ICS Triplex has acquired the assets and technology of the Canadian open automation software business AlterSys, and created a new subsidiary in Canada, ICS Triple ISaGRAF, based on the business. The deal is in line with ICS Triplex`s re-positioning as an independent supplier of automation technology, which it embarked on last year with the acquisition of ABB`s TMR (triple modular redundant) technology.

ISaGRAF is a control software environment that can be used to create local or distributed control systems. It takes the form of a suite of automation and process control software packages that will run on platforms including distributed control systems, industrial PCs and embedded controllers in PLCs. ICS Triplex has integrated ISaGRAF for several years and has developed IEC 61131 tools and validators for it.

"We have restructured so that we have a clear definition between customer service and application expertise on one hand, and providing products and technologies on the other," explains ICS Triplex`s chief executive, Peter Mottershead. "The AlterSys team and technology is a first-class strategic fit with our global manufacturing position."

ICS Triplex, a £30m business whose main activity is supplying fault-tolerant control systems for industries such as petrochemicals and nuclear power generation, plans further acquisitions.