ABB and Agilent Technologies enter collaboration to advance laboratory automation

ABB Robotics and Agilent Technologies have entered into a collaboration agreement to provide automated laboratory solutions. By combining their respective technologies, the two companies aim to help businesses in industries such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, energy, and food and beverage enhance their laboratory operations. The goal is to streamline processes like research and quality control, making them faster and more efficient.

Marc Segura, President of ABB Robotics Division, emphasized that this partnership will merge Agilent's leading-edge analytical tools and laboratory software with ABB’s advanced robotics, enabling labs to operate with greater speed, precision, and flexibility. "By automating key processes using our robots, this collaboration will transform how laboratories handle critical tasks, improving efficiency and allowing lab teams to focus on more meaningful work," Segura stated.

Laboratories are facing increasing demands to accelerate research and speed up product development, all while adhering to stringent quality standards. Together, ABB and Agilent will provide joint solutions that automate repetitive, labor-intensive tasks such as sample handling, testing, and data processing, leading to faster time-to-market and increased productivity.

Tom Lillig, Vice President and General Manager of Agilent’s Software Informatics Division, noted that the partnership highlights Agilent’s commitment to fostering an open ecosystem in laboratories. “This collaboration is a major step forward in our mission to transform lab operations across sectors like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, environmental testing, and food safety,” Lillig said. “By integrating Agilent’s innovative analytical technologies with ABB’s state-of-the-art robotics, we enable our customers to achieve quicker, more reliable results, which drives innovation and improves scientific outcomes. Seamless integration of instruments, robots, and software is crucial to boosting productivity.”

The partnership with Agilent is part of ABB's broader efforts to expand automation solutions into new industries. In 2024, ABB also announced a collaboration with METTLER TOLEDO, a global leader in precision instruments, to offer integrated solutions that link ABB’s robots with METTLER TOLEDO’s LabX™ laboratory instrument management software.

ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation is a global leader in robotics and machine automation. The company offers an integrated portfolio that includes robots, Autonomous Mobile Robots, and machine automation solutions, all driven by software designed to add value. ABB helps companies across various industries—from automotive and electronics to logistics—become more resilient, flexible, and efficient. With approximately 11,000 employees in over 100 locations worldwide, ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation supports the shift towards more connected and collaborative factories, promoting leaner and cleaner operations for a better future.