Product Overview

The Schneider ATS01N232QN Soft Starter for Asynchronous Motor is a compact motor starting device designed to provide a controlled acceleration process for three-phase asynchronous motors. It belongs to the Schneider Altistart 01 family and is intended for machines where the motor normally runs at a fixed speed but requires a smoother starting sequence.

Direct-on-line starting can produce a sharp increase in motor current and a sudden torque response. For equipment connected through belts, couplings, shafts, gearboxes, pumps, or fans, this sudden response can create unnecessary mechanical stress and vibration.

The ATS01N232QN addresses this part of the motor operating cycle by progressively controlling the voltage applied to the motor during startup. Instead of moving immediately from zero speed to a full starting condition, the motor accelerates in a more gradual manner.

This type of soft starter is useful when the application needs controlled motor starting without the continuous speed regulation and frequency control provided by a variable frequency drive.

With dimensions of 154 × 45 × 131 mm and a stated weight of 0.56 kg, the ATS01N232QN maintains a narrow 45 mm width while providing a compact form factor for industrial control cabinet installation.

Technical Specifications

Product Features

The ATS01N232QN provides a straightforward approach to controlling motor acceleration and is intended for applications that do not require full variable-speed drive functionality.

Key features include:

• Controlled starting for asynchronous motors
• Progressive motor acceleration
• Controlled stopping for suitable applications
• Helps reduce sudden mechanical torque
• Helps provide smoother motor startup
• Narrow 45 mm housing
• Compact industrial construction
• Suitable for control cabinet installation
• Suitable for fixed-speed motor-driven equipment
• Suitable for pumps, fans, conveyors, and general machinery

The narrow enclosure is useful when several motor control devices, protection components, and terminal blocks need to be arranged within a limited cabinet width.

Working Principle

The ATS01N232QN controls the voltage applied to the asynchronous motor during the starting sequence.

After receiving a start command, the soft starter begins the acceleration process under controlled voltage conditions. The applied voltage is progressively increased, allowing the motor to develop speed in a controlled manner.

The basic process includes:

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

For applications that require controlled stopping, the voltage can also be reduced progressively during the stopping sequence.

This operating method can be useful where direct-on-line starting causes excessive vibration, belt movement, pressure fluctuations, or mechanical shock.

Role in Industrial Motor Control Systems

The ATS01N232QN is normally positioned within the motor starting and switching section of an industrial control system.

The soft starter is not a complete motor protection system. Circuit protection, overload protection, isolation, and switching functions should be provided by appropriately selected external or associated components.

Industrial Applications

The ATS01N232QN can be used on industrial equipment where controlled acceleration is beneficial and continuous motor speed adjustment is not required.

A controlled startup can be particularly useful on conveyor systems, where abrupt acceleration can place additional tension on belts and mechanical couplings.

Installation and System Integration

Before installing the ATS01N232QN, the motor, electrical supply, driven equipment, and protection system should be considered as a complete installation.

Recommended installation steps include:

• Verify the exact ATS01N232QN model.
• Check the motor rated current and voltage.
• Confirm the three-phase supply configuration.
• Select suitable upstream circuit protection.
• Install the soft starter securely inside the control cabinet.
• Maintain appropriate clearance and ventilation.
• Connect supply and motor conductors according to the system design.
• Install suitable motor overload protection.
• Connect the start and stop control circuit.
• Set the starting characteristics according to the load.
• Inspect all wiring before energizing.
• Perform a controlled test run after installation.

The acceleration requirements should be evaluated against the mechanical characteristics of the driven load. A high-inertia machine can require a different startup profile from a lightly loaded fan or pump.

Compatible System Components

The ATS01N232QN is generally integrated with several components to create a complete motor control system.

The final configuration should be based on the motor’s electrical data and the requirements of the driven machine.

Recommended Alternative Models

Alternative selection should not be based on model number or enclosure size alone. Motor current, supply voltage, motor power, starting frequency, load inertia, acceleration requirements, protection coordination, and control method all need to be evaluated.

Key Advantages

• Provides controlled starting for asynchronous motors
• Helps reduce sudden mechanical loading
• Supports smoother motor acceleration
• Suitable for fixed-speed motor applications
• Useful for pumps, fans, conveyors, and industrial machinery
• Compact 154 × 45 × 131 mm dimensions
• Lightweight 0.56 kg construction
• Narrow 45 mm enclosure width
• Suitable for space-conscious control cabinets
• Integrates with conventional industrial motor control systems
• Provides a practical solution when variable-speed control is not required

Technical FAQs

What type of motor control problem does the ATS01N232QN address?

The ATS01N232QN primarily addresses the abrupt electrical and mechanical response that can occur when an asynchronous motor is started directly across the supply. By controlling the voltage ramp, it allows the motor to accelerate more progressively.

How should the soft starter be selected for a conveyor or pump?

Selection should begin with the motor’s rated current and supply voltage, followed by evaluation of the mechanical load, starting frequency, acceleration requirements, and operating conditions. Conveyor inertia and pump characteristics can significantly influence the required starting behavior.

Does the ATS01N232QN provide continuous speed control?

No. A soft starter is primarily intended to control the motor during starting and, where supported by the application, stopping. If the machine requires different operating speeds during normal production, a variable frequency drive is generally the more appropriate technology.

What are the consequences of choosing a soft starter that is too small for the motor?

An undersized soft starter may experience excessive electrical or thermal stress during acceleration and may not provide the required starting performance. The selection should therefore be based on the motor’s rated current, duty cycle, starting conditions, and driven load rather than physical dimensions alone.