voltage to help reduce startup current and mechanical shock compared with direct-on-line starting.

Integrated Bypass

The built-in bypass function reduces power semiconductor losses during normal running operation and helps limit heat generation inside the starter.

Electronic Overload Protection

Integrated overload protection supports motor protection when configured according to the motor’s rated current and application requirements.

Adjustable Starting and Stopping

Configurable ramp settings allow engineers to adapt motor behavior to different loads and process conditions.

Industrial Automation Integration

The starter can be incorporated into PLC-controlled motor systems, pumping stations, compressor installations, and industrial machinery.

Technical FAQs

1. What is the ABB PSE370-600-70-1?

It is a PSE-series industrial soft starter designed to control the startup and stopping of compatible three-phase AC motors. Its ABB part number is 1SFA897115R7001.

2. What is the rated current?

The rated operational current is 370 A for the specified in-line connection rating.

3. What voltage does the PSE370-600-70-1 support?

The main circuit voltage range is 208–600 V AC. The control supply voltage is 100–250 V AC at 50/60 Hz.

4. Does this model have a built-in bypass?

Yes. The PSE370-600-70-1 includes an integrated bypass function that reduces losses in the power electronics during normal motor operation.

5. Does it provide motor overload protection?

Yes. The model includes electronic overload protection. The motor rated-current setting must be configured correctly for the connected motor.

6. Can it be used with a PLC?

Yes. It can be integrated into a PLC-based motor-control system using the appropriate control signals and system wiring. The actual interface should be verified against the installation documentation.

7. What is the difference between a soft starter and a variable frequency drive?

A soft starter primarily controls motor voltage during starting and stopping. A variable frequency drive controls motor speed by adjusting output frequency and voltage. If an application requires continuous speed regulation, a variable frequency drive may be more suitable.

8. What should be checked before purchasing?

Verify the complete ABB part number, rated current, voltage range, control supply, physical condition, terminals, and available test information. For critical installations, request functional testing and confirm warranty or return conditions.

9. What are the dimensions and weight?

The supplied dimensions are 435 × 190 × 237 mm, and the supplied weight is 10.6 kg. These values are consistent with ABB’s published product dimensions and net weight, subject to rounding.

10. Can it replace another ABB PSE model?

Not automatically. Different PSE models have different current ratings and may have different power ratings and installation requirements. Check the motor’s rated current and the complete application before selecting a replacement.

Procurement and Maintenance Recommendations

When purchasing the ABB PSE370-600-70-1, verify both the model designation and ABB part number 1SFA897115R7001. The complete identification is important because similar-looking soft starters may have different current ratings or control configurations.

For replacement projects, compare the existing unit’s nameplate with the proposed replacement. Check the main circuit voltage, control supply, motor current, duty classification, bypass arrangement, and control wiring.

For used or refurbished equipment, request clear photographs of the front panel, terminals, product label, and housing. Confirm the operating condition, test status, included accessories, and applicable warranty terms.

During maintenance, inspect power connections, control terminals, cooling paths, and cabinet ventilation. Check for loose connections, contamination, overheating, and signs of abnormal operation. Maintenance work should always follow the applicable isolation and electrical safety procedures.

It is also recommended to keep a record of motor parameters, starting current, ramp settings, and overload settings. This information can help maintenance teams restore the correct configuration after a replacement or system upgrade.

Conclusion

The ABB PSE370-600-70-1 1SFA897115R7001 is a 370 A industrial soft starter designed for controlling large three-phase AC motors. With a 208–600 V AC main circuit range, 100–250 V AC control supply, integrated bypass, adjustable starting and stopping functions, and electronic overload protection, it supports a range of industrial motor-control applications.

For industrial maintenance, equipment replacement, and automation system integration, accurate model identification and correct electrical selection are essential. Verifying the motor ratings, control supply, installation requirements, and protection settings helps ensure that the PSE370-600-70-1 operates reliably within the intended application.