Device functions
7.6 Motor protection functions
3RW44 soft starters
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Manual, 03/2017, NEB535219502000/RS-AB/008
7.6
Motor protection functions
The motor overload protection function is implemented on the basis of the winding
temperature. This indicates whether the motor is overloaded or is functioning in the normal
operating range.
The winding temperature can either be calculated with the help of the integrated, electronic
motor overload function or measured with a connected motor thermistor.
The two types of protection must be combined (= activated) to achieve full motor protection.
This combination is recommended for optimum motor protection.
Motor overload protection
The current flow during motor operation is measured by measuring the current with
transformers integrated in the soft starter. The temperature rise in the winding is calculated
based on the rated operational current set for the motor.
A warning or trip is generated by the soft starter when the characteristic curve is reached,
depending on the tripping class (CLASS setting) and protection parameters.
Tripping class (electronic overload protection)
The tripping class (CLASS) specifies the maximum time within which a protective device
must trip from a cold state at 7.2 x the rated operational current (motor protection to
IEC 60947). The tripping characteristics present this time as a function of the tripping current
(refer to chapter Tripping characteristics (Page 281)).
You can set different CLASS characteristics according to the startup class.
Note
The rated data of the soft starters refers to normal starting (CLASS 10). The starters may
need to be calculated with a size allowance for heavy-duty starting (> CLASS 10).
Current asymmetry limit value
Three-phase asynchronous motors respond to slight asymmetries in the line voltage with a
higher asymmetrical current consumption. As a result, the temperature in the stator and rotor
windings increases.
The asymmetry limit is a percentage value by which the motor current is allowed to deviate
in each phase.
The maximum deviation from the mean value of the three phases is the reference value for
evaluation.
Asymmetry is considered to exist if the deviation from the mean value is greater than 40 %.