ATA soft starters protect motors from damaging inrush currents and torque shocks, extending equipment life and reducing downtime across mining, water treatment, chemical, and power industries.
A soft starter is a reduced voltage starter designed to control the power supplied to an AC motor during start-up. Instead of applying full voltage instantly, it uses controlled voltage ramping to gradually increase power over a set period.
This controlled ramp drastically cuts inrush current (which can reach 6–8 times rated current in direct-on-line starting), reducing stress on the electrical network and eliminating torque shock that damages shafts, couplings, and driven equipment. Soft starters rely on SCRs (thyristors) to control the firing angle of the supply, delivering smooth voltage ramp-up to the motor terminals. Once the motor reaches full speed, the soft starter bypasses itself, allowing the motor to run directly on the line without continuous power dissipation.
Soft starters are ideal for fixed-speed applications where the priority is reliable, stress-free starting. They differ from variable frequency drives (VFDs), which offer full speed and torque control throughout operation. For projects where only controlled starting is needed, a soft starter provides a cost-effective, efficient solution. ATA engineers help you choose the right motor protection solution for your specific operational needs.
ATA provides soft starter solutions for both low voltage and medium voltage applications
Every soft starter undergoes pre-performance testing first. It is then paired with a real motor on our in-house 10kV medium voltage test platform, running under simulated load conditions to validate starting current, voltage stability and protection accuracy before delivery.
From proprietary software algorithm development to sheet metal fabrication, all production is performed at our plant under direct engineering supervision. No outsourced core technologies, no quality gaps.
CE, CCC and EAC certifications require third-party laboratory testing and regular factory surveillance audits. These are not self-declared, but externally verified benchmarks of product quality and safety in compliance with IEC standards.
Our engineers review every enquiry personally and recommend the right model for your specific application and environment.
A soft starter is an electronic reduced voltage starter designed to control the voltage supplied to an AC motor during start-up. Instead of applying full voltage instantly, it uses controlled voltage ramping to reduce inrush current and torque shock, protecting the motor, driven equipment, and the electrical network from stress and damage.
A soft starter only controls motor voltage during start-up and shutdown, focusing on reducing inrush current and mechanical stress. A VFD, by contrast, continuously adjusts both voltage and frequency to control motor speed throughout operation. Soft starters are ideal for fixed-speed applications, while VFDs are used where variable speed is required.
Soft starters are widely used in industries including mining, oil & gas, water treatment, cement, power generation, steel, and pulp & paper. They are commonly applied to fans, pumps, conveyors, crushers, compressors, and mill drives, where controlled starting reduces mechanical stress and peak electrical demand.
To size a soft starter, we first match its rated voltage and current to the motor’s specifications, then consider key application factors: load type (light/standard/heavy), inertia, and starting frequency. For heavy-duty, high-inertia, or frequently starting loads, we recommend upsizing the soft starter’s current rating to ensure reliable, long-term performance.
ATA soft starters carry CE, CCC, and EAC certifications, all tested by independent third-party laboratories to meet IEC international safety and performance standards. These external certifications verify that our products meet strict quality and safety requirements for global markets.
Yes, ATA offers medium voltage soft starters specifically engineered for mining applications. These units are built to withstand harsh environments, meet mining safety standards, and provide reliable, controlled starting for large motors used in conveyors, crushers, and ventilation systems.
Whether you are specifying a new project, requesting a technical proposal, or exploring distributor opportunities, our engineering team responds to all international enquiries within 24 hours.
