Sales handbook

Softstarters
Motor starting matters

For internal use only

How to read this handbook

When should a softstarter be selected?

This chapter covers the most commonly used motor
starting methods and when to select them. It will also
4 give you the argument for why the customer should
change starting method.

Which softstarter should be selected?

When you know that a softstarter is the best option
for the customer, this chapter will help you select the
14 right model from ABB.

Where can softstarters be used?

When you know that a softstarter is the best option
for the customer, this chapter will help you select the
22 right model from ABB.

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 What do our softstarters bring to the customers?
Now you know which softstarters to select. Here
you will get to know what values and functions our

28 softstarters can bring to our customers.

What is the difference to our competitors?

Here you will learn about the differences between
our softstarters and our competitors' softstarters.
38 This can be useful when the customer is already
using a competitors' softstarter.

Where can I find more information?

Here you will find links to more resources and
marketing material that can support you when
42 promoting ABB's softstarters.

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When a softstarter should be selected
Why motor starting matters
Rotating electrical machines play a very important role in the world’s
industry and is a large part of the world's electricity consumption.

Much of this electricity is used to power industrial electric motors

42%
of all electricity used
2/3
of this is used
= 28%
Global electricity
powers industry by electric motors consumption

electric
motors

Around 90 percent of all these

motors are run in full speed and
are hence either started with a
direct-on-line starter, a star-delta
starter or a softstarter. Since the
total amount of full speed motors
is so huge and they consume so
much of the worlds electricity, it is
important how we operate them.

Electrical motors have some

potential problems when it comes
to starting and stopping, that
can be handled very well by
selecting the right starting method
for the application. Due to the
characteristics of the electrical
motor, the torque and the current
are very high during the start. This
can cause several problems for
the user.

Typical mechanical problems when starting and stopping

−− High wear and tear increasing maintenance costs
−− Slippering belts
−− Damaged products on conveyor belts
−− Water hammering when stopping pumps

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When a softstarter should be selected
Typical problems when starting
The starting current of an AC motor can be up to 11 times the
nominal current. This is because a large amount of energy is required
to magnetize the motor enough to overcome the inertia the system
has at standstill. The high current drawn from the network can cause
problems such as voltage drop, high transients, and in some cases,
uncontrolled shutdown. High starting current also causes great
mechanical stress on the motor’s rotor bars and windings, and can
effect the driven equipment and the foundations. The higher efficiency
level the motor has, the more severe these problems are since the
current peak will be higher when the resistance is lower.

Several starting methods exist, all aiming to reduce these stresses.

The load, the motor, the supply network and the budget determine the
most appropriate starting method. When selecting and dimensioning
the starting equipment and any protective devices, the following factors
must be taken into account:

− The voltage drop in the supply network when starting the motor
− The required load torque during start
− The required starting time
− Application
− Budget

14-22xIe

7-11xIe T
I 1,5-2,5xTe

Ie Te

rpm rpm

Typical electrical problems when starting

−− Current peak at start tripping breaker
−− Voltage drops in the network

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When a softstarter should be selected
Direct-on-line starter
Direct-on-line starting (DOL) is the simplest, cheapest, most compact
and most commonly used starting method. It is only suitable for stable
networks and mechanically stiff and well dimensioned shaft systems
due to high current and torque during start.

DOL can be achieved by a hand operated switch or with a contactor

for remote operation. The switch is only used for small motors that
don't need to be started or stopped often. The other motors normally
use the contactor in combination with short-circuit protection and
overload protection. This solution can also be controlled with a control
system.

When to use a direct-on-line starter

− − When the motor is small, usually <15 kW for industrial use
− − When the motors will be started and stopped frequently
− − When space is critical
− − When price is essential

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When a softstarter should be selected

With a DOL the start will be uncontrolled,

meaning that the motor will start with
maximum current and torque regardless of
load type. Different load types will result in
different acceleration time for the motor.

T
I

rpm rpm
Current regardless of load Low load

rpm
High load Medium load

Advantages Disadvantages
−− Compact −− High starting current and torque
−− Simple −− Mechanical wear and tear
−− Easy to install −− Only direct stop
−− Low cost −− Motor protection as accessory

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When a softstarter should be selected
Star-delta starter
Most low voltage motors can be connected to run with delta
connection or with star connection. This flexibility can be used to start
the motor with a lower voltage from star connection. It gives a starting
current of about one third compared to direct-on-line starting, although
this also reduces the starting torque to about 25 percent. The motor
is started with Y (star)-connection and accelerated as far as possible,
then switched to D (delta)-connection. This starting method can only
be used with a motor that is delta connected during continuous run
and has six leads out from the motor.

When to use a star-delta starter

−− When the load is very light
−− When only a reduced acceleration is requested
−− When current peaks are acceptable

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When a softstarter should be selected

Star-delta starter reduces both current and

torque during the start. It is not adjustable
which means that if the torque is reduced too
much, the motor will not start. Current peaks
will happen when switching over to delta
connection.

T
Delta ( )

Star ( )

rpm
Current with peaks regardless of load Low load is okay

T T

rpm rpm
High load is impossible to start Medium load gives transmission
peaks

Advantages
−− Simple
−− Resonable low cost
−− Lower starting current
(only at successful start)
For internal use only
Disadvantages
−− Only direct stop
−− Complex to install
−− Low starting torque
−− High transmission and current
peaks when switch from star to
delta
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When a softstarter should be selected
Variable speed drive
The variable speed drive is sometimes also called frequency converter.
It consists primarily of two parts, one which converts AC (50 or 60 Hz)
to DC and a second part which converts the DC back to AC, but now
with a variable frequency of 0~250 Hz. By controlling the frequency, the
drive can control the speed of the motor.

It is the most expensive starting solution but also the most versatile,
which means that it is suitable for process control. In many cases, a
drive is used only to start and stop the motor without need of speed
control. For these cases, the drive is an unnecessary expensive and big
solution compared to a softstarter.

When to use a drive

−− When the process demands speed control
−− When network harmonics are acceptable
−− When price and space is of limited importance

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When a softstarter should be selected

In some applications it is required to

continuously regulate the speed of the
motor, which the drive can do by changing
the frequency. The drive can give the motor
the nominal torque and the nominal current
through the complete start.

In

rpm rpm
A drives operates around the nominal torque and current during the
complete start.

Advantages
− − Nominal current and torque
during start
− − Speed regulation including soft
stop
− − Built-in motor protections
Disadvantages
−− Expensive solution
−− Bigger size and heavy weight
−− Generates harmonics
−− No power saving at full speed

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When a softstarter should be selected
Softstarter
Softstarter is a full-speed starter that accelerates, decelerates and
protects three phase motors. The softstarter controls the voltage
applied to the motor by using thyristors which gives it control over
current, torque and acceleration. The softstarter can be adjusted
according to the needs of the load, by using different variables, so
that the required current is going to be the lowest possible for each
appliction.

When to use a softstarter

−− When the motor should run at full speed
−− When reduced current is needed to protect the network
−− When reduced torque is needed to reduce maintenance costs
−− When a complete starting solution is requested that can both con-
trol and protect the motor

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When a softstarter should be selected

A softstarter can adjust the voltage to

achieve the wanted starting behavior.
The heavier the load is, the more
torque is given, resulting in a higher
current than for a light load. The slow
acceleration will reduce wear and tear
on the equipment.

Low load that only need low High load that need more
torque torque to start

rpm
The current will differ depending on how much torque that is
needed to start

Advantages Disadvantages
−− Low starting current −− No speed control
−− Starting torque matching the −− Higher investment cost than
need DOL
−− Possibility to soft stop
−− Built-in motor protections

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Which softstarter to select
Values propositions for different customers

Introduction
Our value proposition is devided into three parts to suit different kinds of
customers. Our panel builder customers are not necessary interested in the
exact same arguements as the end-users are. All our marketing material use
this categorization to make it as easy as possible to use effectively. This chapter
describes how they are intended to be used.

Our features have been sorted into these categories as well to make it easy
to pick sales arguments when talking to specific customers.

Secure motor
Reliability
Motor current and protection
Describes how our softstarters will improve motor reliability by decresing the
starting current and protect the motor from load and network abnormalities.
See page 30 for more features

Improve installation
Efficiency
Softstarter installation and operation
Describes how our softstarters will improve the operator's efficiency by being
faster and easier to specify, order, install, set-up and operate than other
softstarter and starting solutions. See page 32 for more features

Increase application
Productivity
Application performance
Describes how our softstarters will improve productivity for the user of the
motor. Our softstarters can do much more than just start and stop the motor
and this brings value to our customers. See page 34 for more features

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Target customer
OEM
OEM customers are usually focused on their own machine and see the
softstarter as an extra cost that is only interesting if it is helping their machine
in some way. Reduced current allows the OEM to install their machine in more
networks and motor protections will prolong their equipment's lifetime.

Panel builder
Panel builders only order and install the softstarter. Their focus is to get a product
that is fast and easy to work with. That is why they will like easy solutions with
accessories built in.

Distributor
The distributor only sells the softstarter to their customers and want to make
money on it. They value built-in accessories and a product that can cover most
needs so that they don't need that many different products in their offering.

End-user
The end-user is the only one that is using the softstarter and can get any of the
benefits from what the softstarter can do. They are therefore most interested
in our capacity and features.

Consultant
The consultant like to work with softstarters that can really solve the electrical
and mechanical problems their customers have. They are intrested in how our
softstarters can make their solutions better so they win the contract.

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Which softstarter to select
PSR - The compact range

The PSR softstarter is the most

compact of all the softstarter ranges
which allows for design of compact
starting equipment. A PSR together
with a manual motor starter makes up a
far more compact starting solution than
a star-delta starter, and with the built-
in bypass, the energy losses inside the
softstarter are reduced.

Secure motor
Reliability
Reduce the current stresses and keep motor protected with the
MMS
The PSR reduces the starting current for the motor. The possibility to connect it
to the manual motor starter makes it possible to build a compact and complete
starting solution with overload and short-circuit protection.

Improve installation
Efficiency
Saving time and money with built-in bypass and easy set-up
On the PSR, the bypass is built in and verified by ABB, saving you time during
installation and space in your panel. Set-up is done through three potentiometers
making it very fast and easy to understand.

Increase application
Productivity
Reduce the mechanical stresses on your motor
Soft start and stop of PSR will reduce mechanical wear and tear on the
application and increase the availability and uptime-.

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Technical data
−− Operational voltage: 208-600 V AC
−− Wide rated control supply voltage: 100-240 V AC, 50/60 Hz or 24 V AC/
DC
−− Rated operational current: 3-105 A
−− Two-phase controlled
−− Only in-line connection is possible

Starting and stopping features

−− Soft start with voltage ramp
−− Soft stop with voltage ramp
−− Built-in bypass for energy saving and easy installation

HMI and connectivity

−− Set-up by 3 potentiometers
−− Fieldbus communication with Fieldbusplug adapter and the
Fieldbusplug
−− Run and Top of Ramp relays available for monitoring
−− Connection kits available for connection to ABB´s manual motor
starters

Protections and diagnostics

−− Possible to connect with ABB´s manual motor starters to get
overload protection and short-circuit protection

When to select the PSR

−− When operating a small motor
−− When a simple softstarter is requested for just start and stop
−− When up to 100 starts per hour is requested

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Which softstarter to select
PSE - The efficient range

The PSE has been designed to meet

the most common requirements from
the water segment and is specialized
on pump operation. It combines the
requested protections with a very
compact design and built-in bypass.
Remote operation with external keypad
or over fieldbus is available as an
option.

Secure motor
Reliability
Basic motor protection and current limit
The PSE offers the most important protections for handling different load
situation that can happen to pumps e.g. overload and underload. The current
limit gives you more control of the motor during start. It also allows you to start
your motor in weaker networks.

Improve installation
Efficiency
Saving time and money with built-in bypass and compact design
On the PSE, the bypass is built in and verified by ABB, saving you time during
installation and space in your panel. The keypad is language neutral and
illuminated for easy set-up and operation in field. The compact design makes
installation fast and easy.

Increase application
Productivity
Torque control for elimination of water hammering in pumps
Torque control is the most efficient way to stop a full speed pump. The PSE has
a special torque stop ramp that is designed together with a pump manufacturer
to eliminate water hammering.

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Technical data
−− Operational voltage: 208-600 V AC
−− Wide rated control supply voltage: 100-250 V AC, 50/60 Hz
−− Rated operational current: 18-370 A
−− Two-phase controlled
−− Only in-line connection is possible

Starting and stopping features

−− Voltage ramp and torque control for both start and stop
−− Current limit
−− Kick-start
−− Built-in bypass for energy saving and easy installation
−− Coated PCBAs protecting from dust, moist and corrosive atmosphere

HMI and connectivity

−− Illuminated display that uses symbols to become language neutral
−− External keypad rated IP66 (Type 1, 4X,12) as an option
−− Fieldbus communication with Fieldbusplug adapter and the
Fieldbusplug
−− Analog output for measurement of motor current

Protections and diagnostics

−− Electronic overload protection
−− Underload protection
−− Locked rotor protection

When to select the PSE

−− When you are going to operate a pump and have limited space in
the panel
−− When you want to have the most common features and protections
−− When the customer is very price sensitive

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Which softstarter to select
PSTX - The advanced range

The PSTX combines many years of

research and product development with
extensive knowledge of application
specific requirements and needs. It
is our latest advancement in motor
control and protection and adds new
functionality and increased reliability.

Secure motor
Reliability
Complete motor protection and three types of current limit
The PSTX offers complete motor protection and is able to handle both load and
network irregularities. With three types of current limit you get full control of the
motor during start. It also allows you to start your motor in weaker networks.

Improve installation
Efficiency
Saving time and money with built-in bypass and detachable keypad
On the PSTX, the bypass is built in and verified by ABB, saving you time during
installation and space in your panel. A user-friendly and clear display saves
you time and resources during both setup and operation.

Increase application
Productivity
Complete control of pumps and jog with slow speed
Time to use your processes to their full potential. The PSTX features many
application enhancing features, including torque control: the most efficient way
to start and stop pumps. Slow speed forward and reverse will make you more
flexible when operating e.g. your conveyor belt or crane.

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Technical data
−− Operational voltage: 208-600 and 208-690 V AC
−− Wide rated control supply voltage: 100-250 V AC, 50/60 Hz
−− PSTX rated operational current: 30-370 A (inside-delta: 640 A)
−− PSTB rated operational current: 371-1050 A (inside-delta: 1800 A)
−− Three-phase controlled
−− Both in-line and inside-delta connection is possible

Starting and stopping features

−− Voltage ramp, torque control and full voltage start and stop
−− Three types of current limit (normal, dual and ramp)
−− Pre-start features as motor heating and stand-still brake
−− Built-in bypass for energy saving and easy installation
−− Coated PCBAs protecting from dust, moist and corrosive atmosphere

HMI and connectivity

−− Graphical display with 15 languages for easy setup and operation
−− Detachable keypad rated IP66 (Type 1, 4X,12)
−− Built-in Modbus RTU for monitoring and control
−− Support for all major communication protocols with Anybus accessory
−− Analog output for measurement of current, voltage, power factor etc.

Protections and diagnostics

−− Overload, underload, locked rotor protection and PTC/PT100
−− Over voltage, under voltage protection
−− Electricity metering
−− Calculations of time to trip and time to cool

When to select the PSTX

−− When full control and motor protection is needed
−− When starting a big motor, >200 kW
−− When the customer can benefit from application specific features,
e.g. pumps, fans, converyor belts or cranes
−− When motor is connected inside delta or in a 690 V network
−− When lowest possible starting current is needed

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Where softstarters can be used
Typical softstarter segments
Water

Typical applications
–– Pumps (treatment pumps, effluent pumps, slurry pumps, high
pressure pumps, etc.)
–– Fans
–– Compressors

Typical conditions Softstarter feature Page

Harsh environment Coated PCBA 32
Cold and humid enviorment Motor heating 34
Remote location Flexible communication 33

Marine

Typical applications
–– Bow thrusters
–– Water and ballast pumps
–– Refrigeration chillers and compressors
–– Hydraulic pumps
–– Fans

Typical conditions Softstarter feature Page

Weak network Current limit 30
Humid environment Coated PCBA 32
Complete motor protection (over 30-31
Unstable power network voltage, under voltage, voltage
imbalance, earth fault, etc.)
Limited space Built-in bypass 32
Marine approvals ABS, GL, Lloyd’s Register, DNV, CCS -

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Mining

Typical applications
–– Conveyors
–– Fans –– Crushers
–– Pumps –– Mixers
–– Grinders

Typical conditions Softstarter feature Page

Dusty environments Coated PCBA 32
Detachable HMI, Analog output and
Remote location 33
Flexible communication
Complete motor protection (over
Unstable power network voltage, under voltage, voltage 30-31
imbalance, earth fault, etc.)
High attitude Up to 4000 meters -

HVAC

Typical applications
–– Compressor (piston compressor, scroll compressor, etc.)
–– Fans
–– Pumps

Typical conditions Softstarter feature Page

Coated PCBA, suitable for wide range
Harsh environments 32
ambient temperature
Weak network Current limit 30
Limited space and high
Built-in bypass 32
temperature
Detachable HMI, analog output and
Remote locations 33
flexible communication

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Where softstarters can be used
Pump applications

There are a lot of different types of pumps like piston pumps,

centrifugal pumps, hydraulic pumps etc. Both start and stop are crucial
since the moving fluid will either brake the pump during start or drive
the pump forward during stop. This can create pressure surges and
water hammering. By using a PSE or PSTX softstarter with torque
control, the motor torque is reduced in a way that is avoiding water
hammering.

Stop signal

Recommended basic settings for centrifugal pumps

Start ramp time 10 s
Start mode Voltage ramp
Stop ramp time 10 s
Stop mode Torque ramp
Start ramp initial level 30%
Stop ramp end level 30%
Current limit level 4

Typical problems Softstarter feature page

Water hammering
Underload due to pump running
dry
Jammed or clogged pump
Torque control 34
Underload protection 30
Overload and locked rotor
protection for detection and pump 30
cleaning for solving it

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Where softstarters can be used
Fan applications

Fans usually have a big moment of inertia due to the big flywheel which
will make the start slow. Some fans can be started with reduced load
torque, with a closed damper. This is called an unloaded start and will
make the start easier (shorter). By using ABB´s softstarter to start the
fan, the voltage is initially at a low value. Then gradually the voltage
is increased in order to start up the fan. The softstarter provides the
ability to adjust the settings to fit any starting condition, both unloaded
and full loaded starts. A fan can take a long time to stop, which will be
more efficient using the motor brake function of PSTX. For a fan that is
rotating backwards when it is supposed to stand still, due to wind, can
be kept still using the stand-still brake.

Recommended basic settings for fans

Start ramp time 10 s
Start mode Voltage ramp
Stop ramp time 0s
Stop mode No ramp
Start ramp initial level 30%
Stop ramp end level 30%
Current limit level 4

Typical problems Softstarter feature Page

Heavy duty start with high starting Heavy duty selection and kick
35
torque start
Voltage ramp with current limit
High starting current 30
and overload protection
Over heated motor due to long
Overload protection (EOL) 30
starting time
Spin long time after stop command Motor brake 35
Spinning backwards from wind
Stand-still brake 35
when stopped

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Where softstarters can be used
Compressor applications

There are different types of compressors like piston compressor, scroll

compressor, screw compressor etc. Smaller compressors are often of
the piston type and the load torque increases linearly with the speed.
Screw compressors are often used when there is a bigger need for air
flow and this type has a load torque increasing with the square of the
speed. Most compressors are started unloaded and are considered to
be light starts. By using an ABB´s softstarter it is possible to limit the
starting torque to a level suitable for all different applications. The result
is less stress on the compressor reducing the maintenance cost to a
minimum. For scroll compressors, ABB has the special version PSRC
that is optimized for that application.

Recommended basic settings for screw compressors

Start ramp time 5s
Start mode Voltage ramp
Stop ramp time 0s
Stop mode No ramp
Start ramp initial level 50%
Stop ramp end level 50%
Current limit level 3

Typical problems Softstarter feature Page

Need short starting time Full voltage start 35
High starting current Current limit 30
Over load and locked rotor
High mechanical stresses 30
protection
Severe damage if rotating in wrong
Phase reversal protection 30
direction

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Where softstarters can be used
Conveyor belts applications

Conveyor belts can have a lot of different characteristics. The length

can vary from only a few meters up to several kilometers and the
belt can be horizontal or inclining. Typically, the conveyor belt has a
constant load torque with low to high braking torque depending on the
load. By using an ABB softstarter, the starting torque can be reduced
to a minimum value and still be able to start the conveyor belt. The
wide setting range of the softstarter makes it possible to adjust the
torque to exactly the level that is necessary for the start. This will
reduce the maintenance cost to a minimum.

Recommended basic settings for short conveyor belts

Start ramp time 10 s
Start mode Voltage ramp
Stop ramp time 0s
Stop mode No ramp
Start ramp initial level 40%
Stop ramp end level 30%
Current limit level 5.0

Typical problems Softstarter feature Page

Belts slipping due to higher start Reduced torque with voltage ramp
34
torque and torque control
Heavy duty start fully loaded Kick start 35
Belts can snap and damage
Underload protection 30
equipment
Wrong direction due to phase
Phase reversal 30
reversal
Required slow speed for
Jog with slow speed 34
positioning and maintenance
Overload protection (EOL) and
Motor over temperature 30-31
PTC and PT100 input

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What our softstarters bring to our customers
Comparison between ABB's softstarters

= Yes
= Partly
= Optional
= No

Features Page
Soft start -
Current limit 30
Electronic overload protection (EOL) 30
Underload protection 30
Locked rotor protection 30
Secure motor reliability

Current ramp 30
Dual current limit 30
Current imbalance protection -
Voltage imbalance protection 30
Phase reversal protection 30
Customer-defined protection 31
PTC input for motor protection 31
PT100 input for motor protection 31
Overvoltage protection 31
Undervoltage protection 31
Earth-fault protection 31
Motor runtime measurement -
Built-in bypass 32
Inside-delta connection 32
Improve installation

Coated PCBA 32
Graphical display and keypad 32
efficiency

Detachable keypad 33
Programmable warning -
Diagnostics 33
Analog output 33
Fieldbus communication -
Event log -
Multiple languages -
Soft stop -
Torque control 34
Increase application

Limp mode 34
productivity

Jog with slow speed 34

Motor heating 34
Motor brake 35
Sequence start -
Full voltage start 35
Kick-start 35
Emergency DOL start -
Manual pump cleaning 35

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 PSR PSE PSTX
The compact range The efficient range The advanced range

Symbols Symbols 15

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What our softstarters bring to our customers
Value - secure motor reliability

Key features for secured motor reliability with focus on OEM

Current limit, dual current limit and current ramp

Situation
The customer has a poor network or
the application is very sensitive to or
current levels and variations.
Value
Making it possible to run the motor
in a weaker network and hence
improving the availability of the
system/equipment. Lower current
with less stress on cables and motor.

Overload protection (EOL) and underload protection

Situation
The customer's application might
suffer from variation in load level.
Increased load due to extra weight
on a conveyor belt or decreased
load due to a snapped belt or a
pump that is running dry.
Value
Stopping the motor when the load
is too high will save the motor from
too much overheating and prolong
its life time.
Stopping the motor when a pump is
running dry will save the pump from
extra wear and prolong its life time.

Locked rotor protection

Situation
The customer get a locked rotor on
the motor due to e.g. a jammed or
clogged pump. This might damange
the motor due to overheating.
Value
Provides fast protection from over-
currents to avoid overheating and
break down. This reduces dam-
age on the motor and equipment
and also reduces the maintenance
and service cost. This will give an
increased life time of the motor.

Phase reversal protection

Situation
An OEM builds e.g. an air
conditioning unit but his or her
customer is installing the incoming
cables. If the installer connects the
phases wrong, the compressor will
rotate in the wrong direction at start
and will be damaged.
Value
Elliminates the risk to start the motor
in the wrong direction. This will make
sure that the air conditioning unit
will function as intended and not
cause service jobs and frustrated
customers.

30 | 1SFC132017B0201. Rev A ABB's softstarter For internal use only

 Customer-defined protections

Situation
The customer has a meter, e.g. an
earth fault monitor, that he or she
would like to use to protect the
installation.
Value
The possibility to program the
softstarter to trip on given signals
from external equipment will make
the motor protected from anything
the customer wants and hence
prolong its lifetime and reliability.

PTC and PT100 input for motor protection

Situation
The customer has an installation that
is sensitive for motor temperatures
changes e.g. when installed in
environments with high ambient
temperatures or when load level
might increase during operation.
Value
Avoiding motor damaging by high
temperature and reducing the
service cost. Monitoring of motor
temperature that gives feedback of
the health of the system.

Abnormal voltage protection - Overvoltage & undervoltage protection

Situation Value
The customer has an unstable Prevent the motor from being
network where the main voltage damaged by an abnormal voltage
might vary too much. levels, both too high and too low.

Earth-fault protection

Situation
The customer needs to detect earth
leakage to avoid damage of the
motor.
Value
Indication that there is a serious
installation problem and protection
against letting this cause problems for
the motor, and other equipment.

For internal use only ABB's softstarter 1SFC132017B0201. Rev A | 31

What our softstarters bring to our customers
Value - Improve installation efficiency
Key features for improved installation efficiency with focus on panel
builders and distributors.
Built-in bypass
Situation
The customer wants energy saving
from the bypass but have limited
space in the panel and dosen't have
space for more components.
Inside-delta connection
Situation
The customer wants to easily
replace existing star-delta starters
or downsize the selection of
softstarter.
Coated PCBA
Situation
The customer has a very humid
environment off shore installation
or a lot of dust or corrosive
atmosphere.
Graphical display in 15 languages
Situation
The customer installs spend a lot of
money on pilot devices and meters
for control and monitoring of the
softstarter.
The customer exports the panels to
areas with other languages.
32 | 1SFC132017B0201. Rev A ABB's softstarter
Value
Reduces the installation time &
space since the bypass is already
installed. Gives the customer cost
saving and time saving.
Value
Reduce the space and more cost-
effective solution for the customer.
But with double cables to the motor.
Value
Longer lifetime and increased
reliability of softstarter, which
reduces risk of unwanted stops. For
PSE and PSTX this is standard so no
risk of ordering a unit without coated
PCBAs and no additional cost.
Value
Intuitive and easy to use HMI in 15
languages makes set-up and operation
easy for anyone and will save the
users a lot of time. It also becomes
easier to export the product world-
wide. The graphical display can show
a lot of measurments which will reduce
the need of external meters.
For internal use only
 Detachable keypad
Situation
The customer/end user wants a safe
installation where the panel is never
opened during normal operation.
Diagnostics and warnings
Situation
The customer is afraid that variances
in the eletrical network or in the
motor load will damage the motor or
other equipment.
Analog output
Situation
The customer wants to measure
some parameter from the motor on
an analog meter for easy reading.
Flexible communication with Anybus
Situation
The customer has many motors
controlled by softstarters and other
starting solutions and need to be able
to manage them all from a distance.
For internal use only ABB's softstarter 1SFC132017B0201. Rev A | 33
Value
Detachable keypad makes safe
installation possible and comes
without need of buying any
accessory which will also reduce the
costs for the customer.
Value
Easy to monitor the motor and
warn before something goes wrong
which will avoid downtime and save
time and money for the customer.
Possibility to have a warning before
the trip happens.
Value
Easy view of key information, such
as current, voltage, power, motor
temperature etc. No additional CTs
are needed. wich will reduce costs.
Value
Very easy to prepare PSTX for
fieldbus communication to existing
installation. No accessory is needed
for Modbus RTU and an easy-to-
install module for other protocols.
What our softstarters bring to our customers
Value - Increase application productivity
Key features for increased application productivity with focus on end-
users and consultants.
Torque control
Situation
The customer has a pump system
with vertical pipes and is suffering
from banging sounds when stopping
the pumps.
Limp mode
Situation
The customer can't afford
unscheduled downtime and need the
equipment to continue to operate
until a service engineer can arrive.
Jog with slow speed
Situation
The customer has a conveyor belt
or a crane and need to move the
motor in slow speed for positioning
or maintenance inspection.
Motor heating
Situation
The customer has a motor operating
in a cold or humid environment
which risks to cause the motor to
freeze or to get condensation inside
when standing still. This is causing
problems when starting or makes it
impossible to start the motor at all.
34 | 1SFC132017B0201. Rev A ABB's softstarter
Value
Stop with torque control will avoid
water hammering and prolong the
lifetime of the system and reduce the
downtime.
Value
Two phase limp mode can increase
product reliability and improve process
availability by letting the softstarter
continue to operate even if one set
of thyristors brakes. This gives the
customer the possibility to keep
running his or her motor until a service
engineer can repair the softstarter.
Value
Possible to position the conveyor
belt manually before starting or after
stopping. This improves process
efficiency and reduces the need for
a drive in these application, which
saves money for the customer.
Value
With motor heating there is no need
for external heating system for the
motor in cold & wet climates. Motor
heating will increas application
availability and save money.
For internal use only
 Motor brake
Situation
The customer has a fan that spins
for minutes after the stop command
and he needs to stop the fan to
make service nearby. Another
typical application is a saw mill that
has to be stopped fast when in an
emergency.
Manual pump cleaning + kick start
Situation
The customer has a pump system
for waste water, which sometimes
gets jammed or clogged due to
material that get stuck in the pump
or the pipes.
Full voltage start
Situation
The customer needs to start the
motor in very short time or with
very high starting torque while still
keeping a lower starting current,
than DOL e.g. a scroll compressor
or a converyor belt that has to be
started fully loaded.
Stand-still brake
Situation
The customer has a fan that spins
backwards when it is supposed to
be standing still. This is because
there is anohter air flow on the fan,
e.g. from wind or another fan.
For internal use only ABB's softstarter 1SFC132017B0201. Rev A | 35
Value
Active braking reduces the stoping
time and improve process safety for
loads with high moment of intertia.
This makes operation more efficient
for the customer.
Value
Reduced downtime of pump system
without the need of stopping the
system to clean the pump and pipes
manually. The PSTX can do this for
them.
Value
Optimized starting behavior
according to the need of the
customer, allowing the customer
to do fast starts like a DOL without
current peaks.
Value
Keeps the fan standing still which
prevents unwanted airflow and gives
increased control over the system
without the need of an external,
mechanical brake.
What our softstarters bring to our customers
How do the features work?

Motor heating

For motor heating only two phases are used while the third phase will block
the current. This will only give current to one winding which will make it heat
up, but not make the rotor rotate.

To get an even temperature inside the motor, the winding that is heated up is
changed after a few seconds.

This will warm up the motor so it is recommended to use this together with a
PTC or PT100 element for temperature monitoring. The built-in EOL will not
be accurate for this feature.

Torque control

When using the torque ramp, the output voltage is controlled, so that the output
torque will follow a predefined optimal curve during start and stop ramp. The
torque start curves are as follows: Constant; Linear; Progressive ramp; High
inertia ramp. For torque stop ramp is one fixed curve, which is optimized for
pump applications.

Jog with slow speed forward and reverse

In slow speed jog, the softstarter is simulating a lower network frequency than
the normal 50 or 60 Hz by only letting some of the half periods through. This
is called generation of undertones. The motor speed is propotional to the
frequency and by this way the speed is reduced.

For backward jog, the same thing is done to reduce the frequency but now
the phase order is also changed in the output.

Full voltage start

In full voltage start mode the softstarter will make a start ramp of 500 ms which
will be like a DOL start without the current peak.

Stand-still brake

For stand-still brake the softstarter gives a DC voltage to one winding which
creates a linear magnetic field which will brake the rotor. This only works in
low speed.

This will warm up the motor so it is recommended to use this together with a
PTC or PT100 element for temperature monitoring. The built-in EOL will not
be accurate for this feature.

36 | 1SFC132017B0201. Rev A ABB's softstarter For internal use only

What our softstarters bring to our customers
PSTX features one-liners

Feature When to use it How it works

Current limit For 90% of all applica- Stops the increase of voltage if the current gets too
tions. high. Then the voltage ramps coninues when the cur-
rent goes down due to increased speed of the motor.
Dual current For varying/heavy Same as current limit, but the current limit has two
limit loads or sensitive levels. The step-up makes it possible to allow more
transformers. or less current in the beginning than in the end of the
ramp.
Current limit For weak networks, Same as dual current limit, but the transition between
ramp e.g. small or sensitive the first and the second current limit is performed
transformers smoothly as a ramp and not in one step.
Motor heating Keep the motor warm The softstarter gives DC pulses to the motor, one
and dry before the winding at a time, which creates a stationary mag-
start in cold or humid netic field without any rotational energy. Instead, the
environments. excessive energy will heat up the motor. To ensure an
even heating of the motor, the winding that is heated
is changed with an interval of a couple of seconds.
Earth fault When requested to Calculates the sum of the currents in the three
protection detect leakage to the phases. If the sum of the currents is larger than a
ground/earth. pre-defined value, it will trip. Not as accurate as the
external earth fault protection CEM-11.
Fieldbus For remote control in Fieldbus communication overrides hard wire control.
communica- any application. It is however possible to disable fieldbus control using
tion one of the programmable digital inputs.
Detachable Copy parameters The detachable keypad has memory for two back-
keypad between softstarters ups. It is possible to make a back-up from one
when setting up mul- softstarter and download it to the next.
tiple softstarters with
identical settings.
Jog with Typically for pump "The softstarter simulates a lower frequency by gene-
slow speed cleaning or positioning rating undertones of the incoming signal (fundamental
forward and of e.g. conveyor belts. frequency of 50 or 60 Hz). A lower frequency will give
reverse Can also be used a lower motor speed due to the linear relationship
during commissioning between motor speed and frequency.
or trouble shooting For reverse jog, the undertones are created in a
application or instal- changed phase sequence which will make the motor
lation. change rotation direction."
Motor brake Fast stop of fan DC pulses is generated to create a stationary magne-
(with high inertia) or tic field in the motor which will give a braking torque
emergency stop of a to the rotor.
machine, e.g. a saw.
Stand still Keeping a motor DC pulses is generated to create a stationary magne-
brake standing still without tic field in the motor which will give a braking torque
spinning due to to the rotor. Similar to Motor brake but with lower
external forces. Typical strenght and lower heating.
for fans.
Torque To avoid water ham- Measures current and voltage to estimate torque on
control mering at stop of the motor. Compares this to the optimal torque curve
pump. and adjust the voltage accordingly. Uses a feedback
control loop.
Limp mode To continue to run Uses the algorithms from PSE to control the motor
the motor even if one using only two phases. The residual DC-component
thyristor is shorted. from the 2-phase control is eliminated to ensure
highest quality and to maximize energy efficiency. All
protections and most features are still available.

For internal use only ABB's softstarter 1SFC132017B0201. Rev A | 37

Competitor comparison
PSE
= Best on the market
= Yes
= Partly
= Optional
= No

ABB
Features Page PSE
Soft start -

Current limit 30
Secure motor
reliability

Electronic overload protection (EOL) 30

Underload protection 30

PTC input for motor protection 31

Phase reversal protection 30

Locked rotor protection 30

Compact solution -

Built-in bypass 32
Improve installation

Coated PCBA 32
efficiency

Graphical display and keypad 32-33

Analog output 33

Fieldbus communication -

Event log -
Increase application

Soft stop -
productivity

Torque control 34

Kick start 35

Suitable for heavy duty start (class 30) - 1)

Cooling fan for increasing starting

-
capability

1)
Oversize selection one step for heavy-duty
2)
Oversize selection two steps for heavy-duty

38 | 1SFC132017B0201. Rev A ABB's softstarter For internal use only

 Schneider Siemens AuCom WEG Danfoss
ATS22 3RW40 CSXi SSW-05 MCD200

2)

For internal use only ABB's softstarter 1SFC132017B0201. Rev A | 39

Competitor comparison
PSTX

= Best on the market

= Yes
= Partly
= Optional
= No

ABB ABB
Features Page PSTX PST(B)
Soft start -
Current limit 30
Electronic overload protection (EOL) 30
Underload protection 30
Secure motor reliability

Locked rotor protection 30

Current ramp 30
Dual Current limit 30
Current imbalance protection -
Voltage imbalance protection 30
Phase reveral protection 30
Customer-defined protection 31
PTC input for motor protection 31
PT100 input for motor protection 31
Overvoltage protection 31
Undervoltage protection 31
Earth-fault protection 31
Motor runtime measurement -
Built-in bypass 32
Inside-delta connection 32
Improve installation

Coated PCBA 32
Graphical display and keypad 32
efficiency

Detachable keypad 33
Programmable warning -
Diagnostics 33
Analog output 33
Fieldbus communication -
Event log -
Multiple languages - 15 14
Soft stop -
Torque control 34
Increase application

Limp mode 34
Jog with slow speed 34
productivity

Motor heating 34
Motor brake 35
Sequence start -
Full voltage start 35
Kick start 35
Emergency DOL start -
Manual pump cleaning 35

40 | 1SFC132017B0201. Rev A ABB's softstarter For internal use only

 Schneider Siemens Allen-Bradley WEG Danfoss
ATS48 3RW44 SMX Flex SSW-06 MCD500

5 11 6 4 8

For internal use only ABB's softstarter 1SFC132017B0201. Rev A | 41

Marketing material

PSTX catalog
Includes order codes and technical
information together with customer
values.

Click to download from ABB Library

PSTX brochure
A brochure about controlling the
elements and softstarting the
processes in our world.

Click to download from ABB Library

Online selection tool

Fast and easy selection of softstarter
on our cell phone adapted web page.

Click here to visit

PSTX manual
The complete manual for installation
and commissioning.
Click here to download

42 | 1SFC132017B0201. Rev A ABB's softstarter For internal use only

PSTX external launch portal
External web portal with customer
values.

Click here to visit

PSTX internal launch portal

Internal web portal with all available
marketing material for PSTX.

Click here to visit

Sales presentation (internal)

Short sales presentation for a 15 min
meeting and a long sales presentation
for a 60 min meeting.

Click here to visit and download

Softstarter sales podcast

The Softstarter sales podcast prrovides
some extra insight into the concept of
selling ABB's softstarters.

Click here to visit

For internal use only ABB's softstarter 1SFC132017B0201. Rev A | 43

Contact us

ABB AB ©Copyright 2015. All rights reserved.

Specification subject to change without notice.
Low Voltage Products
SE-721 61 Västerås, Sweden

www.new.abb.com/low-voltage/launches/connect-to-control

Sales handbook 1SFC132013B0201. Rev C, January 2015, Prod. ABB AB, Low Voltage Products

44 | 1SFC132017B0201. Rev A ABB's softstarter For internal use only