ABB acquires optical sensor company to expand water management tech

ABB recently announced that it is acquiring Canadian company Real Tech, a supplier of optical sensor technology that enables real-time water monitoring and testing. Through the acquisition, ABB aims to expand its presence in the water segment and complement its product range with optical technology critical for smart water management.

Unlike traditional water quality measurement, which can be a time-consuming process, Real Tech’s product range provides critical measurements in real time. This enables better process control and continuous water quality assurance. Real Tech’s solutions cover the entire digital water value chain for water quality monitoring with a focus on data creation and analytics.

Real Tech’s technology includes optical sensors, controllers and a suite of optional accessories that allow each system to be configured according to user needs. The sensors measure water composition using 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, ABB Measurement & 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 ABB global sales and service network, making a step change in access to market. The acquisition is an important part of ABB Measurement & Analytics’ strategy, which includes adding advanced environmental technologies to the portfolio.”

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