ABB Strengthens DC Power Portfolio with Advantics Acquisition

Expanding ABB’s Role in Industrial Automation and DC Systems

ABB will acquire Advantics, a France‑based developer of Silicon Carbide (SiC) power conversion systems. The deal expands ABB’s Direct Current (DC) technology portfolio and supports rising demand for efficient DC architectures across industrial automation, PLC, DCS, and factory automation environments. ABB expects the transaction to close in Q4 2026.

Rising Demand for High‑Efficiency DC Power

Advantics’ SiC converters deliver up to 99% efficiency. This level is essential for data centers, industrial microgrids, EV charging systems, and distributed power generation. Moreover, DC distribution reduces repeated AC/DC conversion, improving system efficiency and lowering operational costs.

From my engineering experience, high‑efficiency DC conversion reduces heat, cabinet size, and maintenance frequency. As a result, DC systems are becoming a preferred architecture in advanced automation projects.

Silicon Carbide Technology Enhances Power Density

Silicon Carbide semiconductors support higher switching speeds and lower energy losses. Advantics integrates hardware, firmware, and software to optimize conversion under demanding industrial conditions. In addition, SiC converters improve thermal stability, which is critical for continuous‑operation facilities such as data centers and process plants.

Applications Across Modern Industrial Infrastructure

ABB plans to apply Advantics’ technology across several sectors:

• Data center DC distribution — DC systems reduce conversion steps and improve uptime.

• Industrial microgrids — SiC converters stabilize storage and renewable integration.

• Power generation — High‑efficiency conversion supports hybrid and renewable sources.

• EV charging infrastructure — Compact converters enable high‑power DC fast charging.

These applications align with ABB’s existing strengths in protection, distribution, and digital control.

Energy Transition Drives DC Adoption

The IEA expects electricity consumption to reach 36% of total energy use by 2035. Therefore, DC architectures will play a larger role in industrial automation, especially where PLC, DCS, and advanced control systems must manage mixed AC/DC environments.

DC systems reduce conversion losses and simplify integration with energy storage. However, they require precise protection, grounding, and monitoring—areas where ABB already provides mature solutions.

Strategic Fit for ABB’s Smart Power Division

ABB’s Smart Power leadership emphasized the strategic value of Advantics’ compact, high‑efficiency modules. The acquisition strengthens ABB’s ability to deliver next‑generation DC solutions for high‑density industrial environments. In addition, Advantics’ engineering team brings specialized SiC expertise that complements ABB’s system‑level capabilities.

Expert Commentary

Based on 15 years working with PLC, DCS, TSI, and power protection systems, I see three major industry impacts:

• DC microgrids will expand due to efficiency and storage integration.

• SiC technology will accelerate adoption in high‑power conversion.

• Control systems will evolve, adding DC‑specific protection and diagnostics.

ABB’s acquisition aligns with global trends toward modular, efficient, and digitally controlled power systems.

Application Scenarios

Industrial Microgrid

A manufacturing plant integrates solar, battery storage, and DC loads. Advantics’ SiC converters stabilize DC distribution, while ABB’s PLC/DCS systems manage protection and load balancing.

Data Center DC Architecture

A hyperscale data center adopts DC distribution to reduce conversion losses. ABB’s DC modules supply racks directly, improving efficiency and reducing cooling demand.

EV Fast Charging

High‑power DC chargers use SiC converters to deliver stable output. ABB’s protection and monitoring systems ensure safe operation under fluctuating load conditions. 

Author Introduction

Original Author: Chen Haolin Chen Haolin has 15 years of experience in industrial automation, specializing in PLC, DCS, TSI, and power protection systems. He writes technical documentation and industry analysis for global automation manufacturers and media platforms.