
Product Overview
The Schneider Electric ATS480C11Y is an Altivar ATS480 series soft starter designed for controlled starting and stopping of three-phase asynchronous AC motors. It is used to reduce mechanical stress and electrical inrush current during motor startup by applying a gradual voltage ramp-up and ramp-down control strategy.
This model is widely used in industrial motor control systems where smooth acceleration, torque control, and system protection are required.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter |
Details |
| Manufacturer |
Schneider Electric |
| Series |
Altivar ATS480 |
| Model |
ATS480C11Y |
| Product Type |
Soft Starter |
| Rated Current |
110 A |
| Supply Voltage (control) |
110–230 V AC |
| Motor Voltage Range |
208–690 V AC |
| Phase |
3-phase |
| Motor Power Range |
~30 kW to 90 kW (depending on voltage and duty class) |
| Protection Rating |
IP20 |
| Control Method |
Torque Control System (TCS) |
| Functions |
Soft start, soft stop, torque control, protection features |
| Mounting Type |
Panel / chassis mounted |
| Dimensions |
290 × 190 × 247 mm |
| Weight |
8.3 kg |
Function and Working Principle
The ATS480C11Y controls motor starting by gradually increasing voltage and torque instead of applying full line voltage instantly.
Key Operating Steps:
- Motor receives reduced initial voltage
- Voltage ramps up smoothly over a defined time
- Torque is controlled to match load conditions
- Motor reaches full speed without mechanical shock
- Soft stop mode reduces stopping stress if configured
System Flow
Power Supply → Soft Starter (ATS480C11Y) → Controlled Voltage Output → Motor → Load
Key Functions
- Controlled motor start and stop
- Torque management during acceleration
- Reduced mechanical wear on couplings and belts
- Reduced electrical inrush current
- Built-in motor protection functions
- Communication capability for industrial automation systems
Industrial Applications
- Pumps and pumping systems
- Fans and ventilation systems
- Compressors
- Conveyor systems
- Crushers and mixers
- HVAC systems
- Water treatment plants
- Industrial processing equipment
Installation Notes
- Installed in electrical control panels (panel-mounted)
- Requires proper ventilation due to heat dissipation
- Must be protected by upstream circuit breakers
- Correct motor sizing is essential for stable operation
- Wiring must follow three-phase industrial standards
- Parameter configuration required during commissioning
Compatible Systems & Integration
- Industrial three-phase AC motors
- PLC systems (Schneider EcoStruxure / Modicon platforms)
- Motor protection circuit breakers
- Industrial communication networks (depending on configuration)
- Control panels and MCC (Motor Control Centers)
Alternative Models
- ATS480C11Y (110 A variant)
- ATS480C21Y (210 A variant)
- ATS480C41Y (410 A heavy-duty variant)
- Altistart 48 series (previous generation soft starters)
Key Advantages
- Smooth motor starting reduces mechanical stress
- Lower electrical peak current
- Improved equipment lifespan
- Integrated motor protection functions
- Suitable for heavy industrial loads
- Flexible configuration for different applications
FAQ
Q: What is ATS480C11Y used for?
It is used to control the soft starting and stopping of three-phase AC motors.
Q: Is it a variable frequency drive (VFD)?
No, it is a soft starter, not a VFD. It controls voltage, not frequency.
Q: Where is it commonly used?
It is used in pumps, fans, compressors, and general industrial motor systems.
Conclusion
The Schneider ATS480C11Y Soft Starter is a reliable industrial motor control device designed to reduce starting stress and improve system stability. It is widely used in automation and process industries where controlled motor operation and equipment protection are essential.