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Rockwell acquires Chinese drives business

ControlGlobal.com
10/09/2012

MILWAUKEE--Rockwell Automation, Inc. has announced it has agreed to purchase the assets of the medium-voltage drives business of Harbin Jiuzhou Electric Co., Ltd. The purchase price is RMB 530 million (approximately $83 million U.S. dollars). Closing is expected in October.

The acquisition strengthens Rockwell Automation's presence in the Asia-Pacific motor control market by adding significant capabilities in design, engineering and manufacturing of medium-voltage drive products. It also provides access to grid-tie inverter technology. Jiuzhou has successfully served as Rockwell Automation's contract manufacturer for seven years, in addition to its own well-established customer base.

"Jiuzhou's medium-voltage drives business accelerates our emerging markets strategy," said Mike Laszkiewicz, vice president, general manager, Rockwell Automation power control business. "It will enhance our position in the critical Asia-Pacific region by strengthening capabilities in the mid- and higher-power rated product lines."

Dr. Li Yin, Jiuzhou chairman of the board, said, "This acquisition demonstrates an evolution and commitment to growing the long-term customer relationships we established as a contract manufacturer for Rockwell Automation. "Our customers will benefit from Rockwell Automation's advanced manufacturing, research and development capabilities, and global distribution. Our employees will now join a successful global leader in technology that offers a competitive and comprehensive product and service portfolio in the automation industry. We're pleased to culminate our successful business relationship with Rockwell Automation."

Bob Ruff, president, Rockwell Automation Asia-Pacific, said, "As China expands the consumer side of its economy, investment will continue to grow, requiring energy-saving measures in factories and integrated power applications across many industries. Subsequently, the market opportunities for power control in OEM, process and heavy industry markets in Asia are expected to provide significant growth potential for this acquisition. Medium-voltage drives are integral to many large automation projects. These drives help to maximize asset availability and manage energy consumption."

Rockwell Automation employs more than 1900 people in China, working among its 35 sales offices, five training centers, manufacturing facilities, a global research and development center, and a software development center. More than 6000 Chinese students are also trained annually, through Rockwell Automation laboratories and an award-winning educational program offered at more than 50 universities throughout 20 provinces.

Jiuzhou serves customers in the electric power, petrochemical, steel, metallurgy, municipal, cement and construction industries. Its medium-voltage business will be aligned with the Rockwell Automation Control Products & Solutions operating segment.

Harbin Jiuzhou Electrical Co., Ltd. focuses on research and development, manufacturing, sales and services of high-power, electrical and electronic equipment. Products include medium-voltage drives, direct current power supplies, switch gear and wind inverters. Jiuzhou was established in 2000 and is registered in Harbin.