Product Overview

The Schneider ATS01N212QN Soft Starter for Asynchronous Motor is a compact motor starting device designed to provide a smoother acceleration process for three-phase asynchronous motors. It belongs to the Schneider Altistart 01 family and is intended for motor-driven equipment where a controlled start is preferred over direct-on-line starting.

When a motor is connected directly to the power supply, the initial current can be substantially higher than its normal operating current. At the same time, the motor can produce a sudden torque increase that is transferred to the mechanical system. On conveyors, pumps, fans, and other rotating equipment, this can create unnecessary stress on belts, couplings, shafts, and gear mechanisms.

The ATS01N212QN controls the motor starting process by progressively increasing the voltage applied to the motor. This allows the motor to accelerate in a more controlled manner and reduces the abrupt transition from standstill to normal operation.

The unit is intended for applications where the motor normally runs at a fixed speed. It therefore provides a simpler approach than a variable frequency drive when continuous speed adjustment is not required.

With dimensions of 124 × 45 × 131 mm and a stated weight of 0.42 kg, the ATS01N212QN offers a compact footprint for installation inside industrial control cabinets.

Technical Specifications

Product Features

The ATS01N212QN is designed for applications where the motor needs a controlled startup but does not require the continuous speed regulation of a variable frequency drive.

Key features include:

• Controlled starting for asynchronous motors
• Progressive motor acceleration
• Soft stopping for suitable applications
• Helps reduce mechanical shock
• Helps limit the abrupt electrical response of direct motor starting
• Compact 45 mm wide construction
• Suitable for industrial control cabinets
• Suitable for fixed-speed motor applications
• Compatible with conventional motor control systems
• Practical for pumps, fans, conveyors, and other motor-driven machines

Its compact design makes the device suitable for control panels where multiple motor control components need to be arranged within a limited enclosure.

Working Principle

The ATS01N212QN controls the voltage supplied to the motor during the acceleration stage.

When the control circuit issues a start command, the soft starter begins the motor startup with a controlled voltage condition. The applied voltage is then increased progressively, allowing the motor to build up speed rather than receiving the full starting condition immediately.

The operating sequence includes:

• Receiving a motor start command
• Establishing the initial voltage condition
• Increasing motor voltage progressively
• Allowing the motor to accelerate
• Reducing sudden torque transmission
• Bringing the motor toward its normal operating condition

Where controlled stopping is required, the soft starter can also provide a gradual stopping sequence.

This operating method is particularly useful for machines where abrupt starting can cause belt movement, pressure changes, vibration, or mechanical shock.

Role in Industrial Motor Control Systems

The ATS01N212QN is normally installed as part of a complete motor starter arrangement.

The soft starter should be coordinated with the motor protection system. Circuit breakers, overload protection, contactors, and disconnect devices may be required depending on the overall installation.

Industrial Applications

The ATS01N212QN can be used on equipment where smoother motor starting can improve machine operation.

For a conveyor, controlled acceleration can help reduce sudden belt tension. In pump systems, a smoother startup can help reduce abrupt changes in mechanical loading and system behavior.

Installation and System Integration

Proper installation requires attention to the motor rating, electrical supply, driven load, and protection devices.

Recommended installation steps include:

• Verify the ATS01N212QN model before installation.
• Check the motor’s rated current and voltage.
• Confirm the supply configuration.
• Select suitable upstream circuit protection.
• Mount the soft starter securely inside the control cabinet.
• Connect the incoming supply and motor conductors correctly.
• Install suitable overload protection.
• Connect the control circuit.
• Configure the starting characteristics according to the machine.
• Inspect all electrical connections.
• Energize the system under controlled conditions.
• Perform a functional startup test.

The starting parameters should be selected according to the actual mechanical load. High-inertia equipment may require different acceleration characteristics from lightly loaded fans or pumps.

Compatible System Components

The ATS01N212QN normally works together with other electrical and automation components.

The complete system should be selected as a coordinated group rather than choosing the soft starter independently from the motor and protection equipment.

Recommended Alternative Models

When selecting a replacement, check the motor rated current, supply voltage, motor power, starting duty, load characteristics, control method, protection coordination, and cabinet installation requirements. Matching the physical dimensions alone is not enough to establish electrical compatibility.

Key Advantages

• Provides controlled starting for asynchronous motors
• Helps reduce sudden mechanical stress
• Supports smoother motor acceleration
• Suitable for fixed-speed motor applications
• Suitable for pumps, fans, conveyors, and industrial machinery
• Compact 124 × 45 × 131 mm design
• Lightweight 0.42 kg construction
• Efficient use of control cabinet space
• Integrates into conventional motor control architectures
• Provides a practical soft-start solution where variable speed control is unnecessary

Technical FAQs

Why would a machine use the ATS01N212QN instead of a direct-on-line starter?

A direct-on-line starter applies the motor supply directly when the contactor closes, which can produce a sharp current and torque response. The ATS01N212QN provides a controlled acceleration process, making it useful when smoother starting is important for the motor or connected machinery.

How does the mechanical load affect the soft-start process?

The load determines how much torque the motor needs to accelerate and how quickly it can reach operating speed. High-inertia conveyors, pumps, and fans can behave differently from lightly loaded machines, so the starting characteristics should be adjusted according to the actual application.

Can the ATS01N212QN regulate motor speed during normal operation?

No. Its primary purpose is controlled motor starting and stopping. If the application requires continuous speed adjustment, frequency control, or different operating speeds, a variable frequency drive is generally more appropriate.

What protection equipment should be considered when installing the ATS01N212QN?

The complete motor control system may require upstream short-circuit protection, motor overload protection, switching equipment, and a means of electrical isolation. The exact arrangement depends on the motor, electrical installation, operating environment, and applicable control requirements.