The Schneider Electric TeSys F LC3F330M7A64 is a pre-wired star delta starter designed for motor control, specifically for starting three-phase induction motors in a star-delta configuration to reduce inrush current. It is a complete assembly integrating three contactors (KM1 star, KM2 line, KM3 delta) with mechanical interlocking, a control circuit, and auxiliary contacts, all factory-wired and plate-mounted. The AC-3 rating means it is designed for starting and stopping motors under load, handling the high inrush currents during start-up without excessive contact wear. Motor power ratings are specified per supply voltage: 160 kW at 220/230 V AC, 280 kW at 380/400 V AC and 415 V AC, and 315 kW at 440 V AC, all at 50/60 Hz. This gives a clear selection criterion: match the motor's nominal power and supply voltage to the appropriate row in the table.
The 330 A AC-3 rating is the headline figure, but the making and breaking capacities tell the real story for fault handling. The rated making capacity is 3300 A, and the rated breaking capacity is 2640 A, both conforming to IEC 60947-4-1. These values indicate the starter can close onto and interrupt fault currents well above its operational rating, which is critical for selectivity coordination in a motor control centre. The auxiliary contact composition is factory-configured: 1 NC + 1 NO on the star contactor (KM1), 2 NC + 1 NO on the line contactor (KM2), and 1 NC + 2 NO on the delta contactor (KM3). This pre-wired arrangement covers the standard interlocking and status feedback for a star-delta circuit without needing additional add-on blocks. Control circuit voltage is 220/230 V AC at 50/60 Hz, with an operational range of 0.85 to 1.1 Uc and a drop-out range of 0.35 to 0.55 Uc. The inrush power is 650 VA at 40-400 Hz, cos phi 0.9 at 20 °C. This means the control transformer or PLC output driving the coil must be sized for that inrush, not just the sealed VA.
Where it is used and how it mounts
This star delta starter is intended for motor control applications in industrial panels, typically controlling pumps, fans, compressors, and conveyors where reduced starting current is required. The plate mounting support means it is designed to be bolted to a backplate or mounting panel, not snapped onto a DIN rail. Dimensions are 725 mm wide, 110 mm high, and 276 mm deep — a substantial footprint that requires careful panel layout planning. Power circuit connections use bolted lugs or ring terminals up to 240 mm², with an M10 bolt diameter and a tightening torque of 35 N.m. Control circuit connections use screw clamp terminals accepting 1 to 4 mm² flexible or solid wire. The IP20 front face protection (with shrouds) means it is suitable for installation inside an enclosure where the front is not exposed to direct contact.
Standards compliance includes IEC 60947-1, IEC 60947-4-1, EN 60947-1, JIS C8201-4-1, and EN 60947-4-1. The rated insulation voltage is 1000 V per IEC 60947-4-1 and 1500 V per VDE 0110 group C. These certifications cover the core safety and performance requirements for industrial controlgear in most global markets.