Global industrial automation company Rockwell Automation Inc. has agreed to purchase MagneMotion, a manufacturer of intelligent conveying systems. Based in Devens, MA, MagneMotion will be integrated into Rockwell Automation’s motion business, within its architecture & software segment. The acquisition is expected to close this quarter.

MagneMotion systems are used across a range of industrial applications, including general assembly, packaging and material handling. The acquisition will complement the Rockwell Automation iTRAK motion solution.

“This acquisition continues our strategy to build a portfolio of smart manufacturing technologies that brings next-generation performance to our customers today,” says Marco Wishart, vice president and general manager of Rockwell Automation’s motion control business. “Our recent acquisition of Jacobs Automation and its iTRAK technology is complementary to MagneMotion’s portfolio. We see a future where the transportation of products within the factory, whether inside a particular machine or between machines, will be fully controlled to optimize the productivity and flexibility of the entire process.”

 “This deal is the logical next step in the evolution of our business and a welcome development for MagneMotion,” says Todd Webber, president and CEO of MagneMotion. “Rockwell Automation’s leading position in plant-wide controls and industrial automation gives us the best opportunity to introduce this technology to customers. As the market continues to realize the benefits of applying independent cart technology, Rockwell Automation’s global organization will be a tremendous asset.”