ATEX and IECEx certification for hazardous-area motor starting
The 3RW5525-1HA16: This soft starter carries ATEX and IECEx certification, meaning it is approved for installation in explosive atmospheres — Zone 1 or Zone 2 gas groups, and Zone 21 or Zone 22 dust environments, per the ATEX directive and IECEx scheme. The certification covers the starter enclosure and internal components, not just the motor circuit.
Rated voltage 200-690 V and trip class flexibility
Rated operational voltage spans 200 to 690 V, covering low-voltage mains from 208 V through 600 V common in North America and 400 V / 690 V in European and Asian installations. Trip class is selectable: CLASS 10A / 10E (default) / 20E / 30E per IEC 60947-4-2. CLASS 10A suits standard-start loads like conveyors and pumps; CLASS 20E or 30E handles high-inertia loads such as centrifuges or crushers where the start time exceeds 10 seconds. The default CLASS 10E is a safe starting point for most motor applications.
Multi-protocol fieldbus and advanced motor control
Built-in fieldbus support includes PROFIBUS, Modbus RTU, Modbus TCP, and EtherNet/IP, so the starter integrates directly into Siemens S7, Rockwell ControlLogix, or any Modbus-capable controller without a separate gateway. PROFIenergy is supported when paired with PROFINET communication modules, enabling energy-saving standby modes during production pauses. Motor control features include voltage ramp start, pump ramp down, torque control, breakaway pulse, and DC braking. The breakaway pulse clears stuck pump impellers or seized conveyor rollers before the ramp begins; pump ramp down reduces water hammer on stop. An analog output configurable as 4-20 mA or 0-10 V provides motor current or torque feedback to the PLC.
Panel mounting dimensions and clearance requirements
The unit measures 306 mm high, 185 mm wide, and 203 mm deep. Forced ventilation clearance: 100 mm above, 75 mm below, 10 mm in front, 5 mm at the sides, and zero clearance at the rear. These are the minimum free-air gaps for the internal heatsink to dissipate heat — tighter spacing derates the continuous current rating. Screw terminals are standard for power and control wiring. The terminal layout accommodates cable lugs up to the rated cross-section; no special crimp tools beyond standard ring or fork terminals are needed.
Active production — sourcing and availability
The unit carries CE marking for European markets, plus the ATEX and IECEx certifications noted above. Compliance documentation (declaration of conformity, ATEX certificate, UL file number) is available with the shipment.