Product Overview

The Schneider ATS22D17S6 is an Altistart 22 soft starter designed for controlled starting and stopping of three-phase asynchronous motors. It is intended for industrial motor-control applications where direct-on-line starting may cause excessive starting current, sudden mechanical torque, or unnecessary stress on the connected machine.

Large electrical motors can draw several times their normal operating current during startup. This high inrush current can affect the electrical distribution system and may produce voltage disturbances when several loads share the same power network. At the mechanical level, sudden acceleration can also place additional stress on shafts, couplings, gearboxes, belts, pumps, fans, and other driven equipment.

The ATS22D17S6 addresses these starting conditions by controlling the motor acceleration process. Instead of applying the full starting impact immediately, the soft starter progressively controls the motor during acceleration. This provides a smoother transition from standstill to normal operating speed.

The ATS22D17S6 belongs to Schneider Electric’s Altistart 22 family and is intended for three-phase asynchronous motors. It is particularly suitable for applications such as pumps, fans, compressors, conveyors, and other fixed-speed industrial machinery.

The ATS22D17S6 has a 17 A starter rating for standard connection in the motor supply line. Its rated supply voltage range is approximately 230 to 600 V AC, while the S6 version uses a 230 V AC control circuit.

The supplied physical dimensions are approximately 265 × 130 × 169 mm, with a supplied weight of approximately 7 kg. These characteristics make it suitable for cabinet and panel installations where both electrical performance and available mounting space must be considered.

Technical Specifications

What Is the Schneider ATS22D17S6?

The Schneider ATS22D17S6 is a 17 A Altistart 22 soft starter used to manage the starting and stopping process of compatible three-phase asynchronous motors.

The main purpose of this device is to make motor startup more controlled than conventional direct-on-line starting. When a motor is connected directly to the power supply, the initial current can become several times higher than its normal running current. The motor can also generate a sudden torque response that is transferred directly to the mechanical load.

The ATS22D17S6 controls this starting process using torque control and current limitation. The motor can therefore accelerate progressively instead of receiving the full starting impact immediately.

This approach can be beneficial for both the electrical system and the mechanical equipment. Reduced starting stress can help improve the operating behavior of pumps, fans, conveyors, compressors, mixers, and other motor-driven machines.

The ATS22D17S6 is a soft starter rather than a variable frequency drive. It is primarily intended to control acceleration and deceleration. It does not provide the same continuous variable-speed functionality as a VFD.

For machines that normally operate at a fixed speed and mainly require smoother startup and stopping, a soft starter can be a practical motor-control solution.

Function and Working Principle

The basic installation structure can be represented as:

Three-Phase AC Supply → Circuit Protection → ATS22D17S6 → Three-Phase Motor → Mechanical Load

When a start command is received, the ATS22D17S6 begins its configured motor acceleration sequence. The soft starter controls the motor’s electrical starting conditions instead of allowing the motor to experience the complete impact of direct-on-line starting.

The Altistart 22 uses torque-controlled starting with current limitation. For the ATS22D17S6, the starting current can be limited to approximately 3.5 times the configured motor current depending on the selected parameters and application conditions.

As the motor accelerates, the soft starter progressively moves the motor toward its normal operating condition. The actual acceleration behavior depends on the motor characteristics, load inertia, starting torque requirement, configured settings, and power-system conditions.

Once the motor reaches normal operating conditions, the internal bypass function can establish the normal operating path. This helps reduce the power losses associated with the semiconductor starting stage during continuous running.

The ATS22D17S6 can also provide controlled stopping. This can be useful for applications where abruptly disconnecting the motor could create undesirable mechanical or process effects.

For example, controlled stopping can be useful in pumping systems where sudden changes in motor operation may affect fluid pressure and flow. It can also be beneficial in conveyor systems where an abrupt stop could cause unnecessary mechanical stress.

Why the ATS22D17S6 Model Number Matters

When identifying an Altistart 22 soft starter, the complete model number should always be checked. The ATS22D17S6 and ATS22D17S6U are closely related models, but their control circuit voltages are different.

The ATS22D17S6 uses 230 V AC control voltage, while the S6U version uses a 110 V AC control circuit.

This difference is important when replacing an existing soft starter. A replacement with the wrong control voltage may not be electrically compatible with the existing control cabinet.

Therefore, maintenance engineers should verify the complete model number, control voltage, motor current, supply voltage, and wiring configuration before purchasing a replacement.

Role in Industrial Control Systems

The ATS22D17S6 normally operates as part of a complete industrial motor-control system. It can be connected with a PLC, HMI, circuit breaker, motor protection equipment, contactor, process sensors, and industrial communication equipment.

A typical automation architecture may include:

• PLC controller
• HMI operator panel
• ATS22D17S6 soft starter
• Three-phase asynchronous motor
• Incoming circuit breaker
• Motor protection equipment
• Isolation or switching contactor
• Emergency stop circuit
• Process pressure sensors
• Flow sensors
• Temperature sensors
• Modbus RS485 network

The PLC can manage the overall machine sequence while the ATS22D17S6 manages the motor-starting and stopping process.

For example, a PLC may determine that a process pump needs to start based on tank level or pressure feedback. The PLC sends the start command to the soft starter. The ATS22D17S6 then manages the motor acceleration while providing operating and fault information back to the control system.

This separation of functions can make the control architecture easier to maintain. The PLC focuses on process logic, while the soft starter handles motor-starting characteristics.

Industrial Applications

Pumps

Pumping systems are one of the most common applications for soft starters. A controlled starting sequence can help reduce sudden motor current and mechanical impact.

The ATS22D17S6 can be considered for suitable industrial water pumps, circulation pumps, process pumps, cooling systems, and utility equipment.

Fans and Blowers

Fans can have considerable rotating inertia. Direct starting may cause a sudden torque demand on the motor shaft, coupling, bearings, and transmission components.

The ATS22D17S6 can provide a progressive acceleration process for suitable fixed-speed fan and blower applications.

Compressors

Compressors can place a significant load on the motor during startup. A soft starter can help manage the electrical and mechanical starting process when the motor and compressor configuration are suitable.

Conveyor Systems

Industrial conveyors may contain belts, rollers, gearboxes, and loaded material. Sudden motor acceleration can create unnecessary stress on these components.

The ATS22D17S6 can provide controlled acceleration for appropriately rated conveyor motor applications.

Mixers and Agitators

Mixers and agitators can have high starting inertia, particularly when material is already present in the processing vessel.

Controlled motor acceleration can help reduce the sudden torque transfer between the motor and the mechanical load.

Industrial Ventilation

Industrial ventilation and exhaust equipment often uses fixed-speed motors. When variable-speed control is unnecessary, a soft starter can provide an effective method for improving the motor-starting process.

Installation and System Integration

Correct installation is essential for reliable operation of the ATS22D17S6. Before installation, the motor characteristics, electrical supply, protection system, cabinet environment, and control architecture should all be evaluated.

Check Motor Nameplate Information

The motor nameplate should be checked for rated voltage, rated current, frequency, power, connection arrangement, and operating duty.

The soft starter should be selected according to the motor’s actual current and application requirements. Horsepower alone should not be used as the only selection criterion.

Verify Supply Voltage

The ATS22D17S6 is designed for three-phase AC supply applications in the approximately 230…600 V range, with applicable voltage limits extending from approximately 195 to 660 V.

The actual site voltage should always be confirmed before the unit is energized.

Verify Control Voltage

The ATS22D17S6 uses 230 V AC control voltage at 50/60 Hz.

This should be verified carefully during installation and replacement because the closely related ATS22D17S6U model uses a different control voltage.

Install Appropriate Protection

The complete motor-control installation should include suitable short-circuit protection, isolation, grounding, and motor protection.

Protection equipment should be selected according to the motor, soft starter, electrical distribution system, installation conditions, and applicable engineering requirements.

Mechanical Installation

The supplied ATS22D17S6 dimensions are approximately 265 × 130 × 169 mm, and the supplied weight is approximately 7 kg.

The mounting panel or cabinet structure should be capable of supporting the equipment. Adequate clearance should also be provided for power cables, control wiring, airflow, inspection, and maintenance.

Cooling and Ventilation

The ATS22D17S6 uses forced-convection cooling. Cabinet ventilation should therefore be considered during system design.

Heat-producing devices installed near the soft starter should be included in the overall thermal calculation. High ambient temperatures may require application-specific derating.

Power Wiring

The incoming three-phase power wiring and motor output wiring must be correctly sized for the motor current and installation conditions.

Before energizing the system, verify phase connections, grounding, terminal tightness, cable sizing, and insulation condition.

Control Wiring

The ATS22D17S6 provides three logic inputs and two relay outputs. These can be connected to the machine control circuit for start commands, operating status, alarm indication, and fault monitoring.

Control cables should be routed appropriately to minimize interference from high-current motor cables.

Modbus Integration

The ATS22D17S6 supports Modbus communication through an RS485 multidrop interface. This allows it to be integrated into suitable PLC and supervisory control systems.

Communication parameters such as the device address and transmission rate should be configured consistently across the network.

Commissioning

Commissioning should include verification of supply voltage, control voltage, motor connections, motor rotation, acceleration behavior, current, stopping characteristics, alarm status, and communication functions.

The first startup should be performed under controlled conditions. After confirming correct operation, the motor can be returned to normal production service.

Compatible System Components

Recommended Alternative Models

When selecting an alternative or replacement for the ATS22D17S6, engineers should compare the complete electrical and mechanical requirements rather than selecting a model based only on current rating.

The control voltage is especially important. The ATS22D17S6 uses 230 V AC control, while the ATS22D17S6U uses 110 V AC control. These models should therefore not be treated as automatically interchangeable.

Key Advantages

• Part of the Schneider Altistart 22 soft starter family
• 17 A starter rating
• Designed for three-phase asynchronous motors
• 230…600 V AC rated supply range
• 230 V AC control circuit
• Torque-controlled motor starting
• Starting current limitation capability
• Internal bypass function
• Modbus communication capability
• RS485 multidrop interface
• Three logic inputs
• Two relay outputs
• PTC motor protection input
• IP20 protection rating
• Suitable for PLC-based industrial control systems
• Suitable for pumps and fans
• Suitable for conveyors, compressors and mixers
• Compact cabinet-mounted design
• Dimensions of approximately 265 × 130 × 169 mm
• Weight of approximately 7 kg

Technical FAQs

What is the Schneider ATS22D17S6?

The Schneider ATS22D17S6 is a 17 A Altistart 22 soft starter designed for controlled starting and stopping of compatible three-phase asynchronous motors.

What is the main function of the ATS22D17S6?

Its main function is to control motor acceleration and stopping, reducing the sudden electrical current and mechanical torque associated with direct-on-line starting.

What is the current rating of the ATS22D17S6?

The ATS22D17S6 has an IcL starter rating of 17 A for standard connection in the motor supply line.

What is the control voltage of the ATS22D17S6?

The ATS22D17S6 uses a 230 V AC control circuit at 50/60 Hz.

What is the difference between ATS22D17S6 and ATS22D17S6U?

The primary identification difference is the control circuit voltage. The ATS22D17S6 uses 230 V AC control, while the ATS22D17S6U uses 110 V AC control. The complete model number should therefore be checked before replacement.

What supply voltage does the ATS22D17S6 support?

The ATS22D17S6 is designed for three-phase AC supply applications from approximately 230 to 600 V, with applicable supply voltage limits of approximately 195 to 660 V.

What motor power can the ATS22D17S6 support?

Typical reference motor power includes approximately 4 kW at 230 V, 7.5 kW at 400 or 440 V, and 9 kW at 500 V. Actual selection should be based on the motor nameplate current and application duty.

Does the ATS22D17S6 have an internal bypass?

Yes. The ATS22D17S6 includes an internal bypass function for normal motor operation after the starting process has been completed.

Does the ATS22D17S6 support Modbus?

Yes. The ATS22D17S6 supports Modbus communication through an RS485 multidrop interface and an RJ45 communication connection.

Can the ATS22D17S6 be connected to a PLC?

Yes. The soft starter can be integrated into PLC-based automation systems using its logic inputs, relay outputs, and Modbus communication capabilities.

What are the typical applications of the ATS22D17S6?

Typical applications include pumps, fans, compressors, conveyors, mixers, blowers, ventilation systems, and other fixed-speed industrial motor applications.

Is the ATS22D17S6 a variable frequency drive?

No. The ATS22D17S6 is a soft starter. It is designed primarily for controlled motor starting and stopping rather than continuous variable-speed operation.

What are the dimensions of the ATS22D17S6?

The supplied dimensions are approximately 265 × 130 × 169 mm.

How much does the ATS22D17S6 weigh?

The supplied product weight is approximately 7 kg.

What should be checked before replacing an ATS22D17S6?

The motor rated current, motor voltage, supply frequency, control voltage, starting duty, protection arrangement, cabinet dimensions, cooling conditions, control wiring, communication configuration, and mounting requirements should all be checked before selecting a replacement.

Conclusion

The Schneider ATS22D17S6 Soft Starter is a 17 A Altistart 22 motor-control device designed to provide controlled starting and stopping for compatible three-phase asynchronous motors. It is particularly useful where direct-on-line starting could produce excessive current, mechanical shock, or undesirable process behavior.

With a rated supply range of approximately 230…600 V AC and a 230 V AC control circuit, the ATS22D17S6 can be integrated into a wide range of industrial motor-control systems. Its torque-controlled starting method and current limitation help provide a smoother acceleration process.

The internal bypass, Modbus RS485 communication, three logic inputs, two relay outputs, and PTC input allow the ATS22D17S6 to work as part of a larger automation architecture containing PLCs, HMIs, motor protection equipment, process sensors, and communication networks.

Typical applications include pumps, fans, compressors, conveyors, mixers, blowers, and other fixed-speed industrial machines. The correct model should always be selected according to the motor nameplate current, supply voltage, starting duty, mechanical load, and control requirements.

The supplied dimensions of approximately 265 × 130 × 169 mm and weight of approximately 7 kg should be included in cabinet and panel design calculations. Proper ventilation, electrical protection, grounding, cable sizing, and maintenance access are also important during installation.

For maintenance engineers, machine builders, OEMs, and industrial automation system integrators, the Schneider ATS22D17S6 provides a practical solution for controlled motor starting and stopping. When correctly selected, wired, configured, and commissioned, it can help improve the starting performance and operational reliability of compatible industrial motor-driven equipment.