Pepperl+Fuchs, a world leader in process and factory automation, purchased ecom instruments of Germany in late 2016. ecom is a global leader in mobile products for hazardous areas. The integration of ecom’s cell phones, 4G smartphones, and tablets into Pepperl+Fuchs’ intrinsically safe product portfolio adds to a comprehensive range of products that cover all aspects of electrical explosion protection.
“In addition to an expanded product portfolio, we can see new opportunities arising along our entire product line. The acquisition of ecom not only strengthens our market position as the global leader in explosion protection technology. It also allows us to achieve a better market position and generate new solutions around the multifaceted Industry 4.0,” said Gunther Kegel, CEO of Pepperl+Fuchs in Mannheim, Germany.
Real-time integration of people, processes, and systems will shape the industries of the future, enabling more operational efficiency at reduced cost. Even today, the use of digital tools such as smartphones and tablets are improving safety, productivity, and security in hazardous areas. Companies that deploy these digital tools benefit from more efficient workflows, effective maintenance, and streamlined decision-making processes, along with higher profit margins.
“The ecom integration significantly expands Pepperl+Fuchs’ immediate product offering, and it allows the company to accelerate the rate of new developments in technology and products well into the future,” Kegel added. With a well-established international sales force, Pepperl+Fuchs anticipates significant growth in this segment.
“Its expertise in explosion protection and the widespread international sales force of Pepperl+Fuchs made it our favorite partner from the very beginning. Our innovative devices not only fill a gap in their portfolio but also allow ecom instruments and Pepperl+Fuchs to develop future business models and solutions at the competence center in Assamstadt. This will give us greater access to the enormous growth potential of the ongoing digitalization of industry,” stated Rolf Nied, founder and managing partner of ecom instruments GmbH.
Many of ecom’s products are rated for Zone 1/21, Division 1 hazardous areas or Zone 2/22, Division 2 areas. Additional products include PDAs, cameras, and beacons. These are ideal solutions for chemical and petrochemical process automation, the pharmaceutical industry, oil and gas exploration, mining, and energy and environmental technologies.
Mobile communication has not only changed our daily lives but also our way of working. As the Industrial Internet of Things gains pace, ecom's mobile worker platform wirelessly integrates devices to maximize workforce productivity and protection—essential elements for the prolonged sustainability of companies with hazardous areas.
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