By allowing the smooth acceleration and deceleration of motors by controlling the voltage, soft-starters can greatly reduce mechanical stresses on couplings and transmission devices during the start-up of a motor. In pumping applications, the smart control prevents water hammer and pressure overshoots in hydraulic piping.

The new WEG SSW900 soft-starters are said to be the ideal choice for complete motor control and protection. The units are designed to allow quick and simple access to application information and configuration settings in installations across a range of industrial segments where a three-phase induction motor needs to be controlled.

The  menu interface of the WEG SSW900 line of soft-starters gives users improved levels of interactivity, including Bluetooth connectivity. The units provide event logs with dates and times, as well as a setup and programming assistance. The built-in bypass aims to extend the lifespan of the units, optimising space and reducing heat dissipation inside electric panels. The built-in bypass functionality also extends throughout the WEG soft starter product range, up to 1 400 A.

Available from Zest WEG and its network of branches and resellers in current ranges from 10 A to 1 400 A and for supply voltages from 220 V to 575 V AC, the units can operate at ambient temperatures of up to 55 °C without current derating and can substitute direct online starters or star-delta starters. The soft-starters offer a number of benefits to the user’s application, including savings in electricity, as well as greater protection and increased durability of the electric motor.

Users also have access to diagnostics and fault history, as well as greater flexibility as the WEG SSW900 allows the installation of accessories in the application. Additional features include graphic monitoring and customisable main screens, with the monitoring functionality extended by a USB connector that provides free access to WEG product software.