ABB, the leading power and automation technology group has signed an exclusive USD 61 million frame agreement with Petrobras to supply process automation systems and related services to eight oil refineries in Brazil over the next five years.

Under the agreement ABB will supply its extended automation System 800xA for process automation with integrated substation automation functions, software and hardware, upgrades of existing installed ABB control systems, as well as other project management and engineering services. The agreement includes USD 29 million for engineering services.

ABB’s process automation technology will help Petrobras expand production at its refineries, maximize energy efficiency and optimize maintenance and operation costs. It will also help produce fuels with lower sulfur content, which have fewer emissions than other fuel blends.

Mr Veli Matti Reinikkala head of ABB’s Process Automation division said that “This important agreement underscores ABB’s commitment to providing the leading-edge technologies and services our customers need to compete and thrive in today’s global environment. As our petrochemical customers expand their operations to meet strong demand, we help them to achieve these targets while improving their overall productivity and energy efficiency.”

Brazil based Petrobras is an integrated energy company with activities in oil exploration, production, refining, marketing and transportation. Petrobras represents one of the largest installations of ABB automation systems within the petrochemical industry.