Phoenix Contact's Contactron speed starter (CSS) is a type of motor control device. Speed starters occupy a unique market space between conventional across-the-line motor starters and variable-frequency drives. The speed starter is also more than a soft-start device. It offers the ability to control motor ramp-up and ramp-down times while operating under torque and two user-settable output speeds from 0 Hz to 500 Hz. The rotary knob and push-button interface allow rapid commissioning without software or a computer. The speed starter provides ramp-up and ramp-down functions while the motor is under load, and it offers two independently settable operating speeds. The intuitive keypad and rotary knob are designed to allow commissioning in just minutes. Digital inputs activate user-settable output speeds. The speed starter also streamlines safety. The integrated safe torque off (STO) feature has emergency-stop capabilities up to SIL 3/PLe when used with a suitable safety relay or safe PLC. The speed starter is designed for intralogistics applications such as conveyor and material handling systems. The two speeds allow acceleration/deceleration between two points, different forward and reverse speeds, or simple use of the ramp function to avoid toppling product or shock-loading gear drives. It can also optimize motor speed to save energy and improve flexibility.
