Self-learning soft starters with Modbus communication

Carlo Gavazzi has extended its popular range of RSGD compact easy to use 3-phase soft starters by offering Modbus communication for real-time monitoring and communication of energy consumption, voltage, current and other electrical variables.

The RSGD series is suited to AC induction motors rated up to 100 Arms and comes complete with monitoring, protection and self-learning features, all in a compact 45mm IP20 housing and are suitable for fixed speed motors up to 45Amp (22kW).

Carlo Gavazzi soft starters are compatible with IE3 motors and can provide a 50% reduction to a direct online (DOL) start. Starting such motors via contactors may result in currents as high as 15 times the rated motor current, increasing the occurrence of electrical and mechanical disturbances.

The RSGD soft starter series reduces the starting current down to 3–4 times the rated motor current, resulting in smoother starting and stopping of motors, thereby increasing the lifetime of the motor and reducing electrical disturbances on the supply network. In certain applications, such as water pumps, soft starters are required to eliminate water hammering, which may cause premature failure of the pumps.

The RSGD is fully equipped with a self-learning algorithm that adjusts the start parameters to optimise motor starts and stops and provides fast installation and set-up, as only three settings are required: FLC, ramp-up and ramp down.

Various diagnostic functions are included such as phase sequence, over- and under-voltage monitoring, locked rotor protection and overload protection Class 10 as well as torque control during ramp down providing a smoother deceleration of load.

All Carlo Gavazzi soft starters are compatible with IE3 motors and are approved by CE, EAC cULus, CCC and UK CA.