Product Overview

The Schneider ATS22D32Q is an Altistart 22 soft starter designed for controlled starting and stopping of three-phase asynchronous motors. With a 32 A starter rating and a 230 V AC control circuit, this model is intended for industrial motor applications where smooth acceleration, controlled stopping, and reduced mechanical stress are important.

Large asynchronous motors can draw a substantial current when started directly across the line. Direct-on-line starting can also create a sudden torque response that is transferred through the motor shaft, coupling, gearbox, belt, pump, fan, or conveyor system. In applications with frequent starting or high mechanical inertia, this starting behavior can contribute to equipment stress and process instability.

The ATS22D32Q provides a controlled starting method based on torque control and current limitation. Instead of applying the full starting impact immediately, the soft starter manages the motor acceleration process and gradually brings the motor toward its normal operating condition.

The ATS22D32Q belongs to Schneider Electric’s Altistart 22 family. It is designed for three-phase squirrel-cage asynchronous motors and is particularly suitable for applications such as pumps, fans, compressors, conveyors, and material-handling equipment.

This model has an IcL starter rating of 32 A for standard applications when connected in the motor supply line. It is designed for approximately 230…440 V AC motor supply applications and 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 dimensions are important when planning cabinet space, cable routing, ventilation, mounting, and maintenance access.

Technical Specifications

What Is the Schneider ATS22D32Q?

The Schneider ATS22D32Q is a 32 A Altistart 22 electronic soft starter used to control the starting and stopping process of compatible three-phase asynchronous motors.

The main purpose of a soft starter is to provide a smoother transition between motor standstill and normal operation. A conventional direct-on-line starter applies the available line voltage to the motor immediately. This can result in a high starting current and a rapid increase in motor torque.

The ATS22D32Q manages the starting process using electronic power control. The motor is progressively accelerated according to the configured starting parameters and the characteristics of the connected load.

This can be particularly useful in applications where mechanical shock needs to be reduced. Pumps, fans, conveyors, compressors, and material-handling machines can all experience undesirable mechanical effects when a motor starts abruptly.

The ATS22D32Q should not be confused with a variable frequency drive. A VFD changes motor frequency and voltage to provide continuous speed control. The ATS22D32Q is primarily intended for controlled starting and stopping while the motor normally operates at the supply frequency once running.

For fixed-speed applications where the main requirement is smoother acceleration and deceleration, the ATS22D32Q provides a practical motor-control solution.

Function and Working Principle

The basic motor-control arrangement can be represented as:

Three-Phase AC Supply → Circuit Protection → ATS22D32Q → Three-Phase Motor → Mechanical Load

When the control system sends a start command, the ATS22D32Q initiates its configured starting sequence. The soft starter controls the motor acceleration instead of allowing the motor to experience the complete electrical and mechanical impact of direct-on-line starting.

The ATS22D32Q uses torque-controlled starting with current limitation. The starting current can be limited to approximately 3.5 times the configured motor current, depending on the selected settings and application conditions.

During acceleration, the soft starter continuously manages the electrical conditions supplied to the motor. The actual acceleration time depends on motor characteristics, load inertia, starting torque requirements, current limitation, and configured parameters.

Once the motor reaches normal operating conditions, the integrated bypass function can establish the normal operating path. This helps reduce the losses and heat generated by the semiconductor starting stage during continuous operation.

The ATS22D32Q can also be used for controlled stopping. This is useful when an immediate power interruption could cause undesirable mechanical or process effects.

For example, a conveyor may require a controlled stop to reduce sudden belt tension. A pump may benefit from controlled stopping to reduce abrupt changes in fluid flow. A fan or blower may require a longer deceleration period because of its rotating inertia.

ATS22D32Q Electrical Characteristics

The ATS22D32Q is specifically identified by its 32 A starter rating and 230 V AC control circuit. The model is designed for three-phase motor supply applications in the approximately 230…440 V AC range.

Its typical motor power range is approximately 7.5…15 kW. However, motor selection should not be based only on kW. The actual motor nameplate current, starting duty, load type, ambient conditions, number of starts, and operating cycle must also be considered.

The factory-set current is approximately 28.5 A, while the starter rating is 32 A. During commissioning, the motor current parameter should be configured according to the actual motor nameplate and application requirements.

The ATS22D32Q uses a 230 V AC control circuit. This is an important consideration when replacing an existing soft starter because different ATS22 variants can have different control-voltage configurations.

Role in Industrial Control Systems

The ATS22D32Q normally operates as one part of a larger industrial motor-control system. It can be integrated with PLCs, HMIs, circuit breakers, motor protection devices, contactors, sensors, and industrial communication networks.

A typical automation architecture may include:

• PLC controller
• HMI operator panel
• ATS22D32Q soft starter
• Three-phase asynchronous motor
• Incoming circuit breaker
• Motor protection equipment
• Isolation or switching contactor
• Emergency stop circuit
• Pressure sensors
• Flow sensors
• Temperature sensors
• Modbus RS485 network
• 230 V AC control power supply

The PLC can manage the overall process sequence while the ATS22D32Q manages the motor starting and stopping characteristics.

For example, in an automated pumping system, the PLC can monitor pressure and tank level. When the process requires additional flow, the PLC sends a start command to the ATS22D32Q. The soft starter then manages the motor acceleration while the PLC continues to monitor the process.

This arrangement allows the control system to separate process logic from motor-starting control. It can also simplify troubleshooting because motor-starting faults and process-control faults can be evaluated separately.

Industrial Applications

Pump Applications

Pumps are one of the most common applications for Altistart 22 soft starters. A controlled starting process can reduce sudden electrical demand and mechanical stress.

The ATS22D32Q can be considered for suitable water pumps, circulation pumps, process pumps, cooling systems, and industrial utility pumps within its electrical rating.

Fans and Blowers

Fans and blowers can have substantial rotating inertia. Starting the motor directly can create a sudden torque demand and mechanical stress on the shaft, bearings, coupling, and drive system.

The ATS22D32Q provides controlled acceleration for compatible fixed-speed fan and blower applications.

Compressors

Industrial compressors can require substantial starting torque depending on the compressor type and operating conditions. A correctly selected soft starter can help manage the electrical starting process.

The ATS22D32Q can be used in appropriate compressor applications when the motor and compressor characteristics are within the starter’s rating.

Conveyors

Conveyor systems can contain belts, rollers, gearboxes, couplings, and material loads. Direct motor starting can create sudden acceleration that is transferred throughout the mechanical system.

The ATS22D32Q can provide a smoother starting process for compatible conveyor systems and fixed-speed material-handling equipment.

Material Handling Equipment

Material-handling machinery can benefit from controlled motor acceleration because abrupt torque changes can affect mechanical components and transported materials.

The ATS22D32Q is suitable for consideration in applications where the motor current and starting duty remain within its specified limits.

Industrial Process Machinery

Other applications can include mixers, ventilation systems, utility machinery, and other fixed-speed industrial equipment using compatible three-phase asynchronous motors.

Installation and System Integration

Correct installation is essential for reliable operation of the ATS22D32Q. Before installation, the motor nameplate, supply voltage, control voltage, protection system, cabinet environment, and mechanical load should be evaluated.

Check Motor Nameplate Data

Before connecting the ATS22D32Q, verify the motor rated voltage, rated current, frequency, power, connection type, and operating duty.

The starter should be selected according to the motor’s actual current rather than relying only on the motor power rating.

Verify Supply Voltage

The ATS22D32Q is designed for approximately 230…440 V AC three-phase supply applications.

The actual electrical supply should be verified before energizing the soft starter. The motor connection must also correspond to the applicable supply voltage.

Verify Control Voltage

The ATS22D32Q uses a 230 V AC control circuit at 50/60 Hz.

This control voltage should be checked carefully during replacement and commissioning. Using an incorrect control supply can prevent the starter from operating correctly and may damage control components.

Install Appropriate Protection

The motor-control system should include suitable short-circuit protection, isolation, grounding, and motor protection equipment.

Protection components should be selected according to the motor, starter, electrical distribution system, installation environment, and applicable engineering requirements.

Mechanical Mounting

The supplied dimensions of the ATS22D32Q are approximately 265 × 130 × 169 mm, with a supplied weight of approximately 7 kg.

The electrical cabinet or mounting structure should be capable of supporting the unit safely. Sufficient clearance should be maintained around the starter for power cables, control wiring, ventilation, inspection, and maintenance.

Cooling and Ventilation

The ATS22D32Q uses forced-convection cooling. Cabinet ventilation must therefore be considered during system design.

Other heat-generating equipment installed inside the same cabinet should be included in the thermal design. Excessive ambient temperature can affect the starter’s operating capability and may require application-specific derating.

Power Wiring

Incoming supply cables and motor cables should be correctly sized according to motor current, cable length, installation method, ambient temperature, and applicable electrical requirements.

Before energization, verify phase sequence, grounding, insulation, cable termination, and terminal tightness.

Control Wiring

The ATS22D32Q provides three logic inputs and two relay outputs. These interfaces can be connected to the machine control circuit for start commands, operating status, alarm indication, and fault monitoring.

Control cables should be routed appropriately and separated from high-current motor cables where necessary to reduce electromagnetic interference.

Modbus Communication

The ATS22D32Q supports Modbus communication through an RS485 multidrop interface using an RJ45 connector.

This allows the soft starter to exchange information with compatible PLCs, HMIs, or supervisory control systems.

Network address, transmission speed, and other communication parameters should be configured consistently across the Modbus network.

Commissioning

Commissioning should include verification of incoming power, 230 V control power, motor connections, motor rotation, acceleration behavior, motor current, stopping characteristics, alarm status, and communication operation.

The first motor startup should be performed under controlled conditions. If the motor fails to accelerate correctly, the motor current, starting torque, acceleration settings, load condition, and protection settings should be checked before repeated starting attempts.

Compatible System Components

Recommended Alternative Models

When selecting an alternative or replacement for the ATS22D32Q, the complete electrical specification should be compared rather than selecting another model only by current rating.

The motor current, supply voltage, control voltage, starting duty, load type, number of starts, cabinet dimensions, cooling requirements, communication interface, and protection configuration should all be evaluated.

The ATS22D32Q is a 32 A Altistart 22 model with 230 V control and a 230…440 V supply specification. A newer soft starter may offer a broader supply-voltage range and a different control-supply arrangement, so the replacement should be engineered rather than treated as an automatic drop-in replacement.

Key Advantages

• Part of the Schneider Altistart 22 soft starter family
• 32 A starter rating
• Designed for three-phase asynchronous motors
• 230…440 V AC motor supply range
• 230 V AC control circuit
• 7.5…15 kW typical motor power range
• Torque-controlled starting
• Starting current limitation capability
• Approximately 3.5 × In current limitation during starting
• Integrated bypass function
• Modbus communication capability
• RS485 multidrop interface
• RJ45 communication connector
• Three logic inputs
• Two relay outputs
• 750 Ω PTC probe input
• IP20 protection rating
• Forced-convection cooling
• Suitable for PLC-based motor-control systems
• Suitable for pump and fan applications
• Suitable for compressors and conveyors
• Suitable for material-handling equipment
• Compact cabinet-mounted design
• Dimensions of approximately 265 × 130 × 169 mm
• Weight of approximately 7 kg

Technical FAQs

What is the Schneider ATS22D32Q?

The Schneider ATS22D32Q is a 32 A Altistart 22 electronic soft starter designed to control the starting and stopping of compatible three-phase asynchronous motors.

What is the main function of the ATS22D32Q?

Its main function is to provide controlled motor acceleration and stopping while reducing the electrical and mechanical impact associated with direct-on-line starting.

What is the current rating of the ATS22D32Q?

The ATS22D32Q has an IcL starter rating of 32 A for standard connection in the motor supply line.

What is the control voltage of the ATS22D32Q?

The ATS22D32Q uses a 230 V AC control circuit at 50/60 Hz.

What supply voltage does the ATS22D32Q support?

The ATS22D32Q is designed for approximately 230…440 V AC three-phase motor supply applications.

What motor power range is associated with the ATS22D32Q?

The typical motor power range for the ATS22D32Q is approximately 7.5…15 kW. Actual selection should be based on the motor nameplate current and the application duty.

Does the ATS22D32Q have an internal bypass?

Yes. The ATS22D32Q includes an internal bypass function that helps reduce heat dissipation and losses during normal motor operation.

Does the ATS22D32Q support Modbus?

Yes. The ATS22D32Q supports Modbus communication through an RS485 multidrop interface with an RJ45 connector.

Can the ATS22D32Q be connected to a PLC?

Yes. The soft starter can be integrated into PLC-based control systems through its logic inputs, relay outputs, and Modbus communication interface.

What are the typical applications of the ATS22D32Q?

Typical applications include centrifugal pumps, piston pumps, fans, screw compressors, conveyors, material-handling equipment, and other fixed-speed industrial machines.

Is the ATS22D32Q a variable frequency drive?

No. The ATS22D32Q is a soft starter. It is primarily designed to control motor acceleration and stopping rather than provide continuous variable-speed operation.

What are the dimensions of the ATS22D32Q?

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

How much does the ATS22D32Q weigh?

The supplied product weight is approximately 7 kg.

What cooling method does the ATS22D32Q use?

The ATS22D32Q uses forced-convection cooling. Appropriate cabinet ventilation and thermal management should therefore be considered during installation.

What should be checked before replacing an ATS22D32Q?

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

Is the ATS22D32Q still suitable for maintenance applications?

The ATS22D32Q belongs to the Altistart 22 family and is a lifecycle-stage product. For an existing installation, it can remain relevant as a maintenance or spare-part requirement, but engineers planning a new system should also evaluate current-generation soft starter alternatives.

Conclusion

The Schneider ATS22D32Q Soft Starter is a 32 A Altistart 22 motor-control device designed for controlled starting and stopping of compatible three-phase asynchronous motors. Its primary purpose is to provide smoother motor acceleration while reducing the electrical and mechanical stress associated with direct-on-line starting.

With a motor supply range of approximately 230…440 V AC, a 230 V AC control circuit, and a typical motor power range of 7.5…15 kW, the ATS22D32Q is suitable for a wide range of fixed-speed industrial motor applications.

The torque-controlled starting function, current limitation, integrated bypass, Modbus RS485 communication, logic inputs, relay outputs, and PTC probe input allow the ATS22D32Q to become part of a complete industrial automation system.

Typical applications include pumps, fans, compressors, conveyors, material-handling equipment, and other industrial machines that require controlled motor starting and stopping without the continuous speed regulation provided by a variable frequency drive.

The supplied dimensions of approximately 265 × 130 × 169 mm and weight of approximately 7 kg should be considered when designing or modifying an electrical cabinet. Adequate ventilation, cable clearance, grounding, electrical protection, and maintenance access are important for reliable operation.

For maintenance engineers, OEMs, system integrators, and industrial automation professionals, the Schneider ATS22D32Q remains an important Altistart 22 soft starter reference for compatible legacy installations. When selecting a replacement, the complete electrical specification should be compared carefully, particularly motor current, supply voltage, control voltage, application duty, and physical installation requirements.