Origins: The Early Years

ABB Robotics: A History of Innovation and Automation Dominance

ABB, a global leader in robotics, has a rich history that spans over a century. With a passion for innovation and a drive to improve efficiency, ABB Robotics has played a pivotal role in shaping the industry. Let's take a journey through the milestones that have shaped this industry giant.

Origins: The Early Years

ABB Robotics traces its roots back to 1946 with the establishment of ASEA (Allmänna Svenska Elektriska Aktiebolaget) in Sweden. In 1974, ASEA merged with Brown Boveri & Cie (BBC), a Swiss company specializing in electrical engineering, to form ASEA Brown Boveri (ABB).

ABB's Robotics Legacy

1977 marked a significant year when ASEA's Industrial Robot Division developed the world's first microprocessor-controlled industrial robot, the IRB 6. This breakthrough revolutionized the industry, introducing unparalleled precision and efficiency to manufacturing processes.

From then on, ABB Robotics continued to push the boundaries of robotics, introducing groundbreaking products such as the:

- IRB 7600, the world's first six-axis robot (1984)

- IRB 140, the first robot specifically designed for arc welding (1990)

- IRB 1600ID, the first robot certified for cleanroom applications (1994)

- YuMi, the first collaborative robot designed to work safely alongside humans (2015)

Today, ABB Robotics offers a comprehensive range of robots and automation solutions for industries such as automotive, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and logistics. With over 400,000 robots installed worldwide, ABB Robotics is a global leader in the field, driving innovation and productivity.

Stories of Innovation

Story 1: Automotive Revolution

Benefit: Increased productivity and reduced cycle times

How to do: ABB robots automate complex assembly processes such as welding and painting, improving efficiency and quality.

Story 2: Food and Beverage Optimization

Benefit: Enhanced food safety and decreased waste

How to do: ABB robots handle delicate food items with precision, reducing contamination and ensuring product freshness.

Story 3: Pharmaceutical Precision

Benefit: Improved drug production efficiency and compliance

How to do: ABB robots perform high-precision tasks such as filling vials and dispensing liquids, ensuring accuracy and safety.

Key Benefits of ABB Robotics History

Proven Reliability and Innovation: Over 400,000 robots installed worldwide, demonstrating the company's commitment to quality and reliability.

Comprehensive Product Portfolio: ABB offers a wide range of robots to meet the specific needs of various industries, providing tailored solutions.

Expert Support and Service: ABB's global network of experts provides comprehensive support, ensuring optimal performance and uptime.

Focus on Innovation: ABB Robotics invests heavily in research and development, driving the industry forward with cutting-edge technology.

Making the Right Choice

When selecting a robotics partner, consider the following factors:

Industry Expertise: Choose a partner with experience in your specific industry, ensuring they understand your unique challenges and requirements.

Proven Track Record: Look for a partner with a history of successful projects and satisfied customers, demonstrating their capabilities and reliability.

Comprehensive Support: Opt for a partner that provides comprehensive support, including installation, training, and ongoing maintenance, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance.

FAQs About ABB Robotics History

When was ABB founded? 1974

What was the first ABB robot? IRB 6

What is ABB's most popular robot? YuMi

How many robots has ABB installed worldwide? Over 400,000

Which industries does ABB Robotics serve? Automotive, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, logistics, and others.

Call to Action

Experience the transformative power of ABB Robotics today. Contact us to schedule a consultation and explore how our innovative solutions can revolutionize your operations, drive efficiency, and maximize your productivity.

Origins: The Early Years