ENGINEERING TOMORROW

Operating Guide
VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

vlt-drives.danfoss.com
Contents Operating Guide

Contents

1 Introduction 6

2 Safety 11
2.1 Safety 11

3 Installation 13
3.1 Mechanical Installation 13
3.2 Dimensions and Weight 14

4 Electrical Installation 16
4.1 Control Wiring 16
4.1.1 Ways to Control the Soft Starter 16
4.1.2 Control Terminals 16
4.1.3 Remote Inputs 16
4.1.4 Serial Communication 17
4.1.5 Ground Terminal 17
4.1.6 Power Terminations 17
4.1.7 Finger Guard Kit 18
4.2 Power Input and Output Configurations 18
4.2.1 Internally Bypassed Models (MCD5-0021B to MCD5-0961B) 18
4.2.2 MCD5-0245C 19
4.2.3 MCD5-0360C to MCD5-1600C 19
4.3 Motor Connection 19
4.3.1 Testing the Installation 20
4.3.2 In-line Installation 20
4.3.2.1 Internally Bypassed 20
4.3.2.2 Non-bypassed 20
4.3.2.3 Externally Bypassed 20
4.3.3 Inside Delta Installation 21
4.3.3.1 Internally Bypassed 21
4.3.3.2 Non-bypassed 22
4.3.3.3 Externally Bypassed 22
4.4 Current Ratings 23
4.4.1 In-line Connection (Bypassed) 24
4.4.2 In-line Connection (Non-bypassed/Continuous) 25
4.4.3 Inside Delta Connection (Bypassed) 26
4.4.4 Inside Delta Connection (Non-bypassed/Continuous) 27
4.5 Minimum and Maximum Current Settings 28
4.6 Bypass Contactor 28
4.7 Main Contactor 28

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 1

Contents VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

4.8 Circuit Breaker 28

4.9 Power Factor Correction 29
4.10 Fuses 29
4.10.1 Power Supply Fuses 29
4.10.2 Bussmann Fuses 30
4.10.3 Ferraz Fuses 32
4.10.4 UL Fuse Selection and Short Circuit Ratings 34
4.11 Schematic Diagrams 37

5 Product Features 39
5.1 Motor Overload Protection 39
5.2 Adaptive Control 39
5.3 Starting Modes 40
5.3.1 Constant Current 40
5.3.2 Current Ramp 40
5.3.3 Adaptive Control 40
5.3.4 Kick-start 41
5.4 Stopping Modes 41
5.4.1 Coast to Stop 41
5.4.2 TVR Soft Stop 41
5.4.3 Adaptive Control 42
5.4.4 Pump Stopping 42
5.4.5 Brake 42
5.5 Jog Operation 43
5.6 Inside Delta Operation 44
5.7 Typical Start Currents 45
5.8 Installation with Main Contactor 46
5.9 Installation with Bypass Contactor 47
5.10 Emergency Run Operation 48
5.11 Auxiliary Trip Circuit 49
5.12 DC Brake with External Zero-speed Sensor 50
5.13 Soft Braking 51
5.14 Two-speed Motor 52

6 Operation 54
6.1 Control Methods 54
6.2 Operation and LCP 55
6.2.1 Operating Modes 55
6.3 Remote-mounted LCP 56
6.3.1 Synchronizing the LCP and the Soft Starter 56
6.4 Welcome Screen 56

2 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Contents Operating Guide

6.5 Local Control Keys 56

6.6 Displays 56
6.6.1 Temperature Monitoring Screen (S1) 57
6.6.2 Programmable Screen (S2) 57
6.6.3 Average Current (S3) 57
6.6.4 Current Monitoring Screen (S4) 57
6.6.5 Frequency Monitoring Screen (S5) 57
6.6.6 Motor Power Screen (S6) 57
6.6.7 Last Start Information (S7) 57
6.6.8 Date and Time (S8) 57
6.6.9 SCR Conduction Bar Graph 58
6.6.10 Performance Graphs 58

7 Programming 59
7.1 Access Control 59
7.2 Quick Menu 59
7.2.1 Quick Set-up 59
7.2.2 Application Set-up Examples 60
7.2.3 Loggings 61
7.3 Main Menu 61
7.3.1 Parameters 61
7.3.2 Parameter Shortcut 61
7.3.3 Parameter List 62

8 Parameter Descriptions 63
8.1 Primary Motor Settings 63
8.1.1 Brake 64
8.2 Protection 65
8.2.1 Current Imbalance 65
8.2.2 Undercurrent 65
8.2.3 Instant Overcurrent 65
8.2.4 Frequency Trip 65
8.3 Inputs 66
8.4 Outputs 67
8.4.1 Relay A Delays 67
8.4.2 Relays B and C 67
8.4.3 Low Current Flag and High Current Flag 68
8.4.4 Motor Temperature Flag 68
8.4.5 Analog Output A 68
8.5 Start/Stop Timers 69
8.6 Auto-reset 69

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 3

Contents VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

8.6.1 Auto-reset Delay 70

8.7 Secondary Motor Set 70
8.8 Display 71
8.8.1 User-programmable Screen 71
8.8.2 Performance Graphs 72
8.9 Restricted Parameters 72
8.10 Protection Action 74
8.11 Factory Parameters 74

9 Tools 75
9.1 Set Date and Time 75
9.2 Load/Save Settings 75
9.3 Reset Thermal Model 75
9.4 Protection Simulation 76
9.5 Output Signal Simulation 76
9.6 Digital I/O State 76
9.7 Temp Sensors State 76
9.8 Alarm Log 77
9.8.1 Trip Log 77
9.8.2 Event Log 77
9.8.3 Counters 77

10 Troubleshooting 78
10.1 Trip Messages 78
10.2 General Faults 83

11 Specifications 85
11.1 UL-compliant Installation 86
11.1.1 Models MCD5-0021B to MCD5-0105B 86
11.1.2 Models MCD5-0131B to MCD5-0215B 86
11.1.3 Models MCD5-0245B to MCD5-0396B 86
11.1.4 Models MCD5-0245C 86
11.1.5 Models MCD5-0360C to MCD5-1600C 87
11.1.6 Models MCD5-0469B to MCD5-0961B 87
11.1.7 Pressure Terminal/Connector Kits 87
11.2 Accessories 87
11.2.1 LCP Remote Mounting Kit 87
11.2.2 Communication Modules 87
11.2.3 PC Software 87
11.2.4 Finger Guard Kit 88
11.2.5 Surge Protection Kit (Lightning Protection) 88

4 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Contents Operating Guide

12 Busbar Adjustment Procedure (MCD5-0360C to MCD5-1600C) 89

13 Appendix 91
13.1 Symbols, Abbreviations, and Conventions 91

Index 92

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 5

 Introduction VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

1 1 1 Introduction

The VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 is an advanced digital soft 1.1.2 Feature List
start solution for 11–850 kW (15–1150 hp) motors. The soft
starters provide a complete range of motor and system Models for all connection requirements
protection features and are designed for reliable • 21–1600 A (in-line connection).
performance in the most demanding installation situations.
• In-line or inside delta connection.

1.1.1 Document Version • Internally bypassed up to 961 A.

• Mains voltage: 200–525 V AC or 380–690 V AC.
This operating guide is regularly reviewed and updated. All • Control voltage: 24 V AC/V DC, 110–120 V AC, or
suggestions for improvement are welcome. Table 1.1 shows 220–240 V AC.
the document version.
User-friendly LCP

Edition Remarks
• Loggings.
MG17K8xx Instruction about using finger guard kits for IP00 • Real-time graphs.
installations added to chapter 4 Electrical Installation. • SCR conduction bar graph.

Table 1.1 Document Version Tools

• Application set-ups.
• Date and time stamped event log with 99 entries.
• 8 most recent trips.
• Counters.
• Protection simulation.
• Output signal simulation.
Inputs and outputs
• Local or remote control input options.
(3 x fixed, 1 x programmable).
• Relay outputs (3 x programmable).
• Analog programmable output.
• 24 V DC 200 mA supply output.
Start and run modes
• Adaptive control.
• Constant current.
• Current ramp.
• Kick-start.
• Jog.
• Emergency run operation.
Stop modes
• Adaptive deceleration control.
• Timed voltage ramp soft stop.
• DC brake.
• Soft brake.
• Starter disable.
Other features
• Autostart/stop timer.
• Second-order thermal model.

6 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Introduction Operating Guide

• Battery back-up of clock and thermal model. - Instant overcurrent. 1 1

• Optional DeviceNet, Modbus, Ethernet, or • Thermal
PROFIBUS communication modules. - Motor thermistor.
Comprehensive protection - Motor overload.
• Wiring/connection/supply.
- Bypass contactor overload.
- Motor connection.
- Heat sink temperature.
- Phase sequence.
- Power loss.
• Communication
- Network comms.
- Individual phase loss.
- Starter comms.
- Mains frequency.
• External
• Current
- Input trip.
- Excess start time.
- Current imbalance.
• Starter
- Individually short-circuited SCR.
- Undercurrent.
- Battery/clock.

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 7

 Introduction VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

1 1 1.1.3 Type Code

177HA382.11
MCD 5 - - - -

Current rating
0021 = 21 A, AC53b 3-30:330
0037 = 37 A, AC53b 3-30:330
0043 = 43 A, AC53b 3-30:330
0053 = 53 A, AC53b 3-30:330
0068 = 68 A, AC53b 3-30:570
0084 = 84 A, AC53b 3-30:570
0089 = 89 A, AC53b 3-30:570
0105 = 105 A, AC53b 3-30:570
0131 = 131 A, AC53b 3-30:570
0141 = 141 A, AC53b 3-30:570
0195 = 195 A, AC53b 3-30:570
0215 = 215 A, AC53b 3-30:570
0245 = 245 A, AC53b 3-30:570
0331 = 331 A, AC53b 3-30:570
0396 = 396 A, AC53b 3-30:570
0469 = 469 A, AC53b 3-30:570
0525 = 525 A, AC53b 3-30:570
0632 = 632 A, AC53b 3-30:570
0744 = 744 A, AC53b 3-30:570
0826 = 826 A, AC53b 3-30:570
0961 = 961 A, AC53b 3-30:570
0245 = 245 A, AC53a 3-30:50-6
0360 = 360 A, AC53a 3-30:50-6
0380 = 380 A, AC53a 3-30:50-6
0428 = 428 A, AC53a 3-30:50-6
0595 = 595 A, AC53a 3-30:50-6
0619 = 619 A, AC53a 3-30:50-6
0790 = 790 A, AC53a 3-30:50-6
0927 = 927 A,AC53a 3-30:50-6
1200 = 1200 A, AC53a 3-30:50-6
1410 = 1410 A, AC53a 3-30:50-6
1600 = 1600 A, AC53a 3-30:50-6

B = Bypassed
C = Non-bypassed

Mains voltage
T5 = 200 - 525 VAC
T7 = 380 - 690 VAC

Frame size
G1 = 0021 ~ 0105 A
G2 = 0131 ~ 0215 A
G3 = 0245 ~ 0396 A
G4 = 0360 ~ 0961 A
G5 = 1200 ~ 1600 A

Not used

IP rating
00 = IP00
= Not selectable 20 = IP20

Control voltage
CV1 = 24 VAC/VDC
CV2 = 110-120 VAC or 220-240 VAC

Illustration 1.1 Type Code Ordering Form

8 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Introduction Operating Guide

1.1.4 Ordering Numbers 1 1

Supply voltage T5, 200–525 V AC
Control supply CV1, 24 V AC/V DC CV2, 110–120 or 220–240 V AC
Ordering Ordering
Ampere rating number Type code number Type code
MCD5-0021B 175G5500 MCD5-0021B-T5-G1X-20-CV1 175G5525 MCD5-0021B-T5-G1X-20-CV2
MCD5-0037B 175G5501 MCD5-0037B-T5-G1X-20-CV1 175G5526 MCD5-0037B-T5-G1X-20-CV2
MCD5-0043B 175G5502 MCD5-0043B-T5-G1X-20-CV1 175G5527 MCD5-0043B-T5-G1X-20-CV2
MCD5-0053B 175G5503 MCD5-0053B-T5-G1X-20-CV1 175G5528 MCD5-0053B-T5-G1X-20-CV2
G1B
MCD5-0068B 175G5504 MCD5-0068B-T5-G1X-20-CV1 175G5529 MCD5-0068B-T5-G1X-20-CV2
MCD5-0084B 175G5505 MCD5-0084B-T5-G1X-20-CV1 175G5530 MCD5-0084B-T5-G1X-20-CV2
MCD5-0089B 175G5506 MCD5-0089B-T5-G1X-20-CV1 175G5531 MCD5-0089B-T5-G1X-20-CV2
MCD5-0105B 175G5507 MCD5-0105B-T5-G1X-20-CV1 175G5532 MCD5-0105B-T5-G1X-20-CV2
MCD5-0131B 175G5508 MCD5-0131B-T5-G2X-00-CV1 175G5533 MCD5-0131B-T5-G2X-00-CV2
MCD5-0141B 175G5509 MCD5-0141B-T5-G2X-00-CV1 175G5534 MCD5-0141B-T5-G2X-00-CV2
G2B
MCD5-0195B 175G5510 MCD5-0195B-T5-G2X-00-CV1 175G5535 MCD5-0195B-T5-G2X-00-CV2
MCD5-0215B 175G5511 MCD5-0215B-T5-G2X-00-CV1 175G5536 MCD5-0215B-T5-G2X-00-CV2
G3C MCD5-0245C 175G5512 MCD5-0245C-T5-G3X-00-CV1 175G5537 MCD5-0245C-T5-G3X-00-CV2
MCD5-0245B 134N9344 MCD5-0245B-T5-G3X-00-CV1 134N9345 MCD5-0245B-T5-G3X-00-CV2
G3B MCD5-0331B 134N9348 MCD5-0331B-T5-G3X-00-CV1 134N9349 MCD5-0331B-T5-G3X-00-CV2
MCD5-0396B 134N9352 MCD5-0396B-T5-G3X-00-CV1 134N9353 MCD5-0396B-T5-G3X-00-CV2
MCD5-0469B 134N9356 MCD5-0469B-T5-G4X-00-CV1 134N9357 MCD5-0469B-T5-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-0525B 134N9360 MCD5-0525B-T5-G4X-00-CV1 134N9361 MCD5-0525B-T5-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-0632B 134N9364 MCD5-0632B-T5-G4X-00-CV1 134N9365 MCD5-0632B-T5-G4X-00-CV2
G4B
MCD5-0744B 134N9368 MCD5-0744B-T5-G4X-00-CV1 134N9369 MCD5-0744B-T5-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-0826B 134N9372 MCD5-0826B-T5-G4X-00-CV1 134N9373 MCD5-0826B-T5-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-0961B 134N9376 MCD5-0961B-T5-G4X-00-CV1 134N9377 MCD5-0961B-T5-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-0360C 175G5513 MCD5-0360C-T5-G4X-00-CV1 175G5538 MCD5-0360C-T5-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-0380C 175G5514 MCD5-0380C-T5-G4X-00-CV1 175G5539 MCD5-0380C-T5-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-0428C 175G5515 MCD5-0428C-T5-G4X-00-CV1 175G5540 MCD5-0428C-T5-G4X-00-CV2
G4C MCD5-0595C 175G5516 MCD5-0595C-T5-G4X-00-CV1 175G5541 MCD5-0595C-T5-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-0619C 175G5517 MCD5-0619C-T5-G4X-00-CV1 175G5542 MCD5-0619C-T5-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-0790C 175G5518 MCD5-0790C-T5-G4X-00-CV1 175G5543 MCD5-0790C-T5-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-0927C 175G5519 MCD5-0927C-T5-G4X-00-CV1 175G5544 MCD5-0927C-T5-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-1200C 175G5520 MCD5-1200C-T5-G5X-00-CV1 175G5545 MCD5-1200C-T5-G5X-00-CV2
G5C MCD5-1410C 175G5523 MCD5-1410C-T5-G5X-00-CV1 175G5546 MCD5-1410C-T5-G5X-00-CV2
MCD5-1600C 175G5524 MCD5-1600C-T5-G5X-00-CV1 175G5547 MCD5-1600C-T5-G5X-00-CV2

Table 1.2 Ordering Numbers, T5, 200–525 V AC

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 9

 Introduction VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

1 1 Supply voltage T7, 380–690 V AC

Control supply CV1, 24 V AC/V DC CV2, 110–120 or 220–240 V AC
Ordering Ordering
Ampere rating number Type code number Type code
MCD5-0021B 175G5548 MCD5-0021B-T7-G1X-20-CV1 175G5571 MCD5-0021B-T7-G1X-20-CV2
MCD5-0037B 175G5549 MCD5-0037B-T7-G1X-20-CV1 175G5572 MCD5-0037B-T7-G1X-20-CV2
MCD5-0043B 175G5550 MCD5-0043B-T7-G1X-20-CV1 175G5573 MCD5-0043B-T7-G1X-20-CV2
MCD5-0053B 175G5551 MCD5-0053B-T7-G1X-20-CV1 175G5574 MCD5-0053B-T7-G1X-20-CV2
G1B
MCD5-0068B 175G5552 MCD5-0068B-T7-G1X-20-CV1 175G5575 MCD5-0068B-T7-G1X-20-CV2
MCD5-0084B 175G5553 MCD5-0084B-T7-G1X-20-CV1 175G5576 MCD5-0084B-T7-G1X-20-CV2
MCD5-0089B 175G5554 MCD5-0089B-T7-G1X-20-CV1 175G5577 MCD5-0089B-T7-G1X-20-CV2
MCD5-0105B 175G5555 MCD5-0105B-T7-G1X-20-CV1 175G5578 MCD5-0105B-T7-G1X-20-CV2
MCD5-0131B 175G5556 MCD5-0131B-T7-G2X-00-CV1 175G5579 MCD5-0131B-T7-G2X-00-CV2
MCD5-0141B 175G5557 MCD5-0141B-T7-G2X-00-CV1 175G5580 MCD5-0141B-T7-G2X-00-CV2
G2B
MCD5-0195B 175G5558 MCD5-0195B-T7-G2X-00-CV1 175G5581 MCD5-0195B-T7-G2X-00-CV2
MCD5-0215B 175G5559 MCD5-0215B-T7-G2X-00-CV1 175G5582 MCD5-0215B-T7-G2X-00-CV2
G3C MCD5-0245C 175G5560 MCD5-0245C-T7-G3X-00-CV1 175G5583 MCD5-0245C-T7-G3X-00-CV2
MCD5-0245B 134N9346 MCD5-0245B-T7-G3X-00-CV1 134N9347 MCD5-0245B-T7-G3X-00-CV2
G3B MCD5-0331B 134N9350 MCD5-0331B-T7-G3X-00-CV1 134N9351 MCD5-0331B-T7-G3X-00-CV2
MCD5-0396B 134N9354 MCD5-0396B-T7-G3X-00-CV1 134N9355 MCD5-0396B-T7-G3X-00-CV2
MCD5-0469B 134N9358 MCD5-0469B-T7-G4X-00-CV1 134N9359 MCD5-0469B-T7-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-0525B 134N9362 MCD5-0525B-T7-G4X-00-CV1 134N9363 MCD5-0525B-T7-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-0632B 134N9366 MCD5-0632B-T7-G4X-00-CV1 134N9367 MCD5-0632B-T7-G4X-00-CV2
G4B
MCD5-0744B 134N9370 MCD5-0744B-T7-G4X-00-CV1 134N9371 MCD5-0744B-T7-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-0826B 134N9374 MCD5-0826B-T7-G4X-00-CV1 134N9375 MCD5-0826B-T7-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-0961B 134N9378 MCD5-0961B-T7-G4X-00-CV1 134N9379 MCD5-0961B-T7-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-0360C 175G5561 MCD5-0360C-T7-G4X-00-CV1 175G5584 MCD5-0360C-T7-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-0380C 175G5562 MCD5-0380C-T7-G4X-00-CV1 175G5585 MCD5-0380C-T7-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-0428C 175G5563 MCD5-0428C-T7-G4X-00-CV1 175G5586 MCD5-0428C-T7-G4X-00-CV2
G4C MCD5-0595C 175G5564 MCD5-0595C-T7-G4X-00-CV1 175G5587 MCD5-0595C-T7-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-0619C 175G5565 MCD5-0619C-T7-G4X-00-CV1 175G5588 MCD5-0619C-T7-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-0790C 175G5566 MCD5-0790C-T7-G4X-00-CV1 175G5589 MCD5-0790C-T7-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-0927C 175G5567 MCD5-0927C-T7-G4X-00-CV1 175G5590 MCD5-0927C-T7-G4X-00-CV2
MCD5-1200C 175G5568 MCD5-1200C-T7-G5X-00-CV1 175G5591 MCD5-1200C-T7-G5X-00-CV2
G5C MCD5-1410C 175G5569 MCD5-1410C-T7-G5X-00-CV1 175G5592 MCD5-1410C-T7-G5X-00-CV2
MCD5-1600C 175G5570 MCD5-1600C-T7-G5X-00-CV1 175G5593 MCD5-1600C-T7-G5X-00-CV2

Table 1.3 Ordering Numbers, T7, 380–690 V AC

10 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Safety Operating Guide

2 Safety
2 2
2.1 Safety WARNING
The following symbols are used in this guide: PROPER GROUNDING
Disconnect the soft starter from mains voltage before
carrying out repair work.
WARNING It is the responsibility of the person installing the soft
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that could starter to provide proper grounding and branch circuit
result in death or serious injury. protection according to local electrical safety codes.
Do not connect power factor correction capacitors to the

CAUTION output of the VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500. If static power
factor correction is employed, it must be connected to
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that could the supply side of the soft starter.
result in minor or moderate injury. It can also be used to
alert against unsafe practices.
WARNING
NOTICE IMMEDIATE START
Indicates important information, including situations that In auto-on mode, the motor can be controlled remotely
can result in damage to equipment or property. (via remote inputs) while the soft starter is connected to
mains.
MCD5-0021B ~ MCD5-0961B:
2.1.1 Qualified Personnel
Transportation, mechanical shock, or rough handling
may cause the bypass contactor to latch into the On
Correct and reliable transport, storage, installation,
state.
operation, and maintenance are required for the trouble-
free and safe operation of the soft starter. Only qualified To prevent the motor from starting immediately on first
personnel are allowed to install or operate this equipment. commissioning or operation after transportation:
• Always ensure that the control supply is applied
Qualified personnel is defined as trained staff, who are before the power.
authorized to install, commission, and maintain equipment, • Applying control supply before power ensures
systems, and circuits in accordance with pertinent laws and that the contactor state is initialized.
regulations. Additionally, the personnel must be familiar
with the instructions and safety measures described in this
manual. WARNING
WARNING UNINTENDED START
When the soft starter is connected to AC mains, DC
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD supply, or load sharing, the motor can start at any time.
VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 contains dangerous voltages Unintended start during programming, service, or repair
when connected to mains voltage. Only a qualified work can result in death, serious injury, or property
electrician should carry out the electrical installation. damage. The motor can start with an external switch, a
Improper installation of the motor or the soft starter can fieldbus command, an input reference signal from the
cause death, serious injury, or equipment failure. Follow LCP or LOP, via remote operation using MCD PC
the guidelines in this manual and local electrical safety Software, or after a cleared fault condition.
codes.
To prevent unintended motor start:
Models MCD5-0360C ~ MCD5-1600C:
Treat the busbar and heat sink as live parts whenever
• Press [Off]/[Reset] on the LCP before
programming parameters.
the unit has mains voltage connected (including when
the soft starter is tripped or waiting for a command). • Disconnect the soft starter from mains.
• Completely wire and assemble the soft starter,
motor, and any driven equipment before
connecting the soft starter to AC mains, DC
supply, or load sharing.

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 11

 Safety VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

WARNING
SAFETY OF PERSONNEL
2 2 The soft starter is not a safety device and does not
provide electrical isolation or disconnection from the
supply.
• If isolation is required, the soft starter must be
installed with a main contactor.
• Do not rely on the start and stop functions for
safety of personnel. Faults occurring in the
mains supply, the motor connection, or the
electronics of the soft starter can cause
unintended motor starts or stops.
• If faults occur in the electronics of the soft
starter, a stopped motor may start. A temporary
fault in the supply mains or loss of motor
connection can also cause a stopped motor to
start.
To provide safety of personnel and equipment, control
the isolation device through an external safety system.

NOTICE
Before changing any parameter settings, save the current
parameter to a file using MCD PC Software or the Save
User Set function.

NOTICE
Use the autostart feature with caution. Read all the notes
related to autostart before operation.

The examples and diagrams in this manual are included

solely for illustrative purposes. The information contained
in this manual is subject to change at any time and
without prior notice. Responsibility or liability is never
accepted for direct, indirect, or consequential damage
resulting from the use or application of this equipment.

12 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Installation Operating Guide

3 Installation

3.1 Mechanical Installation

3 3

177HA427.10
3

1 4

1 MCD5-0021B to MCD5-0215B: Allow 100 mm (3.94 in) between the soft starters.
MCD5-0245B to MCD5-0961B: Allow 200 mm (7.88 in) between the soft starters.
MCD5-0245C: Allow 100 mm (3.94 in) between the soft starters.
MCD5-0360C to MCD5-1600C: Allow 200 mm (7.88 in) between the soft starters.
2 MCD5-0021B to MCD5-0215B: Allow 50 mm (1.97 in) between the soft starter and solid surfaces.
MCD5-0245B to MCD5-0961B: Allow 200 mm (7.88 in) between soft starters.
MCD5-0245C: Allow 100 mm (3.94 in) between the soft starter and solid surfaces.
MCD5-0360C to MCD5-1600C: Allow 200 mm (7.88 in) between the soft starter and solid surfaces.
3 It is possible to mount the soft starter on its side. Derate the soft starter rated current by 15%.
4 If mounted without communication modules, soft starters may be mounted side by side with no clearance.

Illustration 3.1 Clearances and Derating Values at Installation

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 13

 Installation VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

3.2 Dimensions and Weight

177HA514.10
C

3 3
A

A
B

B
D

C E

Model A [mm] (in) B [mm] (in) C [mm] (in) D [mm] (in) E [mm] (in) Weight [kg] (lbs)
MCD5-0021B
MCD5-0037B
183 (7.2) 4.2 (9.3)
MCD5-0043B
MCD5-0053B
295 (11.6) 278 (10.9) 150 (5.9) 124 (4.9)
MCD5-0068B 4.5 (9.9)
MCD5-0084B
213 (8.14)
MCD5-0089B 4.9 (10.8)
MCD5-0105B
MCD5-0131B
MCD5-0141B
438 (17.2) 380 (15.0) 275 (10.8) 248 (9.8) 250 (9.8) 14.9 (32.8)
MCD5-0195B
MCD5-0215B
MCD5-0245B 26 (57.2)
MCD5-0331B 440 (17.3) 392 (15.4) 424 (16.7) 376 (14.8) 296 (11.7)
30.2 (66.6)
MCD5-0396B
MCD5-0469B
49.5 (109.1)
MCD5-0525B
MCD5-0632B
640 (25.2) 600 (23.6) 433 (17.0) 320 (12.6) 295 (11.6)
MCD5-0744B
60.0 (132.3)
MCD5-0826B
MCD5-0961B
MCD5-0245C 460 (18.1) 400 (15.0) 390 (15.4) 320 (12.6) 279 (11.0) 23.9 (52.7)
MCD5-0360C
MCD5-0380C 35 (77.2)
MCD5-0428C
MCD5-0595C 689 (27.1) 522 (20.5) 430 (16.9) 320 (12.6) 300 (11.8)
MCD5-0619C
45 (99.2)
MCD5-0790C
MCD5-0927C

14 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Installation Operating Guide

Model A [mm] (in) B [mm] (in) C [mm] (in) D [mm] (in) E [mm] (in) Weight [kg] (lbs)
MCD5-1200C
MCD5-1410C 856 (33.7) 727 (28.6) 585 (23.0) 500 (19.7) 364 (14.3) 120 (264.6)
MCD5-1600C

Illustration 3.2 Dimensions and Weight

3 3

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 15

 Electrical Installation VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

4 Electrical Installation

4.1 Control Wiring NOTICE

SELV offers protection by way of extra low voltage.
4.1.1 Ways to Control the Soft Starter Protection against electric shock is ensured when the
electrical supply itself is of the SELV type and the instal-
Control the VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 in 3 ways: lation follows local/national regulations on SELV supplies.
4 4 • Pressing the keys on the LCP.
• Via remote inputs. NOTICE
• Via a serial communication link. Galvanic (ensured) isolation is obtained by fulfilling
requirements for higher isolation and by providing the
The soft starter always responds to a local start or stop
relevant creepages/clearance distances. These
command (via the [Hand On] and [Off] keys on the LCP).
requirements are described in the IEC 61140 standard.
Pressing the [Auto On] key selects remote control (the soft
The components that make up the electrical isolation
starter accepts commands from the remote inputs). In
also comply with the requirements for higher isolation
remote mode, the Auto On LED is on. In hand-on mode,
and the relevant test as described in IEC 61140.
the Hand On LED is on if the soft starter starts or runs. The
Off LED is on if the soft starter is stopped or stops.
4.1.3 Remote Inputs
4.1.2 Control Terminals
The soft starter has 3 fixed inputs for remote control.
Control these inputs by contacts rated for low voltage, low
Control terminations use 2.5 mm2 (14 AWG) plug-in
current operation (gold flash or similar).
terminal blocks. Different models require control voltage to
different terminals:
• CV1 (24 V AC/V DC): A5, A6. 1 2 3

• CV2 (110–120 V AC): A5, A6.

15
16
S ta rt 15
16
S t a rt
15
16
• CV2 (220–240 V AC): A4, A6.
S ta rt/s to p
17 S to p 17
S to p
17
18 18 18
25 25 25

177HA504.10
Re s e t Re s e t Re s e t
18 18 18

1 2-wire control
2 3-wire control
3 4-wire control

Illustration 4.2 2-, 3-, and 4-wire Control

Illustration 4.1 Wiring to Control Terminals

The reset input can be normally open or normally closed.

To select the configuration, use parameter 3-8 Remote Reset
NOTICE Logic.
Do not short terminals 05 and 06 without using a
thermistor.
WARNING
All control terminals and relay terminals comply with SELV ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD
(safety extra low voltage). This protection does not apply Do not apply voltage to the control input terminals.
to grounded delta leg above 400 V. These terminals are active 24 V DC inputs and must be
controlled with potential-free contacts.
To maintain SELV, all connections made to the control
terminals must be PELV (for example thermistor must be
• Segregate cables to the control inputs from
mains voltage and motor cabling.
reinforced/double insulated from motor).

16 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Electrical Installation Operating Guide

4.1.4 Serial Communication 4.1.6 Power Terminations

Control via the serial communication network is always NOTICE

enabled in hand-on mode and can be enabled or disabled For personnel safety, snap-off tabs protect the power
in remote control mode (see parameter 3-2 Comms in terminals on models up to MCD5-0105B. When using
Remote). Control via the serial communication network large cables, it may be necessary to break off these tabs.
requires an optional communication module.

NOTICE
4.1.5 Ground Terminal
Some units use aluminum busbars. When connecting 4 4
power terminations, clean the surface contact area
Ground terminals are at the back of the soft starter.
thoroughly (using an emery or stainless steel brush), and
use an appropriate jointing compound to prevent
• MCD5-0021B to MCD5-0105B have 1 terminal on corrosion.
the input side (top).
• MCD5-0131B to MCD5-0961B and MCD5-0245C to Use only copper stranded or solid conductors, rated for
MCD5-1600C have 2 terminals; 1 on the input 75 °C (167°F) or higher.
side (top), and 1 on the output side (bottom).
Cable size: 6–50 mm2 (AWG 10-1/0) 14 mm (0.55 in) Torx T20 x 150

177HA648.10
177HA646.10

177HA647.10

Torque: 4 Nm (35.4 in-lb)

Flat 7 mm x 150

177HA649.10
MCD5-0021B to MCD5-0105B
38 Nm (336.3 in-lb)

11 mm
(M10)

177HA643.10
15 mm

28 mm 5 mm

MCD5-0131B MCD5-0141B to MCD5-0215B MCD5-0245B

38 Nm (336.3 in-lb) 38 Nm (336 in-lb)

11 mm
(M10) 11 mm
(M10)
177HA644.10
15 mm

177HA645.10
12 mm

28 mm 6 mm 32 mm 13 mm

MCD5-0331B to MCD5-0396B MCD5-0469B to MCD5-0961B MCD5-0245C

MCD5-0360C to MCD5-0927C MCD5-1200C to MCD5-1600C

Table 4.1 Measurements and Torques for Power Terminations

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 17

 Electrical Installation VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

4.1.7 Finger Guard Kit

177HA686.10
1/L1, 3/L2, 5/L3

NOTICE
When installing IP00 soft starters (MCB5-131B and
above), finger guards are specified for personnel safety.
Finger guards fit over the soft starter terminals to
prevent accidental contact with live terminals. Finger
guards provide IP20 protection when correctly installed.

4 4 • MCD5-0131B to MCD5-0215B: 175G5662. 2/T1, 4/T2, 6/T3

• MCD5-0245B to MCD5-0396B: 175G5730. Illustration 4.3 MCD5-0021B to MCD5-0105B, 21–105 A

• MCD5-0469B to MCD5-0961B: 175G5731.

• MCD5-245C: 175G5663.

177HA687.10
1/L1 3/L2 5/L3
• MCD5-0360C to MCD5-0927C: 175G5664.
• MCD5-1200C to MCD5-1600C: 175G5665.
NOTICE
To be UL-compliant, the models MCD5-0131B to
MCD5-0396B require finger guards.

4.2 Power Input and Output Configurations

4.2.1 Internally Bypassed Models
(MCD5-0021B to MCD5-0961B)
2/T1 4/T2 6/T3
Models MCD5-0021B to MCD5-0215B have power inputs at
the top of the unit and outputs at the bottom of the unit. Illustration 4.4 MCD5-0131B to MCD5-0215B, 131–215 A

Internally bypassed models MCD5-0245B to MCD5-0396B

have output busbars at the bottom of the unit and input

177HA688.10
1/L1 3/L2 5/L3
busbars at both the top and bottom. The AC supply can
be connected:
• Top-in/bottom-out.
• Bottom-in/bottom-out
Internally bypassed models MCD5-0469B to MCD5-0961B
have input and output busbars at the top and bottom of
the unit. The AC supply can be connected:
• Top-in/bottom-out.
• Top-in/top-out.
• Bottom-in/bottom-out.
• Bottom-in/top-out.
1/L1 3/L2 5/L3
2/T1 4/T2 6/T3

Illustration 4.5 MCD5-0245B to MCD5-0396B, 245–396 A

18 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Electrical Installation Operating Guide

1/L1 3/L2 5/L3 4.2.3 MCD5-0360C to MCD5-1600C

177HA650.11
2/T1 4/T2 6/T3

MCD5-0360C to MCD5-1600C have dedicated bypass

20.0
terminals on the input busbars. The bypass terminals are:
• L1B.
• L2B.
• L3B.
The busbars on non-bypassed models MCD5-0360C to
MCD5-1600C can be adjusted for top or bottom input and 4 4
output as required. See chapter 12 Busbar Adjustment
Procedure (MCD5-0360C to MCD5-1600C) for step-by-step
instructions. The soft starters are manufactured top-in/
bottom-out.

NOTICE
For models MCD5-0360C to MCD5-1600C to be UL-
compliant, mount them top-in/bottom-out, or top-out/
1/L1 3/L2 5/L3
2/T1 4/T2 6/T3 bottom-in. See chapter 11.1 UL-compliant Installation for
more information.
Illustration 4.6 MCD5-0469B to MCD5-0961B, 469–961 A

177HA652.10
1/L1 3/L2 5/L3
4.2.2 MCD5-0245C (L1B L2B L3B)
2/T1 4/T2 6/T3
1/L1 3/L2 5/L3
(L1B L2B L3B)
2/T1 4/T2 6/T3
MCD5-0245C has dedicated bypass terminals at the bottom
of the unit. The bypass terminals are:
• T1B.
• T2B.
• T3B.
2/T1 4/T2 6/T3
1/L1 3/L2 5/L3 2/T1 4/T2 6/T3 (L1B L2B L3B)
(L1B L2B L3B) 1/L1 3/L2 5/L3
1/L1 3/L2 5/L3

Illustration 4.8 Location of Bypass Terminals, MCD5-0360C to

MCD5-1600C, 360–1600 A

4.3 Motor Connection

177HA651.10

VLT® Soft Starters MCD 500 can be connected to the

motor in-line or inside delta (also called 3-wire and 6-wire
T1B T2B T3B connection). When connecting in inside delta, enter the
2/T1 4/T2 6/T3 motor full load current (FLC) in parameter 1-1 Motor Full
Illustration 4.7 Bypass Terminals on MCD5-0245C, 245 A Load Current. The MCD 500 automatically calculates inside
delta current based on this data. Parameter 15-7 Motor
Connection is set to Auto Detect as default and can be set
to force the soft starter in inside delta or in-line.

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 19

 Electrical Installation VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

4.3.1 Testing the Installation 4.3.2.2 Non-bypassed

The VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 can be connected to a

177HA429.12
small motor for testing. During this test, the control input
and relay output protection settings can be tested. This
K1 F1 1/L1 2/T1
test mode is not suitable for testing soft starting or soft
stopping performance.
3/L2 4/T2 M
3

4 4 The minimum FLC of the test motor is 2% of the minimum

FLC of the soft starter (see chapter 4.5 Minimum and 5/L3 6/T3

Maximum Current Settings). E

13
NOTICE 14
When testing the soft starter with a small motor, set
K1
parameter 1-1 Motor FLC to the minimum allowable
value.
Models which are internally bypassed do not require an
external bypass contactor. K1 Main contactor (optional)
F1 Semiconductor fuses (optional)1)
1) To keep the warranty on the SCRs, use semiconductor fuses.
4.3.2 In-line Installation
Illustration 4.10 In-line Installation, Non-bypassed
4.3.2.1 Internally Bypassed

4.3.2.3 Externally Bypassed

177HA430.12

K1 F1
1/L1 2/T1 Non-bypassed models have dedicated bypass terminals,
which allow the soft starter to continue providing
3/L2 4/T2 M protection and monitoring functions even when bypassed
3
via an external contactor. Connect the bypass contactor to
5/L3 6/T3 the bypass terminals and control it by a programmable
output configured to Run (see parameters 4-1 to 4-9).
E
NOTICE
13 The bypass terminals on MCD5-0245C are:
14
K1
• T1B.
• T2B.
• T3B.
K1 Main contactor (optional)
The bypass terminals on MCD5-0360C to MCD5-1600C
F1 Semiconductor fuses (optional)1)
are:
1) To keep the warranty on the SCRs, use semiconductor fuses.
• L1B.
Illustration 4.9 In-line Installation, Internally Bypassed • L2B.
• L3B.
If necessary, the fuses can be installed on the input side.

20 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Electrical Installation Operating Guide

K2 4.3.3 Inside Delta Installation

NOTICE
K1 F1 When connecting the VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 in
1/L1 2/T1
inside delta configuration, always install a main
T1B

3/L2 4/T2 M
contactor or shunt trip circuit breaker.
3
T2B

5/L3 6/T3
NOTICE
E
T3B
When connecting in inside delta, enter the motor full 4 4
13 load current (FLC) in parameter 1-1 Motor FLC. The MCD
14 500 automatically calculates inside delta currents based
33
K1 on this data. Parameter 15-7 Motor Connection is set to
34 Auto detect as default and can be set to force the soft
177HA617.11

K2 starter in inside delta or in-line.

K1 Main contactor 4.3.3.1 Internally Bypassed

K2 Bypass contactor (external)
F1 Semiconductor fuses (optional)1)
1) To keep the warranty on the SCRs, use semiconductor fuses.

K1 F1
Illustration 4.11 In-line Installation, Externally Bypassed, 1/L1 2/T

MCD5-0245C U1(1) U2(4)

3/L2 4/T V1(2) M V2(5)

3
W1(3) W2(6)
5/L3 6/T
K2

13
177HA501.11

14
K1 F1
1/L1 2/T1 K1

L1B

3/L2 4/T2 M K1 Main contactor

3
L2B
F1 Semiconductor fuses (optional)1)
5/L3 6/T3

L3B
1) To keep the warranty on the SCRs, use semiconductor fuses.
E
13 Illustration 4.13 Inside Delta Installation, Internally Bypassed
14

K1
33

34
177HA431.12

K2

K1 Main contactor
K2 Bypass contactor (external)
F1 Semiconductor fuses (optional)1)
1) To keep the warranty on the SCRs, use semiconductor fuses.

Illustration 4.12 In-line Installation, Externally Bypassed,

MCD5-0360C to MCD5-1600C

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 21

 Electrical Installation VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

4.3.3.2 Non-bypassed
K2

K1 F
1/L 2/T K1 F1
1/L1 2/T
L1 U1(1 U2(4
T1B U1(1) U2(4)
3/L 4/T V1(2 M V2(5 3/L2 4/T V1(2) M V2(5)
3 3
L2 W1( W2(

4 4
T2B W1(3) W2(6)

5/L 6/T 5/L3 6/T

L3 T3B

E E
13
1
14
177HA500.12

1
K1
33
K1

177HA618.11
34

K2
K1 Main contactor
F1 Semiconductor fuses (optional)1)
1) To keep the warranty on the SCRs, use semiconductor fuses. K1 Main contactor
K2 Bypass contactor (external)
Illustration 4.14 Inside Delta Installation, Non-bypassed F1 Semiconductor fuses (optional)1)
1) To keep the warranty on the SCRs, use semiconductor fuses.

4.3.3.3 Externally Bypassed Illustration 4.15 Inside Delta Installation, Externally Bypassed,
MCD5-0245C
Non-bypassed models have dedicated bypass terminals,
which allow the soft starter to continue providing
protection and monitoring functions even when bypassed
via an external bypass contactor. Connect the bypass
contactor to the bypass terminals and control the K2

contactor by a programmable output configured to Run

(see parameters 4-1 to 4-9).

NOTICE K1
1/L1 2/T
F1

The bypass terminals on MCD5-0245C are: L1B U1(1) U2(4)

3/L2 4/T V1(2) M V2(5)

• T1B. L2B

5/L3 6/T
W1(3)
3
W2(6)

• T2B. L3B

•
E
T3B. 13

14
The bypass terminals on MCD5-0360C to MCD5-1600C K1
33
are:
177HA502.12

34

• L1B. K2

• L2B.
• L3B. K1 Main contactor
K2 Bypass contactor (external)
If necessary, the fuses can be installed on the input side.
F1 Semiconductor fuses (optional)1)
1) To keep the warranty on the SCRs, use semiconductor fuses.

Illustration 4.16 Inside Delta Installation, Externally Bypassed,

MCD5-0360C to MCD5-1600C

22 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Electrical Installation Operating Guide

4.4 Current Ratings

Contact the local supplier for ratings under operating
conditions not covered by these ratings charts.

All ratings are calculated at an altitude of 1000 m (3281 ft)

and ambient temperature of 40 °C (104 °F).

4 4

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 23

 Electrical Installation VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

4.4.1 In-line Connection (Bypassed)

NOTICE
Models MCD5-0021B to MCD5-0961B are internally bypassed. Models MCD5-0245C to MCD5-1600C require an external
bypass contactor.

Type code Ampere rating [A]

AC-53b 3-30:330 AC-53b 4-20:340 AC-53b 4.5-30:330
4 4 MCD5-0021B
MCD5-0037B
21
37
17
31
15
26
MCD5-0043B 43 37 30
MCD5-0053B 53 46 37
AC-53b 3-30:570 AC-53b 4-20:580 AC-53b 4.5-30:570
MCD5-0068B 68 55 47
MCD5-0084B 84 69 58
MCD5-0089B 89 74 61
MCD5-0105B 105 95 78
MCD5-0131B 131 106 90
MCD5-0141B 141 121 97
MCD5-0195B 195 160 134
MCD5-0215B 215 178 148
MCD5-0245B 245 194 169
MCD5-0245C 255 201 176
MCD5-0331B 331 266 229
MCD5-0360C 360 310 263
MCD5-0380C 380 359 299
MCD5-0396B 396 318 273
MCD5-0428C 430 368 309
MCD5-0469B 496 383 326
MCD5-0525B 525 425 364
MCD5-0595C 620 540 434
MCD5-0619C 650 561 455
MCD5-0632B 632 512 438
MCD5-0790C 790 714 579
MCD5-0744B 744 606 516
MCD5-0826B 826 684 571
MCD5-0927C 930 829 661
MCD5-0961B 961 796 664
MCD5-1200C 1200 1200 1071
MCD5-1410C 1410 1319 1114
MCD5-1600C 1600 1600 1353

Table 4.2 Internally Bypassed Models

24 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Electrical Installation Operating Guide

Illustration 4.17 AC-53 Rating for Bypassed Operation 4 4

All ratings are calculated at an altitude of 1000 m (3281 ft) and ambient temperature of 40 °C (104 °F).

4.4.2 In-line Connection (Non-bypassed/Continuous)

Type code Ampere ratings [A]

AC-53a 3-30:50-6 AC-53a 4-20:50-6 AC-53a 4.5-30:50-6
MCD5-0245C 245 195 171
MCD5-0360C 360 303 259
MCD5-0380C 380 348 292
MCD5-0428C 428 355 300
MCD5-0595C 595 515 419
MCD5-0619C 619 532 437
MCD5-0790C 790 694 567
MCD5-0927C 927 800 644
MCD5-1200C 1200 1135 983
MCD5-1410C 1410 1187 1023
MCD5-1600C 1600 1433 1227

Table 4.3 Non-bypassed Models

St
St

a
a

rt s
rt
Tim

Pe
r
e(

Ho
se

u
r
co
n
ds
)

Illustration 4.18 AC-53 Rating for Continuous Operation

All ratings are calculated at an altitude of 1000 m (3281 ft) and ambient temperature of 40 °C (104 °F).

Contact a local supplier for ratings under operating conditions not covered by these ratings charts.

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 25

 Electrical Installation VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

4.4.3 Inside Delta Connection (Bypassed)

NOTICE
Models MCD5-0021B to MCD5-0961B are internally bypassed. Models MCD5-0245C to MCD5-1600C require an external
bypass contactor.

Type code Ampere ratings [A]

AC-53b 3-30:330 AC-53b 4.20-:340 AC-53b 4.5-30:330
4 4 MCD5-0021B
MCD5-0037B
32
56
26
47
22
39
MCD5-0043B 65 56 45
MCD5-0053B 80 69 55
AC-53b 3-30:570 AC-53b 4-20:580 AC-53b 4.5-30:570
MCD5-0068B 102 83 71
MCD5-0084B 126 104 87
MCD5-0089B 134 112 92
MCD5-0105B 158 143 117
MCD5-0131B 197 159 136
MCD5-0141B 212 181 146
MCD5-0195B 293 241 201
MCD5-0215B 323 268 223
MCD5-0245B 368 291 254
MCD5-0245C 383 302 264
MCD5-0331B 497 400 343
MCD5-0360C 540 465 395
MCD5-0380C 570 539 449
MCD5-0396B 594 478 410
MCD5-0428C 645 552 463
MCD5-0469B 704 575 490
MCD5-0525B 787 637 546
MCD5-0595C 930 810 651
MCD5-0619C 975 842 683
MCD5-0632B 948 768 658
MCD5-0790C 1185 1072 869
MCD5-0744B 1116 910 774
MCD5-0826B 1239 1026 857
MCD5-0927C 1395 1244 992
MCD5-0961B 1441 1194 997
MCD5-1200C 1800 1800 1607
MCD5-1410C 2115 1979 1671
MCD5-1600C 2400 2400 2030

Table 4.4 Bypassed Models

26 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Electrical Installation Operating Guide

Illustration 4.19 AC-53 Rating for Bypassed Operation 4 4

All ratings are calculated at an altitude of 1000 m (3281 ft) and ambient temperature of 40 °C (104 °F).

4.4.4 Inside Delta Connection (Non-bypassed/Continuous)

Type code Ampere ratings [A]

AC-53a 3-30:50-6 AC-53a 4-20:50-6 AC-53a 4.5-30:50-6
MCD5-0245C 368 293 257
MCD5-0360C 540 455 389
MCD5-0380C 570 522 438
MCD5-0428C 643 533 451
MCD5-0595C 893 773 629
MCD5-0619C 929 798 656
MCD5-0790C 1185 1042 851
MCD5-0927C 1391 1200 966
MCD5-1200C 1800 1702 1474
MCD5-1410C 2115 1780 1535
MCD5-1600C 2400 2149 1841

Table 4.5 Non-bypassed Models

St
St

a
a

rt s
rt
Tim

Pe
r
e(

Ho
se

ur
co
nds
)

Illustration 4.20 AC-53 Rating for Continuous Operation

All ratings are calculated at an altitude of 1000 m (3281 ft) and ambient temperature of 40 °C (104 °F).

Contact a local supplier for ratings under operating conditions not covered by these ratings charts.

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 27

 Electrical Installation VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

4.5 Minimum and Maximum Current Settings

The minimum and maximum full load current settings depend on the model:

In-line connection Inside delta connection

Model Minimum [A] Maximum [A] Minimum [A] Maximum [A]
MCD5-0021B 5 23 7 34
MCD5-0037B 9 43 13 64

4 4 MCD5-0043B
MCD5-0053B
10
11
50
53
15
16
75
79
MCD5-0068B 15 76 23 114
MCD5-0084B 19 97 29 145
MCD5-0089B 20 100 30 150
MCD5-0105B 21 105 32 157
MCD5-0131B 29 145 44 217
MCD5-0141B 34 170 51 255
MCD5-0195B 40 200 60 300
MCD5-0215B 44 220 66 330
MCD5-0331B 70 350 70 525
MCD5-0396B 85 425 85 638
MCD5-0469B 100 500 100 750
MCD5-0525B 116 580 116 870
MCD5-0632B 140 700 140 1050
MCD5-0744B 164 820 164 1230
MCD5-0825B 184 920 184 1380
MCD5-0961B 200 1000 200 1500
MCD5-0245C 51 255 77 382
MCD5-0360C 72 360 108 540
MCD5-0380C 76 380 114 570
MCD5-0428C 86 430 129 645
MCD5-0595C 124 620 186 930
MCD5-0619C 130 650 195 975
MCD5-0790C 158 790 237 1185
MCD5-0927C 186 930 279 1395
MCD5-1200C 240 1200 360 1800
MCD5-1410C 282 1410 423 2115
MCD5-1600C 320 1600 480 2400

Table 4.6 Minimum and Maximum Full Load Current

4.6 Bypass Contactor 4.7 Main Contactor

Some VLT® Soft Starters MCD 500 are internally bypassed Install a main contactor if the VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 is
and do not require an external bypass contactor. connected to the motor in inside delta format and is
optional for in-line connection. Select a contactor with an
Non-bypassed soft starters may be installed with an AC3 rating greater than or equal to the full load current
external bypass contactor. Select a contactor with an AC1 rating of the connected motor.
rating greater than or equal to the full load current rating 4.8 Circuit Breaker
of the connected motor.
A shunt trip circuit breaker may be used instead of a main
contactor to isolate the motor circuit if a soft starter trips.
The shunt trip mechanism must be powered from the
supply side of the circuit breaker or from a separate
control supply.

28 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Electrical Installation Operating Guide

4.9 Power Factor Correction For applications using adaptive control to soft stop the
motor with stop times greater than 30 s, select motor

CAUTION branch protection as follows:

• Standard HRC mains fuses: Minimum 150% motor
EQUIPMENT DAMAGE full load current.
Connecting power factor correction capacitors to the
output side damages the soft starter. • Motor rated mains fuses: Minimum rating
100/150% motor full load current.
• Connect power factor correction capacitors to
• Motor control circuit breaker minimum long time
4 4
the input side of the soft starter.
setting: 150% motor full load current.

If power factor correction is used, use a dedicated

• Motor control circuit breaker minimum short time
setting: 400% motor full load current for 30 s.
contactor to switch in the capacitors.
Fuse recommendations are calculated for 40 °C (104 °F),
4.10 Fuses and at an altitude of up to 1000 m (3281 ft).

4.10.1 Power Supply Fuses

NOTICE
NOTICE Fuse selection is based on a 400% FLC start for 20 s
with:
WARRANTY
To keep the warranty on the SCRs, all fuses should be • Standard published starts per hour.
semiconductor fuses. • Duty cycle.
• 40 °C (104 °F) ambient temperature.
NOTICE • Up to 1000 m (3281 ft) altitude.
Use semiconductor fuses for Type 2 coordination
(according to the IEC 60947-4-2 standard) to prevent For installations operating outside these conditions,
consult a local Danfoss supplier.
damaging the SCRs. VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 has
Table 4.7 to Table 4.13 contain recommendations only. To
integrated SCR protection against overload transient
confirm the selection for a particular application, always
currents, but if there is a short circuit (for example due
consult a local supplier.
to a defective motor winding) this protection is not
sufficient.

HRC fuses (such as Ferraz AJT fuses) can be used for Type
1 coordination according to the IEC 60947-4-2 standard.

NOTICE
Adaptive control regulates the speed profile of the motor
within the programmed time limit. This control may
result in a higher level of current than traditional control
methods.

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 29

 Electrical Installation VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

4.10.2 Bussmann Fuses

Model SCR I2t (A2s) Supply voltage Supply voltage Supply voltage
(≤440 V AC) (≤575 V AC) (≤690 V AC)
MCD5-0021B 1150 170M1314 170M1314 170M1314
MCD5-0037B 8000 170M1316 170M1316 170M1316
MCD5-0043B 10500 170M1318 170M1318 170M1318
MCD5-0053B 15000 170M1318 170M1318 170M1318

4 4 MCD5-0068B
MCD5-0084B
15000
512000
170M1319
170M1321
170M1319
170M1321
170M1318
170M1319
MCD5-0089B 80000 170M1321 170M1321 170M1321
MCD5-0105B 125000 170M1321 170M1321 170M1321
MCD5-0131B 125000 170M1321 170M1321 170M1321
MCD5-0141B 320000 170M2621 170M2621 170M2621
MCD5-0195B 320000 170M2621 170M2621 170M2621
MCD5-0215B 320000 170M2621 170M2621 170M2621
MCD5-0245B 320000 170M2621 170M2621 170M2621
MCD5-0331B 202000 170M5011 170M5011 –
MCD5-0396B 320000 170M6011 – –
MCD5-0469B 320000 170M60081) – –
MCD5-0525B 781000 170M6013 170M6013 170M6013
MCD5-0632B 781000 170M5015 170M5015 –
MCD5-0744B 1200000 170M5017 170M6017 –
MCD5-0826B 2530000 170M6017 170M6017 –
MCD5-0961B 2530000 170M6018 170M60131) –
MCD5-0245C 320000 170M2621 170M2621 170M2621
MCD5-0360C 320000 170M6010 170M6010 170M6010
MCD5-0380C 320000 170M6011 170M6011 –
MCD5-0428C 320000 170M6011 170M6011 –
MCD5-0595C 1200000 170M6015 170M6015 170M6014
MCD5-0619C 1200000 170M6015 170M6015 170M6014
MCD5-0790C 2530000 170M6017 170M6017 170M6016
MCD5-0927C 4500000 170M6019 170M6019 170M6019
MCD5-1200C 4500000 170M6021 – –
MCD5-1410C 6480000 – – –
MCD5-1600C 12500000 170M60191) – –

Table 4.7 Square Body (170M)

1) Two fuses connected in parallel are required per phase.

30 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Electrical Installation Operating Guide

Model SCR I2t (A2s) Supply voltage Supply voltage Supply voltage
(<440 V AC) (<575 V AC) (<690 V AC)
MCD5-0021B 1150 63FE 63FE 63FE
MCD5-0037B 8000 120FEE 120FEE 120FEE
MCD5-0043B 10500 120FEE 120FEE 120FEE
MCD5-0053B 15000 200FEE 200FEE 200FEE
MCD5-0068B 15000 200FEE 200FEE 200FEE
MCD5-0084B 512000 200FEE 200FEE 200FEE
MCD5-0089B
MCD5-0105B
80000
125000
280FM
280FM
280FM
280FM
280FM
280FM
4 4
MCD5-0131B 125000 280FM 280FM 280FM
MCD5-0141B 320000 450FMM 450FMM 450FMM
MCD5-0195B 320000 450FMM 450FMM 450FMM
MCD5-0215B 320000 450FMM 450FMM 450FMM
MCD5-0245B 320000 450FMM 450FMM 450FMM
MCD5-0331B 202000 315FM1) – –
MCD5-0396B 320000 400FMM1) – –
MCD5-0469B 320000 450FMM1) – –
MCD5-0525B 781000 500FMM1) 500FMM1) 500FMM1)
MCD5-0632B 781000 630FMM1) – –
MCD5-0744B 1200000 – – –
MCD5-0826B 2530000 – – –
MCD5-0961B 2530000 – – –
MCD5-0245C 320000 450FMM 450FMM 450FMM
MCD5-0360C 320000 – – –
MCD5-0380C 320000 400FMM1) 400FMM 400FMM1)
MCD5-0428C 320000 – – –
MCD5-0595C 1200000 630FMM1) 630FMM1) –
MCD5-0619C 1200000 630FMM1) 630FMM1) –
MCD5-0790C 2530000 – – –
MCD5-0927C 4500000 – – –
MCD5-1200C 4500000 – – –
MCD5-1410C 6480000 – – –
MCD5-1600C 12500000 – – –

Table 4.8 British Style (BS88)

1) Two fuses connected in parallel are required per phase.

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 31

 Electrical Installation VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

4.10.3 Ferraz Fuses

Model SCR I2t (A2s) Supply voltage Supply voltage Supply voltage
(<440 V AC) (<575 V AC) (<690 V AC)
MCD5-0021B 1150 HSJ401) HSJ401)
MCD5-0037B 8000 HSJ801) HSJ801)
MCD5-0043B 10500 HSJ901) HSJ901)
MCD5-0053B 15000 HSJ1101) HSJ1101)

4 4 MCD5-0068B
MCD5-0084B
15000
51200
HSJ1251)
HSJ175
HSJ1251)
HSJ1751)
MCD5-0089B 80000 HSJ175 HSJ175
MCD5-0105B 125000 HSJ225 HSJ225
MCD5-0131B 125000 HSJ250 HSJ2501)
MCD5-0141B 320000 HSJ300 HSJ300
MCD5-0195B 320000 HSJ350 HSJ350
MCD5-0215B 320000 HSJ4001) HSJ4001)
MCD5-0245B 320000 HSJ4501) HSJ4501)
MCD5-0331B 202000 HSJ5001)
MCD5-0396B 320000
MCD5-0469B 320000 Not applicable
MCD5-0525B 781000
Not applicable
MCD5-0632B 781000 Not applicable
MCD5-0744B 1200000
MCD5-0826B 2530000
MCD5-0961B 2530000
MCD5-0245C 320000 HSJ4501) HSJ4501)
MCD5-0360C 320000
MCD5-0380C 320000
MCD5-0428C 320000
MCD5-0595C 1200000
MCD5-0619C 1200000
Not applicable Not applicable
MCD5-0790C 2530000
MCD5-0927C 4500000
MCD5-1200C 4500000
MCD5-1410C 6480000
MCD5-1600C 12500000

Table 4.9 HSJ

1) Two series connected fuses required per phase.

32 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Electrical Installation Operating Guide

Model SCR I2t (A2s) Supply voltage Supply voltage Supply voltage
(<440 V AC) (<575 V AC) (<690 V AC)
MCD5-0021B 1150 A070URD30XXX0063 A070URD30XXX0063 –
MCD5-0037B 8000 A070URD30XXX0125 A070URD30XXX0125 A070URD30XXX0125
MCD5-0043B 10500 A070URD30XXX0125 A070URD30XXX0125 A070URD30XXX0125
MCD5-0053B 15000 A070URD30XXX0125 A070URD30XXX0125 A070URD30XXX0125
MCD5-0068B 15000 A070URD30XXX0160 A070URD30XXX0160 A070URD30XXX0160
MCD5-0084B 51200 A070URD30XXX0200 A070URD30XXX0200 A070URD30XXX0200
MCD5-0089B
MCD5-0105B
80000
125000
A070URD30XXX0200
A070URD30XXX0315
A070URD30XXX0200
A070URD30XXX0315
A070URD30XXX0200
A070URD30XXX0315
4 4
MCD5-0131B 125000 A070URD30XXX0315 A070URD30XXX0315 A070URD30XXX0315
MCD5-0141B 320000 A070URD30XXX0315 A070URD30XXX0315 A070URD30XXX0315
MCD5-0195B 320000 A070URD30XXX0450 A070URD30XXX0450 A070URD30XXX0450
MCD5-0215B 320000 A070URD30XXX0450 A070URD30XXX0450 A070URD30XXX0450
MCD5-0245B 32000 A070URD30XXX0450 A070URD30XXX0450 A070URD30XXX0450
MCD5-0331B 202000 A070URD31XXX0550 – –
MCD5-0396B 238000 A070URD32XXX0630 – –
MCD5-0469B 320000 A070URD32XXX0700 – –
MCD5-0525B 781000 A070URD32XXX0800 – –
MCD5-0632B 781000 A070URD33XXX0900 – –
MCD5-0744B 1200000 A070URD33XXX1100 – –
MCD5-0826B 2530000 A070URD33XXX1250 – –
MCD5-0961B 2530000 A070URD33XXX1400 – –
MCD5-0245C 320000 A070URD30XXX0450 A070URD30XXX0450 A070URD30XXX0450
MCD5-0360C 320000 A070URD33XXX0630 A070URD33XXX0630 A070URD33XXX0630
MCD5-0380C 320000 A070URD33XXX0700 A070URD33XXX0700 –
MCD5-0428C 320000 A070URD33XXX0700 A070URD33XXX0700 –
MCD5-0595C 1200000 A070URD33XXX1000 A070URD33XXX1000 A070URD33XXX1000
MCD5-0619C 1200000 A070URD33XXX1000 A070URD33XXX1000 A070URD33XXX1000
MCD5-0790C 2530000 A070URD33XXX1400 A070URD33XXX1400 A070URD33XXX1400
MCD5-0927C 4500000 A070URD33XXX1400 A070URD33XXX1400 A070URD33XXX1400
MCD5-1200C 4500000 A055URD33XXX2250 – –
MCD5-1410C 6480000 A055URD33XXX2250 – –
MCD5-1600C 12500000 - – –

Table 4.10 North American Style (PSC 690)

Supply voltage Supply voltage Supply voltage

Model SCR I2t (A2s)
(<440 V AC) (<575 V AC) (<690 V AC)
MCD5-0021B 1150 6.9URD30D11A0050 6.9URD30D11A0050 6.9URD30D11A0050
MCD5-0037B 8000 6.9URD30D11A0125 6.9URD30D11A0125 6.9URD30D11A0125
MCD5-0043B 10500 6.9URD30D11A0125 6.9URD30D11A0125 6.9URD30D11A0125
MCD5-0053B 15000 6.9URD30D11A0125 6.9URD30D11A0125 6.9URD30D11A0125
MCD5-0068B 15000 6.9URD30D11A0160 6.9URD30D11A0160 6.9URD30D11A0160
MCD5-0084B 51200 6.9URD30D11A0200 6.9URD30D11A0200 6.9URD30D11A0200
MCD5-0089B 80000 6.9URD30D11A0200 6.9URD30D11A0200 6.9URD30D11A0200
MCD5-0105B 125000 6.9URD30D11A0315 6.9URD30D11A0315 6.9URD30D11A0315
MCD5-0131B 125000 6.9URD30D11A0315 6.9URD30D11A0315 6.9URD30D11A0315
MCD5-0141B 320000 6.9URD30D11A0315 6.9URD30D11A0315 6.9URD30D11A0315
MCD5-0195B 320000 6.9URD31D11A0450 6.9URD31D11A0450 6.9URD31D11A0450
MCD5-0215B 320000 6.9URD31D11A0450 6.9URD31D11A0450 6.9URD31D11A0450
MCD5-0245B 320000 6.9URD31D11A0450 6.9URD31D11A0450 6.9URD31D11A0450
MCD5-0331B 202000 6.9URD31D11A0550 – –
MCD5-0396B 320000 6.9URD32D11A0630 – –

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 33

 Electrical Installation VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

Supply voltage Supply voltage Supply voltage

Model SCR I2t (A2s)
(<440 V AC) (<575 V AC) (<690 V AC)
MCD5-0469B 320000 6.9URD32D11A0700 – –
MCD5-0525B 781000 6.9URD32D11A0800 – –
MCD5-0632B 781000 6.9URD33D11A0900 – –
MCD5-0744B 1200000 6.9URD33D11A1100 – –
MCD5-0826B 2530000 6.9URD33D11A1250 – –
MCD5-0961B 2530000 6.9URD33D11A1400 – –

4 4 MCD5-0245C
MCD5-0360C
320000
320000
6.9URD31D11A0450
6.9URD33D11A0630
6.9URD31D11A0450
6.9URD33D11A0630
6.9URD31D11A0450
6.9URD33D11A0630
MCD5-0380C 320000 6.9URD33D11A0700 6.9URD33D11A0700 6.9URD33D11A0700
MCD5-0428C 320000 6.9URD33D11A0700 6.9URD33D11A0700 6.9URD33D11A0700
MCD5-0595C 1200000 6.9URD33D11A1000 6.9URD33D11A1000 6.9URD33D11A1000
MCD5-0619C 1200000 6.9URD33D11A1000 6.9URD33D11A1000 6.9URD33D11A1000
MCD5-0790C 2530000 6.6URD33D11A1400 6.6URD33D11A1400 –
MCD5-0927C 4500000 6.6URD33D11A1400 6.6URD33D11A1400 –
MCD5-1200C 4500000 6URD233PLAF2200 6URD233PLAF2200 –
MCD5-1410C 6480000 6URD233PLAF2200 6URD233PLAF2200 –
MCD5-1600C 12500000 6URD233PLAF2800 6URD233PLAF2800 –

Table 4.11 European Style (PSC 690)

4.10.4 UL Fuse Selection and Short Circuit Ratings

Two short-circuit current ratings (SCCR) are available for UL-compliant applications.

Standard fault currents (@600 V AC circuits)

The standard fault currents are determined referring to UL 508, section 1, table 51.2. This standard specifies the short-circuit
current that the soft starter must withstand based on the horse power rating (or full load current (FLC) rating, or locked
rotor amps (LRA) depending on the model).
If using the standard fault current ratings, the fuse must be in accordance with the information in Table 4.12 (model- and
manufacturer-specific).
High available fault currents (@480 V AC circuits)
It is possible to specify short-circuit current ratings exceeding the minimum ratings set by the standard fault currents when
the soft starter is able to withstand the high available short-circuit current in accordance with the UL 508 test.
If using the high available fault current ratings, select a suitable fuse based on amperage and fuse class (J or L as
applicable).

34 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Electrical Installation Operating Guide

Model Nominal Short-circuit ratings 600 V short-

rating [A] High available Standard fault current circuit current
@480 V AC Maximum fuse @600 V AC [kA] Ferraz/Mersen Ferraz/Mersen rating [kA]
maximum [kA] rating [A] fuse, listed J, L, fuse, R/C 3 cycles1)
(fuse class) or RK5 class semiconductor
fuse fuses
MCD5-0021B 23 65 25 (J) 10 AJT25 A070URD30XXX
0063
MCD5-0037B 43 65 50 (J) 10 AJT50 A070URD30XXX
0125 4 4
MCD5-0043B 50 65 50 (J) 10 AJT50 A070URD30XXX
0125
MCD5-0053B 53 65 60 (J) 10 AJT60 A070URD30XXX
0125
MCD5-0068B 76 65 80 (J) 10 AJT80 A070URD30XXX
0200
MCD5-0084B 97 65 100 (J) 10 AJT100 A070URD30XXX
0200
N/A
MCD5-0089B 100 65 100 (J) 10 AJT100 A070URD30XXX
0200
MCD5-0105B 105 65 125 (J) 10 AJT125 A070URD30XXX
0315
MCD5-0131B 145 65 150 (J) 18 AJT150/RK5 200 A070URD30XXX
0315
MCD5-0141B 170 65 175 (J) 18 AJT175/RK5 200 A070URD30XXX
0315
MCD5-0195B 200 65 200 (J) 18 AJT200/RK5 300 A070URD30XXX
0450
MCD5-0215B 220 65 250 (J) 18 AJT250/RK5 300 A070URD30XXX
0450
MCD5-0245B 255 65 350 (RK1/J) 18 1) – 18
MCD5-0331B 350 65 400 (J) 18 1) – 3 cycles
MCD5-0396B 425 65 450 (J) 30 1) A070URD33XXX 30
0630 3 cycles
MCD5-0469B 500 65 600 (J) 30 600, Class J A070URD33XXX
0700
MCD5-0525B 580 65 800 (L) 30 800, Class L –
MCD5-0632B 700 65 800 (L) 42 800, Class L –
MCD5-0744B 820 65 1200 (L) 42 1200, Class L A070URD33XXX
1000
42
MCD5-0826B 920 65 1200 (L) 85 1200, Class L A070URD33XXX
3 cycles
1400
MCD5-0961B 1000 65 1200 (L) 85 1200, Class L A070URD33XXX
1400

Table 4.12 Short-circuit Ratings, Bypassed Models

XXX = blade type: See Ferraz/Mersen catalog for details.
1) When protected by any UL listed fuses or UL listed circuit breakers sized according to the NEC, models provided with a 3-cycle rating are
suitable for use in a circuit with the prospective current noted.

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 35

 Electrical Installation VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

Model Nominal Short-circuit ratings 600 V short-

rating [A] High available Standard fault current circuit current
@480 V AC Maximum fuse @600 V AC [kA] Ferraz/Mersen Ferraz/Mersen rating [kA]
maximum [kA] rating [A] fuse, listed J, L, fuse, R/C 3 cycles1)
(fuse class) or RK5 class semiconductor
fuse fuses
MCD5-0245C 255 65 350 (RK1/J) 18 AJT300 A070URD30XXX
0450

4 4 MCD5-0360C 360 65 400 (J) 18 AJT400/RK5 500 A070URD33XXX

0630
MCD5-0380C 380 65 450 (J) 18 AJT450/RK5 500 A070URD33XXX
0700
MCD5-0428C 430 65 450 (J) 30 AJT450 A070URD33XXX
0700
MCD5-0595C 620 65 800 (L) 42 A4BQ800 A070URD33XXX
1000
MCD5-0619C 650 65 800 (L) 42 A4BQ800 A070URD33XXX
N/A
1000
MCD5-0790C 790 65 1200 (L) 42 A4BQ1200 070URD33XXX1
400
MCD5-0927C 930 65 1200 (L) 42 A4BQ1200 A070URD33XXX
1400
MCD5-1200C 1200 65 1600 (L) 85 A4BQ1600 A065URD33XXX
1800
MCD5-1410C 1410 65 2000 (L) 85 A4BQ2000 A055URD33XXX
2250
MCD5-1600C 1600 65 2000 (L) 85 A4BQ2500 A055URD33XXX
2500

Table 4.13 Short-circuit Ratings, Non-bypassed Models

XXX = blade type: See Ferraz/Mersen catalog for details.
1) When protected by any UL listed fuses or UL listed circuit breakers sized according to the NEC, models provided with a 3-cycle rating are
suitable for use in a circuit with the prospective current noted.

36 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Electrical Installation Operating Guide

4.11 Schematic Diagrams

177HA425.10
1/L1 2/T1

3/L2 4/T2

5/L3 6/T3
4 4
E

A4 13

A5 14
1
A6 21

22
07 5
A 08 24

24
2
11 V DC 33

34
16 +

15

17 3
18

25

05

06 4

1 Control supply (model dependent) 11, 16 Programmable input

2 Outputs 15, 16 Start
3 Remote control inputs 17, 18 Stop
4 Motor thermistor input (PTC only) 25, 18 Reset
5 Relay outputs 13, 14 Relay output A
07, 08 Programmable analog output 21, 22, 24 Relay output B
16, 08 24 V DC output 33, 34 Relay output C

Illustration 4.21 Internally Bypassed Models

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 37

 Electrical Installation VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

177HA426.12
1/L1 1) 2/T1

L1B

3/L2 1) 4/T2

L2B

5/L3 1) 6/T3

4 4 L3B

A4 13

A5 14
1
A6 21

22
07+ 5
A 08 24

24
2
11 V DC 33

34
16 +

15

17 3
18

25

05

06 4

1 Control supply (model dependent) 11, 16 Programmable input

2 Outputs 15, 16 Start
3 Remote control inputs 17, 18 Stop
4 Motor thermistor input (PTC only) 25, 18 Reset
5 Relay outputs 13, 14 Relay output A
07, 08 Programmable analog output 21, 22, 24 Relay output B
16, 08 24 V DC output 33, 34 Relay output C

Illustration 4.22 Non-bypassed Models

1) MCD5-0245C current transformers are placed on the output. Bypass terminals are labeled T1B, T2B, and T3B.

38 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Product Features Operating Guide

5 Product Features

5.1 Motor Overload Protection capacity remaining to complete another start

successfully.
The thermal model used for motor overload in the soft
starter has 2 components:
• The memory function of the model ensures that
the motor is fully protected in warm-start
• Motor windings: The motor windings have a low situations. The model uses data from the real-
thermal capacity and affect the short-term
time clock to account for elapsed cooling time,
thermal behavior of the motor. The motor
even if control power has been removed.
windings are where the current generates heat.
• Motor body: The motor body has a large thermal
The overload protection function provided by this model is
compliant with a NEMA 10 curve, but provides superior 5 5
capacity and affects the long-term behavior of
protection at low levels of overload due to the separation
the motor. The thermal model includes consider-
of the winding thermal model.
ations for the following:
- Motor current.

177HA596.10
- Iron losses. 10000

- Winding resistance losses.

- Motor body and winding thermal
capacities. 1000
Time in seconds to reach 100% of thermal model

- Cooling during run and cooling at

standstill.
- The percentage of the rated capacity of 100
the motor. This sets the shown value for 3
the winding model and is affected by
2
the motor FLC setting among others.
10
NOTICE 1
Set parameter 1-1 Motor FLC to the rated motor FLC. Do
not add the overload rating as the soft starter calculates
this rating. 1
100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000

The thermal overload protection used in the soft starter

Current (%motor full load current)
has several advantages over the thermal relays.
1 MSTC1)=5
• The effect of fan cooling is accounted for when 2 MSTC1)=10
the motor is running.
3 MSTC1)=20
• The actual full load current and locked rotor time 1) MSTC is the motor start time constant. It is defined as the locked
can be used to tune the model more accurately. rotor time (in parameter 1-2 Locked Rotor Time) when the locked
The thermal characteristics of the windings are rotor current is 600% of FLC.
treated separately from the rest of the motor
(that is the model recognizes that the windings Illustration 5.1 Protection Degree Compared to Overload
have low thermal mass and high thermal
resistance).
• The winding portion of the thermal model 5.2 Adaptive Control
responds rapidly compared with the body
portion. Thus, the motor can be run closer to its Adaptive control is motor control based on the
safe maximum operating temperature while still performance characteristics of the motor. With adaptive
being protected from thermal damage. control, select the starting or stopping profile that best
matches the load type. The soft starter automatically
• The percentage of motor thermal capacity used
during each start is stored in memory. The soft controls the motor to match the profile. The VLT® Soft
starter can be configured to determine automat- Starter MCD 500 offers 3 profiles:
ically whether the motor has sufficient thermal

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 39

 Product Features VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

• Early acceleration and deceleration. - Set parameter 1-5 Initial Current to a

level that starts the motor with a light
• Constant acceleration and deceleration.
load.
• Late acceleration and deceleration.
- Set parameter 1-4 Current Limit to a level
Adaptive control uses 2 algorithms; 1 to measure the that starts the motor with a heavy load.
motor characteristics, and 1 to control the motor. The soft
starter uses the first start to determine the motor charac- • The load breaks away easily, but starting time
must be extended (for example a centrifugal
teristics at 0 speed and at maximum speed. During each
pump where pipeline pressure must build up
subsequent start and stop, the soft starter dynamically
slowly).
adjusts its control to ensure that the actual motor
performance matches the selected profile throughout the • The electricity supply is limited (for example a
start. If the actual speed is too low for the profile, the soft generator set), and a slower increase of load
5 5 starter increases power to the motor. If the speed is too allows more time for the supply to respond.
high, the soft starter decreases power.
700% 4

Current (% motor full load current)

5.3 Starting Modes
600%
5.3.1 Constant Current
500% 2
Constant current is the traditional form of soft starting. It 400% 3
raises the current from 0 to a specified level and keeps the
300%
current stable at that level until the motor has accelerated.
200%

Constant current starting is ideal for applications where the

177HA289.11
100% 1
start current must be kept below a specific level.

10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
700% 3 Time
Current (% motor full load current)

600% 1 Parameter 1-5 Initial current

500%
2 Parameter 1-6 Start ramp time
3 Parameter 1-4 Current limit
400% 2 4 Full voltage current
300%
1 Illustration 5.3 Example of a 10 s Current Ramp Time
200%
177HA289.11

100%
5.3.3 Adaptive Control
10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Rotor speed (% full speed) In an adaptive control soft start, the soft starter adjusts the
current to start the motor within a specified time and uses
1 Parameter 1-5 Initial current a selected acceleration profile.
2 Parameter 1-4 Current limit
3 Full voltage current NOTICE
Adaptive control cannot start the motor faster than a
Illustration 5.2 Example of Constant Current direct on-line (DOL) start. If the time set in parameter 1-6
Start ramp time is shorter than the motor DOL start time,
starting current may reach DOL levels.
5.3.2 Current Ramp
Every application has a particular starting profile based on
Current ramp soft starting raises the current from a characteristics of the load and the motor. To meet the
specified starting level (1) to a maximum limit (3), over an requirements of different applications, adaptive control
extended period (2), see Illustration 5.3. offers 3 different starting profiles. Selecting a profile that
matches the inherent profile of the application can help
Current ramp starting can be useful for applications where: smooth out acceleration across the full start time. Selecting
• The load can vary between starts (for example a a different adaptive control profile can neutralize the
conveyor, which may start loaded or unloaded). inherent profile to some extent.

40 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Product Features Operating Guide

To use adaptive control to control starting performance: 5.3.4 Kick-start

1. Select Adaptive control in parameter 1-3 Start
Mode. Kick-start provides a short boost of extra torque at the
2. Set parameter 1-6 Start Ramp Time. beginning of a start and can be used with current ramp or
constant current starting.
3. Select the wanted profile in parameter 1-13
Adaptive Start Profile.
Kick-start can be useful to help start loads that require
4. Set parameter 1-4 Current Limit sufficiently high to high breakaway torque but then accelerate easily once
allow a successful start. they are started (for example flywheel loads such as
The 1st adaptive control start is a constant current start. presses).
This start type allows the soft starter to learn the charac-
teristics of the connected motor. The soft starter uses this
motor data during subsequent adaptive control starts.
700% 6 5 5

Current (% motor full load current)

600%
2
4 500% 1
100%
90% 400% 5
80% 4
70% 300%
60% 1
Speed

50%
200%
3

177HA508.10
40%
2 100%
30%
20%
177HA507.10

3
10% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
0 Rotor speed (% full speed)
Time

1 Parameter 1-7 Kick-start Level

1 Early acceleration
2 Parameter 1-8 Kick-start Time
2 Constant acceleration
3 Parameter 1-5 Initial Current
3 Late acceleration
4 Parameter 1-6 Start Ramp Time
4 Parameter 1-16 Start Ramp Time
5 Parameter 1-4 Current Limit
6 Full voltage current
Illustration 5.4 Parameter 1-13 Adaptive Start Profile

Illustration 5.5 Example of Rotor Speed when using Kick-start

NOTICE
Adaptive control regulates the load according to the
5.4 Stopping Modes
programmed profile. Start current varies according to the
selected acceleration profile and the programmed start 5.4.1 Coast to Stop
time.
The soft starter has to learn the characteristics of a new Coast to stop lets the motor slow at its natural rate, with
motor: no control from the soft starter. The time required to stop
• If replacing a motor connected to a soft starter depends on the type of load.
programmed for adaptive control starting or
stopping. 5.4.2 TVR Soft Stop
• If the soft starter has been tested on a different
motor before actual installation. Timed voltage ramp reduces the voltage to the motor
gradually over a defined time. The load may continue to
If parameter 1-1 Motor Full Load Current or parameter
run after the stop ramp is complete.
1-12 Adaptive Control Gain is changed, the soft starter
automatically relearns the motor characteristics.
Timed voltage ramp stopping can be useful for
applications where the stop time has to be extended, or to
avoid transients on generator-set supplies.

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 41

 Product Features VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

1 of the connected motor. The soft starter uses this motor

data during subsequent adaptive control stops.
100%
90% NOTICE
80% Adaptive control regulates the load according to the
Volt age (% full volt age)

70% programmed profile. Stopping current varies according

60% to the selected deceleration profile and stop time.
50% The soft starter has to learn the characteristics of a new
40% motor:
30% • If replacing a motor connected to a soft starter
programmed for adaptive control starting or
5 5
20%
stopping.
10%

177HA509.10
• If the soft starter has been tested on a different
Time motor before actual installation.

1 Parameter 1-11 Stop Time If parameter 1-1 Motor Full Load Current or parameter
1-12 Adaptive Control Gain is changed, the soft starter
Illustration 5.6 TVR Soft Stop automatically relearns the motor characteristics.

5.4.4 Pump Stopping

5.4.3 Adaptive Control
The hydraulic characteristics of pump systems vary consid-
To use adaptive control to control stopping performance: erably. This variation means that the ideal deceleration
1. Select Adaptive control from the Stop Mode menu. profile and stop time vary from application to application.
Table 5.1 provides guidelines on selecting between
2. Set parameter 1-11 Stop Time.
adaptive control profiles. For identification of the best
3. Select the required profile in parameter 1-14 profile for the application, test all 3 profiles.
Adaptive Stop Profile.
4 Adaptive stop Application
100% profile
90% Late deceleration High-head systems, where even a small
80% decrease in motor/pump speed results in a
70%
rapid transition between forward flow and
60% 1 2 3
Speed

50%
reverse flow.
40% Constant Low to medium head, high-flow
30% deceleration applications, where the fluid has high
20%
momentum.
177HA510.10

10%
0
Early deceleration Open pump systems, where fluid must drain
Time back through the pump without driving the
1 Early deceleration pump in reverse.
2 Constant deceleration
Table 5.1 Selection of Adaptive Control Deceleration Profiles
3 Late deceleration
4 Parameter 1-10 Stop Time
5.4.5 Brake
Illustration 5.7 Parameter 1-14 Adaptive Stop Profile
A brake reduces the required stop time of the motor.

During braking, an increased noise level from the motor

NOTICE may be audible. This noise is a normal part of motor
Adaptive control does not actively slow the motor down
braking.
and does not stop the motor faster than a coast to stop.
To shorten the stopping time of high-inertia loads, use a
brake function, see chapter 5.4.5 Brake.

The first adaptive control stop is a normal soft stop. This

stop type allows the soft starter to learn the characteristics

42 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Product Features Operating Guide

CAUTION too low, the motor does not stop completely and
coasts to stop by the end of the braking period.
EQUIPMENT DAMAGE
100%
If the brake torque is set too high, the motor stops
before the end of the brake time. The motor suffers
unnecessary heating, which could result in damage.
Careful configuration is required to ensure safe operation 70%
of the soft starter and the motor. 3
A high brake torque setting can result in peak currents

Speed
up to motor DOL being drawn while the motor is
30%
stopping. Ensure that protection fuses installed in the
motor branch circuit are selected appropriately.

0%
5 5
CAUTION
177HA511.10
2
1
RISK OF OVERHEATING Time
Brake operation causes the motor to heat faster than the
rate calculated by the motor thermal model. If using 1 Parameter 1-11 Stop Time
brake functionality, install a motor thermistor or allow 2 Parameter 1-16 Brake Time
sufficient restart delay (parameter 2-11 Restart Delay). 3 Coast to stop time

When brake is selected, the soft starter uses DC injection Illustration 5.8 Brake Time
to slow the motor.

Braking
NOTICE
• Does not require the use of a DC brake contactor.
When using DC brake:
• Controls all 3 phases so that the braking currents
1. Connect the mains supply to the soft starter
and associated heating are evenly distributed
(input terminals L1, L2, L3) in positive phase
through the motor.
sequence.
Braking has 2 stages:
2. Set parameter 2-1 Phase Sequence to Positive
1. Prebrake: Provides an intermediate level of
only.
braking to slow motor speed to a point where
full brake can be operated successfully (approxi-
mately 70% speed). NOTICE
2. Full brake: Provides maximum braking torque but For loads which may vary between braking cycles, install
is ineffective at speeds greater than approxi- a zero-speed sensor to ensure that the soft starter ends
mately 70%. DC braking when the motor stops. This installation
avoids unnecessary heating of the motor.
To configure the VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 for brake
operation:
1. Set parameter 1-11 Stop Time for the wanted For more information on using the MCD 500 with an
stopping time duration (1), see Illustration 5.8. The external speed sensor (for example for applications with
stop time is the total brake time. Set the stop variable load during the braking cycle), see chapter 5.12 DC
time sufficiently longer than the brake time Brake with External Zero-speed Sensor.
(parameter 1-16 Brake Time) to allow the 5.5 Jog Operation
prebraking stage to reduce motor speed to
approximately 70%. If the stop time is too short, Jog runs the motor at reduced speed to allow alignment
braking is not successful and the motor coasts to of the load or to assist servicing. The motor can be jogged
stop. in either forward or reverse direction.
2. Set parameter 1-16 Brake Time to approximately
25% of the programmed stop time. The brake The maximum available torque for jog forward is approxi-
time sets the time for the full brake-stage (2), see mately 50–75% of motor full load torque (FLT) depending
Illustration 5.8. on the motor. When the motor is jogged in reverse, the
torque is approximately 25–50% of FLT. Parameter 15-8 Jog
3. Adjust parameter 1-15 Brake Torque so that the
Torque controls how much of the maximum available jog
wanted stopping performance is achieved. If set
torque the soft starter applies to the motor.

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 43

 Product Features VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

NOTICE CAUTION
Setting parameter 15-8 Jog Torque above 50% may cause
REDUCED MOTOR COOLING
increased shaft vibration.
Slow speed running is not intended for continuous
operation due to reduced motor cooling. Jog operation
100%
causes the motor to heat faster than the rate calculated
90% by the motor thermal model.
80%
• If using jog, install a motor thermistor, or allow
70% sufficient restart delay (parameter 2-11 Restart
60% 3 3 Delay).
50%

5 5 40%
30%
5.6 Inside Delta Operation
1 Adaptive control, jog, and brake functions are not
20%
supported in inside delta (6-wire) operation. If these
10%
functions are programmed when the soft starter is
0%
177HA512.11 connected inside delta, the behavior is as in Table 5.2:
10%
20% Adaptive The soft starter performs a constant current start.
2
30% control
40% start

50% Adaptive If stop time is >0 s, the starter performs a TVR soft
control stop. If stop time is set to 9 s, the starter performs a
1 Jog forward stop coast to stop.

2 Jog reverse Jog The soft starter issues a warning with the error
message Unsupported Option.
3 Normal operation
Brake The starter performs a coast to stop.

Illustration 5.9 Jog Operation Table 5.2 Inside Delta Behavior at Adaptive Control, Jog,
and Brake

To activate jog operation, use a programmable input NOTICE

(parameter 3-3 Input A Function).
When connected in inside delta, current imbalance is the
only phase loss protection that is active during run. Do
To stop a jog operation, perform either of the following: not disable parameter 2-2 Current Imbalance during
• Remove the jog command. inside delta operation.
• Press [Off] on the LCP.
• Activate Starter disable using the LCP NOTICE
programmable inputs. Inside delta operation is only possible with mains
If the jog command is still present, jog recommences at voltage ≤600 V AC.
the end of a restart delay. All other commands except the
ones listed are ignored during jog operation.

NOTICE
Soft start and soft stop are not available during jog
operation. Jog is only available for the primary motor.

44 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Product Features Operating Guide

5.7 Typical Start Currents Pulp and paper

To determine the typical start current for an application, Dryer 4.5 x FLC
use this information. Repulper 4.5 x FLC
Shredder 4.5 x FLC

NOTICE Table 5.6 Typical Start Currents for Pulp and Paper Applications
These start current requirements are appropriate and
typical in most circumstances. However, the performance Petrochemical
and start torque requirements of motors and machines
do vary. For further assistance, contact the local Danfoss Ball mill 4.5 x FLC
supplier. Centrifuge 4.0 x FLC

General and water

Extruder
Screw conveyor
5.0 x FLC
4.0 x FLC
5 5
Agitator 4.0 x FLC Table 5.7 Typical Start Currents for Petrochemical Applications
Centrifugal pump 3.5 x FLC
Compressor (screw, unloaded) 3.0 x FLC Transport and machine tool
Compressor (reciprocating, unloaded) 4.0 x FLC
Ball mill 4.5 x FLC
Conveyor 4.0 x FLC
Grinder 3.5 x FLC
Fan (damped) 3.5 x FLC
Material conveyor 4.0 x FLC
Fan (undamped) 4.5 x FLC
Palletizer 4.5 x FLC
Mixer 4.5 x FLC
Press 3.5 x FLC
Positive displacement pump 4.0 x FLC
Roller mill 4.5 x FLC
Submersible pump 3.0 x FLC
Rotary table 4.0 x FLC
Table 5.3 Typical Start Currents for General and Water
Table 5.8 Typical Start Currents for Transport and Machine
Applications
Tool Applications

Metals and mining

Lumber and wood products
Belt conveyor 4.5 x FLC
Bandsaw 4.5 x FLC
Dust collector 3.5 x FLC
Chipper 4.5 x FLC
Grinder 3.0 x FLC
Circular saw 3.5 x FLC
Hammer mill 4.5 x FLC
Debarker 3.5 x FLC
Rock crusher 4.0 x FLC
Edger 3.5 x FLC
Roller conveyor 3.5 x FLC
Hydraulic power pack 3.5 x FLC
Roller mill 4.5 x FLC
Planer 3.5 x FLC
Tumbler 4.0 x FLC
Sander 4.0 x FLC
Wire draw-machine 5.0 x FLC
Table 5.9 Typical Start Currents for Lumber and Wood
Table 5.4 Typical Start Currents for Metals and Mining
Products Applications
Applications

Food processing

Bottle washer 3.0 x FLC

Centrifuge 4.0 x FLC
Dryer 4.5 x FLC
Mill 4.5 x FLC
Palletizer 4.5 x FLC
Separator 4.5 x FLC
Slicer 3.0 x FLC

Table 5.5 Typical Start Currents for Food Processing

Applications

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 45

 Product Features VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

5.8 Installation with Main Contactor

The VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 is installed with a main contactor (AC3 rated). Supply control voltage from the input side of
the contactor.
The soft starter main contactor output controls the main contactor. The main contactor output is by default assigned to
output relay A (terminals 13, 14).

K1 F
1/L1 2/T1

5 5
3/L2 4/T2
6 7

5/L3 6/T3

A4 13

A5 14
1
A6 21 K1

22
07
+ 5
A 08 24

24 2
11 VD 33

34
16 +

15

17
S1 3
18

S2 25

05

06 4
177HA522.1

1 Control voltage (model dependent) K1 Main contactor

2 24 V DC output F1 Semiconductor fuses (optional)
3 Remote control inputs S1 Start/stop
4 Motor thermistor input (PTC only) S2 Reset contact
5 Relay outputs 13, 14 Relay output A
6 3-phase supply 21, 22, 24 Relay output B
7 Motor terminals 33, 34 Relay output C

Illustration 5.10 Installation with Main Contactor

Parameter settings:
• Parameter 4-1 Relay A Function
- Select Main contactor - assigns the main contactor function to relay output A (default value).

46 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Product Features Operating Guide

5.9 Installation with Bypass Contactor

The VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 is installed with a bypass contactor (AC1 rated). The soft starter run output controls the
bypass contactor. The run output is by default assigned to output relay B (terminals 21, 22, 24).

K1

F1
1/L1 2/T1

5 5
L1B

6 3/L2 4/T2 7
L2B

5/L3 6/T3

L3B

A4 13

A5 14
1
A6 21

22
07
+ 5
A 08 24

24 2 K1
11 VD 33

34
16 +

S1 15

17
S2 3
18

S3 25

05

06 4
177HA523.1

1 Control voltage (model dependent) K1 Bypass contactor

2 24 V DC output F1 Semiconductor fuses (optional)
3 Remote control inputs S1 Start contact
4 Motor thermistor input (PTC only) S2 Stop contact
5 Relay outputs S3 Reset contact
6 3-phase supply 13, 14 Relay output A
7 Motor terminals 21, 22, 24 Relay output B
33, 34 Relay output C

Illustration 5.11 Installation with Bypass Contactor

Parameter settings:
• Parameter 4-4 Relay B Function.
- Select Run - assigns the run output function to output relay B (default value).

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 47

 Product Features VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

5.10 Emergency Run Operation

In normal operation, the VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 is controlled via a remote 2-wire signal (terminals 17, 18).

A 2-wire circuit connected to input A (terminals 11, 16) controls emergency run. Closing input A causes the soft starter to
run the motor and ignore all trip conditions.

K1 F
1/L1 2/T1

5 5 6
3/L2 4/T2
7

5/L3 6/T3

A4 13

A5 14
1
A6 21

22
07
+ 5
A 08 24

24 2
11 VD 33
S3

34
16 +

15

17
S1 3
18

S2 25

05

06 4
177HA524.1

1 Control voltage (model dependent) S1 Start/stop contact

2 24 V DC output S2 Reset contact
3 Remote control inputs S3 Emergency run contact
4 Motor thermistor input (PTC only) 13, 14 Relay output A
5 Relay outputs 21, 22, 24 Relay output B
6 3-phase supply 33, 34 Relay output C
7 Motor terminals

Illustration 5.12 Emergency Run Operation

Parameter settings:
• Parameter 3-3 Input A Function.
- Select Emergency Run - assigns input A to emergency run function.
• Parameter 15-3 Emergency Run.

48 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Product Features Operating Guide

- Select Enable - enables the emergency run-mode.

NOTICE
Although Emergency run fulfills the functionality requirements of fire mode, Danfoss does not recommend its use in
situations that require testing and/or compliance with specific standards as it is not certified.

5.11 Auxiliary Trip Circuit

In normal operation, the VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 is controlled via a remote 2-wire signal (terminals 17, 18).

Input A (terminals 11, 16) is connected to an external trip circuit (such as a low-pressure alarm switch for a pumping
system). When the external circuit activates, the soft starter trips and stops the motor. 5 5
K1 F
1/L1 2/T1

3/L2 4/T2
6 7

5/L3 6/T3

A4 13

A5 14
1
A6 21

22
07
+ 5
A 08 24

24 2
VD 33
S3 11

34
16 +

15

17
S1 3
18

S2 25

05

06 4
177HA525.1

1 Control voltage (model dependent) S1 Start/stop contact

2 24 V DC output S2 Reset contact
3 Remote control inputs S3 Auxiliary trip contact
4 Motor thermistor input (PTC only) 13, 14 Relay output A
5 Relay outputs 21, 22, 24 Relay output B
6 3-phase supply 33, 34 Relay output C
7 Motor terminals

Illustration 5.13 Auxiliary Trip Circuit

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 49

 Product Features VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

Parameter settings:
• Parameter 3-3 Input A Function.
- Select Input Trip (N/O) - assigns input A to auxiliary trip (N/O) function.
• Parameter 3-4 Input A Name.
- Select a name, for example Low Pressure - assigns a name to input A.
• Parameter 3-8 Remote Reset Logic.
- Select as required, for example Normally Closed - the input behaves like a normally closed contact.

5.12 DC Brake with External Zero-speed 3

Sensor
5 5
L1 L2 L3 N E

For loads varying between braking cycles, there are

benefits in using an external zero-speed sensor to interface -F1
-K10 -A2

with the VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 for brake shut-off. This
6
control method ensures that the MCD 500 braking always
shuts off when the motor has reached a standstill, thus L1 L2 L3 E A4 A5 A6 15 16 17 18 25
5
avoiding unnecessary motor heating. 1
2

177HA619.20
T1 T2 T3 11 16 -K10 -K11

Illustration 5.14 shows how to use a zero-speed sensor with

the MCD 500 to turn off the brake function at motor
-K11 -K10
standstill. The zero-speed sensor (-A2) is often referred to
as an underspeed detector. Its internal contact is open at 0 T1 T2 T3
A B C D E

speed and closed at any speed above 0 speed. Once the -K10

motor has reached a standstill, terminals 11 and 16 open, 3

M
-K11

and the soft starter is disabled. When the next start

4 4
command is given, that is next application of K10,
terminals 11 and 16 close, and the soft starter is enabled.
1 Control voltage 15, 16 Start
2 Motor terminals 17, 18 Stop
Operate the MCD 500 in auto-on mode and set parameter
3 3-phase supply 25, 18 Reset
3-3 Input A Function to Starter disable.
4 Starter disable A Off (ready)
(shown on soft
starter display)
5 Start signal (2-, 3-, B Start
or 4-wire)
6 Zero-speed detect C Run
7 Zero-speed sensor D Stop
E Zero speed

Illustration 5.14 Turning Off Brake Function at Standstill with

Zero-speed Sensor

For details on configuring DC Brake, see chapter 5.4.5 Brake.

NOTICE
When using DC brake, connect the mains supply to the
soft starter (input terminals L1, L2, L3) in positive phase
sequence. Then set parameter 2-1 Phase Sequence to
Positive only.

50 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Product Features Operating Guide

5.13 Soft Braking

For high inertia loads, the VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 can be configured for soft braking.

In this application, the MCD 500 is employed with forward run and braking contactors. When the soft starter receives a start
signal (push-button S1), it closes the forward run contactor (K1) and controls the motor according to the programmed
primary motor settings.

When the soft starter receives a stop signal (push-button S2), it opens the forward run contactor (K1) and closes the braking
contactor (K2) after a delay of approximately 2–3 s (KT1). K12 is also closed to activate the secondary motor settings, which
are user-programmed for the wanted stopping performance characteristics.

When motor speed approaches 0, the external zero-speed sensor (A2) stops the soft starter and opens the braking contactor
5 5
(K2).

5
F1

1/L13/L2 5/L3 A4 A5 A6 05 06 33 K3T

1 3
3
64
6 2
2/T1 4/T2 6/T3 E 54 55 56 57 58 34
53
K12 K11 S3

K10 K12 S2 K13 A2

K2 K1

K2T K1T S1 K10 K1 K2 K10 K1 Y1 K1T K2 Y1 K2T K3T

Y2 Y2

177HA526.12
K1 K2 K10 K11 K12 K13

M1

1 Control voltage (model dependent) K10 Run relay

2 Remote control inputs K11 Start relay
3 Motor thermistor input (PTC only) K12 Brake relay
4 Relay outputs K13 Zero-speed detector relay
5 3-phase supply K1 Line contactor (run)
6 Motor terminals K2 Line contactor (brake)
A2 Zero-speed sensor K1T Run delay timer
S1 Start contact K2T Brake delay timer
S2 Stop contact K3T Zero-speed detector delay timer
S3 Reset contact

Illustration 5.15 Soft Braking Configuration

Parameter settings:
• Parameter 3-3 Input A Function.
- Select Motor Set Select - assigns input A for motor set selection.
- Set starting performance characteristics using the primary motor set (parameter group 1 Primary Motor
Settings).

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 51

 Product Features VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

- Set braking performance characteristics using the secondary motor settings (parameter group 7 Secondary
Motor Set).
• Parameter 4-7 Relay C Function.
- Select Trip - assigns trip function to output relay C.

NOTICE
If the soft starter trips on supply frequency (parameter 16-5 Frequency) when the braking contactor K2 opens, modify
the settings of parameters 2-8 to 2-10.

5.14 Two-speed Motor

5 5 The VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 can be configured for control of 2-speed Dahlander type motors, using a high-speed
contactor (K1), low-speed contactor (K2), and a star contactor (K3).

NOTICE
Pole amplitude modulated (PAM) motors alter the speed by effectively changing the stator frequency using external
winding configuration. Soft starters are not suitable for use with this type of 2-speed motor.

When the soft starter receives a high-speed start signal, it closes the high-speed contactor (K1) and star contactor (K3). Then
it controls the motor according to the primary motor settings (parameters 1-1 to 1-16).

When the soft starter receives a low-speed start signal, it closes the low-speed contactor (K2). This action closes input A and
the soft starter controls the motor according to the secondary motor settings (parameters 7-1 to 7-16).

NOTICE
If the soft starter trips on supply frequency (16-5 Frequency) when the high-speed start signal (7) is removed, modify the
settings of parameters 2-8 to 2-10.

52 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Product Features Operating Guide

K3

T4

T5

T6

F1
K2
T1
5
1/L1 2/T1
4 3/L2 4/T2
T2

T3
5/L3 6/T3
K1
E
A4

A5

A6
1 K3 K1
5 5
11 K11 K2 K3
K10 21
16 24
3 K10 K3 K1
15 22
K1
K2
K2 17 2
18 K11
177HA527.1

S1 25 6 K10

K10

7 K11

1 Control voltage 6 Remote low-speed start input K2 Line contactor (low speed)
2 Remote control inputs 7 Remote high-speed start input K3 Star contactor (high speed)
3 Relay outputs K10 Remote start relay (low speed) S1 Reset contact
4 3-phase supply K11 Remote start relay (high speed) 21, 22, 24 Relay output B
5 Motor terminals K1 Line contactor (high speed)

Illustration 5.16 Two-speed Motor Configuration

NOTICE
Contactors K2 and K3 must be mechanically interlocked.

Parameter settings:
• Parameter 3-3 Input A Function.
- Select Motor Set Select - assigns input A for motor set selection.
- Set high-speed performance characteristics using parameters 1-1 to 2-9.
- Set low-speed performance characteristics using parameters 7-1 to 7-16.
• Parameter 4-4 Relay B Function.
- Select Trip - assigns trip function to relay output B.

NOTICE
If the soft starter trips on supply frequency (parameter 16-5 Frequency) when the high-speed signal (7) is removed,
modify the settings of parameters 2-9 to 2-10.

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 53

 Operation VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

6 Operation

6.1 Control Methods

The VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 can be controlled:
• Via the control keys on the LCP (local control).
• Via the remote inputs (remote control).
• Via the serial communication network.

Control functions
• Local control is only available in hand-on mode.
• Remote control is only available in auto-on mode.
6 6 • Control via the serial communication network is always disabled in hand-on mode. Enable or disable start/stop
commands via the serial network in auto-on mode by changing the setting of parameter 3-2 Comms in Remote.

The MCD 500 can also be configured to autostart or autostop. Autostart/stop operation is only available in auto-on mode. In
hand-on mode, the soft starter ignores any autostart/stop setting. To configure autostart/stop operation, set parameters 5-1
to 5-4.

To switch between hand-on mode and auto-on mode, press the keys on the LCP.
• [Hand On]: Start the motor and enter hand-on mode.
• [Off]: Stop the motor and enter hand-on mode.
• [Auto On]: Set the soft starter to auto-on mode.
• [Reset]: Reset a trip (hand-on mode only).

The MCD 500 can also be set to allow local control only or remote control only, using parameter 3-1 Local/Remote.

If parameter 3-1 Local/Remote is set to Remote Control Only, the [Off] key is disabled. Stop the motor by remote control or via
the serial communication network.

Hand-on mode Auto-on mode

To soft start the motor. Press [Hand On] on the LCP. Activate the Start remote input.
To stop the motor. Press [Off] on the LCP. Activate the Stop remote input.
To reset a trip on the soft starter. Press [Reset] on the LCP. Activate the Reset remote input.
Autostart/stop operation. Disabled. Enabled.

Table 6.1 Start, Stop, and Reset in Hand-on Mode and Auto-on Mode

To stop the motor with a coast to stop, regardless of the setting in parameter 1-10 Stop Mode, press [Off] and [Reset] at the
same time. The soft starter removes power from the motor and opens the main contactor, and the motor coasts to stop.

NOTICE
Brake and jog functions operate only with in-line connected motors (see chapter 5.6 Inside Delta Operation).

54 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Operation Operating Guide

6.2 Operation and LCP 6.2.2 The LCP

6.2.1 Operating Modes

177HA383.10
In hand-on mode:
• To soft start the motor, press [Hand On] on the
LCP. 1

• To stop the motor, press [Off] on the LCP.

• To reset a trip on the soft starter, press [Reset] on 2
the LCP.
• To stop the motor with a coast to stop, regardless
of the setting of parameter 1-10 Stop mode, press 3
[Off] and [Reset] at the same time. The soft
starter removes power from the motor and opens
the main contactor, and then the motor coasts to 4 6 6
stop.
®
In auto-on mode:
• To soft start the motor, activate the Start remote
input. 5

• To stop the motor, activate the Stop remote input.

• To reset a trip on the soft starter, activate the 1 4-line display for status and programming details.
Reset remote input. 2 Display control keys:
[Status]: Returns to the status displays.
NOTICE
[Quick Menu]: Opens the Quick Menu.
Brake and jog functions operate only with in-line
connected motors (see chapter 4.3.3 Inside Delta Instal- [Main Menu]: Opens the Main Menu.
lation). [Alarm Log]: Opens the Alarm Log.

3 Menu navigation keys:

[Back]: Exits the menu or parameter, or cancels a
parameter change.

[OK]: Enters a menu or parameter, or saves a

parameter change.

[▲]/[▼]:

Scroll to the next or previous menu or

parameter.

Change the setting of the current

parameter.

Scroll through the status screens.

4 Soft starter local control keys:

[Hand On]: Starts the motor and enters local
control mode.

[Off]: Stops the motor (only active in hand-on

mode).

[Auto On]: Sets the soft starter to auto-on mode.

[Reset]: Resets a trip (hand-on mode only).

5 Remote input status indicators.

Illustration 6.1 LCP Layout

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 55

 Operation VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

6.3 Remote-mounted LCP NOTICE

While the LCP synchronizes, only the [▲], [▼], [OK], and
A remote-mounted LCP can be installed with the VLT® Soft
[Off] keys are enabled.
Starter MCD 500. The control panel LCP 501 can be
mounted up to 3 m (9.8 ft) away from the soft starter, for
control and monitoring. NOTICE
The LCP can be removed or replaced while the soft
The soft starter can be controlled and programmed from starter is running. It is not necessary to remove mains or
either the remote LCP or the LCP on the soft starter. Both control voltage.
displays show the same information.
6.4 Welcome Screen
The remote LCP also allows parameter settings to be
copied between soft starters. When control power is applied, the soft starter shows the
welcome screen.

6 6 6.3.1 Synchronizing the LCP and the Soft

Starter Ready S1
Welcome
1.05/2.0/1.13
The DB9 cable can be connected/disconnected from the
MCD5-0053-T5-G1-
LCP while the soft starter runs.
CV2

The first time an LCP is plugged into a soft starter, the soft
Third display line: Software versions for remote LCP, control software,
starter copies its parameter settings to the LCP.
model software.
Fourth display line: Product model number.

New display detected NOTICE

The LCP version is only shown if a remote LCP 501 is
connected when control power is applied. If no remote
LCP is present, only the control software and model
If the LCP has previously been used with a VLT® Soft
software versions are shown.
Starter MCD 500, select whether to copy the parameters
from the LCP to the soft starter, or from the soft starter to
the LCP. 6.5 Local Control Keys
If parameter 3-1 Local/Remote is set to LCL/RMT Anytime or
To select the required option: LCL/RMT When OFF, the [Hand On] and [Auto On] keys are
1. Press the [▲] and [▼] keys. always active. If the soft starter is in auto-on mode,
A dotted line surrounds the selected option. pressing [Hand On] enters hand-on mode and starts the
motor.
2. Press [OK] to proceed with the Copy Parameters
selection. If parameter 3-1 Local/Remote is set to Remote Control Only,
the [Off] key is disabled. Stop the motor by remote control
2a Display to soft starter.
or via the serial communication network.
2b Soft starter to display.
6.6 Displays
Copy parameters
The LCP shows a wide range of performance information
Display to soft starter
about the soft starter. Press [Status] to access the status
Soft starter to display
display screens, then press [▲] and [▼] to select the
information to be shown. To return to the status screens
NOTICE from within a menu, press [Back] repeatedly, or press
[Status]. Available status information:
If the parameter software version in the LCP is different
from the software version of the soft starter, only Starter
to Display is available. • Temperature monitoring.
• Programmable screen (see parameters 8-2 to 8-5).
• Current.
• Frequency.

56 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Operation Operating Guide

• Motor power. 6.6.5 Frequency Monitoring Screen (S5)

• Last start information.
The frequency screen shows the mains frequency as
• Date and time. measured by the soft starter.
• SCR conduction bar graph.
• Performance graphs. Ready S5
MS1 000.0A 000.0kW
NOTICE 00.0Hz
Screens shown here are with the default settings.

6.6.6 Motor Power Screen (S6)

6.6.1 Temperature Monitoring Screen (S1)
The motor power screen shows motor power (kW, hp, and
The temperature screen shows the temperature of the kVA) and power factor.
motor as a percentage of total thermal capacity. It also
shows which motor data set is in use.
Ready S6 6 6
MS1 000.0A 000.0kW
The temperature monitoring screen is the default status 000.0kW 0000HP
screen. 0000kVA -. - - pf

Ready S1
6.6.7 Last Start Information (S7)
MS1 000.0A 000.0kW
Primary Motor Set
The last start information screen shows details of the most
M1 000%
recent successful start:
• Start duration, (s).
6.6.2 Programmable Screen (S2)
• Maximum start current drawn (as a percentage of
motor full load current).
The user-programmable screen of the soft starter can be
configured to show the most important information for the • Calculated rise in motor temperature.
particular application. Use parameters 8-2 to 8-5 to select
Ready S7
which information to show.
MS1 000.0A 000.0kW
Last start 000 s
Ready S2
000% FLC ΔTemp 0%
MS1 000.0A 000.0kW
-.-- pf
00000 hrs 6.6.8 Date and Time (S8)

The date and time screen shows the current system date
6.6.3 Average Current (S3)
and time (24-hour format). For details on setting the date
and time, see chapter 9.1 Set Date and Time.
The average current screen shows the average current of
all 3 phases.
Ready S8
MS1 000.0A 000.0kW
Ready S3
YYYY MMM DD
MS1 000.0A 000.0kW
HH:MM:SS
0.0A

6.6.4 Current Monitoring Screen (S4)

The current screen shows real-time line current on each

phase.

Ready S4
MS1 000.0A 000.0kW
Phase currents
000.0A 000.0A 000.0A

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 57

 Operation VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

6.6.9 SCR Conduction Bar Graph

The SCR conduction bar graph shows the level of

conduction on each phase.

177HA513.10
Illustration 6.2 Bar Graph

6.6.10 Performance Graphs

6 6
The VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 can show real-time
performance information for:
• Current.
• Motor temperature.
• Motor kW.
• Motor kVA.
• Motor power factor.
The newest information is shown at the right side of the
screen. Older data is not stored. To allow past performance
to be analyzed, the graph can also be paused. To pause or
unpause the graph, press and hold [OK] for more than
0.5 s.

NOTICE
The soft starter does not collect data while the graph is
paused. When graphing resumes, a small gap is shown
between the old data and the new data.

58 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Programming Operating Guide

7 Programming

It is possible to access the programming menus at any 7.2 Quick Menu

time, including while the soft starter is running. All
changes take effect immediately. [Quick Menu] provides access to the menus for setting up
the soft starter for simple applications.
7.1 Access Control
A 4-digit security access code protects critical parameters 7.2.1 Quick Set-up
(parameter group 15 Restricted Parameters and higher),
preventing unauthorized users from viewing or modifying Quick set-up provides access to commonly used
parameter settings. parameters, allowing configuration of the soft starter as
required for the application. For details of individual
If attempts are made to enter a restricted parameter group, parameters, see chapter 8 Parameter Descriptions.
the LCP prompts for an access code. The access code is
requested once for the programming session, and authori- 1 Primary Mtr Set
zation continues until the menu is closed. 1-1 Motor FLC
1-3 Start Mode 7 7
To enter the access code: 1-4 Current Limit
1. Press [Back] and [OK] to select a digit. 1-5 Initial Current

2. Press [▲] and [▼] to change the value. 1-6 Start Ramp Time
1-9 Excess Start Time
3. When all 4 digits match the access code, press
1-10 Stop Mode
[OK].
1-11 Stop Time
The LCP shows an acknowledgement message before 2 Protection
continuing. 2-1 Phase Sequence
2-4 Undercurrent
Enter Access Code 2-5 Undercurrent Dly
#### 2-6 Inst Overcurrent
OK 2-7 Inst Overcurrent Dly
Access Allowed 3 Inputs
SUPERVISOR 3-3 Input A Function
3-4 Input A Name
To change the access code, use parameter 15-1 Access Code. 3-5 Input A Trip
3-6 Input A Trip Dly
NOTICE 3-7 Input A Initial Dly
The security access code also protects the protection 4 Outputs
simulation and output simulation. The counters and 4-1 Relay A Function
thermal model reset can be viewed without entering an 4-2 Relay A On Delay
access code, but an access code must be entered to 4-3 Relay A Off Delay
reset. 4-4 Relay B Function
The default access code is 0000. 4-5 Relay B On Delay
4-6 Relay B Off Delay
To prevent users from altering parameter settings, lock the 4-7 Relay C Function
menus. The adjustment lock can be set to allow Read & 4-8 Relay C On Delay
Write, Read Only, or No Access in parameter 15-2 Adjustment 4-9 Relay C Off Delay
Lock. 4-10 Low Current Flag
4-11 High Current Flag
If attempting to change a parameter value or access the 4-12 Motor Temp Flag
Main Menu when the adjustment lock is active, an error 5 Start/Stop Timers
message is shown: 5-1 Auto-Start Type
5-2 Auto-Start Time
Access Denied 5-3 Auto-Stop Type
Adj Lock is On

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 59

 Programming VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

1 Primary Mtr Set Undamped fan

5-4 Auto-Stop Time
Motor full load current
8 Display
Start mode Adaptive control
8-1 Language
Adaptive start profile Constant acceleration
8-2 User Scrn Top L
Start ramp time 20 s
8-3 User Scrn Top R
Excess start time 30 s
8-4 User Scrn Btm L
Locked rotor time 20 s
8-5 User Scrn Btm R

Table 7.5 Suggested Values for Undamped Fan Applications

Table 7.1 Parameters in the Quick Set-up Menu

Compressor screw
7.2.2 Application Set-up Examples
Motor full load current
The application set-ups menu makes it easy to configure Start mode Constant current
the soft starter for common applications. The soft starter Start ramp time 5s
selects the parameters relevant to the application and Current limit 400%
suggests a typical setting. Each parameter can be adjusted

7 7 to suit the exact requirements. Table 7.6 Suggested Values for Compressor Screw Applications

Compressor recip
On the display, the highlighted values are suggested
values. The values indicated by ▶ are the loaded values. Motor full load current
Start mode Constant current
Always set parameter 1-1 Motor FLC to match the motor Start ramp time 10 s
nameplate full load current. The suggested value for motor Current limit 450%
FLC is the minimum FLC of the soft starter.
Table 7.7 Suggested Values for Compressor Recip Applications
Centrifugal pump
Conveyor
Motor full load current
Start mode Adaptive control Motor full load current
Adaptive start profile Early acceleration Start mode Constant current
Start ramp time 10 s Start ramp time 5s
Stop mode Adaptive control Current limit 400%
Adaptive stop profile Late deceleration Stop mode Adaptive control
Stop time 15 s Adaptive stop profile Constant deceleration
Stop time 10 s
Table 7.2 Suggested Values for Centrifugal Pump Applications
Table 7.8 Suggested Values for Conveyor Applications
Submersible pump
Crusher rotary
Motor full load current
Start mode Adaptive control Motor full load current
Adaptive start profile Early acceleration Start mode Constant current
Start ramp time 5s Start ramp time 10 s
Stop mode Adaptive control Current limit 400%
Adaptive stop profile Late deceleration Excess start time 30 s
Stop time 5s Locked rotor time 20 s

Table 7.3 Suggested Values for Submersible Pump Applications Table 7.9 Suggested Values for Crusher Rotary Applications

Damped fan

Motor full load current

Start mode Constant current
Current limit 350%

Table 7.4 Suggested Values for Damped Fan Applications

60 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Programming Operating Guide

Crusher jaw 7.3.1 Parameters

Motor full load current
Parameters allow viewing and changing all programmable
Start mode Constant current
parameters that control how the soft starter operates.
Start ramp time 10 s
Current limit 450%
To open Parameters, press [Main Menu] then select
Excess start time 40 s
Parameters.
Locked rotor time 30 s

Table 7.10 Suggested Values for Crusher Jaw Applications Navigating through parameters
• To scroll through parameter groups, press [▲] or
7.2.3 Loggings [▼].

• To view the parameters in a group, press [OK].

To view performance information in real-time graphs, enter
• To return to the previous level, press [Back].
the Loggings menu.
• To close Parameters, press the [Back].

• Current (%FLC). Changing a parameter value

• Scroll to the appropriate parameter and press
• Motor Temp (%).
[OK] to enter edit mode. 7 7
• Motor kW (%).
• To alter the parameter setting, press [▲] and [▼].
• Motor kVA (%).
• To save changes, press [OK]. The setting shown
• Motor pf. on the display is saved and the LCP returns to the
The newest information is shown at the right side of the parameter list.
screen. The graph can be paused to analyze data by • To cancel changes, press [Back]. The LCP returns
pressing and holding the [OK] key. To restart the graph, to the parameter list without saving changes.
press and hold [OK].

7.3 Main Menu 7.3.2 Parameter Shortcut

[Main Menu] provides access to menus for setting up the The VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 also includes a parameter
soft starter for advanced applications and for monitoring shortcut, which gives direct access to a parameter within
performance. the Parameters menu.

• To access the parameter shortcut, press [Main

Menu] for 3 s.
• Press [▲] or [▼] to select the parameter group.

• Press [OK] or [Back] to move the cursor.

• Press [▲] or [▼] to select the parameter number.

Parameter shortcut
Please enter a
parameter number
01-01

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 61

 Programming VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

7.3.3 Parameter List

1 Primary Mtr Set 4 Outputs 7-12 Adaptv Ctrl Gain-2

1-1 Motor FLC 4-1 Relay A Function 7-13 Adaptv Start Prof-2
1-2 Locked Rotor Time 4-2 Relay A On Delay 7-14 Adaptv Stop Prof-2
1-3 Start Mode 4-3 Relay A Off Delay 7-15 Brake Torque-2
1-4 Current Limit 4-4 Relay B Function 7-16 Brake Time-2
1-5 Initial Current 4-5 Relay B On Delay 8 Display
1-6 Start Ramp Time 4-6 Relay B Off Delay 8-1 Language
1-7 Kick-start Level 4-7 Relay C Function 8-2 User Scrn Top L
1-8 Kick-start Time 4-8 Relay C On Delay 8-3 User Scrn Top R
1-9 Excess Start Time 4-9 Relay C Off Delay 8-4 User Scrn Btm L
1-10 Stop Mode 4-10 Low Current Flag 8-5 User Scrn Btm R
1-11 Stop Time 4-11 High Current Flag 8-6 Graph Timebase
1-12 Adaptv Control Gain 4-12 Motor Temp Flag 8-7 Graph Max Adj
1-13 Adaptv Start Profile 4-13 Analog Output A 8-8 Graph Min Adj
1-14 Adaptv Stop Profile 4-14 Analog A Scale 8-9 Mains Ref Volt
7 7 1-15 Brake Torque 4-15 Analog A Max Adj 15 Restrict Paramtr
1-16 Brake Time 4-16 Analog A Min Adj 15-1 Access Code
2 Protection 5 Start/Stop Timers 15-2 Adjustment Lock
2-1 Phase Sequence 5-1 Auto-Start Type 15-3 Emergency Run
2-2 Current Imbalance 5-2 Auto-Start Time 15-4 Current Calibrat
2-3 Current Imbal Dly 5-3 Auto-Stop Type 15-5 Main Cont Time
2-4 Undercurrent 5-4 Auto-Stop Time 15-6 Bypass Cont Time
2-5 Undercurrent Dly 6 Auto-Reset 15-7 Motor Connection
2-6 Inst Overcurrent 6-1 Auto-Reset Action 15-8 Jog Torque
2-7 Inst Ocrnt Dly 6-2 Maximum Resets 16 Protection Action
2-8 Frequency Check 6-3 Reset Dly Grp A & B 16-1 Motor Overload
2-9 Freq Variation 6-4 Reset Delay Grp C 16-2 Current Imbalance
2-10 Frequency Delay 7 Secondary Mtr Set 16-3 Undercurrent
2-11 Restart Delay 7-1 Motor FLC-2 16-4 Inst Overcurrent
2-12 Motor Temp Check 7-2 Lock Rotor Time-2 16-5 Frequency
3 Inputs 7-3 Start Mode-2 16-6 Heat sink Overtemp
3-1 Local/Remote 7-4 Current Limit-2 16-7 Excess Start Time
3-2 Comms in Remote 7-5 Initial Crnt-2 16-8 Input A Trip
3-3 Input A Function 7-6 Start Ramp-2 16-9 Motor Thermistor
3-4 Input A Name 7-7 Kick-start Lvl-2 16-10 Starter Comms
3-5 Input A Trip 7-8 Kick-start Time-2 16-11 Network Comms
3-6 Input A Trip Dly 7-9 Excess Strt Time-2 16-12 Battery/Clock
3-7 Input A Initial Dly 7-10 Stop Mode-2 16-13 Low Control Volts
3-8 Remote Reset Logic 7-11 Stop Time-2 – –

62 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Parameter Descriptions Operating Guide

8 Parameter Descriptions

8.1 Primary Motor Settings

NOTICE
Default settings are marked with *.

The parameters in Primary Motors Settings configure the 1-5 Initial Current
soft starter to match the connected motor. These Range: Function:
parameters describe the operating characteristics of the
350%* [100– Sets the initial start current level for current
motor and allow the soft starter to model the motor
600% ramp starting as a percentage of motor full load
temperature.
FLC] current. Set so that the motor begins to
accelerate immediately after a start is initiated.
NOTICE If current ramp starting is not required, set the
Parameter 1-2 Locked Rotor Time determines the trip initial current equal to the current limit. See
current for motor overload protection. Its default setting chapter 5.3 Starting Modes for more details.
provides motor overload protection:
1-6 Start Ramp Time
• Class 10.
• Trip current 105% of FLA, or equivalent.
Range:
10 s* [1–
Function:
Sets the total start time for an adaptive control
8 8
180 s] start or the ramp time for current ramp
starting (from the initial current to the current
1-1 Motor FLC
limit). See chapter 5.3 Starting Modes for more
Option: Function:
details.
Model Matches the soft starter to the connected
dependent motor full load current. Set to the full load 1-7 Kick-start Level
current (FLC) rating shown on the motor Range: Function:
nameplate.
NOTICE
500%* [100–
700% FLC] CAUTION
The setting for this parameter sets the INCREASED TORQUE LEVEL
basis for calculation of all current-based Kick-start subjects the mechanical
protection settings. equipment to increased torque levels.

1-2 Locked Rotor Time

• Ensure that the motor, load,
and couplings can handle the
Range: Function: additional torque before
10 s* [0:01–2:00 Sets the maximum length of the time the using this feature.
(min:s)] motor can sustain locked rotor current from
Sets the level of the kick-start current.
cold before reaching its maximum
temperature. Set according to the motor
datasheet.

1-3 Start Mode

Option: Function:
Selects the soft start mode. See
chapter 5.3 Starting Modes for more details.
Constant current*
Adaptive control

1-4 Current Limit

Range: Function:
350%* [100– Sets the current limit for constant current and
600% current ramp soft starting as a percentage of
FLC] motor full load current. See
chapter 5.3 Starting Modes for more details.

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 63

 Parameter Descriptions VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

1-8 Kick-start Time 1-12 Adaptive Control Gain

Range: Function: Range: Function:
0000 ms* [0–
CAUTION NOTICE
2000 ms] Leave the gain setting at the default
INCREASED TORQUE LEVEL level unless adaptive control
Kick-start subjects the mechanical performance is not satisfactory. If the
equipment to increased torque motor accelerates or decelerates too
levels. quickly at the end of a start or stop,
• Ensure that the motor, increase the gain setting by 5–10%. If
load, and couplings can the motor speed fluctuates during
handle the additional starting or stopping, decrease the gain
torque before using this setting slightly.
feature.
1-13 Adaptive Start Profile
Sets the kick-start duration. A setting of 0
Option: Function:
disables kick-start. See chapter 5.3 Starting
Selects which profile the soft starter uses
Modes for more details.
for an adaptive control soft start. See
1-9 Excess Start Time chapter 5.4 Stopping Modes for more
Range: Function: details.
Early acceleration
8 8
Excess start time is the maximum time the soft
starter attempts to start the motor. If the Constant
motor does not reach full speed within the acceleration*
programmed limit, the soft starter trips. Set for Late acceleration
a period slightly longer than required for a
1-14 Adaptive Stop Profile
normal healthy start. A setting of 0 disables
excess start time protection.
Option: Function:
20 s* [0:00– Set as required. Selects which profile the soft starter uses
4:00 for an adaptive control soft stop. See
(min:s)] chapter 5.4 Stopping Modes for more
details.
1-10 Stop Mode Early deceleration
Option: Function: Constant
Selects the stop mode. See deceleration*
chapter 5.4 Stopping Modes for more details. Late acceleration
Coast to stop*
TVR soft stop 8.1.1 Brake
Adaptive control
Brake Brake uses DC injection to slow the motor actively. See
chapter 5.4 Stopping Modes for more details.
1-11 Stop Time
Range: Function: 1-15 Brake Torque
0 [0:00– Sets the time for soft stopping the motor using Range: Function:
s* 4:00 timed voltage ramp or adaptive control. If a main 20%* [20–100%] Sets the amount of brake torque the soft
(min:s)] contactor is installed, the contactor must remain starter uses to slow the motor.
closed until the end of the stop time. To control
1-16 Brake Time
the main contactor, use a programmable output
configured to Run. Sets the total stopping time Range: Function:
when using brake. See chapter 5.4 Stopping 1 s* [1–30 s] Sets the duration for DC injection during a
Modes for more details. braking stop.

1-12 Adaptive Control Gain

NOTICE
This parameter is used with parameter
Range: Function:
1-11 Stop Time. See chapter 5.4 Stopping
75%* [1–200%] Adjusts the performance of adaptive control. Modes for details.
This setting affects both starting and stopping
control.

64 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Parameter Descriptions Operating Guide

8.2 Protection 8.2.3 Instant Overcurrent

2-1 Phase Sequence If the average current of all 3 phases exceeds a specified
Option: Function: level while the motor is running, the soft starter can be
Selects which phase sequences the soft starter configured to trip.
allows at a start. During its prestart checks, the 2-6 Instantaneous Overcurrent
soft starter examines the sequence of the
Range: Function:
phases at its input terminals. If the actual
400%* [80–600% Sets the trip point for instant overcurrent
sequence does not match the selected option,
FLC] protection as a percentage of motor full
the soft starter trips.
load current.
Any sequence*
Positive only 2-7 Instantaneous Overcurrent Delay
Negative only
Range: Function:
0 s* [0:00–1:00 Slows the response of the soft starter to
8.2.1 Current Imbalance (min:s)] overcurrent, avoiding trips due to
momentary overcurrent events.
If the currents on the 3 phases vary by more than a
specified amount, the soft starter can be configured to trip.
8.2.4 Frequency Trip
The imbalance is calculated as the difference between the
highest and lowest currents on all 3 phases, as a
percentage of the highest current.
The soft starter monitors mains frequency throughout
operation and can be configured to trip if the frequency 8 8
varies beyond a specified tolerance.
Current imbalance detection is desensitized by 50% during
starting and soft stopping. 2-8 Frequency Check
Option: Function:
2-2 Current Imbalance
Determines when the soft starter monitors for a
Range: Function:
frequency trip.
30%* [10–50%] Sets the trip point for current imbalance
Do not check
protection.
Start only
2-3 Current Imbalance Delay Start/run*

Range: Function: Run only

3 s* [0:00–4:00 Slows the response of the soft starter to 2-9 Frequency Variation
(min:s)] current imbalance, avoiding trips due to
Option: Function:
momentary fluctuations.
Selects the soft starter tolerance for frequency
variation.
8.2.2 Undercurrent ±2 Hz
±5 Hz*
If the average current of all 3 phases drops below a ±10 Hz
specified level while the motor is running, the soft starter
±15 Hz
can be configured to trip.
2-10 Frequency Delay
2-4 Undercurrent
Range: Function:
Range: Function:
1 s* [0:01–4:00 Slows the response of the soft starter to
20%* [0– Sets the trip point for undercurrent protection,
(min:s)] frequency disturbances, avoiding trips due to
100%] as a percentage of motor full load current. Set to
momentary fluctuations.
a level between the normal motor working
range and the motor magnetizing (no load) NOTICE
current (typically 25–35% of full load current). A If the mains frequency drops below
setting of 0% disables undercurrent protection. 35 Hz or rises above 75 Hz, the soft
starter trips immediately.
2-5 Undercurrent Delay
Range: Function:
5 s* [0:00–4:00 Slows the response of the soft starter to
(min:s)] undercurrent, avoiding trips due to
momentary fluctuations.

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 65

 Parameter Descriptions VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

2-11 Restart Delay 3-3 Input A Function

Range: Function: Option: Function:
10 [00:01– The soft starter can be configured to force a Selects the function of input A.
s* 60:00 delay between the end of a stop and the Motor set The soft starter can be configured with 2
(min:s)] beginning of the next start. During the restart select* separate sets of motor data. The primary motor
delay, the display shows the time remaining data is programmed using parameters 1-1 to 1-16.
before another start can be attempted. The secondary motor data is programmed using
NOTICE parameters 7-1 to 7-16.
The restart delay is measured from the To use the secondary motor data, set this
end of each stop. Changes to the restart parameter to Motor Set Select and close terminals
delay setting take effect after the next 11 and 16 before giving a start command. The
stop. soft starter checks which motor data to use at a
start and uses that motor data for the entire
2-12 Motor Temperature Check start/stop cycle.

Option: Function: Input trip Input A can be used to trip the soft starter. When
(N/O) this parameter is set to Input Trip (N/O), a closed
Selects whether the soft starter verifies that the
circuit across terminals 11 and 16 trips the soft
motor has sufficient thermal capacity for a
starter (parameters 3-5 to 3-7).
successful start. The soft starter compares the
Input trip When this parameter is set to Input Trip (N/C), an
calculated motor temperature with the
(N/C) open circuit across terminals 11 and 16 trips the
temperature rise from the last motor start. The soft
8 8 starter only operates if the motor is cool enough
to start successfully.
soft starter (parameters 3-5 to 3-7).
Local/remote Input A can be used to select between local and
select remote control, instead of using the LCP keys.
Do not
When the input is open, the soft starter is in
check*
hand-on mode and can be controlled via the LCP.
Check
When the input is closed, the soft starter is in
8.3 Inputs remote mode. The [Hand On] and [Auto On] keys
are disabled, and the soft starter ignores any
3-1 Local/Remote local/remote select command from the serial
Option: Function: communications network.
To use Input A to select between local and
Selects when the [Auto On] and [Hand On]
remote control, set parameter 3-1 Local/Remote to
can be used to switch to hand-on mode or
LCL/RMT Anytime.
auto-on mode.
Emergency In emergency run, the soft starter continues to
Lcl/rmt Change between local and remote control at
run run until stopped, ignoring all trips and warnings
anytime* any time.
(see parameter 15-3 Emergency Run for details).
Local control All remote inputs are disabled.
Closing the circuit across terminals 11 and 16
only
activates emergency run.
Remote control [Hand On] and [Auto On] are disabled.
Opening the circuit ends emergency run and the
only
soft starter stops the motor.
3-2 Comms in Remote Starter The soft starter can be disabled via the control
disable inputs. An open circuit across terminals 11 and
Option: Function:
16 disables the soft starter. The soft starter does
Selects whether the soft starter accepts start
not respond to start commands. If running, the
and stop commands from the serial communi-
soft starter allows the motor to coast to stop,
cation network when in Remote mode.
ignoring the soft stop mode set in parameter
Commands that are always enabled: 1-10 Stop Mode.
• Force comms trip. When the circuit across terminals 11 and 16 is
• Local/remote control. opened, the soft starter allows the motor to
coast to stop.
• Test start.
Jog forward Activates jog operation in a forward direction
• Reset. (operates only in Remote mode).
Disable ctrl in Jog reverse Activates jog operation in reverse direction
RMT (operates only in Remote mode).
Enable ctrl in
RMT*

66 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Parameter Descriptions Operating Guide

3-4 Input A Name 4-1 Relay A Function

Option: Function: Option: Function:
Selects a message for the LCP to show when Run The relay closes when the starter changes to
input A is active. run state.
Input trip* Trip The relay closes when the starter trips.
Low pressure Warning The relay closes when the starter issues a
High pressure warning.
Pump fault Low current The relay closes when the low current flag
Low level flag activates (parameter 4-10 Low Current Flag).
High level High current The relay closes when the high current flag
No flow flag activates (parameter 4-11 High Current Flag).
Starter disable Motor temp The relay closes when the motor temperature
Controller flag flag activates (parameter 4-12 Motor
PLC Temperature Flag).

Vibration alarm
8.4.1 Relay A Delays
3-5 Input A Trip
Option: Function: The soft starter can be configured to wait before opening
Selects when an input trip can occur. or closing relay A.
Always active* A trip can occur at any time when the soft
starter is receiving power.
4-2 Relay A On Delay
Range: Function:
8 8
Operating only A trip can occur while the soft starter is
running, stopping, or starting. 0 s* [0:00–5:00 (min:s)] Sets the delay for closing relay A.
Run only A trip can only occur while the soft starter is
4-3 Relay A Off Delay
running.
Range: Function:
3-6 Input A Trip Delay 0 s* [0:00–5:00 (min:s)] Sets the delay for reopening relay A.
Range: Function:
0 s* [0:00–4:00 (min:s)] Sets delay between the input 8.4.2 Relays B and C
activating and soft starter tripping.
Parameters 4-4 to 4-9 configure the operation of relays B
3-7 Input A Initial Delay
and C in the same way as parameters 4-1 to 4-3 configure
Range: Function: relay A. See parameter 4-2 Relay A On Delay and parameter
0 s* [00:00– Sets a delay before an input trip can occur. 4-3 Relay A Off Delay for details.
30:00 (min:s)] The initial delay is counted from the time a
start signal is received. The state of the input
• Relay B is a changeover relay.
is ignored until the initial delay has elapsed.
• Relay C is normally open.
3-8 Remote Reset Logic
4-4 Relay B Function
Option: Function:
Option: Function:
Selects whether the remote reset input of the
Selects the function of relay B (changeover).
soft starter (terminals 25 and 18) is normally
Off Relay B is not used.
open or normally closed.
Main The relay closes when the soft starter receives a
Normally closed*
contactor start command and remains closed as long as
Normally open
the motor is receiving voltage.
8.4 Outputs Run* The relay closes when the soft starter changes
to run state.
4-1 Relay A Function Trip The relay closes when the soft starter trips.
Option: Function: Warning The relay closes when the soft starter issues a
Selects the function of relay A (normally open). warning.
Off Relay A is not used Low current The relay closes when the low current flag
Main The relay closes when the soft starter receives flag activates (parameter 4-10 Low Current Flag).
contactor* a start command and remains closed as long High current The relay closes when the high current flag
as the motor receives voltage. flag activates (parameter 4-11 High Current Flag).

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 67

 Parameter Descriptions VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

4-4 Relay B Function 4-10 Low Current Flag

Option: Function: Range: Function:
Motor temp The relay closes when the motor temperature 50%* [1–100% Sets the level at which the low current
flag flag activates (parameter 4-12 Motor Temperature FLC] flag operates, as a percentage of motor
Flag). full load current.

4-5 Relay B On Delay 4-11 High Current Flag

Range: Function: Range: Function:
0 s* [0:00–5:00 (min:s)] Sets the delay for closing relay B. 100%* [50–600% Sets the level at which the high current
FLC] flag operates, as a percentage of motor
4-6 Relay B Off Delay full load current.
Range: Function:
0 s* [0:00–5:00 (min:s)] Sets the delay for reopening relay B. 8.4.4 Motor Temperature Flag
4-7 Relay C Function
The soft starter has a motor temperature flag to give early
Option: Function:
warning of abnormal operation. The flag can indicate that
Selects the function of relay C (normally open).
the motor is operating above its normal operating
Off Relay C is not used. temperature, but lower than the overload limit. The flag
Main The relay closes when the soft starter receives a can signal the situation to external equipment via 1 of the
contactor start command and remains closed as long as programmable outputs.
8 8 Run
the motor is receiving voltage.
The relay closes when the soft starter changes
4-12 Motor Temperature Flag
to run state. Range: Function:
Trip* The relay closes when the soft starter trips. 80%* [0–160%] Sets the level at which the motor temperature
Warning The relay closes when the soft starter issues a flag operates, as a percentage of the motor
warning. thermal capacity.
Low current The relay closes when the low current flag
flag activates (parameter 4-10 Low Current Flag). 8.4.5 Analog Output A
High current The relay closes when the high current flag
flag activates (parameter 4-11 High Current Flag). The soft starter has an analog output, which can be
Motor temp The relay closes when the motor temperature connected to associated equipment to monitor motor
flag flag activates (parameter 4-12 Motor Temperature performance.
Flag).
4-13 Analog Output A
4-8 Relay C On Delay Option: Function:
Range: Function: Selects which information is reported via analog
0 s* [0:00–5:00 (min:s)] Sets the delay for closing relay C. output A.
Current (% Current as a percentage of motor full load current.
4-9 Relay C Off Delay
FLC)*
Range: Function: Motor Motor temperature as a percentage of the thermal
0 s* [0:00–5:00 (min:s)] Sets the delay for reopening relay C. temp (%) capacity of the motor.
Motor kW Measured motor kW, as a percentage of maximum
8.4.3 Low Current Flag and High Current (%) kW.
Flag Motor kVA Measured motor kilovolt amperes, as a percentage
(%) of maximum kVA.
The soft starter has low and high current flags to give early Motor pf Motor power factor, measured by the soft starter.
warning of abnormal operation. The current flags can be • Measure motor kW: √3 x average current
configured to indicate an abnormal current level during x mains reference voltage x measure
operation between the normal operating level and the power factor.
undercurrent or instant overcurrent trip levels. The flags
can signal the situation to external equipment via 1 of the • Maximum motor kW: √3 x motor FLC x
mains reference voltage. Power factor is
programmable outputs. The flags clear when the current
assumed to be 1.
returns within the normal operating range by 10% of the
programmed flag value. • Measure motor kVA: √3 x average current
x main reference voltage.

68 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Parameter Descriptions Operating Guide

4-13 Analog Output A 5-4 Auto-Stop Time

Option: Function: Range: Function:
• Maximum motor kVA: √3 x motor FLC x 1 min* [00:01– Sets the time for the soft starter to
mains reference voltage. 24:00 autostop in 24-hour clock format.
(hrs:min)] NOTICE
4-14 Analog A Scale
Do not use this function with
Option: Function: remote 2-wire control. The soft
Selects the range of the output. starter still accepts start and stop
0–20 mA commands from the remote inputs
4–20 mA* or serial communication network. To
disable local or remote control, use
4-15 Analog A Maximum Adjustment parameter 3-1 Local/Remote. If
Range: Function: autostart is enabled and the user is
100%* [0–600%] Calibrates the upper limit of the analog in the menu system, autostart
output to match the signal measured on an becomes active if the menu times
external current measuring device. out (if no LCP activity is detected for
5 minutes).
4-16 Analog A Minimum Adjustment
Range: Function: 8.6 Auto-reset
0%* [0–600%] Calibrates the lower limit of the analog output
8 8
The soft starter can be programmed to reset certain trips
to match the signal measured on an external
automatically, which can help minimize operating
current measuring device.
downtime. Trips are divided into 3 categories for auto-
8.5 Start/Stop Timers reset, depending on the risk to the soft starter:

CAUTION Group
Current imbalance
UNINTENDED START
Phase loss
The autostart timer overrides any other form of control. A
Power loss
The motor may start without warning.
Frequency
Undercurrent
5-1 Auto-Start Type B Instant overcurrent
Option: Function: Input A trip
Selects whether the soft starter autostarts after a Motor overload
specified delay or at a specific time of day. C Motor thermistor
Off* The soft starter does not autostart. Heat overtemperature
Timer The soft starter does autostart after a delay from the
next stop, as specified in parameter 5-2 Auto-start Time. Table 8.1 Trip Categories for Auto-reset
Clock The soft starter autostarts at the time programmed in
parameter 5-2 Auto-start Time. Other trips cannot be automatically reset.

5-2 Auto-Start Time This function is ideal for remote installations using 2-wire
Range: Function: control in auto-on mode. If the 2-wire start signal is
1 min* [00:01–24:00 Sets the time for the soft starter to present after an auto-reset, the soft starter restarts.
(hrs:min)] autostart in 24-hour clock format.
6-1 Auto-Reset Action
5-3 Auto-Stop Type Option: Function:
Option: Function: Selects which trips can be auto-reset.
Selects whether the soft starter autostops after a Do not Auto-Reset*
specified delay or at a specific time of day. Reset group A
Off* The soft starter does not autostop. Reset group A & B
Time The soft starter autostops after a delay from the next Reset group A, B & C
start, as specified in parameter 5-4 Auto-stop Time.
Clock The soft starter autostops at the time programmed in
parameter 5-4 Auto-stop Time.

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 69

 Parameter Descriptions VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

6-2 Maximum Resets 7-5 Initial Current-2

Range: Function: Range: Function:
1* [1–5] Sets how many times the soft starter auto-resets if it 350%* [100– Sets the initial start current level for current
continues to trip. The reset counter increases by 1 600% ramp starting, as a percentage of motor full
each time the soft starter auto-resets and decreases FLC] load current. Set so that the motor begins to
by 1 after each successful start/stop cycle. accelerate immediately after a start is initiated.
If current ramp starting is not required, set the
NOTICE initial current equal to the current limit.
If the starter is manually reset, the reset counter returns
to 0. 7-6 Start Ramp Time-2
Range: Function:
8.6.1 Auto-reset Delay 10 s* [1–180 s] Sets the total start time for an adaptive control
start or the ramp time for current ramp
The soft starter can be configured to wait before auto- starting (from the initial current to the current
resetting a trip. Separate delays can be set for trips in limit).
groups A and B, or in group C.
7-7 Kick-start Level-2
6-3 Reset Delay Groups A & B Range: Function:
Range: Function: 500%* [100–700% FLC] Sets the level of the kick-start current.
5 s* [00:05–15:00 (min:s)] Sets the delay before resetting group
7-8 Kick-start Time-2
8 8 A and group B trips.
Range: Function:
6-4 Reset Delay Group C 0000 ms* [0–2000 ms] Sets the kick-start duration. A setting of
Range: Function: 0 disables kick-start.
5 minutes* [5–60 (minutes)] Sets the delay before resetting
7-9 Excess Start Time-2
group C trips.
Range: Function:
8.7 Secondary Motor Set Excess start time is the maximum time the soft
starter attempts to start the motor. If the
See parameters 1-1 to 1-16 for details.
motor does not reach full speed within the
7-1 Motor FLC-2 programmed limit, the soft starter trips. Set for
Range: Function: a period slightly longer than required for a
[Motor dependent] Sets the secondary motor full load normal healthy start. A setting of 0 disables
current. excess start time protection.
20 s* [0:00– Set as required.
7-2 Locked Rotor Time-2 4:00
Range: Function: (min:s)]
10 s* [0:01–2:00 Sets the maximum length of the time the
7-10 Stop Mode-2
(min:s)] motor can run at locked rotor current from
Option: Function:
cold before reaching its maximum
temperature. Set according to the motor Selects the stop mode.
datasheet. Coast to stop*
If this information is not available, set the TVR soft stop
value to <20 s. Adaptive control
Brake
7-3 Start Mode-2
Option: Function: 7-11 Stop Time-2
Selects the soft start mode. Range: Function:
Constant current* 0 s* [0:00–4:00 (min:s)] Sets the stop time.
Adaptive control

7-4 Current Limit-2

Range: Function:
350%* [100–600% Sets the current limit for constant current
FLC] and current ramp soft starting, as a
percentage of motor full load current.

70 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Parameter Descriptions Operating Guide

7-12 Adaptive Control Gain-2 8-1 Language

Range: Function: Option: Function:
75%* [1–200%] Adjusts the performance of adaptive control. French (Français)
The setting affects both starting and stopping Italian (Italiano)
control. Russian (Русский)
NOTICE
Leave the gain setting at the default 8.8.1 User-programmable Screen
level unless adaptive control
performance is not satisfactory. Selects which 4 items to show on the programmable
If the motor accelerates or decelerates monitoring screen.
quickly at the end of a start or stop,
increase the gain setting by 5–10%. If 8-2 User Screen - Top Left
the motor speed fluctuates during Option: Function:
starting or stopping, decrease the gain Selects the item shown in the top left part of
setting slightly. the screen.
Blank Shows no data in the selected area, allowing
7-13 Adaptive Start Profile-2 long messages to be shown without
Option: Function: overlapping.
Selects which profile the soft starter Starter state The operating state of the soft starter (starting,
uses for an adaptive control soft start. running, stopping, or tripped). Only available
Early acceleration
Motor current
for Top L and Btm L.
The average current measured on 3 phases.
8 8
Constant acceleration*
Late acceleration Motor pf* The motor power factor measured by the soft
starter.
7-14 Adaptive Stop Profile-2 Mains The average frequency measured on 3 phases.
Option: Function: frequency
Selects which profile the soft starter Motor kW The motor running power in kW.
uses for an adaptive control soft stop. Motor hp The motor running power in horse power.
Early deceleration Motor temp The motor temperature, calculated by the
Constant deceleration* thermal model.
Late acceleration kWh The number of kWh the motor has run via the
soft starter.
7-15 Brake Torque-2
Hours run The number of hours the motor has run via
Range: Function: the soft starter.
20%* [20–100%] Sets the amount of brake torque the soft
starter uses to slow the motor.
8-3 User Screen - Top Right
Option: Function:
7-16 Brake Time-2
Selects the item shown in the top right part of
Range: Function: the screen.
1 s* [1–30 s] NOTICE Blank* Shows no data in the selected area, allowing
This parameter is used with parameter long messages to be shown without
7-11 Stop Time-2. overlapping.
Starter state The operating state of the soft starter (starting,
Sets the duration for DC injection during a
running, stopping, or tripped). Only available
braking stop.
for Top L and Btm L.
8.8 Display Motor current The average current measured on 3 phases.
Motor pf The motor power factor measured by the soft
8-1 Language starter.
Option: Function: Mains The average frequency measured on 3 phases.
Selects in which language the LCP frequency
shows messages and feedback. Motor kW The motor running power in kW.
English* Motor hp The motor running power in horse power.
Chinese (中丈) Motor temp The motor temperature, calculated by the
Spanish (Español) thermal model.
German (Deutsch)
Portuguese (Português)

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 71

 Parameter Descriptions VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

8-3 User Screen - Top Right 8.8.2 Performance Graphs

Option: Function:
kWh The number of kWh the motor has run via the The loggings menu allows the viewing of performance
soft starter. information in real-time graphs.
Hours run The number of hours the motor has run via
the soft starter. The newest information is shown at the right side of the
screen. The graph can be paused to analyze data by
8-4 User Screen - Bottom Left pressing and holding [OK]. To restart the graph, press and
Option: Function: hold [OK].
Selects the item shown in the bottom left part 8-6 Graph Timebase
of the screen.
Option: Function:
Blank Shows no data in the selected area, allowing
Sets the graph time scale. The graph progressively
long messages to be shown without
replaces the old data with new data.
overlapping.
10 s*
Starter state The operating state of the soft starter (starting,
30 s
running, stopping, or tripped). Only available
for Top L and Btm L. 1 minute

Motor current The average current measured on 3 phases. 5 minutes

Motor pf The motor power factor, measured by the soft 10 minutes

starter. 30 minutes

8 8 Mains
frequency
The average frequency measured on 3 phases. 1 hour

8-7 Graph Maximum Adjustment

Motor kW The motor running power in kW.
Range: Function:
Motor hp The motor running power in horse power.
400%* [0–600%] Adjusts the upper limit of the performance
Motor temp The motor temperature, calculated by the
graph.
thermal model.
kWh The number of kWh the motor has run via the 8-8 Graph Minimum Adjustment
soft starter.
Range: Function:
Hours run* The number of hours the motor has run via
0%* [0–600%] Adjusts the lower limit of the performance
the soft starter.
graph.
8-5 User Screen - Bottom Right
8-9 Mains Reference Voltage
Option: Function:
Range: Function:
Selects the item shown in the bottom right
400 V* [100– Sets the nominal voltage for the monitoring
part of the screen.
690 V] functions of the LCP. The nominal voltage is
Blank* Shows no data in the selected area, allowing
used to calculate motor kW and kilovolt
long messages to be shown without
amperes (kVA), but does not affect the motor
overlapping.
control protection of the soft starter.
Starter state The operating state of the soft starter (starting,
Enter the measured mains voltage.
running, stopping, or tripped). Only available
for Top L and Btm L. 8.9 Restricted Parameters
Motor current The average current measured on 3 phases.
Motor pf The motor power factor measured by the soft 15-1 Access Code
starter. Range: Function:
Mains The average frequency measured on 3 phases. 0000* [0000– Sets the access code to enter the simulation
frequency 9999] tools and counter resets or the restricted
Motor kW The motor running power in kW. section of the programming menu (parameter
Motor hp The motor running power in horse power. group 15 Restricted Parameters and higher).
Motor temp The motor temperature, calculated by the Press [Back] and [OK] to select which digit to
thermal model. alter, and use [▲] and [▼] to change the value.
kWh The number of kWh the motor has run via the NOTICE
soft starter.
If the access code is lost, contact the
Hours run The number of hours the motor has run via
local Danfoss supplier for master access
the soft starter.
code that allows the reprogramming of a
new access code.

72 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Parameter Descriptions Operating Guide

15-2 Adjustment Lock 15-5 Main Contactor Time

Option: Function: Range: Function:
Selects whether the LCP allows parameters to be 400 ms* [100– Sets the delay period between the soft
changed via the programming menu. 2000 ms] starter switching the main contactor
Read & Allows altering parameter values in the output (terminals 13 and 14) and
write* programming menu. beginning the prestart checks (before
Read only Prevents users altering parameter values in the start) or entering the not ready state
programming menu. Parameter values can still be (after a stop). Set according to the specifi-
viewed. cations of the main contactor used.
No access Prevents users adjusting parameters in the
15-6 Bypass Contactor Time
programming menu unless an access code is
entered. Range: Function:

NOTICE 150 ms* [100– Sets the soft starter to match the bypass
2000 ms] contactor closing/opening time. Set
Changes to the adjustment lock setting take
according to the specifications of the
effect only after the programming menu
bypass contactor used. If the time is too
has been closed.
short, the soft starter trips.

15-3 Emergency Run 15-7 Motor Connection

Option: Function: Option: Function:

CAUTION The soft starter automatically detects the format

of the connection to the motor. 8 8
EQUIPMENT DAMAGE Auto-Detect*
Continued use of emergency run is not
In-line
recommended. Emergency run may compromise
Inside Delta
the soft starter life as all protections and trips
are disabled. 15-8 Jog Torque
Using the soft starter in Emergency run mode Range: Function:
voids the product warranty.
Selects whether the soft starter allows emergency run
50%* [20–100%] NOTICE
Setting this parameter above 50% may
operation. In emergency run, the soft starter starts (if
cause increased shaft vibration.
not already running) and continues to operate until
emergency run ends, ignoring stop commands and Sets the torque level for jog operation. See
trips. chapter 5.5 Jog Operation for more details.
Emergency run is controlled using a programmable
input.
When emergency run is activated in internally bypassed
models which are not running, the soft starter attempts
a normal start while ignoring all trips. If a normal start
is not possible, a DOL start via the internal bypass
contactors is attempted. For non-bypassed models, an
external emergency run bypass contactor may be used.

15-4 Current Calibration

Range: Function:
100%* [85– Motor current calibration calibrates the soft
115%] starter's current monitoring circuits to match an
external current metering device.
Use the following formula to determine the
necessary adjustment:
Current shown on MCD 500 display
Calibration ( % )  =  
Current measured by external device
66 A
e . g .  102 %   =  
65 A

NOTICE
This adjustment affects all current-based
functions.

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 73

 Parameter Descriptions VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

8.10 Protection Action

16-1 to 16-13 Protection Action
Option: Function:
Selects the soft starter response to each
protection.

• Parameter 16-1 Motor Overload.

• Parameter 16-2 Current Imbalance.

• Parameter 16-3 Undercurrent.

• Parameter 16-4 Inst Overcurrent.

• Parameter 16-5 Frequency.

• Parameter 16-6 Heat sink Overtemp.

• Parameter 16-7 Excess Start Time.

• Parameter 16-8 Input A Trip.

• Parameter 16-9 Motor Thermistor.

• Parameter 16-10 Starter/Comms.

• Parameter 16-11 Network/Comms.

8 8 • Parameter 16-12 Battery/Clock.

• Parameter 16-13 Low Control Volts.

Trip
starter*
Warn and
log
Log only

8.11 Factory Parameters

These parameters are restricted for factory use and are not
available to the user.

74 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Tools Operating Guide

9 Tools

To access Tools: Load Defaults

1. Open the Main Menu. No
Yes
2. Scroll to Tools.
3. Press [OK]. Table 9.2 Load Defaults Menu

NOTICE When the action has been completed, the screen briefly
The security access code also protects simulation tools shows a confirmation message and then returns to the
and counter-resets. The default access code is 0000. status screens.

9.3 Reset Thermal Model

9.1 Set Date and Time
To set the date and time: NOTICE
1. Open the Tools Menu. The security access code protects the reset thermal
model.
2. Scroll to Set Date & Time.
3. Press [OK] to enter edit mode. The advanced thermal modeling software in the soft
4. Press [OK] to select which part of the date or starter constantly monitors the motor performance. This
time to edit. monitoring allows the soft starter to calculate the motor
temperature and ability to start successfully at any time.
5. Use [▲] and [▼] to change the value.
To save changes, press [OK] repeatedly. The soft starter
confirms the changes. To cancel changes, press [Back]
If necessary, reset the thermal model. 9 9
repeatedly.
NOTICE
9.2 Load/Save Settings Resetting the motor thermal model may compromise
motor life and should only be done in the case of
The VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 includes options to: emergency.
• Load defaults: Load the soft starter parameters
with default values.
1. Open Tools.
• Load User Set 1: Reload previously saved
2. Scroll to Reset Thermal Model and press [OK].
parameter settings from an internal file.
3. At the confirmation prompt, press [OK] to
• Save User Set 1: Save the current parameter
confirm, then enter the access code, or press
settings to an internal file.
[Back] to cancel the action.
In addition to the factory default values file, the soft starter
4. Select Reset or Do Not Reset, then press [OK].
can store a user-defined parameter file. This file contains
When the thermal model has been reset, the soft
default values until a user file is saved.
starter returns to the previous screen.

To load or save parameter settings: Reset Thermal Model

1. Open the Tools Menu. M1 X%
OK to Reset
2. Use [▼] to select the required function, then press
[OK]. Table 9.3 Accept to Reset the Thermal Model
3. At the confirmation prompt, select Yes to confirm
or No to cancel. Reset Thermal Model
Do Not Reset
4. Press [OK] to load/save the selection or exit the
Reset
screen.
Table 9.4 Reset Thermal Model Menu
Tools
Load Defaults
Load User Set 1
Save User Set 1

Table 9.1 Tools Menu

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 75

 Tools VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

9.4 Protection Simulation NOTICE

To test operation of the flags (motor temperature and
NOTICE low/high current), set an output relay to the appropriate
Protection simulation is protected by the security access function and monitor the relay behavior.
code.
To use the output signal simulation:
To test the operation and control circuits of the soft starter 1. Open the Main Menu.
without connecting it to mains voltage, use the software
2. Scroll to Output Signal Sim and press [OK], then
simulation functions.
enter the access code.

The protection simulation feature enables the soft starter 3. To select a simulation, press [▲] and [▼], then
to confirm that it responds correctly and reports the press [OK].
situation on the display and across the communication 4. To turn the signal on and off, press [▲] and [▼].
network. To confirm correct operation, monitor the state of
the output.
To use the protection simulation:
5. To return to the simulation list, press [Back].
1. Open the Main Menu.
2. Scroll to Protection Sim and press [OK]. Prog Relay A
Off
3. To select the protection to simulate, press [▲] and
[▼]. On

4. To simulate the selected protection, press [OK].

5. The screen is shown while [OK] is pressed. The Table 9.6 Output Signal Simulation Menu
9 9 soft starter response depends on the protection
action setting (parameter group 16 Protection 9.6 Digital I/O State
Actions).
This screen shows the status of the digital I/O in order.
6. To return to the simulation list, press [Back].
7. To select another simulation, press [▲] or [▼], or The top line of the screen shows:
press [Back] to return to the Main Menu. • Start.
MS1 000.0A 0000.0kW • Stop.
Tripped • Reset.
Selected Protection
• Programmable input.
Table 9.5 Protection Simulation Menu The bottom line of the screen shows programmable
outputs A, B, and C.
NOTICE
If the protection trips the soft starter, reset before Digital I/O State
simulating another protection. If the protection action is Inputs: 0100
set to Warn or Log, no reset is required. Outputs: 100
If the protection is set to Warn & Log, the warning
message can be viewed only while [OK] is pressed. Table 9.7 Digital I/O Status Screen
If the protection is set to Log only, nothing appears on
the screen, but an entry appears in the log. 9.7 Temp Sensors State
This screen shows the state of the motor thermistor.
9.5 Output Signal Simulation The screenshot shows the thermistor state as O (open).

NOTICE Temp Sensors State

The security access code protects the output signal
Thermistor: O
simulation.
S = shrt H=hot C=cld O=opn

The LCP allows simulation of output signaling to confirm Table 9.8 Motor Thermistor Status Screen
that the output relays are operating correctly.

76 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Tools Operating Guide

9.8 Alarm Log The resettable counters (hours run, starts, and motor kWh)
can only be reset if the correct access code is entered.
The [Alarm Log] key opens the alarm logs, which contain:
• Trip log. To view the counters:
• Event log. 1. Press [Alarm Log].

• Counters which store information on the soft 2. Scroll to Counters and press [OK].
starter operating history. 3. To scroll through the counters, press [▲] and [▼].
Press [OK] to view details.
9.8.1 Trip Log 4. To reset a counter, press [OK], then enter the
access code. Select Reset, then press [OK] to
The trip log stores details of the 8 most recent trips, confirm.
including the date and time the trip happened. Trip 1 is
the most recent and trip 8 is the oldest stored trip. To close the counter and return to the alarm logs, press
[Back].
To open the trip log:
1. Press [Alarm Log].
2. Scroll to Trip Log and press [OK].
3. To select a trip to view, press [▲] and [▼], then
press [OK] to show details.
To close the log and return to the main display, press
[Back].

9.8.2 Event Log 9 9

The event log stores time-stamped details of the 99 most
recent events (actions, warnings, and trips), including the
date and time of the event. Event 1 is the most recent and
event 99 is the oldest stored event.

To open the event log:

1. Press [Alarm Log].
2. Scroll to Event Log and press [OK].
3. To select an event to view, press [▲] and [▼], then
press [OK] to show details.
To close the log and return to the main display, press
[Back].

9.8.3 Counters

NOTICE
The security access code protects the counters function.

The performance counters store statistics on the soft

starter operation:
• Hours run (lifetime and time since the last reset
of the counter).
• Number of starts (lifetime and time since the last
reset of the counter).
• Motor kWh (lifetime and time since the last reset
of the counter).
• Number of times the thermal model has been
reset.

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 77

 Troubleshooting VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

10 Troubleshooting

When a protection condition is detected, the VLT® Soft 1. Identify and clear the condition that triggered the
Starter MCD 500 writes this condition to the event log and trip.
may also trip or issue a warning. The soft starter response 2. Reset the soft starter.
depends on the protection action settings (parameter
group 16 Protection Actions). 3. Restart the soft starter.
To reset the soft starter, press [Reset] or activate the Reset
Some protection responses cannot be adjusted. Usually, remote input.
external events (for example phase loss) or a fault within
the soft starter cause these trips. These trips do not have If the soft starter has issued a warning, it resets itself when
associated parameters and cannot be set to Warn or Log. the cause of the warning has been resolved.

If the soft starter trips:

10.1 Trip Messages

Table 10.1 lists the protection mechanisms in the soft starter and the probable cause of the trip. Some of these protection
mechanisms can be adjusted using parameter group 2 Protection and parameter group 16 Protection Action. Other settings are
built-in system protections and cannot be set or adjusted.

Display Possible cause/suggested solution

Awaiting data The LCP does not receive data from the control PCB. Check the cable connection and the fitting of
the display on the soft starter.
Battery/clock A verification error has occurred on the real-time clock, or the back-up battery voltage is low. If the

10 10 battery is low and the power is off, date/time settings are lost. Reprogram the date and time.
Related parameter:
• Parameter 16-12 Battery Clock.
Controller Name selected for a programmable input. Refer to Input A trip.
Current imbalance Problems with the motor, the environment, or the installation can cause current imbalance, such as:
• An imbalance in the incoming mains voltage.
• A problem with the motor windings.

• A light load on the motor.

• A phase loss on mains terminals L1, L2, or L3 during run mode.

An SCR that has failed open circuit. A failed SCR can only be diagnosed accurately by replacing the
SCR and checking the soft starter performance.
Related parameters:
• Parameter 2-2 Current Imbalance.
• Parameter 2-3 Current Imbalance Delay.

• Parameter 16-2 Current Imbalance.

Current read err lx Where X is 1, 2, or 3.

Internal fault (PCB fault). The output from the current transformer circuit is not close enough to 0
when the SCRs are turned off. Contact the local Danfoss supplier for advice.
This trip is not adjustable.
Related parameters: None.

78 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Troubleshooting Operating Guide

Display Possible cause/suggested solution

Excess start time Excess start time trip can occur under the following conditions:
• Parameter 1-1 Motor FLC is not appropriate for the motor.
• Parameter 1-4 Current Limit has been set too low.

• Parameter 1-6 Start Ramp Time has been set higher than the setting in parameter 1-9 Excess Start
Time Setting.

• Parameter 1-6 Start Ramp Time is set too short for a high inertia load when using adaptive
control.

Related parameters:
• Parameter 1-1 Motor FLC.
• Parameter 1-4 Current Limit.

• Parameter 1-6 Start Ramp Time.

• Parameter 1-9 Excess Start Time.

• Parameter 7-1 Motor FLC-2.

• Parameter 7-4 Current Limit-2.

• Parameter 7-6 Start Ramp-2.

• Parameter 7-9 Excess Strt Time-2.

• Parameter 16-7 Excess Start Time.

Firing fail px Where X is phase 1, 2, or 3.

The SCR did not fire as expected. Check for faulty SCRs and internal wiring faults.
This trip is not adjustable.
Related parameters: None.

10 10
FLC too high The soft starter can support higher motor full load current values when connected to the motor
using inside delta configuration rather than in-line connection. If the soft starter is connected in-
line, but the programmed setting for parameter 1-1 Motor FLC exceeds the in-line maximum, the
soft starter trips at start (see chapter 4.5 Minimum and Maximum Current Settings).
If the soft starter is connected to the motor using inside delta configuration, check that the soft
starter detects the connection correctly. Contact the local Danfoss supplier for advice.
Related parameters:
• Parameter 1-1 Motor FLC.
• Parameter 7-1 Motor FLC-2.

Frequency The mains frequency is outside of the specified range.

Check for other equipment in the area that could be affecting the mains supply, particularly
frequency converters and switch mode power supplies (SMPS).
If the soft starter is connected to a generator-set supply, the generator may be too small or could
have a speed control problem.
Related parameters:
• Parameter 2-8 Frequency Check.
• Parameter 2-9 Frequency Variation.

• Parameter 2-10 Frequency Delay.

• Parameter 16-5 Frequency.

Heat sink overtemp Check that cooling fans are operating. If mounted in an enclosure, check if ventilation is adequate.
Fans operate during start, run, and for 10 minutes after the soft starter exits the stop state.
NOTICE
Models MCD5-0021B ~ MCD4-0053B and MCD5-0141B do not have a cooling fan.
Models with fans operate the cooling fans from a start until 10 minutes after a stop.

Related parameter:
• Parameter 16-6 Heat sink Overtemp.

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 79

 Troubleshooting VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

Display Possible cause/suggested solution

High level Name selected for a programmable input. Refer to Input A trip.
High pressure Name selected for a programmable input. Refer to Input A trip.
Input A trip The programmable input is set to a trip function and has activated. Resolve the trigger condition.
Related parameters:
• Parameter 3-3 Input A Function.
• Parameter 3-4 Input A Name.

• Parameter 3-5 Input A Trip.

• Parameter 3-6 Input A Trip Delay.

• Parameter 3-7 Input A Initial Delay.

• Parameter 16-8 Input A Trip.

Instantaneous overcurrent There has been a sharp rise in motor current, probably caused by a locked rotor condition (shear
pin) while running. Check for a jammed load.
Related parameters:
• Parameter 2-6 Instantaneous Overcurrent.
• Parameter 2-7 Instantaneous Overcurrent Delay.

• Parameter 16-4 Inst Overcurrent.

Internal fault X The soft starter has tripped on an internal fault. Contact the local Danfoss supplier with the fault
code (X).
Related parameters: None.
L1 phase loss During prestart, check that the soft starter has detected a phase loss as indicated.
L2 phase loss In run state, the soft starter has detected that the current on the affected phase has dropped
L3 phase loss below 3.3% of the programmed motor FLC for more than 1 s. This current drop indicates that
either the incoming phase or connection to the motor has been lost.
10 10 For the soft starter and the motor, check:
• The supply connections.
• The input connections.

• The output connections.

A failed SCR can also cause phase loss, particularly an SCR that has failed open circuit. A failed SCR
can only be diagnosed accurately by replacing the SCR and checking the soft starter performance.
Related parameters: None.
L1-T1 shorted During prestart checks, the soft starter has detected a short-circuited SCR or a short circuit within
L2-T2 shorted the bypass contactor as indicated.
L3-T3 shorted Related parameters: None.
Low control volts The soft starter has detected a drop in the control voltage.
• Check the external control supply (terminals A4, A5, A6) and reset the soft starter.
If the external control supply is stable:
• Check if the 24 V supply on the main control PCB is faulty; or
• Check if the bypass driver PCB is faulty (internally bypassed models only).

This protection is not active in ready state.

Related parameter:
• Parameter 16-13 Low Control Volts.
Low level Name selected for a programmable input. Refer to Input A trip.
Low pressure Name selected for a programmable input. Refer to Input A trip.

80 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Troubleshooting Operating Guide

Display Possible cause/suggested solution

Motor overload/ The motor has reached its maximum thermal capacity.
Motor 2 overload The following can cause overload:
• The soft starter protection settings do not match the motor thermal capacity.
• Excessive starts per hour.

• Excessive throughput.

• Damage to the motor windings.

Resolve the cause of the overload and allow the motor to cool.
Related parameters:
• Parameter 1-1 Motor FLC.
• Parameter 1-2 Locked Rotor Time.

• Parameter 1-3 Start Mode.

• Parameter 1-4 Current Limit.

• Parameter 7-1 Motor FLC-2.

• Parameter 7-2 Locked Rotor Time-2.

• Parameter 7-3 Start Mode-2.

• Parameter 7-4 Current Limit-2.

• Parameter 16-1 Motor Overload.

Motor connection tx Where X is 1, 2, or 3.

The motor is not connected correctly to the soft starter for in-line or inside delta use.
• Check individual motor connections to the soft starter for power circuit continuity.
• Check connections at the motor terminal box.

This trip is not adjustable.

Related parameter:
10 10
• Parameter 15-7 Motor Connection.
Motor thermistor The motor thermistor input has been enabled and:
• The resistance at the thermistor input has exceeded 3.6 kΩ for more than 1 s.

• The motor winding has overheated. Identify the cause of the overheating and allow the motor
to cool before restarting.

• The motor thermistor input has been opened.

NOTICE
If a valid motor thermistor is no longer used, fit a 1.2 kΩ resistor across terminals 05
and 06.

Related parameter:
• Parameter 16-9 Motor Thermistor.
Network communication (between The network master has sent a trip command to the soft starter, or there could be a network
module and network) communication problem.
Check the network for causes of communication inactivity.
Related parameter:
• Parameter 16-11 Network/Comms.
No flow Name selected for a programmable input. Refer to Input A trip.
Not ready Check if the soft starter disable function is active. If parameter 3-3 Input A Function is set to Starter
disable and there is an open circuit on terminals 11 and 16, the soft starter does not start.
Parameter out of range • A parameter value is outside the valid range.

The soft starter loads the default value for all affected parameters. To go to the first invalid
parameter and adjust the setting, press [Main Menu].
Related parameters: None.

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 81

 Troubleshooting VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

Display Possible cause/suggested solution

Phase sequence The phase sequence on the soft starter mains terminals (L1, L2, L3) is not valid.
Check the phase sequence on L1, L2, and L3, and ensure that the setting in parameter 2-1 Phase
Sequence is suitable for the installation.
Related parameter:
• Parameter 2-1 Phase Sequence.
PLC Name selected for a programmable input. Refer to Input A trip.
Power loss The soft starter is not receiving mains supply on 1 or more phases when a start command is given.
Check that the main contactor closes when a start command is given and remains closed until the
end of a soft stop.
If testing the soft starter with a small motor, it must draw at least 2% of its minimum FLC setting
on each phase.
Related parameters: None.
Pump fault Name selected for a programmable input. Refer to Input A trip.
Starter/communication (between • There is a problem with the connection between the soft starter and the optional communi-
module and soft starter) cations module. Remove and reinstall the module. If the problem persists, contact the local
distributor.

• There is an internal communication error within the soft starter. Contact the local distributor.

Related parameter:
• Parameter 16-10 Starter/Comms.
Starter disable Name selected for a programmable input. Refer to Input A trip.
Thermistor cct (thermistor circuit) The thermistor input has been enabled and:
• The resistance at the input has dropped below 20 Ω (the cold resistance of most thermistors is
above this value) or

• A short circuit has occurred. Check and resolve this condition.

10 10 Check that a PT100 (RTD) is not connected to terminals 05 and 06.

Related parameters: None.
Time - overcurrent The soft starter is internally bypassed and has drawn high current during running. (The 10 A
protection curve trip has been reached, or the motor current has risen to 600% of the motor FLC
setting.)
Related parameters: None.
Undercurrent The motor has experienced a sharp drop in current, caused by loss of load. Causes can include
broken components (shafts, belts, or couplings) or a pump running dry.
Related parameters:
• Parameter 2-4 Undercurrent.
• Parameter 2-5 Undercurrent Delay.

• Parameter 16-3 Undercurrent.

Unsupported option (function not The selected function is not available (for example jog is not supported in inside delta configu-
available in inside delta) ration).
Related parameters: None.
Vibration Name selected for a programmable input. Refer to Input A trip.
VZC fails px Where X is 1, 2, or 3.
Internal fault (PCB fault). Contact the local Danfoss supplier for advice.
This trip is not adjustable.
Related parameters: None.

Table 10.1 Trip Messages

82 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Troubleshooting Operating Guide

10.2 General Faults

Table 10.2 describes situations where the soft starter does not operate as expected but neither trips nor issues a warning.

Symptom Probable cause

The soft starter is not ready. Check input A (11, 16). Check if the soft starter is disabled via a programmable input.
If parameter 3-3 Input A Function is set to Starter disable, and there is an open circuit
on the corresponding input, the soft starter does not start.
The soft starter does not respond to the [Hand On] Check if the soft starter is in auto-on mode. When the soft starter is in auto-on
and [Reset] keys. mode, the hand-on LED on the soft starter is off. Press [Auto On] once to change to
local control.
The soft starter does not respond to commands • The soft starter is waiting for the restart delay to elapse. Parameter 2-11 Restart
from the control inputs. delay controls the length of the restart delay.

• The motor may be too hot to allow a start. If parameter 2-12 Motor temperature
check is set to Check, the soft starter only allows a start when it calculates that
the motor has sufficient thermal capacity to complete the start successfully. Wait
for the motor to cool before attempting another start.

• Check if the soft starter is disabled via a programmable input. If parameter 3-3
Input A Function is set to Starter disable, and there is an open circuit on terminals
11 and 16, the soft starter does not start. If there is no further need to disable
the soft starter, close the circuit on the input.

NOTICE
Parameter 3-1 Local/remote controls when the [Auto On] is enabled.

The soft starter does not respond to a start • The soft starter may be waiting for the restart delay to elapse. Parameter 2-11
command from either the local or remote controls. Restart delay controls the length of the restart delay. 10 10
• The motor may be too hot to allow a start. If parameter 2-12 Motor temperature
check is set to Check, the soft starter only allows a start when it calculates that
the motor has sufficient thermal capacity to complete the start successfully.

• Check if the soft starter is disabled via a programmable input. If parameter 3-3
Input A function is set to Starter disable, and there is an open circuit on terminals
11 and 16, the soft starter does not start. If there is no further need to disable
the soft starter, close the circuit on the input.

NOTICE
Parameter 3-1 Local/remote controls when [Auto On] is enabled.

The soft starter does not control the motor • Start performance may be unstable when using a low motor FLC setting
correctly during start. (parameter 1-1 Motor FLC). This can affect use on a small test motor with full load
current of 5–50 A.

• Install power factor correction (PFC) capacitors on the supply side of the soft
starter. To control a dedicated PFC capacitor contactor, connect the contactor to
run relay terminals.

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 83

 Troubleshooting VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

Symptom Probable cause

Motor does not reach full speed. • If the start current is too low, the motor does not produce enough torque to
accelerate to full speed. The soft starter may trip on excess start time.

NOTICE
Make sure that the motor starting parameters are appropriate for the
application and that the intended motor starting profile is used. If
parameter 3-3 Input A Function is set to Motor Set Select, check that the
corresponding input is in the expected state.

• Check if the load is jammed. Check the load for severe overloading or a locked
rotor situation.

Erratic motor operation. • The SCRs in the soft starter require at least 5 A of current to latch. If testing the
soft starter on a motor with full load current less than 5 A, the SCRs may not
latch correctly.

Erratic and noisy motor operation. If the soft starter is connected to the motor using inside delta configuration, the soft
starter may not be detecting the connection correctly. Contact the local Danfoss
supplier for advice.
Soft stop ends too quickly. • The soft stop settings may not be appropriate for the motor and load. Review the
settings of:

- Parameter 1-10 Stop Mode.

- Parameter 1-11 Stop Time.

- Parameter 7-10 Stop Mode-2.

- Parameter 7-11 Stop Time-2.

10 10 • If the motor is lightly loaded, soft stop has limited effect.

Adaptive control, DC brake, and jog functions not • These features are only available with in-line installation. If the soft starter is
working. installed inside delta, these features do not operate.

A reset does not occur after an auto-reset when • Remove and reapply the remote 2-wire start signal for a restart.
using a remote 2-wire control.
Remote start/stop command overrides autostart/ • Only use autostart/stop in auto-on mode with 3-wire or 4-wire control.
stop settings when using remote 2-wire control.
After selecting adaptive control, the motor used an • The 1st adaptive control start is Current limit. The soft starter then learns from the
ordinary start and/or the 2nd start was different motor characteristics. Subsequent starts use adaptive control.
from the 1st start.
Non-resettable Thermistor Cct trip, when there is a • The thermistor input is enabled once a link is fitted and short-circuit protection
link between thermistor inputs 05 and 06, or when has activated.
the motor thermistor connected between 05 and Remove the link, then load the default parameter set. This disables the thermistor
06 is permanently removed. input and clears the trip.
Place a 1.2 kΩ resistor across the thermistor input.
Turn thermistor protection to Log only (parameter 16-9 Motor Thermistor).
Parameter settings cannot be stored. • Make sure to save the new value by pressing [OK] after adjusting a parameter
setting. If pressing [Back], the change is not saved.

• Check that the adjustment lock (parameter 15-2 Adjustment Lock) is set to Read/
Write. If the adjustment lock is on, settings can be viewed, but not changed.
Knowing the security access code is necessary to change the adjustment lock
setting.

• The EEPROM may be faulty on the main control PCB. A faulty EEPROM also trips
the soft starter, and the LCP shows the message Par. Out of Range. Contact the
local Danfoss supplier for advice.

The LCP shows message Awaiting data. The LCP does not receive data from the control PCB. Check the cable connection.

Table 10.2 General Fault Messages

84 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Specifications Operating Guide

11 Specifications

Supply
Mains voltage (L1, L2, L3)
MCD5-xxxx-T5 200–525 V AC (±10%)
MCD5-xxxx-T7 380–690 V AC (±10%) (in-line connection)
MCD5-xxxx-T7 380–690 V AC (±10%) (inside delta connection)
Control voltage (A4, A5, A6)
CV1 (A5, A6) 24 V AC/V DC (±20%)
CV2 (A5, A6) 110–120 V AC (+10%/-15%)
CV2 (A4, A6) 220–240 V AC (+10%/-15%)
Current consumption (maximum)
CV1 2.8 A
CV2 (110–120 V AC) 1A
CV2 (220–240 V AC) 500 mA
Mains frequency 45–66 Hz
Rated insulation voltage to ground 690 V AC
Rated impulse withstand voltage 4 kV
Form designation Bypassed or continuous, semiconductor motor starter form 1

Short-circuit capability (IEC)

Coordination with semiconductor fuses Type 2
Coordination with HRC fuses Type 1
MCD5-0021B to MCD5-0215B Prospective current 65 kA
MCD5-0245B to MCD5-0961B Prospective current 85 kA
MCD5-0245C to MCD5-0927B Prospective current 85 kA
MCD5-1200C to MCD5-1600C Prospective current 100 kA
For UL short-circuit current ratings, see Table 4.12.

Electromagnetic capability (compliant with EU Directive 2014/30/EU)

11 11
EMC emissions IEC 60947-4-2 Class B and Lloyds Marine No 1 Specification
EMC immunity IEC 60947-4-2

Inputs
Input rating Active 24 V DC, 8 mA approximately
Start (15, 16) Normally open
Stop (17, 18) Normally closed
Reset (25, 18) Normally closed
Programmable input (11, 16) Normally open
Motor thermistor (05, 06) Trip >3.6 kΩ, reset <1.6 kΩ

Outputs
Relay outputs 10 A @ 250 V AC resistive, 5 A @ 250 V AC AC15 pf 0.3
Programmable outputs
Relay A (13, 14) Normally open
Relay B (21, 22, 24) Changeover
Relay C (33, 34) Normally open
Analog output (07, 08) 0–20 mA or 4–20 mA (selectable)
Maximum load 600 Ω (12 V DC @ 20 mA)
Accuracy ±5%
24 V DC output (16, 08) maximum load 200 mA
Accuracy ±10%

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 85

 Specifications VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

Environmental
Protection
MCD5-0021B to MCD5-0105B IP20 & NEMA, UL Indoor Type 1
MCD5-0131B to MCD5-1600C IP00, UL Indoor Open Type
Operating temperature -10 °C (14 °F) to +60 °C (140 °F), above 40 °C (104 °F) with derating
Storage temperature -25 °C (-13 °F) to +60 °C
Operating altitude (using MCD PC software) 0–1000 m (0–3281 ft), above 1000 m (3281 ft) with derating
Humidity 5–95% relative humidity
Pollution degree Pollution degree 3
Vibration IEC 60068-2-6

Heat dissipation
During start 4.5 W per ampere
During run
MCD5-0021B to MCD5-0053B ≤39 W approximately
MCD5-0068B to MCD5-0105B ≤51 W approximately
MCD5-0131B to MCD5-0215B ≤120 W approximately
MCD5-0245B to MCD5-0469B ≤140 W approximately
MCD5-0525B to MCD5-0961B ≤357 W approximately
MCD5-0245C to MCD5-0927C 4.5 W per ampere approximately
MCD5-1200C to MCD5-1600C 4.5 W per ampere approximately

Certification
C✓ IEC 60947-4-2
UL/C-UL
MCD5-0021B to MCD5-0396B, MCD5-0245C to MCD5-1600C UL 5081)
MCD5-0469B to MCD5-0961B UL listed
MCD5-0021B to MCD5-105B UL recognized
MCD5-0131B to MCD5-1600C IP20, when fitted with optional finger guard kit
CE IEC 60947-4-2
11 11 CCC
Marine
GB 14048-6

(MCD5-0021B to MCD5-0961B) Lloyds Marine No 1 Specification

RoHS Compliant with EU Directive 2002/95/EC
1) For UL certification extra requirements may apply, depending on the models. For details, see chapter 11.1 UL-compliant Instal-
lation.

11.1 UL-compliant Installation 11.1.3 Models MCD5-0245B to

MCD5-0396B
This section details more requirements and configuration
settings for the VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 to be UL- • Use with finger guard kit, ordering number
compliant. See also Table 4.12. 175G5730.
• Use the recommended pressure terminal/
11.1.1 Models MCD5-0021B to connector kit. See Table 11.1 for more
MCD5-0105B information.

There are no additional requirements for these models.

11.1.4 Models MCD5-0245C
11.1.2 Models MCD5-0131B to • Use the recommended pressure terminal/
MCD5-0215B connector kit. See Table 11.1 for more
information.
• Use with finger guard kit, ordering number
175G5662.
• Use the recommended pressure terminal/
connector kit. See Table 11.1 for more
information.

86 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Specifications Operating Guide

11.1.5 Models MCD5-0360C to 11.2 Accessories

MCD5-1600C
11.2.1 LCP Remote Mounting Kit
• Configure the busbars for line/load terminals at
opposite ends of the soft starter (that is Top in/ The VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 LCP can be mounted up to
Bottom out, or Top out/Bottom in. 3 m (9.8 ft) away from the soft starter, allowing remote
control and monitoring. The remote LCP also allows
• Use the recommended pressure terminal/
parameter settings to be copied between soft starters.
connector kit. See Table 11.1 for more
information.
• 175G0096 Control Panel LCP 501.
11.1.6 Models MCD5-0469B to
MCD5-0961B 11.2.2 Communication Modules

These models are UL recognized components. Separate VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 supports network communi-
cable landing busbars may be required within the electrical cation via easy-to-install communication modules. Each
cabinet when terminating cables sized according to the soft starter can support 1 communication module at a
National Wiring Code (NEC) regulations. time.

11.1.7 Pressure Terminal/Connector Kits Available protocols:

• Ethernet (PROFINET, Modbus TCP, EtherNet/IP).
For models MCD50131B to MCD5-0396B and MCD5-0245C • PROFIBUS.
to MCD5-1600C to be UL-compliant, use the recommended
pressure terminal/connector as detailed in Table 11.1.
• DeviceNet.
• Modbus RTU.

Number of
Recommended • USB.
Model FLC (A) lugs ordering
wires Ordering numbers for communication modules
numbers
MCD5-0131B 145 1 OPHD 95-16
• 175G9000 Modbus module.
MCD5-0141B 170 1 OPHD 120-16 • 175G9001 PROFIBUS module.
MCD5-0195B 200 1 OPHD 150-16 • 175G9002 DeviceNet module. 11 11
MCD5-0215B 220 1 OPHD 185-16
• 175G9009 MCD USB module.
MCD5-0245B 255 1 OPHD 240-20
MCD5-0331B 350 1 OPHD 400-16
• 175G9904 Modbus TCP module.

MCD5-0396B 425 2 OPHD 185-16 • 175G9905 PROFINET module.

MCD5-0245C 255 1 OPHD 240-20

• 175G9906 EtherNet/IP module.

MCD5-0360C 360
MCD5-0380C 380
11.2.3 PC Software
MCD5-0428C 430 2 1 x 600T-2
MCD5-0595C 620
WinMaster PC software provides:
MCD5-0619C 650 • Monitoring.
MCD5-0790C 790 4 2 x 600T-2 • Programming.
MCD5-0927C 930 3 2 x 600T-2 • Control of up to 99 soft starters.
MCD5-1200C 1200
4 1 x 750T-4 A Modbus or USB communication module is required for
MCD5-1410C 1410
each soft starter to use WinMaster.
1 x 750T-4 and
MCD5-1600C 1600 5
1 x 600T-3

Table 11.1 Pressure Terminal/Connector Kits

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 87

 Specifications VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

11.2.4 Finger Guard Kit

Finger guards may be specified for personnel safety. Finger

guards fit over the soft starter terminals to prevent
accidental contact with live terminals. Finger guards
provide IP20 protection when correctly installed.

• MCD5-0131B to MCD5-0215B: 175G5662.

• MCD5-0245B to MCD5-0396B: 175G5730.
• MCD5-0469B to MCD5-0961B: 175G5731.
• MCD5-245C: 175G5663.
• MCD5-0360C to MCD5-0927C: 175G5664.
• MCD5-1200C to MCD5-1600C: 175G5665.
NOTICE
To be UL-compliant, the models MCD5-0131B to
MCD5-0396B require finger guards.

11.2.5 Surge Protection Kit (Lightning

Protection)

As standard, VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500 rated impulse

withstand voltage is limited to 4 kV. The surge protection
kits protect the system and make the soft starter immune
to high-voltage impulses.

6 kV
• 175G0100 SPD Surge protection kit for G1.
11 11 • 175G0101 SPD Surge protection kit, G2-G5.
12 kV
• 175G0102 SPD Surge protection kit for G1.
• 175G0103 SPD Surge protection kit, G1-G5.
177RA001.11

1/L1 2/T1

1/L1 2/T1 M
3~

1/L1 2/T1

13

14

K1
Illustration 11.1 System with Surge Protection Kit

88 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Busbar Adjustment Procedure... Operating Guide

12 Busbar Adjustment Procedure (MCD5-0360C to MCD5-1600C)

The busbars on non-bypassed models MCD5-0360C to

MCD5-1600C can be adjusted for top or bottom input and
output as required.

NOTICE
Many electronic components are sensitive to static
electricity. Voltages so low that they cannot be felt, seen,
or heard can reduce the life, affect performance, or
completely destroy sensitive electronic components.
When performing service, use proper ESD equipment to
prevent possible damage from occurring.

All units are manufactured with input and output busbars

at the bottom of the unit as standard. If necessary, the
input and/or output busbars can be moved to the top of
the unit.

1. Remove all wiring and links from the soft starter

before dismantling the unit.
2. Remove the unit cover (4 screws).
3. Remove the LCP front cover, then gently remove
the LCP (2 screws).
4. Remove the control card terminal plugs. Illustration 12.1 Removing Front Cover and LCP
5. Gently fold the main plastic away from the soft
starter (12 screws).
6. Unplug the LCP loom from CON 1 (see Notice). 10. Unscrew and remove the magnetic bypass plates
(models MCD5-0620C to MCD5-1600C only).
7. Label each SCR firing loom with the number of
the corresponding terminal on the main control 11. Remove the current transformer assembly (3 12 12
PCB, then unplug the looms. screws).

8. Unplug the thermistor, fan, and current 12. Identify which busbars to remove. Remove the
transformer wires from the main control PCB. bolts holding these busbars in place, then slide
out the busbars through the bottom of the soft
9. Remove the plastic tray from the soft starter (4 starter (4 bolts per busbar).
screws).

NOTICE
Remove the main plastic slowly to avoid damaging the
LCP wiring loom (wiring harness), which runs between
the main plastic and the backplane PCB.

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 89

 Busbar Adjustment Procedure... VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

Illustration 12.2 Busbars

13. Slide the busbars in through the top of the soft

Illustration 12.3 Busbars with Cable Ties
starter. For input busbars, place the short curved
end outside the soft starter. For output busbars,
place the unthreaded hole outside the soft
starter. NOTICE
14. Replace the dome washers with the flat face If moving the input busbars, the current transformers
towards the busbar. must also be reconfigured.

15. Tighten the bolts holding the busbars in place to 1. Label the current transformers L1, L2, and L3

12 12 20 Nm (177 in-lb). (L1 is leftmost when working from the front of

the soft starter). Remove the cable ties and
16. Place the current transformer assembly over the unscrew the current transformers from the
input busbars and screw the assembly to the bracket.
body of the soft starter (see Notice).
2. Move the current transformer bracket to the top
17. Run all wiring to the side of the soft starter and of the soft starter. Position the current
secure with cable ties. transformers for the correct phases, then screw
the current transformers to the bracket. For
models MCD5-0360C to MCD5-0930, place the
current transformers on an angle. The left-hand
legs of each current transformer are on the top
row of holes and the right-hand legs are on the
bottom tabs.

90 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Appendix Operating Guide

13 Appendix

13.1 Symbols, Abbreviations, and

Conventions
°C Degrees Celsius
°F Degrees Fahrenheit
AC Alternating current
DC Direct current
DOL Direct on-line
EMC Electro magnetic compatibility
FLA Full load amperage
FLC Full load current
FLT Full load torque
IP Ingress protection
LCP Local control panel
LRA Locked rotor amps
MSTC Motor start time constant
PAM Pole amplitude modulated
PCB Printed circuit board
PELV Protective extra low voltage
PFC Power factor correction
SCCR Short-circuit current rating
SELV Safety extra low voltage
TVR Timed voltage ramp

Table 13.1 Symbols and Abbreviations

Conventions
Numbered lists indicate procedures.
Bullet lists indicate other information.
Italicized text indicates:
• Cross-reference.
• Link. 13 13
• Parameter name.
All dimensions in drawings are in [mm (in)].

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 91

Index VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

Index Communication modules

DeviceNet....................................................................................... 7, 87
Ethernet.......................................................................................... 7, 87
A EtherNet/IP......................................................................................... 87
Abbreviations......................................................................................... 91 Modbus.................................................................................................. 7
Modbus RTU...................................................................................... 87
AC supply................................................................................................. 18 Modbus TCP....................................................................................... 87
AC1 rating................................................................................................ 28 PROFIBUS........................................................................................ 7, 87
PROFINET............................................................................................ 87
AC3 rating................................................................................................ 28
USB........................................................................................................ 87
AC-53 rating..................................................................................... 25, 27
Connections
Access code............................................ 59, 62, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 84 In-line connection............... 6, 19, 21, 24, 25, 28, 54, 79, 81, 85
Accessories Inside delta......................................................................................... 81
Connector kit.............................................................................. 86, 87 Inside delta connection............ 6, 19, 26, 27, 28, 44, 79, 84, 85
see also Pressure terminal Internal bypass.................................................................................... 6
Finger guard kit......................................................................... 86, 88 Motor connection............................................ 7, 19, 21, 62, 73, 81
Pressure terminal...................................................................... 86, 87 Contactors
see also Connector kit Bypass contactor........ 11, 20, 21, 22, 24, 26, 28, 47, 73, 78, 80
Surge protection kit........................................................................ 88 Bypass contactor overload.............................................................. 7
Alarm log.......................................................................................... 55, 77 High-speed contactor.................................................................... 52
Internal bypass.................................................................................. 73
Altitude......................................................................... 23, 25, 27, 29, 86 Low-speed contactor...................................................................... 52
Ambient temperature.................................................... 23, 25, 27, 29 Main contactor.... 12, 20, 21, 22, 28, 46, 54, 55, 64, 67, 68, 73,
82
Applications
Star contactor.................................................................................... 52
UL-compliant..................................................................................... 34
Continuous operation........................................................... 25, 27, 44
Auto-on mode............................................. 11, 54, 55, 56, 66, 69, 84
Control supply................................................................................ 37, 38
Autostart.................................................................................................. 54
Conventions........................................................................................... 91
Auto-start................................................................................................ 69
Counter.................................................................... 6, 59, 70, 72, 75, 77
Autostart timer...................................................................................... 69
Current flag........................................................................ 59, 62, 67, 68
Autostop........................................................................................... 54, 69
Current imbalance........................................ 7, 44, 62, 65, 69, 74, 78
Auto-stop................................................................................................. 69

D
B
Delay........................................... 51, 59, 62, 65, 67, 68, 69, 70, 73, 83
Brake
Brake.................................................... 42, 43, 44, 54, 55, 64, 70, 71 Direct on-line.................................................................... 40, 43, 73, 91
torque.............................................................................. 43, 62, 64, 71 see also DOL
DC brake........................................................................... 6, 43, 50, 84 DOL....................................................................................... 40, 43, 73, 91
DC injection......................................................................... 43, 64, 71 see also Direct on-line
Full brake............................................................................................. 43
Pre-brake............................................................................................. 43
Soft brake.............................................................................................. 6 E
Starter disable............................................ 6, 44, 66, 67, 81, 82, 83 Electromagnetic capability............................................................... 85
Busbar........................................................................... 11, 17, 87, 89, 90 Environmental....................................................................................... 86
Busbar, input................................................................................... 18, 19 Event log...................................................................................... 6, 77, 78
Busbar, output....................................................................................... 18 Excess start time..................................... 7, 59, 60, 62, 64, 70, 74, 79
Bypassed operation...................................................................... 25, 27 External zero-speed sensor........................................................ 50, 51

C F
Calculated motor temperature........................................................ 66 Fan cooling.............................................................................................. 39
Capacitors
Power factor correction capacitor................................ 11, 29, 83
Certification............................................................................................ 86

92 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Index Operating Guide

Features
Adaptive control... 6, 29, 39, 40, 41, 42, 44, 60, 63, 64, 70, 71, G
79, 84
Adaptive deceleration control....................................................... 6 Gain setting..................................................................................... 64, 71
Coast to stop.............................. 41, 42, 43, 44, 54, 55, 64, 66, 70 General fault messages...................................................................... 84
DC brake........................................................................... 6, 43, 50, 84
Emergency run................................................. 6, 48, 49, 62, 66, 73
In-line connection............... 6, 19, 21, 24, 25, 28, 54, 79, 81, 85 H
In-line installation.............................................................. 20, 21, 84 Hand-on mode........................................................................ 54, 55, 56
Inside delta......................................................................................... 81
Heat dissipation.................................................................................... 86
Inside delta connection............ 6, 19, 26, 27, 28, 44, 79, 84, 85
Inside delta installation.................................................... 21, 22, 84 Heat sink............................................................................. 11, 62, 74, 79
Internal bypass............................................................................. 6, 73 Heat sink temperature.......................................................................... 7
Jog............................................. 6, 43, 44, 54, 55, 62, 66, 73, 82, 84
Kick-start.................................................................... 6, 41, 62, 63, 70
Output signal simulation.......................................................... 6, 76 I
Output simulation........................................................................... 59
Initial current.......................................................................................... 70
Protection simulation......................................................... 6, 59, 76
Soft brake.............................................................................................. 6 Input A trip......................................................................... 78, 80, 81, 82
Soft braking configuration........................................................... 51 Input rating............................................................................................. 85
Starter disable..................................... 6, 44, 50, 66, 67, 81, 82, 83
Thermal model............................ 6, 39, 43, 44, 59, 71, 72, 75, 77 Input trip............................................................................... 7, 50, 66, 67
Timed voltage ramp....................................... 6, 41, 44, 64, 70, 91 Inputs
see also TVR Control input..................................................................................... 20
TVR........................................................................ 6, 41, 44, 64, 70, 91 Input A...... 44, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 59, 62, 66, 67, 69, 74, 80,
see also Timed voltage ramp 81, 83, 84
Finger guard kit..................................................................................... 18 Local control input............................................................................. 6
Power input........................................................................................ 18
FLC.... 19, 21, 28, 29, 34, 39, 41, 42, 57, 60, 63, 65, 68, 70, 79, 82, Programmable input....... 37, 38, 44, 73, 76, 78, 80, 81, 82, 83,
83, 84, 91 85
see also Full load current Remote....................................................... 11, 16, 54, 55, 66, 69, 78
FLT....................................................................................................... 43, 91 Remote control input................ 6, 37, 38, 46, 47, 48, 49, 51, 53
see also Full load torque Reset.............................................................................................. 16, 67
Frequency trip....................................................................................... 65 Inside delta current....................................................................... 19, 21
Full load current...... 19, 21, 28, 29, 34, 39, 41, 42, 57, 60, 63, 65, Installation
68, 70, 79, 82, 83, 84, 91 Bypass contactor.............................................................................. 47
see also FLC Clearance............................................................................................ 13
Derating values................................................................................. 13
Full load torque.............................................................................. 43, 91
Dimension.......................................................................................... 15
see also FLT
Externally bypassed........................................................................ 21
Fuses In-line installation.............................................................. 20, 21, 84
British style (BS88)........................................................................... 31 Inside delta installation.................................................... 21, 22, 84
Bussmann fuse.................................................................................. 30 Internally bypassed.................................................................. 20, 21
European style (PSC 690).............................................................. 34 Main contactor.................................................................................. 46
Ferraz...................................................................................... 32, 35, 36 Non-bypassed............................................................................ 20, 22
Fuse................................................................................................ 20, 22 Side-by-side....................................................................................... 13
Fuse recommendation................................................................... 29 UL-compliant......................................................... 18, 19, 86, 87, 88
HRC fuse....................................................................................... 29, 85 Weight.................................................................................................. 15
HSJ......................................................................................................... 32
Instantaneous overcurrent protection......................................... 65
Motor branch circuit....................................................................... 43
Motor rated mains fuse.................................................................. 29
North American Style (PSC 690)................................................. 33 K
Power supply fuse............................................................................ 29
Keys
Protection fuse.................................................................................. 43
Control keys......................................................................... 54, 55, 56
Semiconductor fuse................ 20, 21, 22, 29, 35, 36, 46, 47, 85
LCP keys............................................................................................... 66
Short-circuit rating............................................................ 34, 35, 36
Navigation keys................................................................................ 55
Square body....................................................................................... 30
Type 1............................................................................................ 29, 85
Type 2............................................................................................ 29, 85 L
UL fuse selection.............................................................................. 34
LCP...... 6, 16, 44, 54, 55, 56, 59, 61, 66, 67, 69, 71, 72, 73, 76, 78,
84, 87, 89, 91
see also Local control panel

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 93

Index VLT® Soft Starter MCD 500

Local control............................................................... 17, 54, 55, 66, 83 Power loss.................................................................................... 7, 69, 82

Local control panel... 6, 16, 44, 54, 55, 56, 59, 61, 66, 67, 69, 71, Primary motor settings......................................................... 51, 52, 63
72, 73, 76, 78, 84, 87, 89, 91 Programming details........................................................................... 55
see also LCP
Protection settings................................................................. 20, 63, 81
Local mode...................................................................................... 16, 66
Locked rotor amp.......................................................................... 34, 91
see also LRA
Q
LRA...................................................................................................... 34, 91 Qualified personnel............................................................................. 11
see also Locked rotor amp Quick menu..................................................................................... 55, 59
Quick set-up........................................................................................... 59
M
Main menu........................................................... 55, 59, 61, 75, 76, 81 R
Models Relays
Internally bypassed............................... 18, 20, 24, 26, 37, 80, 82 Output relay....................................................................................... 76
Non-bypassed.................................. 19, 20, 22, 25, 28, 38, 73, 89 Output relay A................................................................................... 46
Motor Output relay B............................................................................ 47, 53
body...................................................................................................... 39 Output relay C................................................................................... 52
connection.................................................. 7, 12, 19, 21, 62, 73, 81 Relay A...................................................................... 59, 62, 67, 76, 85
temperature....................................................................................... 83 Relay B...................................................................... 59, 62, 67, 68, 85
windings................................................................................ 39, 78, 81 Relay C............................................................................. 59, 62, 68, 85
Overload...................................................... 7, 39, 62, 63, 69, 74, 81 Remote control..................................... 16, 17, 54, 56, 66, 69, 83, 87
Thermal behavior............................................................................. 39
Remote mode.......................................................................... 16, 50, 66
Thermal capacity........................................... 39, 57, 66, 68, 81, 83
Thermistor........ 7, 16, 37, 38, 43, 44, 46, 47, 48, 49, 51, 62, 69, Restart delay............................................................... 43, 44, 62, 66, 83
74, 76, 81, 82, 84, 85, 89 Run modes
Motor branch protection................................................................... 29 Emergency run........................................................ 6, 48, 49, 62, 73
Motor temperature............................. 57, 58, 63, 68, 71, 72, 75, 76
Motor temperature flag............................................................... 67, 68 S
Safety
Instructions........................................................................................ 11
N
Schematic diagrams
Network communication................................................................... 81
Internally bypassed......................................................................... 37
Non-bypassed................................................................................... 38
O Secondary motor set............................................................. 51, 52, 70
Ordering Serial communication...................................... 16, 17, 54, 56, 66, 69
form......................................................................................................... 8
Type code.............................................................................................. 8 Short-circuit capability....................................................................... 85

Outputs Shunt trip circuit breaker................................................................... 28

Analog output................................................................................... 68 Speed profile.......................................................................................... 29
Analog programmable output...................................................... 6
Standards
Output A.............................................................................................. 68
EU directive 2002/95/EC................................................................ 86
Output relay B............................................................................ 47, 53
GB 14048-6......................................................................................... 86
Output relay C................................................................................... 52
IEC 60947-4-2....................................................................... 29, 85, 86
Power output..................................................................................... 18
IEC 61140............................................................................................ 16
Programmable output................................ 20, 22, 64, 68, 76, 85
Lloyds Marine No 1 Specification............................................... 86
Relay output.................................................................... 6, 20, 37, 38
RoHS..................................................................................................... 86
Relay output A................................................ 37, 38, 46, 47, 48, 49
UL 508.................................................................................................. 34
Relay output B......................................... 37, 38, 46, 47, 48, 49, 53
UL 508C................................................................................................ 86
Relay output C................................................ 37, 38, 46, 47, 48, 49
Supply output...................................................................................... 6 Start current requirement................................................................. 45
Overcurrent....................................... 7, 59, 62, 65, 68, 69, 74, 80, 82 Start modes
Adaptive control... 6, 29, 40, 41, 42, 44, 60, 63, 64, 70, 71, 79,
84
P Constant current................................ 6, 40, 41, 44, 60, 61, 63, 70
PC software............................................................................................. 87 Current ramp............................................................ 6, 40, 41, 63, 70
Jog............................................. 6, 43, 44, 54, 55, 62, 66, 73, 82, 84
Power factor............................................................... 57, 68, 71, 72, 83
Kick-start.................................................................... 6, 41, 62, 63, 70
Power factor correction...................................................................... 91

94 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. MG17K802

Index Operating Guide

Start torque requirement.................................................................. 45 Trip messages........................................................................................ 82

Starting profile......................................................................... 39, 40, 84
Status................................................................................................. 55, 76 U
Status details.......................................................................................... 55 UL listed................................................................................................... 86
Status screen..................................................................... 56, 57, 75, 76 UL recognized........................................................................................ 86
Stop modes Undercurrent........................................... 7, 59, 62, 65, 68, 69, 74, 82
Adaptive control................................................................. 42, 64, 70 Undercurrent protection................................................................... 65
Adaptive deceleration control....................................................... 6
Brake............................................. 42, 43, 44, 54, 55, 64, 66, 70, 71 Unintended start.................................................................................. 11
Coast to stop.............................. 41, 42, 43, 44, 54, 55, 64, 66, 70
DC brake........................................................................... 6, 43, 50, 84 W
Soft brake.............................................................................................. 6
Starter disable..................................... 6, 44, 50, 66, 67, 81, 82, 83 WinMaster............................................................................................... 87
Timed voltage ramp....................................... 6, 41, 44, 64, 70, 91 Wiring
see also TVR Soft braking configuration........................................................... 51
TVR........................................................................ 6, 41, 44, 64, 70, 91 Two-speed configuration.............................................................. 53
see also Timed voltage ramp
Stop time.................... 41, 42, 43, 44, 59, 60, 62, 64, 69, 70, 71, 84
Stopping profile.................................................................................... 39
Suggested values.......................................................................... 60, 61
Supply....... 7, 11, 12, 16, 28, 40, 43, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53,
79, 80, 82, 83, 85
Supply voltage.................................................................. 30, 31, 32, 33
Symbols.................................................................................................... 91

T
Terminals
A4............................................................................................. 16, 80, 85
A5............................................................................................. 16, 80, 85
A6............................................................................................. 16, 80, 85
Bypass.................................................................................................. 19
Bypass terminal.................................................................. 20, 22, 38
Control input..................................................................................... 16
Control terminal............................................................................... 16
Power.................................................................................................... 17
Relay terminal............................................................................. 16, 83
Terminal 05.................................................................................. 82, 85
Terminal 06.................................................................................. 82, 85
Terminal 07......................................................................................... 85
Terminal 08......................................................................................... 85
Terminal 11............................................... 48, 49, 50, 66, 81, 83, 85
Terminal 13........................................................................... 46, 73, 85
Terminal 14........................................................................... 46, 73, 85
Terminal 15......................................................................................... 85
Terminal 16............................................... 48, 49, 50, 66, 81, 83, 85
Terminal 17........................................................................... 48, 49, 85
Terminal 18.................................................................... 48, 49, 67, 85
Terminal 21.................................................................................. 47, 85
Terminal 22.................................................................................. 47, 85
Terminal 24.................................................................................. 47, 85
Terminal 25.................................................................................. 67, 85
Terminal 33......................................................................................... 85
Terminal 34......................................................................................... 85
Thermal characteristics...................................................................... 39
Thermal overload protection........................................................... 39
Trip categories....................................................................................... 69
Trip log...................................................................................................... 77

MG17K802 Danfoss A/S © 03/2018 All rights reserved. 95

Danfoss can accept no responsibility for possible errors in catalogues, brochures and other printed material. Danfoss reserves the right to alter its products without notice. This also applies to
products already on order provided that such alterations can be made without subsequential changes being necessary in specifications already agreed. All trademarks in this material are property
of the respective companies. Danfoss and the Danfoss logotype are trademarks of Danfoss A/S. All rights reserved.

Danfoss A/S
Ulsnaes 1
DK-6300 Graasten
vlt-drives.danfoss.com

175R0549 MG17K802 03/2018

*MG17K802*