Product Overview

The Schneider ATS01N206RT Soft Starter for Asynchronous Motor is a compact motor starting device designed to provide smoother acceleration for asynchronous motors. It is used in motor control applications where a direct connection to the power supply could result in high starting current, sudden torque, or unnecessary mechanical stress.

An asynchronous motor can draw considerably more current during startup than during normal operation. At the same time, the sudden development of motor torque can place additional load on couplings, belts, gearboxes, pumps, fans, and other connected equipment.

The ATS01N206RT provides a controlled starting process by progressively managing the voltage applied to the motor. This allows the motor to accelerate in a more controlled manner instead of receiving the full starting condition immediately.

The unit belongs to the Schneider Altistart 01 family and is intended for straightforward motor starting applications. Unlike a variable frequency drive, its primary purpose is not continuous speed regulation but controlled motor starting and associated motor control functions.

With dimensions of 124 × 45 × 131 mm and a stated weight of 0.42 kg, the ATS01N206RT maintains a compact form factor suitable for industrial control cabinets where installation space needs to be used efficiently.

Technical Specifications

Product Features

The Schneider ATS01N206RT is designed to provide a controlled motor starting method without introducing the complexity of a full variable speed drive.

Key features include:

• Controlled starting for asynchronous motors
• Progressive motor acceleration
• Reduced mechanical shock during startup
• Helps manage the effects of direct motor starting
• Compact 45 mm wide design
• Suitable for industrial control cabinets
• Suitable for pumps, fans, conveyors, and machinery
• Easy integration into conventional motor control arrangements
• Lightweight industrial construction
• Suitable for applications requiring smoother motor startup

The device is particularly useful when the motor normally operates at a fixed speed and the main requirement is to improve the starting process.

Working Principle

The ATS01N206RT controls the motor’s electrical supply during the acceleration phase.

When a start command is received, the soft starter begins with a controlled voltage condition and progressively increases the voltage supplied to the motor. As the motor accelerates, the electrical and mechanical response becomes smoother than a conventional direct-on-line starting sequence.

The operating process can be summarized as follows:

• A start command is issued to the motor control system.
• The soft starter initiates a controlled voltage output.
• The motor begins accelerating from standstill.
• The applied voltage increases progressively.
• Motor torque develops in a controlled manner.
• The motor reaches its normal operating condition.

This method can help reduce sudden mechanical loading on connected equipment, especially in applications involving rotating machinery with belts, couplings, pumps, or fans.

Role in Industrial Motor Control Systems

The ATS01N206RT is installed as part of the motor power and control circuit.

A soft starter is only one part of the overall motor control system. Appropriate short-circuit protection, overload protection, switching, and isolation equipment should be selected according to the complete installation.

Industrial Applications

The ATS01N206RT can be applied to a wide range of motor-driven equipment where controlled acceleration is beneficial.

For equipment with significant mechanical inertia, a controlled starting process can help reduce sudden stress on mechanical transmission components.

Installation and System Integration

The ATS01N206RT should be installed as part of a coordinated motor control system. The motor, protection devices, supply system, and driven load all need to be considered during installation.

Recommended installation steps include:

• Verify the ATS01N206RT model and application.
• Confirm compatibility with the connected asynchronous motor.
• Check the electrical supply requirements.
• Mount the soft starter securely inside the control cabinet.
• Provide suitable upstream short-circuit protection.
• Connect the motor and supply wiring correctly.
• Install appropriate motor overload protection.
• Connect the external control circuit.
• Configure the starting characteristics according to the load.
• Inspect all connections before energizing.
• Perform a controlled startup test.

The acceleration settings should be selected according to the mechanical characteristics of the driven equipment. A high-inertia machine may require a different starting approach from a lightly loaded fan or pump.

Compatible System Components

The ATS01N206RT normally works with several supporting components in a complete motor control installation.

The complete system should be coordinated so that the soft starter, motor, protective devices, and control equipment operate together within their intended electrical conditions.

Recommended Alternative Models

When replacing the ATS01N206RT, selection should be based on motor rated current, motor power, supply voltage, starting conditions, load characteristics, control requirements, protection coordination, and physical installation requirements. A model with the same external dimensions is not automatically a suitable electrical replacement.

Key Advantages

• Provides controlled starting for asynchronous motors
• Helps reduce sudden mechanical shock
• Supports smoother motor acceleration
• Helps manage the effects of high starting demand
• Compact 124 × 45 × 131 mm form factor
• Lightweight 0.42 kg construction
• Suitable for space-conscious control cabinet layouts
• Suitable for pumps, fans, conveyors, and industrial machinery
• Easier to integrate than a variable speed drive for basic starting applications
• Supports conventional industrial motor control architectures

Technical FAQs

What makes the ATS01N206RT different from a conventional motor contactor starter?

A conventional contactor starter generally applies the available motor supply directly when the contactor closes. The ATS01N206RT introduces a controlled starting process, allowing the motor to accelerate more progressively and helping reduce the abrupt electrical and mechanical effects associated with direct starting.

How does the driven load influence soft starter settings?

The load determines how much torque the motor needs during acceleration and how quickly the motor can reach operating speed. High-inertia conveyors, pumps, fans, and other mechanical systems may require different starting characteristics, so settings should be selected based on the actual machine rather than the motor alone.

Can the ATS01N206RT be used as a substitute for a variable frequency drive?

It should not be treated as a direct substitute when continuous speed regulation is required. A soft starter is primarily intended to improve starting behavior, while a variable frequency drive can control motor speed and frequency during normal operation as well.

What should be inspected if the motor does not accelerate correctly through the soft starter?

The motor connection, supply conditions, protection devices, control signal, starting configuration, mechanical load, and motor condition should all be checked. Excessive load or unsuitable starting parameters can produce acceleration problems even when the soft starter itself is operating normally.