ABB has entered into a joint development agreement with US-based Energy Control Technologies (ECT) to create an integrated turbomachinery control solution, which will be seamlessly managed within ABB’s Ability™ System 800xA® distributed control system (DCS).
The new Integrated Compressor Controls (ICC) with Integrated Control Safety System (ICSS) offers a streamlined solution designed to reduce the complexity and footprint of plant control systems. It estimates this technology could help cut automation and electrical capital expenditure (CAPEX) by up to 20% for integrated projects.
Turbo machinery, widely used in sectors like hydrogen, biofuels, power generation, and oil and gas, is known for high energy consumption. The integration of controls within the system will provide greater operational transparency, leading to improved energy efficiency, reduced risks, and lower operational costs.
The solution eliminates traditional “black box” controls and unifies operations under the 800xA ICSS platform, simplifying system architecture by removing the need for separate operator workstations and networks.
Previously, turbo machinery control required multiple, often disconnected, systems from various suppliers. Now, operators can manage turbines, compressors, pumps, and generators from a single platform, improving the monitoring of critical assets.
Paul Fisher, President of ECT, highlighted the benefits: “This collaboration with ABB integrates our advanced compressor control algorithms into the 800xA DCS, helping customers enhance production, energy efficiency, and machine protection.”
ABB’s Energy Industries President, Per Erik Holsten, remarked, “This partnership is a breakthrough in turbomachinery control, and we’re already seeing strong interest from major U.S. customers, with plans to expand globally.”
Under the agreement, ABB provides hardware, software, and support for the project, while ECT contributes its control algorithms and engineering expertise. ABB’s Process Automation division focuses on automating and digitalizing industrial operations, driving efficiency and safety for industries worldwide. With over 140 years of innovation, ABB’s 105,000 employees continue to develop technologies that accelerate industrial transformation towards a more sustainable future.
