2 Year Warranty on ALL products

Understanding the Relationship Between Allen Bradley and Rockwell

Allen-Bradley vs. Rockwell Automation: What’s the Difference?

In the world of industrial automation, few names are as well-known as Allen-Bradley and Rockwell Automation. Engineers, manufacturers, and industrial professionals frequently encounter these names—but what’s the real connection between them?

Are they the same company? Is Allen-Bradley still independent? And if you’re investing in Allen-Bradley products, what does Rockwell Automation’s involvement mean for you?

Let’s dive deep into the history, evolution, and significance of these two industry giants.

1. Allen-Bradley: From Small Business to Automation Powerhouse

The Early Years (1903-1910)

  • Allen-Bradley was originally founded in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, as the Compression Rheostat Company.
  • The company specialized in resistors and motor controls, vital components for early electrical applications.
  • In 1910, the company rebranded as Allen-Bradley, a name derived from its co-founders Lynde Bradley and Stanton Allen.

Growth & Industry Leadership (1910-1980s)

  • Throughout the 20th century, Allen-Bradley expanded into industrial automation and became a pioneer in:
    • Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
    • Motor control solutions
    • Relays and industrial control components

By the 1980s, Allen-Bradley was recognized as a leading provider of industrial automation equipment, trusted by manufacturers worldwide.

Why Was Allen-Bradley So Successful?

  • Reliability: Their products were known for durability and long service life.
  • Innovation: They helped shape the PLC industry, revolutionizing industrial automation.
  • Customer Focus: They built a strong reputation for supporting factories and manufacturers with cutting-edge technology.

2. The Rockwell Acquisition: A Game-Changer for Automation

In 1985, Rockwell International, a large aerospace and industrial manufacturing conglomerate, acquired Allen-Bradley for $1.6 billion—one of the largest industrial acquisitions of the time.

Why Did Rockwell Buy Allen-Bradley?

Rockwell saw an opportunity to strengthen its position in industrial automation, an industry rapidly expanding due to increasing factory automation and digital transformation.

What Changed After the Acquisition?

  • Allen-Bradley was fully integrated into Rockwell’s industrial automation division.
  • Rockwell leveraged Allen-Bradley’s technology and expertise to expand globally.
  • The Allen-Bradley brand remained, but now under the umbrella of Rockwell Automation (which would later become its official name).

3. Allen-Bradley Today: A Brand Within Rockwell Automation

While Allen-Bradley is no longer a standalone company, the brand name still exists—and it remains one of the most recognizable in the industry.

What Products Still Carry the Allen-Bradley Name?

  • PLCs – The backbone of industrial automation.
  • HMIs – Touchscreen panels for operators.
  • Motor Control Components – VFDs, servo motors, and more.
  • Industrial Sensors & Safety Equipment – Enhancing efficiency and safety.

4. What This Means for Engineers and Businesses

✔️ Advantages of Allen-Bradley Under Rockwell Automation

  • Reliability & Longevity
  • Integration with Rockwell Software
  • Global Availability & Support
  • Cutting-Edge Industrial Technology

5. Key Takeaways: Should You Use Allen-Bradley Products?

Allen-Bradley is NOT an independent company—it is a brand owned by Rockwell Automation.

If you’re considering PLCs, drives, or automation hardware, Allen-Bradley offers a future-ready solution backed by a global leader in industrial automation.

6. Where to Buy Allen-Bradley Parts & Automation Equipment

Because Allen-Bradley products are premium and widely used, sourcing from a trusted supplier is essential.

🔹 Browse Allen-Bradley Parts Here

Final Thoughts

Allen-Bradley may not be an independent company anymore, but its legacy lives on under Rockwell Automation.

🚀 Enhance Your Industrial Automation with Allen-Bradley! Discover high-quality Allen-Bradley components for your next project.

Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published