The Schneider Electric LC3F330U7 is a pre-wired TeSys F star delta starter, designed for motor control applications. It is a three-pole, three-contactor assembly (3 x 3P) with a 240 V AC 50/60 Hz control circuit. The AC-3 utilization category means it is rated for switching squirrel-cage motors during starting, running, and stopping — the standard duty for across-the-line motor starting. Motor power ratings span 160 kW at 220/230 V AC up to 315 kW at 440 V AC, all at 50/60 Hz. The unit is pre-wired, which simplifies panel integration — it arrives as a functional star delta assembly rather than a kit of loose contactors and timers. Mounting is plate-based, not DIN rail, so plan for a backplate or sub-panel in the enclosure.
The AC-3 motor power rating of 315 kW at 440 V AC is the headline figure — this starter handles a 315 kW, 440 V three-phase motor in standard starting duty. The rated breaking capacity is 2640 A conforming to IEC 60947-4-1, and the rated making capacity is 3300 A, which means it can close onto a starting motor inrush without welding contacts. The associated fuse recommendation is 500 A gG or 400 A aM up to 440 V, giving the upstream protection coordination point. Rated insulation voltage is 1000 V per IEC 60947-4-1 and 1500 V per VDE 0110 Group C, so the starter is suitable for 690 V systems with margin. The control circuit voltage limits are 0.85 to 1.1 Uc for operation and 0.35 to 0.55 Uc for drop-out, ensuring reliable pick-up and drop-out across a reasonable supply variation. Heat dissipation is 8 W, modest for the power level, so internal enclosure heating is manageable. Mechanical durability is 10 million cycles, indicating a long service life in normal motor-starting duty.
The LC3F330U7 is designed and tested to IEC 60947-4-1, EN 60947-1, EN 60947-4-1, JIS C8201-4-1, and IEC 60947-1. These are the core standards for contactors and motor starters globally — IEC 60947-4-1 specifically covers electromechanical contactors and motor starters.
Dimensions are 28.5 in (725 mm) wide, 10.9 in (276 mm) deep, and 4.3 in (110 mm) tall. The width is substantial — verify cabinet width clearance before specifying. Power circuit connections use bolted lugs or busbars with M10 bolts, accepting up to 240 mm² cable or 30 x 5 mm busbar. Control circuit connections are screw clamp terminals accepting 1 to 4 mm² flexible or solid wire. The protective treatment is TH (tropicalized), suitable for humid environments. Maximum operating rate is 2400 cycles per hour at 55 °C, which is fast for a starter of this size.