Posted to News on 9th Jan 2024, 15:45
ABB acquires optical sensor company to expand smart water management offering
ABB has agreed to acquire Canadian company Real Tech, a leading supplier of innovative optical sensor technology that enables real-time water monitoring and testing. Through the acquisition, ABB will expand its strong presence in the water segment.
Unlike traditional water quality measurement, which can be a time-consuming process, Real Tech's product portfolio provides critical measurements in real-time. This enables better process control and continuous water quality assurance. Real Tech's patented solutions cover the entire digital water value chain for water quality monitoring with a focus on data creation and analytics.
Real Tech's portfolio includes optical sensors, controllers and a suite of optional accessories that allow each system to be configured according to customer needs. Leveraging the power of light, the sensors measure water composition. They use spectrophotometry and fluorescence measuring techniques to move testing from the lab to the process environment for real-time use.
Liquid AI, a proprietary AI software platform, completes the service offering, providing an easy and accurate way to analyse data from Real Tech sensors. The company has approximately 40 employees and is based in Whitby, Ontario.
We are excited to welcome all our new colleagues to the ABB family, said Jacques Mulbert, division president for ABB Measurement and Analytics. We look forward to jointly driving the innovation and growth journey of Real Tech. Joining forces with ABB will accelerate the deployment of Real Tech's technologies through the vast ABB global sales and service network, making a step change in access to market.
The acquisition is an important part of ABB Measurement and Analytics' strategy, which includes adding advanced environmental technologies to the portfolio.
Jodi Glover, CEO and co-founder of Real Tech, said: When we founded Real Tech almost 20 years ago, we were set on developing optical sensor technology that would advance the management of water into a new era. Our real-time water quality monitoring sensors and data analytics capabilities are empowering our clients, both utilities and industries that manage water in their operation and manufacturing processes, with the critical insights they need every minute, every day. We look forward to becoming part of ABB with our shared vision to create a more sustainable future.
