ABB Releases Compact Softstarter

ABB has released the new PSE softstarter family, the world's first compact softstarter with two-phase torque control. Additional features include built-in class selectable electronic overload, built-in bypass and a LCD display. It is suitable for any application where space is limited but advanced functionality is required. Along with the existing ABB softstarter families it is now possible to find an ABB softstarter for virtually any application and industry segment. The PSE features an efficient, compact design, and is suitable for all common applications including centrifugal pumps, fans, blowers, chillers, compressors and conveyor belts.

The market demands electrical devices that are easy to set-up and easy to use, and the PSE responds with a language neutral backlit display and a simple four button keypad. In addition, the built-in bypass reduces the number of connections, making it easy to mount and decreasing both the time and cost of installation. The PSE softstarter is designed to ensure reliability even in tough and harsh environments. Torque control reduces fluid surges during the starting and stopping of centrifugal pumps. ABB's patented two-phase torque control ensures balanced control of all three phases and eliminates the DC component during the starting and stopping of the motor. The sophisticated control algorithm continuously monitors and generates commands which control motor torque to reduce the possibility of water hammering by smoothly accelerating and decelerating the motor. This makes the PSE softstarter an option for pumping applications where water hammering is a problem. The ABB softstarter portfolio now includes the PSE, PSR and PST.