Phoenix ELR H3 Series: Hybrid Motor Starter - Comprehensive Application & Selection Guide
Core Positioning
The Phoenix ELR H3 Series represents a breakthrough in industrial motor control technology, combining the reliability of traditional contactors with the precision of electronic protection in a single compact module. As a "3-in-1" hybrid motor starter, each unit integrates motor starting, overload protection, and emergency stop functionality (up to SIL 3/PL e safety integrity level) Phoenix Contact USA. Designed for global industrial standards, these starters support universal control voltages (24V DC/230V AC) and power outputs up to 9A at 500V AC, making them ideal for small to medium-sized three-phase motors in automation, packaging, and process industries.
Model Nomenclature Decoding
| Segment | Description | Options |
|---|---|---|
| ELR | Product Family: Electric Motor Starter (Phoenix CONTACTRON series) | Fixed |
| H3 | Hybrid Technology: Combines contactor and electronic protection | Fixed |
| Sub-Series | Functional variants | S: StandardI: Integrated protectionIS: ISOLATED protectionES: Enhanced safetyIES: Integrated + Enhanced safety + Isolated |
| Connection Type | Wiring method | SC: Screw connection (standard)PT: Push-in connection (tool-free) |
| Control Voltage | Input signal voltage | 24DC/230AC (others available on request) |
| Max Voltage | Maximum load voltage | 500AC (standard industrial voltage) |
| Current Rating | Rated output current (A) | 0,6/2/3/9 (select based on motor power) |
| Options | Special features | P: Plug-in versionT: Higher transient voltage strengthIFS: Input filter systemIOL: Integrated overload protection |
Technical Specifications (Universal)
| Parameter | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rated Load Voltage | 500V AC (50/60Hz) | Compatible with global industrial standards |
| Output Current Range | 0.6A/2A/3A/9A | Select based on motor power (0.6A for small sensors, 9A for larger motors) |
| Control Voltage Options | 24V DC/230V AC | Standard industrial control voltages |
| Protection Features | Overload, phase loss, short circuit | Electronic protection responds faster than thermal relays |
| Safety Integrity | ELR H3-IES: SIL 3/PL eELR H3-ES: SIL 2 | Certified according to IEC 61508/ISO 13849-1 |
| Connection Capacity | SC: 0.2-4mm² conductorsPT: 0.25-2.5mm² conductors | Stripping length: 8mm for all types |
| Mounting Method | 35mm DIN rail (NS 35/7.5) | Snap-on installation, space-saving design |
| Ambient Temperature | -25°C to +60°C | Industrial-grade temperature tolerance |
| Enclosure Rating | IP20 (cabinet mounting) | Protection against solid objects ≥12mm |
| Weight | ~205g (net weight) | Lightweight for easy installation |
| Compliance Standards | IEC 60947-5-1, VDE 0660-101, UL 508 | Global certification for industrial use |
Applications & Recommended Models
1. Packaging Conveyor Systems
- Requirements: Reliable motor control, frequent starts/stops, overload protection
- Recommended: 2900545 ELR H3-I-SC-24DC/500AC-9
- Why: Electronic overload protection prevents damage from frequent operation; 9A capacity handles conveyor motors efficiently
2. Food & Beverage Processing
- Requirements: Hygienic design, washdown capability, emergency stop safety
- Recommended: 2900569 ELR H3-IES-SC-24DC/500AC-2
- Why: SIL 3/PL e emergency stop meets food industry safety standards; compact design saves space in crowded production areas Phoenix Contact USA
3. Chemical Industry Pumps
- Requirements: Explosion protection, voltage stability, long service life
- Recommended: 2908698 ELR H3-IS-SC-24DC/500AC-9-P
- Why: Isolated control circuit provides better protection against voltage fluctuations; plug-in design enables quick maintenance in hazardous areas
4. Small Automation Cells
- Requirements: Simple installation, minimal wiring, space efficiency
- Recommended: 2903918 ELR H3-IES-PT-24DC/500AC-9
- Why: Push-in terminals reduce installation time by 50%; integrated protection eliminates need for separate relays
Selection Guide
-
Motor Power Matching
- 0.6A models: For small motors (≤0.3kW), sensors, or fans
- 2A/3A models: For standard industrial motors (≤1.5kW)
- 9A models: For larger motors (≤4kW) or multiple motor applications
-
Control Voltage Selection
- 24DC: For PLC-controlled systems or low-voltage safety circuits
- 230AC: For direct connection to mains or legacy control systems
-
Protection Level Requirements
- Basic protection: ELR H3-SC series (thermal overload only)
- Advanced protection: ELR H3-I series (electronic overload + phase monitoring)
- Safety-critical applications: ELR H3-IES series (SIL 3/PL e emergency stop)
-
Installation Environment
- High-vibration areas: Choose SC (screw) connections for more secure wiring
- Frequent maintenance: Choose PT (push-in) connections for tool-free servicing
- Harsh industrial environments: ELR H3-IS/IES series offer better isolation and noise immunity
Installation & Operation Notes
Wiring Instructions
- SC (Screw) Terminals: Strip conductors to 8mm, tighten to 0.5-0.6Nm torque (do not over-tighten)
- PT (Push-in) Terminals: Simply insert stripped conductor (8mm) until it clicks; no tool required
- Phase Sequence: Verify correct wiring to prevent motor reversal in applications where direction matters
Operational Guidelines
- Initial Startup: Perform a functionality test including emergency stop verification
- Load Testing: Gradually increase load to ensure protection settings are properly calibrated
- Protection Reset: After a trip event, wait 10 seconds before resetting to allow thermal components to cool
- Maintenance Interval: Inspect connections every 6 months or after 1000 operating cycles
Troubleshooting Tips
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Motor doesn't start | Control voltage missing | Verify 24V DC/230V AC at terminals |
| Frequent tripping | Motor overload | Check motor current; select higher capacity model if necessary |
| Emergency stop circuit fault | Loose connection | Recheck E-stop wiring and connections |
| LED indication | Fault condition | Refer to user manual for specific error codes |
ELR H3 vs. Traditional Solutions
| Aspect | ELR H3 Hybrid Starter | Traditional Contactor + Separate Relay |
|---|---|---|
| Space Requirement | Single module (saves 50% space) | Multiple components (contactor + overload relay + auxiliary contacts) |
| Installation Time | 1-step DIN rail mounting | Multiple components to install and wire |
| Protection Precision | Electronic (adjustable trip parameters) | Thermal (fixed trip characteristics) |
| Response Time | Faster (ms range) | Slower (s range) |
| Safety Integration | Built-in emergency stop (SIL 3/PL e) | Requires separate safety relay |
| Cost Efficiency | Lower total cost (fewer components) | Higher cost (multiple parts + wiring) |
| Diagnostics | Fault indication via LED | Limited diagnostic capabilities |
Summary & Next Steps
The Phoenix ELR H3 Series hybrid motor starter provides an all-in-one solution for industrial motor control, combining reliable contactor technology with advanced electronic protection and safety features. By selecting the appropriate sub-series (S/IS/I/ES/IES), connection type (SC/PT), and current rating (0.6/2/3/9A), you can tailor the solution to your specific application needs.
For detailed technical specifications or application-specific questions, please refer to the product datasheet or contact your local Phoenix Contact representative. For safety-critical applications, consider the ELR H3-IES series with its SIL 3/PL e certification for maximum protection.
Phoenix ELR H3 Series: Hybrid Motor Starter - Comprehensive Application & Selection Guide
Created on：2025-11-27 11:25
