ABB introduces Automation Extended: enabling industrial innovation with continuity

ABB's Automation Extended program modernizes distributed control systems (DCS) for industries like pulp and paper, allowing upgrades without halting production. It builds on proven platforms such as ABB Ability™ System 800xA®, Symphony® Plus, and Freelance, safeguarding investments while integrating AI, IoT, and analytics.​

Core Architecture

The program uses a separation-of-concerns design with two interconnected environments.

• Control Environment: Software-defined for reliable, deterministic process control in mission-critical operations like paper mill lines.

• Digital Environment: Handles edge intelligence, real-time analytics, and machine learning without disrupting core systems.

This modular setup leverages OPC UA and cloud-native tools for scalability, enabling anomaly detection and predictive maintenance.

Pulp & Paper Benefits

In paper manufacturing, it supports sustainability by optimizing energy use and maintenance in complex supply chains. Operators adopt innovations at their pace, addressing cybersecurity and workforce skill gaps amid volatile markets.

Peter Terwiesch, ABB Automation President, emphasized its role in delivering future-ready capabilities securely. Upcoming releases of ABB's DCS platforms will enable access