Danfoss soft starter series — which to choose
Danfoss makes two main soft starter series: MCD 201 (basic) and MCD 500 (advanced). Both are reliable — we have sold hundreds over the past years. The difference is in features, configurability and price. In short: MCD 201 for simple tasks (pump, fan), MCD 500 for complex projects (multiple motors, SCADA integration, demanding start profiles).
Danfoss MCD 201: basic series
MCD 201 is the workhorse. Minimal settings, maximum reliability. Two potentiometers on the housing: one sets start ramp time, the other sets stop ramp time. That is it. No display, no Modbus, no menu.
- Power range: 7.5-75 kW (three-phase 380V)
- Ramp time: 1-10 seconds
- Built-in bypass: yes (up to 45 kW)
- Protection: overcurrent, overheat, phase loss
Suits: borehole and surface pumps, fans, compressors. See our Danfoss soft starter catalogue.
Danfoss MCD 500: advanced series
MCD 500 is for projects needing more control. Full display with menu, Modbus RTU, analog I/O, programmable relays.
- Power range: 7-850 kW (380V), up to 1,600 kW (690V)
- Ramp time: 1-120 seconds
- Communication: Modbus RTU built-in, Profibus/DeviceNet optional
- Start modes: voltage ramp, current limit, adaptive acceleration
- Soft stop: with backflow control for pumps
- Protection: 15+ functions
Adaptive acceleration
The MCD 500 automatically selects the optimal start profile based on the load. We had a case with a crusher — manual tuning caused overload, adaptive mode started perfectly first time.
MCD 201 vs MCD 500 comparison
| Parameter | MCD 201 | MCD 500 |
|---|---|---|
| Settings | 2 potentiometers | Display + full menu |
| Communication | None | Modbus RTU, Profibus |
| Start modes | Voltage ramp | Ramp, current, adaptive |
| Soft stop | Basic | With backflow control |
| Protection | 3-4 basic | 15+ |
| Max power | 75 kW | 850 kW |
| Price (22 kW) | ~12,000-15,000 UAH | ~20,000-28,000 UAH |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Danfoss make 220V soft starters?
MCD 201 and 500 are three-phase 380-690V only. For single-phase motors consider a VFD.
Is an external bypass contactor needed?
For MCD 201 up to 45 kW — no. For larger units and some MCD 500 frame sizes — recommended.
What is the warranty?
24 months from date of sale. Registration on the Danfoss website can extend it.
Can MCD 500 be controlled from SCADA?
Yes, via Modbus RTU with a full register map.
Which Danfoss for a 30 kW pump?
Simple start/stop — MCD 201 rated 37 kW. With soft stop and Modbus — MCD 500 rated 37 kW. We recommend MCD 500 for pumps from 22 kW.
Summary
MCD 201 — simple and affordable. MCD 500 — for complex projects. Both are in our catalogue. Also see Schneider soft starters for comparison.
