The comprehensive adjustable frequency drive packages available on the market nowadays usually combine several solutions to provide a reliable and robust system.  Adjustable frequency drives containing a built-in soft starter within the bypass offers a variety of benefits.  Soft starters are generally designed for those customers that require reliable and efficient soft-starting of three-phase motors.

Some benefits to using soft starters include:

• Lowering costs;
• Extending the life of the system;
• Increasing reliability;
• Minimizing shock to mechanical components; and
• Reducing downtime.

Lower in-rush current causes less stress on electrical components and junctions, which subsequently further maximizes system life.  A soft starting device reduces slippage, squealing and stretching, and extends belt life for two to six times more than that of traditional across-the-line starters.  Reducing the shock to products on conveyors and material handling equipment reduces the costs associated with damage to handled products.  As far as pump applications are concerned, soft starters are able to soft stop the motor, thereby alleviating what is typically known as the water hammer effect.