Rockwell Automation Partnered With PBS Biotech
The Milwaukee-based firm integrated its industrial automation technology into the MiniPRO bioreactor platform.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Biotech
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Rockwell Automation has partnered with PBS Biotech to integrate its industrial control software into the MiniPRO bioreactor platform. This collaboration aims to help cell therapy manufacturers accelerate process development while maintaining scalability.
Why it matters
Cell therapy producers face high hurdles in transferring processes from development to commercial manufacturing. This automation integration provides the control and visibility needed to maintain regulatory standards and simplify scaling.
The MiniPRO platform utilizes FactoryTalk software and the Process Library to enable real-time process control. This environment integrates directly with PlantPAx distributed control systems to manage up to 24 bioreactors simultaneously.
The players
Rockwell Automation
Headquartered in Milwaukee, this industrial automation company employs approximately 26,000 people and serves customers in more than 100 countries.
PBS Biotech
This company specializes in bioreactor technology designed for the biopharmaceutical and cell therapy industries.
ARMI
This nonprofit organization is an early adopter of the MiniPRO platform and works to advance cell-based manufacturing technologies.
The details
By embedding Rockwell Automation technology, the MiniPRO platform provides automated process control that supports the transition toward clinical and commercial-scale production. ARMI has been identified as an early adopter of this integrated system.
Timeline
The partnership was announced on October 5, 2026.
The Tech Race
This integration builds upon the foundation of the PlantPAx distributed control system, a standard in modern industrial manufacturing architectures. It represents a broader shift to bring rigorous automation capabilities to the emerging and complex field of biological manufacturing.
For manufacturers in the cell therapy space, this integration simplifies the transition from laboratory research to commercial-scale production. Users can expect improved process visibility and better regulatory readiness by leveraging established automation software.
The takeaway
Automating complex bioreactor processes reduces human error and accelerates the time it takes to bring life-saving therapies to market. Companies can now utilize scalable digital tools to bridge the gap between initial development and clinical success.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in Biotech to see how industry standards are evolving.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Themachinemaker.
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