What this AS-i reversing starter does on a conveyor line
The Siemens 3RK1322-0KS02-1AA0 is an electromechanical reversing starter with integrated AS-interface communication, rated for 0.37 kW at AC-3 duty on a 400 V supply. The setting range of 0.9 to 1.25 A covers small three-phase motors — think a 0.37 kW conveyor drive or a divert arm actuator. Bimetal overload protection handles the thermal curve, and the 50 kA breaking capacity at 400 V means it can interrupt a bolted fault without upstream fuses needing to clear first. The IP65 enclosure lets it mount directly on the machine frame or conveyor section, not inside a panel — saves DIN rail space and keeps the wiring local to the motor.
IP65 and the washdown reality
IP65 means dust-tight and protected against low-pressure water jets from any direction. On a conveyor line that sees washdown cycles or overhead condensation, this starter lives on the machine profile without a separate enclosure. The tab terminals for the main current circuit accept standard flag connectors — no screw terminals to corrode or vibrate loose in a high-vibration sortation zone.
AS-interface drops the fieldbus wiring
The AS-interface protocol (AS-i) carries both power and communication on a single two-wire yellow cable. For a zoned conveyor system, that means no separate control cable from the panel to each reversing starter — the AS-i master talks directly to this unit, and the two integrated inputs can read photoeyes or limit switches at the same drop point. No PROFIBUS DP on this variant, so if the line runs PROFIBUS, you need a gateway.