ABB acquires innovative optical sensor company 

ABB has agreed to acquire Canadian company Real Tech, a supplier of innovative optical sensor technology that enables real-time water monitoring and testing. 

Through the acquisition, ABB will expand its presence in the water segment and complement its product portfolio with optical technology critical for smart water management. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. 

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

Real Tech’s portfolio includes optical sensors, controllers and a suite of optional accessories that allow each system to be configured according to customer needs. Leveraging the power of light, the sensors measure water composition. They use 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.