Technical Specifications

FAQ

1. What is the main function of the Schneider Electric ATS01N106FT soft starter?

The ATS01N106FT is an Altistart 01 soft starter designed to control the starting of asynchronous motors. Instead of applying full line voltage to the motor immediately, it uses a controlled voltage ramp to increase the motor voltage progressively. This reduces the mechanical shock and electrical stress associated with direct-on-line starting. It is particularly suitable for simple machines such as pumps, fans, compressors, and other applications where controlled acceleration is required.

2. What motor power range is suitable for the ATS01N106FT?

The ATS01N106FT has a 6 A starter rating and supports motor applications within a range of approximately 0.75 to 3 kW, depending on the supply voltage and phase configuration. For example, the product can be used with motors rated up to 3 kW at 400 V three-phase. The correct motor rating should always be selected according to the actual supply voltage, motor current, starting duty, and application conditions. Motor current is particularly important because the starter must not be operated beyond its applicable current rating.

3. What supply voltage can the ATS01N106FT accept?

The ATS01N106FT is designed for supply voltages from 110 to 480 VAC, with an operating supply limit of approximately 99–528 VAC. It can be used with different motor and network configurations within its specified voltage range. Before installation, the actual line voltage should be verified and matched with the motor nameplate and starter configuration. Incorrect supply voltage selection can result in poor starting performance, excessive heating, or damage to the equipment.

4. How does the voltage ramp starting function work?

During starting, the ATS01N106FT progressively increases the voltage applied to the motor rather than switching the motor directly to full line voltage. The acceleration time can be adjusted from approximately 1 to 5 seconds. This allows the motor to accelerate more smoothly and reduces the mechanical impact on couplings, belts, gears, pumps, and other driven components. The appropriate ramp time depends on motor characteristics and load inertia. If the ramp is too short, starting may still be abrupt; if it is too long, the motor may remain in the high-current starting condition for longer than necessary.

5. What should be checked if the motor does not start correctly with the ATS01N106FT?

First verify that the incoming supply voltage is present and within the permitted range. Then check the motor wiring, control circuit, terminals, and motor nameplate data. The motor should be compatible with the starter’s voltage, current, phase, and power requirements. If the motor receives voltage but accelerates poorly, inspect the starting-time and starting-torque settings. The mechanical load should also be checked for excessive friction, blockage, or excessive starting torque requirements. A motor that requires more starting torque than the application can provide may fail to reach operating speed even when the electrical connections are correct.

6. Why can the ATS01N106FT overheat during motor starting?

Heat generation is expected during soft-start operation, but excessive heating can occur when the motor is started too frequently, the starting time is excessively long, the motor load is too high, or the starter is operating beyond its intended duty. The ATS01N106FT includes an integrated bypass function that reduces power losses after the starting sequence has completed. If overheating occurs, check the motor current, starting frequency, acceleration time, ambient conditions, and ventilation around the starter. The motor should also be checked to ensure that it is not mechanically overloaded or taking too long to reach normal operating speed.

7. How should the starting time and starting torque be adjusted?

The starting time is adjustable from approximately 1 to 5 seconds. A suitable setting should provide smooth acceleration without keeping the motor in the starting phase unnecessarily long. Starting torque can be adjusted within the applicable range of approximately 30–80% of the motor’s direct-on-line starting torque. For a light-load application, a lower starting torque may be sufficient. For pumps, conveyors, or machines with higher mechanical resistance, additional starting torque may be required. Adjustment should be performed while monitoring motor acceleration and current to ensure that the motor reaches operating speed reliably without excessive electrical or mechanical stress.

8. What should be checked before replacing or installing an ATS01N106FT?

Before installation or replacement, verify the motor nameplate voltage, rated current, power, phase configuration, and starting requirements. Confirm that the ATS01N106FT is suitable for the motor and that the incoming supply falls within the permitted voltage and frequency ranges. Inspect the power and control wiring, terminal connections, protective devices, and motor insulation before energizing the system. The starter should be mounted in the specified orientation with adequate ventilation around the heat-dissipating components. After installation, verify the control circuit, adjust the starting time and torque according to the load, and perform several controlled start cycles while monitoring motor current, acceleration, and starter temperature.