Siemens Advances Circuit Protection with New SENTRON ECPD

Siemens Smart Infrastructure has expanded its range of industrial control and protection technologies, introducing new capabilities for its semiconductor-based SENTRON Electronic Circuit Protection Device (ECPD) and unveiling the SIRIUS 3RW5 -Z R11 refurbished soft starter. The developments are designed to support industrial users seeking improved electrical safety, stronger system availability, and reduced environmental impact. The SENTRON Electronic Circuit Protection Device (ECPD) will soon be offered with an integrated Residual Current Monitoring (RCM) function, while a three-phase ECPD version for high-voltage (400V) applications is also planned for future releases. At the same time, Siemens has introduced its first circular soft starter, the SIRIUS 3RW5 -Z R11 refurbished soft starter, which delivers identical product features to a new device but typically with up to 50 percent smaller CO2 footprint.

Originally introduced in 2024 as the world´s first device of its kind, Siemens’ SENTRON ECPD uses semiconductor technology to deliver ultra-fast electronic switching designed to minimize short-circuit energy and safeguard connected systems. The device provides up to 1,000 times faster secure electronic switching and integrates more than 10 configurable functionalities within a single unit. This consolidated architecture reduces space requirements in the distribution board by as much as 80 percent while enabling flexible software-based parameterization.

Siemens plans to release a standalone single-phase version of the ultra-fast SENTRON ECPD equipped with an integrated Residual Current Monitoring (RCM) function. This capability continuously tracks residual currents in electrical circuits, enabling early detection of faults without interrupting operations and helping maintain 24/7 system uptime while protecting equipment. Such monitoring is particularly relevant for environments where high safety standards and uninterrupted system performance are essential, including data centers, exhibition fairs, lighting installations, and a wide range of industrial applications. The RCM capability can also replace complex recurring inspections, simplifying maintenance processes.

The company is also preparing to introduce a three-phase version of the SENTRON ECPD for high-voltage systems operating at 400V/32A/50 Hz. The upcoming version will retain the same functional characteristics while expanding application coverage to infrastructure and industrial settings such as conveyor belts, elevators, heat pumps, air conditioning systems, power distribution at events, and UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) systems. “Siemens is leveraging advanced semiconductor technology to redefine industry standards in circuit protection,” said Andreas Matthé, CEO Electrical Products at Siemens Smart Infrastructure. “Our SENTRON ECPD is testament to this leadership, offering unparalleled speed, precision, and a compact design that ensures maximum operational uptime and protection for our customers’ infrastructure.”

Alongside these developments in circuit protection technology, Siemens is introducing a circular product approach with the launch of the SIRIUS 3RW5 -Z R11 refurbished soft starter. The product will be presented at the Light & Building 2026 trade fair and is produced through a controlled refurbishment process of previously used soft starters. By extending product life and reducing resource consumption, the refurbishment process typically lowers CO2 emissions by up to 50 percent compared with manufacturing a new device. The process is documented through Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs). During refurbishment, used units undergo extensive testing, critical components are replaced, and all functions are verified to ensure the device meets the same quality standards as a new product. The resulting soft starter is technically equivalent to a new device and remains fully compatible in terms of installation, parameterization, and functionality, enabling seamless integration into existing systems. Devices carry CE certification, with CCC, UL/CSA, and ATEX certifications currently pending.

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

Designed with circularity in mind, SIRIUS 3RW5 -Z R11 refurbished soft starters feature modular construction that allows straightforward dismantling and repair, while clearly identifiable components facilitate efficient refurbishment processes. As a smart device, it captures usage and condition data throughout its first life cycle, enabling targeted remanufacturing during a second life. Traceability across both life cycles is supported through the ID Link, a unique QR code assigned to each device. Siemens is also developing a supporting data architecture using Asset Administration Shell (AAS) and Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT:IOTA), laying the groundwork for a Digital Product Passport (DPP) aligned with the EU’s Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR). This system aims to provide transparent and audit-proof lifecycle information. At the Light + Building trade fair, the Siemens booth B56 is in Hall 11.0.

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