Over the past few years, ABB has introduced new technologies into existing products and adapted AI to stay competitive in an ever-changing landscape. Recently, ABB has added Ethernet-APL to existing electromagnetic flowmeters, launched a new variable-speed vector-duty motor series, and announced winners of its startup competition for the year.
ABB’s ProcessMaster flowmeter features Ethernet-APL for connectivity up to 1 km. Image used courtesy of ABB
ProcessMaster Electromagnetic Flowmeter
In large processing plants, the distance between sensors and control systems is often too far for typical Ethernet networks. Ethernet-APL was introduced specifically for these scenarios and is rapidly becoming the industry standard for industrial process automation. ABB is one of the companies helping bring Ethernet-APL to market by integrating it into its process automation devices.
ABB’s ProcessMaster electromagnetic flowmeter is the latest device to get Ethernet-APL added to its standard communication infrastructure. By supporting Ethernet-APL, the ProcessMaster flowmeter can be placed up to 1 km away from the nearest control system and can be supplied power along with signal over just a single pair of copper wires. Along with a longer communication distance, the Ethernet-APL technology is intrinsically safe, so the flowmeter can be used in hazardous environments and has data rates of up to 10 Mbps.
The ABB Baldor-Reliance V*S Master RS features a rolled-steel frame housing and Class H insulation. Image used courtesy of ABB
Baldor-Reliance V*S Master RS Variable Speed Motor
For applications that require constant torque and variable speeds, the latest addition to the ABB motor lineup might just fit the bill. Available from ½ hp to 5 hp, with a 20 hp in the works, the new Baldor-Reliance motors have a 1000:1 constant-torque rating with a full vector-duty performance cycle.
Unlike similar motors with cast iron casings, the new motor has a rolled steel casing with an advanced insulation system. Installed on the back of the motor is a 1024 PPR rotary encoder, and the design of the motor is compatible with PWM inverter drives. This combination offers a closed-loop system that is capable of accurate RPM settings. The compact, durable, and affordable motion package will be right at home in applications involving pumps, conveyors, or fans in large HVAC systems.
ABB Startup Challenge 2025 winners, Cloudworx, accepting their prize. Image used courtesy of ABB
ABB Startup Challenge 2025 Winner
Over 100 startup companies came together in India to solve a problem that has haunted machine builders for decades: motor and drive selection. A motion system typically consists of two major components: a drive and a motor. The two need to be selected so that they work efficiently to move a load.
ABB crowned Cloudworx as the winner of the Startup Challenge 2025 for its AI-powered solution that helps with motor selection, commissioning, and troubleshooting. ABB will now collaborate with Cloudworx, Microsoft, and SynerLeap to offer its customers an AI-powered 3D visualization software solution that assists with drive selection, commissioning, and predictive maintenance. ABB awarded Cloudworx $30,000, a mentorship with Microsoft and ABB, and a six-month membership to SynerLeap.
Changing With the Industry
Manufacturers such as ABB seek to adapt to industry changes, and the company’s latest announcement shows the steps they are taking to do this. From integrating new Ethernet technologies to supporting startup companies in developing AI-driven software, ABB is staying competitive in an ever-changing landscape.
