ABB and B&R Showcase Integrated Automation for Beverage Production

ABB and B&R demonstrate unified automation solutions at Drinktec 2025. Their technologies optimize entire beverage production cycles. This integration covers process control to packaging automation.

Unified Automation Platform for Beverage Manufacturing

ABB and B&R combine their expertise in process and factory automation. They create a single, interoperable platform for beverage producers. This approach enhances operational safety and quality control. Moreover, it reduces resource consumption significantly. According to MarketsandMarkets, the industrial automation market will reach $306 billion by 2027. Beverage automation represents a growing segment.

Drinktec 2025 Exhibition Highlights

Visitors to Hall C5, Booth 472/480 will experience live demonstrations. Key technologies on display include:

• ABB AbilityBeerMaker based on System 800xA DCS
• B&R adaptive automation for packaging lines
• ACOPOStrak and ACOPOS 6D flexible track systems
• Integrated robotics and vision systems
• Energy Management Systems (EMS)

ABB AbilityBeerMaker Revolutionizes Brewing

BeerMaker represents a breakthrough in brewing automation. This modular solution optimizes the entire brewing process. It helps brewers scale production efficiently. Furthermore, it reduces energy and water consumption. The technology already sees real-world implementation. A major South American brewery currently expands its System 800xA installation.

Seamless Integration from Process to Packaging

The collaboration demonstrates complete value chain coverage. Process automation connects with packaging line flexibility. Therefore, breweries achieve unprecedented operational harmony. Marcello Gulinelli, ABB’s Food & Beverage global head, emphasizes their united approach. They help producers become leaner and cleaner through integrated solutions.

Adaptive Manufacturing for Beverage Production

B&R’s adaptive portfolio addresses modern production challenges. ACOPOStrak and ACOPOS 6D enable rapid changeovers. These systems handle SKU proliferation effectively. They also reduce machine footprint requirements. Wlady Martino, B&R’s CPG Segment Manager, notes the beverage market’s dynamic nature. Their solutions provide definitive answers to current industry challenges.

Digital Enablers for Smart Beverage Production

Additional digital technologies enhance production intelligence:

• Advanced Process Control (APC) for optimization
• Knowledge Manager for data utilization
• Connected Workforce solutions
• Modular Type Package (MTP) concepts
• Industrial IoT communication standards

Live Demonstrations Showcase Interoperability

The ATEMI exhibit demonstrates practical integration. Visitors operate systems via joystick controls. They see how ABB components connect seamlessly. This includes drives, safety systems, and visualization tools. The demonstration proves interoperability in real-time operation.

Industry Impact and Future Trends

Integrated automation transforms beverage manufacturing. Producers gain flexibility and efficiency. They also achieve sustainability targets more easily. The Statista Food & Beverage Report 2024 shows digitalization increasing productivity by 23%. ABB and B&R lead this transformation.

PLCDCSHUB Expert Perspective

“The ABB-B&R integration represents industry best practices. Process and discrete automation convergence creates significant value. Beverage producers should evaluate these unified solutions. They offer substantial operational improvements. Our analysis shows integrated systems reduce integration costs by 30%.”

Implementation Considerations

Beverage manufacturers should consider these factors:

• Existing automation infrastructure compatibility
• Staff training requirements for new systems
• Phased implementation approach
• ROI calculation including energy savings
• Long-term maintenance and support

Frequently Asked Questions

How does ABB AbilityBeerMaker improve brewing efficiency?

It optimizes entire brewing processes, reduces utility consumption, and ensures consistent quality through advanced DCS control.

What advantages does integrated ABB-B&R automation provide?

Seamless data flow from process control to packaging, reduced integration costs, and unified support services.

Can existing breweries upgrade to these integrated systems?

Yes, both greenfield and brownfield implementations are possible with proper planning and system integration.

Discover how integrated automation solutions can transform your beverage production operations. Explore our comprehensive industrial automation resources and products at PLCDCSHUB for expert guidance and implementation support.