3RW Soft Starters

These properties apply to all soft starters:

• Soft starting and smooth ramp-down (ramp-down not with 3RW31)

• Stepless starting
• Reduction of current peaks
• Avoidance of mains voltage fluctuations during starting
• Reduced load on the power supply network
• Reduction of mechanical load in the operating mechanism
• Considerable space savings and reduced wiring compared with conventional starters
• Maintenane-free switching
• Very easy handling
• Fits perfectly into the SIRIUS modular system

Siemens
Siemens standard soft starters
are used wherever the application of the motor-driven machine calls for soft starting and/or stopping.

SIEMENS offers a range of devices for this purpose:

• SIRIUS 3RW30/31 - the low-cost solution

• For motor outputs up to 55 kW
• Can be combined with SIRIUS components
• SIRIUS 3RW40 – with a particularly compact design
• For motor outputs from 75 to 250 kW
• Can be combined with SIRIUS components
• SIKOSTART 3RW34 - for simple applications
• For motor outputs up to 1050 kW
• Inline and inside-delta circuit

3RW30, 3RW31, 3RW40, 3RW34 for Standard Applications - 3RW30/3RW31 Soft

Starters
Overview

SIRIUS 3RW30/31
Various versions of the 3RW30/31 SIRUS soft starters are available:

• Standard version for fixed frequency three-phase motors, sizes S00, S0, S2 and S3
• Version for fixed-speed three-phase motors in a 22.5 mm housing
• Special-purpose version 3RW31 for Dahlander motors only in size S0
• Version for soft starting single-phase motors of sizes S0, S2 and S3

SIRIUS 3RW30/31 for three-

three-phase motors
Soft starters rated up to 55 kW (at 400 V) for standard applications in three-phase networks. Extremely small
sizes, low power losses and simple commissioning are just a few of the many advantages of this soft starter.
The special feature of the 3RW31 series is that it allows independent definition of two separate acceleration
ramps (Dahlander motors).

SIRIUS 3RW30 for single-

single-phase motors
The additional version for standard applications in single-phase networks. Its voltage ramp function reduces
the motor's inrush current and effectively lowers the torque at the point of starting up, which protects the load
and the supplying network.

Application

The SIRIUS 3RW30/31 solid-state soft starters are suitable for soft starting and stopping of three-phase
asynchronous machines.

Due to two-phase control, the current is kept at minimum values in all three phases throughout the entire
starting time. Due to continuous voltage influencing, current and torque peaks, which are unavoidable in the
case of star-delta starters, for instance, do not occur.

Application areas

• Fans
• Pumps
• Building/construction machines
• Presses
• Escalators
 • Transport systems
• Air conditioning systems
• Ventilators
• Assembly lines
• Compressors and coolers
• Operating mechanisms

Function

• Soft starting with voltage ramp; the starting voltage adjustment range US is 40 %
to 100 % and the ramp time tR can be set from 0 s to 20 s.
• Soft stopping with voltage ramp; the stopping ramp time toff can be varied in the
range 0 s to 20 s. The switch-off voltage Uoff is dependent on the selected starting
voltage US.
• Setting by means of three potentiometers
• Easy mounting and commissioning
• Mains voltages at 50/60 Hz from 200 V to 575 V
• Two control voltage outputs UC 24 V and UC 110 V to 230 V
• Wide temperature range from –25 °C to +60°C
• Integrated bypass contacts to minimise power loss
• Two built-in auxiliary contacts in sizes S0, S2 and S3 ensure convenient control
and possible further processing within the system (for diagrams, see More
Information).

3RW30, 3RW31, 3RW40, 3RW34 for Standard Applications - 3RW40 Soft Starters
Overview

SIRIUS 3RW40
The SIRIUS 3RW40 soft starter offers all the advantages provided by the 3RW30/31 soft starter. At the
same it comes with more functions, e.g. solid-state motor overload protection, intrinsic equipment protection
and adjustable current limitation, plus a two-phase control method – "Polarity Balancing“ – that is unique in
this power range.

The SIRIUS 3RW40 soft starters are a part of the SIRIUS modular system. This results in advantages such
as identical sizes and uniform connection arrangements. Due to their compact design the SIRIUS 3RW40
soft starters are only half as big as comparable star-delta starters. Hence they require little space when
installed in the control cabinet. Configuration and installation are competed quickly and easily thanks to the
3-wire connection.

SIRIUS 3RW40 for three-

three-phase motors
Soft starters rated up to 250 kW (at 400 V) for standard applications in three-phase networks. Extremely
small sizes, low power losses and simple commissioning are just three of the many advantages of the
SIRIUS 3RW40 soft starters.

Application

The SIRIUS 3RW40 solid-state soft starters are suitable for soft starting and stopping of
three-phase asynchronous machines.
Due to two-phase control, the current is kept at minimum values in all three phases throughout the entire
starting time and disturbing DC components are eliminated in addition. This not only enables the two-phase
starting of motors up to 250 kW (at 400 V) but also prevents the current and torque peaks which occur in the
case of star-delta starters, for instance.

Service range

• Fan
• Pumps
• Construction machines/ construction materials machines
• Presses
• Escalators
• Transport systems
• Air conditioning systems
• Fans
• Assembly lines
• Compressors and cooling systems
• Operating mechanisms
Function

The SIRIUS 3RW40 offers all the advantages provided by the 3RW30/31. At the same it comes with more
functions and a two-phase control method – "Polarity Balancing“ – that is unique in the power range up to
250 kW. Starting voltage, starting and coasting time of the voltage ramp and current limitation can be very
simply set using stepless rotary potentiometers. This is the same as with the SIRIUS 3RW30/31. The rated
motor current, setting the tripping time and resetting the motor overload function are performed with
potentiometers and keys as with the SIRIUS overload relays. Here, too, there is nothing new to get used to.

SIRIUS 3RW40 comes with the new, patented control method called "Polarity Balancing“, which is designed
to prevent DC current components in two-phase controlled soft starters. On two-phase controlled soft
starters, the current resulting from the superimposition of the two controlled phases flows in the uncontrolled
phase. For physical reasons this results in an asymmetrical distribution of the three phase currents during
the motor starting operation. This cannot be influenced, but in most applications it is also non-critical. In
addition to this asymmetry the controlling of the power semiconductors in the two controlled phases also
gives rise however to the previously mentioned DC current components, which at starting voltages of less
than 50 % can lead to severe noise generation on the motor. "Polarity Balancing“ reliably eliminates these
DC current components during the ramp-up phase. It produces a motor ramp-up which is uniform in its
speed, torque and current rise. At the same time the acoustic quality of the starting operation comes close to
the quality of a three-phase controlled starting operation. ´This is made possible by the continuous, dynamic
adaptation or balancing of current half-waves of different polarity during the motor ramp-up.

The SIRIUS 3RW40 is equipped with optimum functionality. An integral bridging contact system reduces the
power loss of the soft starter during operation. This reliably prevents the switchgear environment from
growing hotter. A 4-step rotary potentiometer can be used to vary the overload release times. Thanks to the
integrated motor overload protection acc. to IEC 60947-4-2 there is no need of an additional overload relay.
This saves space in the switchgear cabinet and wiring in the feeder. Internal intrinsic equipment protection
prevents in addition the thermal overloading of the thyristors and the resultant defects of the power unit.

As an option the thyristors can also be protected against short-circuits by means of SITOR semiconductor
protection fuses. And even switch-on current peaks are reliably prevented thanks to adjustable current
limitation. Three LEDs indicate the operating status as well as potential faults, e.g. an unacceptable tripping
time (CLASS setting), power supply or phase failure, missing load, thermal overload or equipment fault.

We offer a comprehensive range of accessories for our soft starters. Examples: box terminals, accessories
for mechanical reset and a module for remote reset, a sealing cover, or easy-to-fit terminal covers for
optimum touch protection.

• Soft starting with voltage ramp; the starting voltage adjustment range Us is 40 to
100 % and the ramp time tR can be set from 0 to 20 s.
 • Smooth ramp-down with voltage ramp; the running down time taus can be set in
the range from 0 to 20 s. In this case the switch-off voltage Uoff is dependent on
the selected starting voltage Us.
• Solid-state motor overload protection and intrinsic equipment protection
• Adjustable current limitation
• Integral bridging contact system to minimize power losses
• Setting with three potentiometers
• Easy mounting and commissioning
• Mains voltages 50/60 Hz, 200 to 600 V
• Two control voltage versions 115 V AC and 230 V AC. Control through the
internal 24 V DC supply and direct control by PLC is possible.
• Wide temperature range from -25 to +60 °C
• Built-in auxiliary contacts ensure user-friendly control and possible further
processing within the system (for additional graphs, see ).

Dimensional drawings

3RW40 for standard applications

Siemens soft starters for high-
high-feature applications
applications
are used wherever the application of the motor-driven machine calls for soft starting and/or stopping.

• SIRIUS 3RW44 – for high-feature applications

• For motor outputs up to 1200 kW
• Numerous functions for demanding applications
• Inline and inside-delta circuit

3RW44, for High-

High-Feature Applications - 3RW44 Soft Starters

Overview

In addition to soft starting and soft ramp-down, the solid-state SIRIUS 3RW44 soft starters provide
numerous functions for higher-level requirements. They cover a performance range of up to 710 kW (at 400
V) with the inline circuit and up to 1200 kW (at 400 V) with the inside-delta circuit.

The SIRIUS 3RW44 soft starters are characterized by a compact design for a space-saving and clear-cut
arrangement of the switchgear cabinet. For optimized motor starting and ramp-down functions the innovative
SIRIUS 3RW44- soft starters represent an attractive alternative with great savings potential compared to the
use of a frequency converter. The new torque control and adjustable current limiting enable the High
Feature soft starters to be used in nearly every conceivable task. They guarantee the reliable avoidance of
sudden torque applications and current peaks during motor starting and stopping. This creates savings
potential when calculating the size of the switchgear and when servicing the machinery installed. Whether
for inline circuits or inside-delta circuits – the SIRIUS 3RW44 soft starter offers savings in particular with
regard to size and equipment costs.

Combinations of various starting, operating and ramp-down possibilities ensure an optimum adaptation to
the application-specific requirements. Operation and commissioning can be carried out with the menu-
controlled keypad plus menu-controlled, multi-line graphic display with background lighting. Motor starting
and deceleration can be optimized quickly, easily and safely with just a few settings using a selectable
language. Four-key operation and plain-text displays for each menu point guarantee full clarity at every
moment of the parameterization and operation.

Applicable standards

• IEC 60947-4-2
• UL/CSA

Application

The SIRIUS 3RW44 solid-state soft starters are suitable for torque-controlled soft starting and ramp-down
and for the braking of three-phase induction motors.

Application areas, e.g.

• Pumps
• Fans
• Compressors
• Water transport
• Conveyor systems and elevators
• Hydraulics
• Machine tools
• Mills
• Saws
• Breakers
• Mixers
• Centrifuges
• Industrial refrigerating and deep-freezing plants
Function

The SIRIUS 3RW44 soft starters can be put into operation easily and quickly thanks to modern, ergonomic
user guidance with the help of a keypad and a menu-controlled, multi-line graphic display with background
lighting. Motor starting and deceleration are optimized quickly, easily and safely with just a few settings in a
selectable language. Four-key operation and plain-text displays for each menu point guarantee full clarity at
every moment of the parameterization and operation. During operation and when control voltage is applied,
the front panel continuously presents measured values and operating values as well as warnings and alarm
indications. An external display and operator module can be connected by means of a connecting cable to
the soft starter, thus enabling active indications etc. to be read directly from the control cabinet door.

The SIRIUS 3RW44 soft starters are equipped with optimum functionality. An integral bypass contact
system reduces the power loss of the soft starter during operation.
This reliably prevents heating of the switchgear environment. The SIRIUS 3RW44 soft starters come with
internal overload protection. This prevents thermal overloading of the power unit's thyristors, e.g. due to
impermissibly high making operations.

The wiring for installing an additional motor overload relay is no longer necessary as the SIRIUS 3RW44 soft
starters can also perform this function. In addition they offer adjustable trip classes and a thermistor motor
protection function. As an option the thyristors can also be protected by SITOR semi-conductor fuses from
short-circuiting. And even inrush current peaks are reliably avoided thanks to adjustable current limiting.

The SIRIUS 3RW44 soft starters can be retrofitted with an optional PROFIBUS DP module. Thanks to their
communications capability and their programmable control inputs and relay outputs the SIRIUS 3RW44 soft
starters are very easily and quickly integrated in higher-level controls.

In addition a creep speed function is available for positioning and setting jobs. With this function the motor
can be controlled in both directions of rotation with reduced torque and an adjustable, low speed.

On the other hand the SIRIUS 3RW44 soft starters provide a new, combined DC brake function for the fast
stopping of driving loads.

Highlights

• Soft starting with breakaway pulse, torque control or voltage ramp, adjustable
torque or current limiting as well as any combination of these, depending on load
type
• Integrated bypass contact system to minimize dissipated power
• Various setting options for the starting parameters such as starting torque, starting
voltage, ramp-up and ramp-down time, and much more in three separate
parameter sets
• Start-up detection
• Inside-delta circuit for savings in terms of size and equipment costs
• Various ramp-down modes selectable: free ramp-down, torque-controlled pump
stopping, combined DC braking
 • Solid-state motor overload and intrinsic device protection
• Thermistor motor protection
• Keypad with a menu-controlled, multi-line, graphic display with background
lighting
• Interface for communication with the PC for more accurate setting of the
parameters as well as for control and monitoring
• Simple adaptation to the motor feeder
• Simple mounting and commissioning
• Display of operating states and fault signals
• Connection to PROFIBUS with optional PROFIBUSDP module
• External display and operator module
• System voltages from 200 to 690 V, 50 to 60 Hz
• Can be used up to 60 °C (derating from 40 °C)

Circuit concept
The SIRIUS 3RW44 soft starters can be operated in two different types of circuit.

• Inline circuit
The controls for isolating and protecting the motor are simply connected in series
with the soft starter. The motor is connected to the soft starter with three leads.
• Inside-delta circuit
The wiring is similar to that of wye-delta starters. The phases of the soft starter
are connected in series with the individual motor windings. The soft starter then
only has to carry the phase current, amounting to about 58 % of the rated current
of the motor (conductor current).

Comparison of the types of circuit

Inline circuit:

Rated current Ie corresponds to the motor rated current In,

3 leads to the moto

Inside-delta circuit:

Rated current Ie corresponds to approx. 58 % of the motor rated current In,

6 leads to the motor (as with wye-delta starters)