Product Overview

The Schneider Electric ATS48C14Y Altistart 48 Soft Starter is an electronic motor starting and stopping device designed for three-phase asynchronous motors. It belongs to the Altistart 48 product family and is intended for industrial applications where controlled motor acceleration, reduced starting stress, and reliable stopping performance are important.

Unlike a direct-on-line starter, which applies full supply voltage to the motor immediately, a soft starter manages the motor’s starting process electronically. By controlling the voltage and torque during acceleration, it can reduce mechanical shock and help limit the electrical and mechanical stress associated with starting large motors.

The ATS48C14Y supports supply voltages from 208 to 690 V AC. It is designed for a range of motor applications, with published motor power ratings varying according to supply voltage and duty classification. Typical applications include pumping systems, ventilation equipment, industrial machinery, and other installations using asynchronous motors.

The Altistart 48 uses torque-control starting technology and provides adjustable starting and stopping parameters. It also includes motor and starter protection functions, configurable logic inputs and outputs, an analog output, and Modbus serial communication capability.

With its frame size C construction, the ATS48C14Y is intended for industrial control panels and motor-control installations. Its supplied listing dimensions are 340 × 200 × 265 mm, with a weight of 12.4 kg.

This model has been discontinued by Schneider Electric. The manufacturer identifies ATS480C14Y from the Altistart 480 family as its recommended replacement. However, a replacement should not be selected solely by comparing current ratings. Supply voltage, motor duty, control voltage, communication requirements, wiring, and cabinet dimensions must also be evaluated.

Technical Specifications

Note: Motor power and current ratings depend on supply voltage and application duty. Refer to the manufacturer’s selection tables before matching the starter to a specific motor.

Function and Working Principle

The ATS48C14Y controls the starting and stopping process of an asynchronous motor through electronic power regulation. Its primary function is to manage motor torque during acceleration and deceleration rather than applying full supply voltage abruptly.

1. Controlled Motor Starting

When a motor starts directly across the line, it can draw a high inrush current. This may cause voltage dips in the electrical distribution system and create sudden mechanical forces in connected equipment.

The ATS48C14Y uses controlled starting to manage the motor’s acceleration. By regulating the electrical conditions supplied to the motor, it helps reduce the impact of starting on the power network and mechanical transmission components.

This is particularly useful in installations with large pumps, fans, and industrial machines that start frequently or operate under demanding load conditions.

2. Torque Control

Torque control is a central feature of the Altistart 48 series. Instead of relying only on a simple voltage ramp, the starter manages motor torque during the starting process.

This approach can provide smoother acceleration and help reduce mechanical stress on equipment such as pump shafts, couplings, belts, and gear systems.

The required torque profile depends on the driven machine. Engineers should configure the starter according to motor characteristics, load inertia, and the process requirements.

3. Current Limiting

The ATS48C14Y provides current-limiting functionality during motor starting. Limiting the starting current can help reduce the impact of motor acceleration on the electrical supply system.

The actual current profile depends on the selected settings, motor characteristics, and load conditions. Current limiting must be configured carefully because an excessively restrictive setting may prevent the motor from accelerating properly.

4. Controlled Motor Stopping

The starter can also manage motor deceleration. This is useful when an application requires a more controlled stopping process than simply disconnecting the motor from the supply.

For pumping systems, controlled stopping can help reduce hydraulic disturbances under suitable operating conditions. The required stopping profile should be evaluated according to the pump, pipeline, fluid characteristics, and system design.

5. Motor and Starter Protection

The Altistart 48 includes protection functions designed to monitor operating conditions and help identify abnormal situations.

Depending on configuration, relevant protection functions include motor thermal protection, phase-failure detection, and starter-related fault monitoring.

These functions support equipment protection but do not replace upstream short-circuit protection, appropriate electrical isolation, or a complete machine safety system.

Role in Industrial Automation Systems

The ATS48C14Y can serve as the motor-starting component in a wider industrial automation architecture. It is generally installed between the electrical supply and the motor, while receiving commands from local control circuits or a programmable logic controller.

PLC Integration

A PLC can coordinate the soft starter with pressure sensors, level switches, temperature sensors, flow instruments, and other process devices.

For example, a PLC may issue a start command when a pump system requires additional flow. The ATS48C14Y then manages the motor’s starting process according to its configured parameters.

The starter provides Modbus serial communication through an RS-485 interface. This allows it to exchange supported information with compatible automation equipment.

HMI and Operator Control

An HMI can display motor status, operating conditions, alarms, and process information. Operators may use the HMI to initiate equipment sequences through the PLC or a suitable control architecture.

The soft starter’s configurable inputs and outputs can also be incorporated into local control and indication circuits.

Process Monitoring

The ATS48C14Y includes an analog output that can be configured for current signaling. This can be used by compatible monitoring equipment to obtain selected operating information.

The exact signal assignment and scaling should be checked in the manufacturer’s documentation before connecting the output to a PLC analog input or monitoring instrument.

Electrical Distribution Coordination

A soft starter must be coordinated with the motor, upstream protective devices, supply network, and any bypass arrangement used in the installation.

Correct coordination helps ensure that the motor can start under the intended load conditions while maintaining suitable electrical protection.

Industrial Applications

The ATS48C14Y is designed for asynchronous motor applications across a broad voltage and power range. Its torque-control starting functions make it particularly relevant to industrial systems where controlled acceleration and stopping are required.

1. Industrial Pumping Systems

Pumps are among the major applications for the Altistart 48 series.

During direct-on-line starting, a pump motor can accelerate rapidly and create sudden changes in flow and pressure. Controlled starting and stopping can help reduce mechanical stress and hydraulic disturbances.

The ATS48C14Y may be used in suitable applications such as:

• Industrial water supply systems.
• Process-water circulation.
• Cooling-water pumps.
• Wastewater treatment equipment.
• Industrial transfer pumps.

The required starting and stopping parameters should be selected according to the pump and hydraulic system.

2. Ventilation and Fan Systems

Industrial ventilation equipment often uses motors that require controlled acceleration to avoid unnecessary mechanical stress.

A soft starter can help manage the starting process for fans used in factories, production facilities, and industrial ventilation systems.

The motor’s starting torque, fan inertia, operating cycle, and required acceleration time should be evaluated before selecting the starter.

3. Industrial Compressors

Some industrial compressor applications require controlled motor starting to reduce electrical and mechanical stress.

The ATS48C14Y may be considered where the compressor’s motor and starting characteristics fall within the starter’s ratings.

Compressor type, unloading arrangements, starting frequency, and load conditions must be checked carefully. A soft starter does not replace the compressor’s own pressure-control and mechanical protection systems.

4. Material Handling Equipment

Conveyors and other material-handling machines may experience mechanical stress during sudden motor acceleration.

A suitable soft starter can help produce smoother starting behavior and reduce abrupt loading on belts, couplings, and gearboxes.

The ATS48C14Y should be selected according to the motor’s current, required starting torque, and mechanical load.

5. General Industrial Machinery

The starter may also be used in compatible industrial machinery where controlled starting and stopping are required.

Examples include auxiliary production equipment, process machinery, and industrial drive systems using three-phase asynchronous motors.

Application suitability must be verified using the motor’s electrical ratings, operating cycle, and duty classification.

Installation and System Integration

Proper installation is essential for the safe and reliable operation of the ATS48C14Y.

1. Verify Supply Voltage

The ATS48C14Y supports a rated supply range of 208–690 V AC. Confirm that the actual incoming supply is compatible with the starter and the connected motor.

Check the supply frequency, phase configuration, motor voltage, and motor rated current before installation.

The motor power rating alone is not sufficient for selecting a soft starter. Current, duty classification, starting conditions, and operating frequency must also be considered.

2. Check Panel Dimensions and Mounting

The supplied dimensions are 340 × 200 × 265 mm, and the weight is 12.4 kg.

The starter should be installed in a suitable electrical cabinet with adequate mechanical support and ventilation. Allow the clearances specified by the manufacturer for cooling, wiring access, and maintenance.

The ATS48C14Y has an IP00 enclosure rating. It does not provide a complete protective enclosure against contact with live components, dust, or water. It must therefore be installed within an appropriately designed electrical cabinet.

3. Connect Power and Motor Circuits

The incoming supply and motor conductors must be connected according to the manufacturer’s wiring diagrams.

Use correctly rated cables, terminals, and upstream protective devices. Confirm conductor sizing based on the motor current, installation conditions, and applicable electrical standards.

Grounding and protective bonding must be completed before energizing the equipment.

4. Connect Control Circuits

The ATS48C14Y uses a 110–230 V AC control supply. Verify the control voltage before connecting the control circuit.

The logic inputs, relay outputs, PTC input, and analog output should be wired according to the intended control architecture.

Do not assume that the control voltage is interchangeable with the PLC’s 24 V DC I/O. Interface relays or suitable signal-conditioning equipment may be required.

5. Configure Starting Parameters

The starter should be configured according to the connected motor and mechanical load.

Important parameters include:

• Motor rated current.
• Starting torque.
• Current limitation.
• Acceleration time.
• Deceleration time.
• Motor thermal protection settings.
• Input and output assignments.
• Communication parameters.

Incorrect settings can lead to unsuccessful motor starting, unnecessary trips, or inadequate motor protection.

6. Configure Modbus Communication

The ATS48C14Y supports Modbus communication over an RS-485 serial interface.

When connecting the starter to a PLC or supervisory system, configure the communication address, baud rate, parity, and other required communication parameters.

Use the correct cable and termination arrangement for the RS-485 network. Confirm that the PLC or communication gateway supports the required Modbus functions.

7. Commission the Installation

Before returning the equipment to normal operation, inspect all electrical connections and verify the control supply.

Perform controlled tests of the start command, acceleration process, stopping sequence, fault indication, and communication interface.

Record the final parameters and wiring configuration so that maintenance personnel can restore the intended operating conditions after servicing or replacement.

Compatible System Components

The ATS48C14Y normally operates as part of a motor-control system containing electrical protection, control, monitoring, and process equipment.

The components listed above are examples of equipment that may be used in an installation. They are not necessarily included with the ATS48C14Y.

Alternative Models and Replacement Considerations

Schneider Electric has discontinued the ATS48C14Y and identifies the ATS480C14Y Altistart 480 as its recommended replacement.

The ATS480C14Y belongs to a newer product family, but it should not be treated as an automatic plug-in replacement. Engineers should compare the electrical, mechanical, and control requirements before changing models.

Before choosing a replacement, compare:

• Rated supply voltage and frequency.
• Motor rated current.
• Normal-duty and heavy-duty ratings.
• Motor power at the actual supply voltage.
• Control supply voltage.
• Starting and stopping functions.
• Logic and relay I/O.
• Analog signal requirements.
• Modbus communication settings.
• Enclosure rating and panel dimensions.
• Protective-device coordination.
• Existing PLC and HMI integration.

A replacement project may require wiring changes, parameter conversion, PLC modifications, and recommissioning.

Key Advantages

Controlled Motor Acceleration

The Altistart 48 manages motor starting to help reduce the electrical and mechanical impact associated with direct-on-line starting.

Torque-Control Starting

Torque-control technology supports controlled acceleration for applications with demanding mechanical starting conditions.

Configurable Current Limiting

The starter provides current-limiting functions that can help manage the motor’s starting current when correctly configured.

Controlled Stopping

Adjustable stopping functions can support applications where gradual deceleration is preferable to immediate disconnection.

Integrated Protection Functions

Motor and starter monitoring functions help identify abnormal operating conditions and support equipment protection.

Modbus Communication

The RS-485 Modbus interface enables communication with compatible PLCs and industrial monitoring systems.

Flexible Control I/O

Configurable logic inputs, relay outputs, and analog signaling provide options for integration into industrial control circuits.

Technical FAQs

1. What is the Schneider Electric ATS48C14Y?

The ATS48C14Y is an Altistart 48 soft starter designed for controlling the starting and stopping of three-phase asynchronous motors.

2. What voltage range does the ATS48C14Y support?

Its rated supply voltage range is 208–690 V AC, with a specified tolerance of -15% to +10%.

3. What is the current rating of the ATS48C14Y?

The product designation identifies the model as a 124 A unit. Technical documentation also lists 110 A and 140 A starter-current ratings for different application conditions. The correct value must be determined from the applicable duty classification and selection documentation.

4. What motor power can it support?

The published motor power range is approximately 30–110 kW, depending on supply voltage and whether the application is classified as standard or severe duty.

5. Does the ATS48C14Y support Modbus communication?

Yes. It supports Modbus serial communication through an RS-485 interface, allowing integration with compatible PLCs and monitoring systems.

6. What is the control supply voltage?

The specified control supply range is 110–230 V AC. This should be checked separately from the main motor supply voltage.

7. Can the ATS48C14Y be used for pump applications?

Yes. Pumping equipment is one of the intended application areas for the Altistart 48 family. Controlled starting and stopping can help manage mechanical and hydraulic disturbances.

8. What is the enclosure protection rating?

The ATS48C14Y has an IP00 rating. It must be installed in a suitable electrical cabinet that provides the necessary protection against accidental contact and environmental exposure.

9. Is the ATS48C14Y still manufactured?

No. Schneider Electric lists the ATS48C14Y as discontinued. The manufacturer’s recommended replacement is ATS480C14Y from the Altistart 480 family.

10. Can ATS480C14Y directly replace ATS48C14Y?

It is the manufacturer’s recommended replacement, but a direct substitution should not be assumed. Verify the motor ratings, control supply, wiring, communication configuration, dimensions, and application requirements before installation.

Procurement and Maintenance Recommendations

When purchasing the Schneider Electric ATS48C14Y, verify the complete model number and inspect the product nameplate. Confirm that the voltage range, current rating, motor power, and control supply match the intended application.

Because this model has been discontinued, buyers may encounter new-old-stock, refurbished, or used units. Request clear photographs of the nameplate, terminals, and physical condition. Where possible, obtain functional test information and confirm the warranty and return conditions.

Check whether the unit is supplied with the required accessories and documentation. The supplied dimensions are 340 × 200 × 265 mm and the listed weight is 12.4 kg, but shipping packaging may change the final transport measurements.

During maintenance, inspect electrical terminals, cable insulation, cooling paths, cabinet ventilation, and grounding connections. Review fault records and motor operating conditions when investigating repeated trips.

For replacement planning, evaluate the ATS480C14Y and confirm the changes required for electrical wiring, control signals, Modbus communication, parameter settings, and mounting. A structured replacement plan can reduce commissioning risks and help maintain reliable operation.

Conclusion

The Schneider Electric ATS48C14Y Altistart 48 is an industrial soft starter designed for three-phase asynchronous motors operating within a 208–690 V AC supply range. Its torque-control starting method, current-limiting capability, controlled stopping functions, protection features, and Modbus communication support a wide range of industrial motor applications.

With dimensions of 340 × 200 × 265 mm and a weight of 12.4 kg, it is designed for installation in an appropriately rated industrial control cabinet. Since the model has been discontinued, accurate identification and careful replacement evaluation are important for maintenance and procurement projects. The ATS480C14Y is the manufacturer’s recommended successor, subject to application-specific compatibility checks.