
Product Overview
The Schneider Electric ATS480C21Y is a high-power Altivar ATS480 series soft starter designed for controlled starting and stopping of three-phase AC asynchronous motors. It is used to reduce inrush current, mechanical stress, and torque shock during motor startup by gradually increasing voltage and controlling motor torque.
This model belongs to the heavy-duty industrial soft starter range, suitable for large motors in demanding process and infrastructure applications.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter |
Details |
| Manufacturer |
Schneider Electric |
| Series |
Altivar ATS480 |
| Model |
ATS480C21Y |
| Product Type |
Soft Starter |
| Rated Current |
210 A |
| Supply Voltage (control) |
110–230 V AC |
| Motor Supply Voltage |
208–690 V AC |
| Phase |
3-phase |
| Control Method |
Torque Control System (TCS) |
| Mounting Type |
Panel / chassis mounted |
| Dimensions |
380 × 277 × 320 mm |
| Weight |
18.2 kg |
Function and Working Principle
The ATS480C21Y controls motor starting by reducing initial voltage and gradually ramping it up to full line voltage.
Operating Process
- Reduced voltage is applied to the motor at startup
- Voltage is increased gradually over a programmed ramp time
- Motor torque is controlled to match load demand
- Motor reaches nominal speed smoothly
- Optional soft stop reduces mechanical shock during shutdown
System Flow
Electrical Supply → Soft Starter → Controlled Voltage Output → Motor → Mechanical Load
Key Functions
- Soft start and soft stop control
- Torque control during acceleration
- Reduced mechanical stress on drivetrain components
- Lower starting current compared to direct-on-line (DOL) start
- Built-in motor protection functions
- Suitable for high-inertia loads
Industrial Applications
- Pumps and pumping stations
- Compressors
- Fans and ventilation systems
- Conveyors
- Crushers and mills
- HVAC systems
- Water treatment plants
- Heavy industrial machinery
Installation Notes
- Installed in industrial control panels or MCCs
- Requires proper ventilation due to heat dissipation
- Must be protected by upstream circuit breakers
- Correct motor sizing and parameter configuration required
- Wiring must follow three-phase industrial standards
- Commissioning required before operation
Compatible Systems
- Three-phase AC induction motors
- Industrial PLC systems (Schneider EcoStruxure / Modicon)
- Motor protection circuit breakers
- Industrial automation control panels
- Communication modules (depending on configuration)
Alternative Models
- ATS480C11Y (110 A version)
- ATS480C31Y / ATS480C41Y (higher current variants)
- Altistart 48 series (previous generation soft starters)
Key Advantages
- Smooth motor acceleration and deceleration
- Reduced electrical inrush current
- Lower mechanical wear on equipment
- Improved system reliability and lifespan
- Suitable for heavy-duty industrial loads
- Integrated motor protection features
FAQ
Q: What is ATS480C21Y used for?
It is used to control the soft starting and stopping of large three-phase AC motors.
Q: Is it a VFD?
No, it is a soft starter. It controls voltage, not frequency.
Q: Where is it commonly used?
In pumps, compressors, conveyors, and heavy industrial motor systems.
Conclusion
The Schneider ATS480C21Y Soft Starter is a heavy-duty motor control device designed for smooth acceleration and reduced mechanical and electrical stress in large industrial applications. It is widely used in process industries where reliable and controlled motor starting is required.