What it is and what it does
The Siemens 3RK1322-1KS02-0AA1 is an AS-Interface compact direct starter — an electromechanical DOL (direct-on-line) motor starter that integrates the contactor, overload protection, and bus communication into one IP65-rated enclosure. It's rated for 5.5 kW motor loads at 400 V in AC-3 duty, with a bimetal overload relay adjustable from 9 to 12 A. Short-circuit protection is handled by upstream circuit-breakers, and the unit can interrupt faults up to 50 kA at 400 V — that's the Icu rating, so it safely clears a bolted fault without needing a separate fuse.
Where it goes and how it connects
This is a field-mount starter — IP65 means it's built for washdown environments and outdoor installation, so it can live right next to the motor on a conveyor or pump skid rather than inside a central panel. The main power connections use tab terminals, and the motor outgoing feeder is a 9-pole connector. It includes a brake contact output (24 V DC / 3 A) for holding brakes on vertical-axis motors — a common requirement in hoist or gantry applications. Two integrated inputs on the unit allow local sensors (e.g., limit switches or emergency stop) to be wired directly, reducing the need for additional I/O modules.
Lifecycle and sourcing reality
It is specified into active BOMs across automotive, food-and-beverage, and material-handling lines where AS-i fieldbus is the backbone.