Celebrating 50 years of customer-inspired innovation

The Quebec factory of ABB Process Automation – Measurement and Analytics is one of the top players in the industrial analytical measurement field and the largest Canadian supplier of space-based optical sensors. But 50 years ago, it started as a small local business, Bomem Inc., that grew over five decades into one of the flagship companies of Quebec City’s high-tech industry.

Founded in 1973 by Dr. Henry Buijs, Garry Vail, and Jean-Noel Bérubé, Bomem Inc. initially focused on revolutionizing the field of spectroscopy. Their vision was to pioneer advancements in the field and provide cutting-edge solutions for analyzing molecular compositions and structures.

In the 1970s, Dr. Buijs was one of the first physics engineers to develop the technology for measuring the precise state of the ozone layer. He made an outstanding contribution to the field of infrared spectroscopy and to the design of analytical techniques using this technology, which was at the core of this company's creation.

Bomem Inc. quickly made a name for itself by specializing in Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, a powerful analytical technique with applications in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, oil and gas, environmental monitoring, chemicals, semiconductors, and more.

Evolution and expertise

In 1999, Bomem Inc. reached a pivotal moment in its history when it was acquired by ABB, a technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. This acquisition marked a new era for the company, allowing it to harness ABB's extensive resources and reach to further enhance its offerings and impact on the global stage.

Fifty years after its inception, the biggest R&D group of ABB Measurement and Analytics is in the Quebec factory, showcasing their commitment to consistent innovation. The group consists of 150 engineers and scientists, each with their own expertise in various domains such as research and development, manufacturing engineering, sales support, and after-sales service.

Diversification

Drawing from a foundation of innovative engineering and manufacturing, rooted in its spectroscopy origins, the business unit has dynamically expanded its product portfolio. While maintaining its focus on spectroscopy, the company diversified its offerings to include a range of cutting-edge instruments and analyzers in various applications addressing several industries' measurement needs.

A legacy of space heritage

The ABB Quebec factory collaborates with major space agencies worldwide and offers services such as weather forecasting, climate analysis, earth observation, space exploration, and astronomy.

Today, ABB is focused on the privatization of Earth observation missions, known as Space 2.0. The company is applying its expertise in this field to strategically modernize the area and continue to make advancements in the space industry.

A promising and sustainable future

Bomem Inc.'s legacy lives on as part of ABB Measurement and Analytics, where its contribution to spectroscopy technology endures, leaving an indelible mark on scientific progress and industrial applications worldwide.

Officially, the Quebec factory of ABB Measurement and Analytics celebrated its 50th anniversary on September 21, 2023.

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