In context
In May 2025, industrial automation was increasingly moving toward modular, software-defined architectures that could support AI and analytics without compromising the stability of core control systems. ABB and Red Hat had already partnered on digital environments; this extension marked a significant step in bringing enterprise open-source platforms into the control layer itself.
What was reported
ABB and Red Hat announced an extension of their collaboration to develop automation systems for industrial IT, focusing on more secure and modular deployment of control applications for process industries. The partnership combines ABB's automation leadership with Red Hat's enterprise open-source platforms, integrating data analytics and AI to support the path toward autonomous operations.
ABB's process automation architecture comprises two environments: a secure control environment for real-time management of critical processes, and a digital environment for flexible deployment of digital solutions. Earlier collaboration addressed the digital environment, enabling scalable deployment of analytics and cloud applications. Now, the partnership expands to include the control environment, aiming to deliver enhanced operational consistency and stability for demanding security and process requirements.
The solutions are built on Red Hat platforms such as Red Hat Device Edge and Red Hat OpenShift. This dual approach allows customers to introduce innovations incrementally, protecting operational integrity and existing investments while maintaining high cybersecurity levels. Red Hat technologies also provide a foundation for system lifecycle services within the process automation system.
Why it mattered
This move signaled a broader industry trend toward open, modular automation architectures that can evolve incrementally without disrupting core operations. By aligning with global standards and supporting multi-vendor environments, the collaboration aimed to give manufacturers greater confidence in digital transformation, potentially accelerating the adoption of AI and edge computing in process industries.
“The dual-layered architecture, built on open source platforms, creates a robust foundation for the industry to progress towards autonomous operations.”
Source: Robotics & Automation News (roboticsandautomationnews.com) · Published 2025-05-21 · “ABB and Red Hat extend partnership to develop automation systems for industrial IT”