Soft Starters
Soft starters control the starting current and torque of electric motors. These common devices reduce the rapid flow of current that occurs whenever an electric motor begins to run. This helps protect not just the motor but all connected equipment from voltage spikes and other forms of overheating, which can lead to equipment failure or even fires.
The soft start of a motor occurs when the voltage supplied to it increases in a ramp-like fashion during startup, usually over several seconds. This takes the sharp edge off the starting current and torque that would otherwise be present, were the 480-volt (or whatever the voltage may be), full wave applied directly to a developing situation. Starting this way helps with protection of both the motor and other equipment that may be nearby.
Picking a motor soft starter is essential and necessitates attention to the unique demands of each application, like the motor voltage and current ratings. Consider also the maximum starting torque and acceleration times needed for your application, as well as environmental conditions that may be extreme, in order to ensure continued reliable operation of your motor. You might be surprised at how diverse the applications are that use soft starters—from pumps to compressors to conveyor systems and various kinds of machinery.
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