The Schneider Electric TeSys F LC3F185V7 is a pre-wired star delta starter — a single assembly that replaces the three separate contactors and the interconnecting wiring you'd otherwise need for a star-delta motor start. It's built for motor control in the AC-3 utilisation category, meaning it handles the high inrush of starting a squirrel-cage induction motor and then carries the full-load current. The rated operational current is 185 A at up to 440 V AC (at 55 °C), which translates to motor power ratings of 160 kW at 380/400 V and 185 kW at 440 V. Because it's pre-wired and comes with the interlocking already set up (no start-delta mechanical interlock to add), it saves panel-build time and reduces the chance of a wiring error that could cause a phase-to-phase short during the transition. The control circuit runs on 400 V AC at 50/60 Hz, and the coil inrush is 805 VA at 50 Hz.
At 55 °C ambient, this part delivers its full 185 A in the power circuit. The making capacity is 1850 A (IEC 60947-4-1), and the breaking capacity is 1480 A, so it can close into and interrupt a stalled-rotor fault without welding or excessive arcing. For short-circuit protection, the associated fuse ratings are 315 A gG or 200 A aM at up to 440 V. That's plenty for frequent starting applications like conveyors or pumps, but if you're cycling a compressor every few seconds, you'd want to check the thermal dissipation (18 to 24 W) against your enclosure's heat budget.
This is a plate-mounted unit — no DIN rail clip, so factor in the panel space. The dimensions are 525 mm wide by 235 mm deep by 110 mm high, and the power connections use M8 bolts with lugs or a bolted bar connection (up to 150 mm² cable or a 25 x 3 mm busbar). Control circuit wiring is via screw clamp terminals accepting 1 to 4 mm² flexible or solid wire. The front face carries an IP2X degree of protection with shrouds fitted (per IEC 60529 and VDE 0106) — finger-safe against accidental contact, but not sealed against dust or moisture. The protective treatment is 'TH' for tropicalised environments, which adds corrosion resistance in humid or warm conditions.
The LC3F185V7 is designed and certified to IEC 60947-4-1 and EN 60947-4-1 (the contactor and starter standard), plus IEC/EN 60947-1 (general rules) and JIS C8201-4-1. The rated insulation voltage is 1000 V per IEC 60947-4-1 and 1500 V per VDE 0110 group C, and the operating altitude is 3000 m without derating.