Many pump motors are still started using direct-on-line (DOL) methods, which sees full voltage applied instantly, producing high inrush current and a rapid rise in torque.
Soft starters address this by controlling motor voltage during startup, allowing current and torque to increase progressively rather than instantaneously. The result is smoother acceleration of pump equipment to reduce electrical and mechanical stress.
Recognising the importance of this solution, TECO has launched two new soft starter products to support a range of industrial applications.
Designed for motors from 18A to 200A operating at supply voltages up to 575VAC, the TECO RSXi soft starter range uses a compact closed-loop control architecture with two-phase control and internal bypass, allowing motors to run with minimal heat dissipation once they reach full speed. Adjustable current ramp and current limit functions allow the start profile to be tuned to the application, while integrated protection functions include motor overload protection, phase sequence protection, current imbalance protection and excess start-time protection.
This type of solution is typically used where a controlled start is required but system complexity must remain low, making it ideally suited to pump stations.
For larger motors and more demanding industrial systems, the TECO TSXi soft starter range supports currents from 24A up to 1250A and operates at supply voltages up to 690VAC. The platform uses full three-phase SCR control and provides multiple configurable start methods including constant current, current ramp and adaptive control.
Stopping behaviour can also be configured using adaptive stop, soft brake or DC brake functions, allowing the deceleration profile to be matched to the behaviour of the driven equipment.
The TECO TSXi platform also provides event logging, integrated metering and communication expansion modules, enabling integration with PLC and SCADA systems for monitoring and diagnostics.
In large pump installations, motor supply voltages and power levels can exceed the limits of standard low-voltage motor control equipment. For this, TECO offers the TECO TSXi-1200V soft starter, designed for motors operating at 1000 VAC with current ratings from 202 A to 1092 A.
This solution is designed for engineered motor control systems and requires external bypass and switching devices within the switchboard architecture.
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