About Beckhoff Automation (Pty) Ltd
Beckhoff Automation (Pty) Ltd is a subsidiary of Beckhoff Automation GmbH, a global leader in the field of industrial automation and control technology. Based in Randburg, South Africa, Beckhoff Automation provides cutting-edge automation solutions for industries such as manufacturing, energy, food processing, and logistics. The company is recognized for its pioneering role in PC-based control systems and EtherCAT technology.
Core Business and Expertise
Beckhoff Automation specializes in the development and implementation of innovative automation solutions based on open control system architecture. The company integrates Industrial PCs, I/O systems, drive technology, and automation software to create highly efficient and scalable solutions for a wide range of industries.
By leveraging PC-based control, Beckhoff eliminates the need for traditional PLC architectures, offering more flexibility, scalability, and processing power.
Product Offerings
Beckhoff Automation supplies an extensive range of automation hardware and software solutions, including:
Industrial PCs (IPC)
- C60xx Ultra-compact Industrial PCs
- Control Panels
- Panel PCs
I/O and Fieldbus Components
- EtherCAT Terminals
- Bus Terminals
- EtherCAT Box Modules
Drive Technology
- Servo Drives
- Linear Motors
- Servo Motors
Automation Software
- TwinCAT 3 Automation Software for seamless control and real-time computing
Control Cabinet-Free Automation
- MX-System – A fully integrated automation solution without the need for traditional control cabinets
Machine Vision
- Vision Hardware Components for advanced industrial image processing
Competitive Advantages and Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
Beckhoff Automation is a market leader in industrial automation due to:
- PC-based Control Leadership – Pioneering the shift from PLC-based to PC-based automation.
- EtherCAT Technology – Creator of EtherCAT, the world's leading real-time industrial Ethernet protocol.
- Scalable Automation Solutions – Highly modular and flexible automation platforms for a wide range of industries.
- High-performance Computing – Real-time control and computing power through Industrial PCs and TwinCAT software.
- Global Presence & Support – Strong technical support and service network across South Africa and the world.
Market Presence and Sales Data
Beckhoff Automation has a strong presence across multiple industries, including:
- Manufacturing – Providing high-speed, real-time automation solutions for factories and production lines.
- Food & Beverage – Automation of packaging, processing, and quality control systems.
- Renewable Energy – Control systems for wind turbines, solar energy plants, and smart grids.
- Logistics & Warehousing – Warehouse automation, robotics integration, and motion control solutions.
- Pharmaceutical & Medical Technology – Precise control for production, testing, and packaging.
Beckhoff Automation operates in more than 75 countries, with South Africa serving as a key hub for supporting automation solutions across the African continent.
Certifications and Compliance
Beckhoff Automation adheres to the highest international quality and safety standards:
- ISO 9001:2015 – Certified quality management system ensuring precision and reliability.
- CE Certification – Compliance with European safety and performance regulations.
- UL Certification – Approved components for use in North American industrial environments.
- EtherCAT Standard Compliance – Ensuring seamless integration with third-party automation components.
Financial Strength
Beckhoff Automation GmbH has reported consistent revenue growth, with an annual turnover exceeding €1.515 billion in 2023. The company invests heavily in research and development, with nearly 20% of annual revenue allocated to innovation.
South Africa's industrial sector continues to adopt Beckhoff's PC-based control systems, contributing to its expanding market share in the region.
Major Achievements
- Inventor of EtherCAT – The industry’s most advanced real-time industrial Ethernet protocol.
- Expansion of TwinCAT Software – Continuous improvements in automation software with AI and IoT capabilities.
- Sustainable Automation Solutions – Energy-efficient automation systems that reduce carbon footprint.
- Trusted by Leading Companies – Major manufacturers, logistics providers, and energy firms utilize Beckhoff solutions.
Customer Testimonials
Beckhoff Automation has earned a reputation for delivering high-performance, reliable automation solutions:
"Beckhoff’s EtherCAT-based system completely transformed our production line efficiency. We experienced a 40% improvement in real-time processing speeds." – Engineering Manager, Leading Automotive Manufacturer
"TwinCAT 3 has allowed us to integrate AI-based analytics into our industrial control system, giving us unprecedented operational insights." – Automation Director, Pharmaceutical Industry
Future Outlook
As industries continue to embrace Industry 4.0, Beckhoff Automation is focused on:
- Expanding its range of AI-driven automation solutions.
- Strengthening EtherCAT’s position as the leading real-time industrial communication protocol.
- Enhancing cloud-based and IoT-integrated control systems.
- Growing its market share across Africa by providing localized automation support.
Beckhoff Automation (Pty) Ltd remains at the forefront of industrial automation innovation, driving the future of PC-based control and intelligent manufacturing solutions.
