Siemens: Expanded Semiconductor-based Circuit Protection Portfolio Includes Refurbished Soft Starter

Siemens Smart Infrastructure has announced significant advancements in its portfolio of industrial control and protection devices. The company is expanding the functionalities of its semiconductor-based SENTRON Electronic Circuit Protection Device (ECPD) and introducing the SIRIUS 3RW5 -Z R11 refurbished soft starter, its first product designed according to circular economy principles. These developments will help customers in industrial environments enhance electrical safety, increase system availability, and improve their environmental footprint.

As the world´s first of its kind, Siemens’ SENTRON ECPD was introduced to the market in 2024. It provides up to 1,000 times faster secure electronic switching to minimize short-circuit energy and protect systems. It offers 10+ configurable functionalities in a single device, reducing space in the distribution board by 80 percent and allowing for flexible, software-based parameterization. In the near future, the single-phase version of the ultra-fast SENTRON ECPD will be available as a standalone product featuring an integrated Residual Current Monitoring (RCM) function. RCM allows for continuous monitoring of residual currents, enabling the early detection of faults in electrical circuits without interrupting operations. This ensures 24/7 system uptime and protects valuable equipment. This functionality is particularly suitable for systems with high safety relevance and/or high system availability standards like data centers, exhibition fairs, lighting or various industrial applications. In addition, the RCM function can replace complex, recurring inspections, simplifying maintenance procedures.

To address high-voltage systems (400V/32A/50 Hz), Siemens also plans to introduce a three-phase version of the SENTRON ECPD. Offering the same functionalities, its scope of use will include infrastructure and industrial applications, like conveyor belts, elevators, heat pumps, air conditioning systems, safe and stable power distribution at events or UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) systems.

“Siemens is leveraging advanced semiconductor technology to redefine industry standards in circuit protection,” said Andreas Matthé, CEO Electrical Products at Siemens Smart Infrastructure. “Our SENTRON ECPD is testament to this leadership, offering unparalleled speed, precision, and a compact design that ensures maximum operational uptime and protection for our customers’ infrastructure.”

First circular soft starter, driving sustainability in industry

The innovative low carbon SIRIUS 3RW5 -Z R11 refurbished soft starter is created through a controlled refurbishment process of used soft starters, resulting in a CO₂ emission reduction of typically up to 50 percent compared to a new device through reduced resource consumption. The process is transparently documented with Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs).

During refurbishment, used devices are thoroughly tested. Critical components are replaced, and all functions are tested to meet new device quality standards. The result is a soft starter technically equivalent to a new one, fully compatible in installation, parameterization, and functionality, allowing seamless integration. Devices have CE certification, with CCC, UL/CSA, and ATEX certifications pending.

“The new offering underscores Siemens’ commitment to innovation, sustainability, and resource efficiency in industrial applications. With our SIRIUS 3RW5 -Z R11 refurbished soft starter, customers get a refurbished product that performs as well as a new one, providing a dependable and environmentally friendly option,” Andreas Matthé added.

SIRIUS 3RW5 -Z R11 refurbished soft starters are circular by design. Their modularity allows easy dismantling and repair, with identifiable components for efficient refurbishment. As a smart device, it provides usage and condition data from its first life cycle, enabling targeted remanufacturing for a second. The ID Link, a unique QR code, ensures traceability for both first and second life products. This ID Link, and a data architecture currently under development, using Asset Administration Shell (AAS) and Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT:IOTA), paves the way for a Digital Product Passport (DPP) in line with the EU’s Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), ensuring transparency and audit-proof lifecycle information.

More information about the SENTRON ECPD from Siemens

More information about the SIRIUS 3RW5 -Z R11 refurbished soft starter

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