Emerson has agreed to acquire Intelligent Platforms, a division of General Electric, as it looks to expand its potential customer base in markets such as metals and mining.
“Intelligent Platforms’ programmable logic controller (PLC) technologies will enable Emerson, a leader in automation for process and industrial applications, to provide its customers broader control and management of their operations,” Emerson said.
“The acquisition expands opportunities for Emerson in machine control and discrete applications across process industries and target hybrid markets, such as metals and mining, life sciences, food and beverage and packaging.
“By interfacing Intelligent Platforms’ PLC technology with Emerson’s leading distributed control systems, customers will be able to connect ‘islands of automation’ within the plant to further enhance operational performance, safety and reliability,” the company said.
Both Emerson and Intelligent Platforms focus on leveraging automation technologies to drive digital transformation in their end markets. Intelligent Platforms recently developed new cloud-connected controllers and devices to enable smarter plants, a strong complement to Emerson’s focus on digital transformation and the Industrial Internet of Things through its Plantweb™ digital ecosystem, according to Emerson.
Emerson Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, David Farr said: “This is another important investment in our global portfolio of automation technologies, offering discrete and machine control capabilities that complement our process control expertise to provide better solutions to our customers.”
Intelligent Platforms is based in Charlottesville, Virginia, with approximately 650 employees worldwide. In 2017, it registered sales of $210 million.
Lal Karsanbhai, Executive President of Emerson Automation Solutions, said Intelligent Platforms brings a “solid product portfolio” to serve Emersons’ target markets, along with a significant installed base.
“We are extremely pleased to have this unique opportunity to add a recognised discrete control capability to our growing portfolio of products and software applications that help our customers operate more safely and efficiently.”
Should all go well, the acquisition will close in the first half of Emerson’s fiscal 2019 year.
Emerson’s Automation Solutions business helps process, hybrid, and discrete manufacturers maximise production, protect personnel and the environment while optimising energy and operating costs, Emerson said.
Late last year, Emerson pulled a $29 billion bid for Rockwell Automation after facing several rejections from the company. At that point, it said it would then pursue bolt-on acquisitions to increase its market share in the automation business.
And, in February this year, Emerson and AspenTech teamed up to deliver asset optimisation software solutions along with global automation technologies and operational consulting services.
