Schneider Electric , the global leader in energy management and automation, and recognised sustainability leader, has unveiled two new flagship products – the Altivar Process ATV6100 Medium Voltage (MV) Drive and the Breaker Status and Communication Module (BSCM) Modbus SL/ULP – at this year’s Africa Automation and Technology Fair (AATF 2025).

The 13th edition of the AATF 2025 is held from 6 to 8 May 2025 at the Gallagher Exhibition Centre in Johannesburg, Gauteng. This year’s theme, Future Ready Smart Solutions, also aptly set the stage for Schneider Electric to display its latest advancements in industrial automation and digital innovation for “Industries of the Future.”

ATV6100 MV Drive 

The ATV6100 MV Drive is a complementary offering to Schneider Electric’s existing ATV6000 MV drive range. It enhances Schneider Electric’s portfolio with a more compact and optimised design, along with versatile features that guarantee energy-efficient operations.

The drives feature a compact design, low harmonic standards, and advanced monitoring capabilities, making them ideal for demanding industrial applications like the Energy & Chemicals (E&C) and Water/Wastewater (WWW) segments.

The ATV6100 covers power ranges from 150kW to 13 500kW and voltage from 2.3kV up to 11kV, providing optimal solutions for MV drive applications. The reduced kilowatt and kilovolt rating (from 160-20 000kW and 2.4-13.8kV in the ATV6000 offering) provides a more cost and energy-efficient solution for lower-range applications such as conveyors in mining and material handling as well as pumps in water treatment facilities.

BSCM Modbus SL/ULP

The innovative BSCM Modbus SL/ULP product provides real-time visibility into the status of breakers for enhanced safety and system reliability. The new BSCM is a direct replacement for the legacy BSCM (LV434205).

The unit facilitates connectivity with two available protocols (Modbus SL and ULP) in one communicative device and features a simplified architecture with an additional Modbus hub and RJ45 connections. The new architecture also reduces installation time by 30% and space reduction on the panel level, while also ensuring a smaller carbon footprint through its design rules.

The new product offers full backward compatibility, including continued support for the existing Universal Logic Plug (ULP) architecture. The new BSCM is ideal for panel builders, OEMs and facility managers seeking a simplified, future-proof solution that maintains continuity with existing systems while unlocking new digital capabilities.

Creating sustainable and resilient industries 

Christophe Begat, Vice President, Industry and Segment, Anglophone Africa at Schneider Electric, says AATF 2025 provides the perfect backdrop for showcasing this year’s Industries of the Future theme.

“Our AATF 2025 stand is focused on demonstrating how sustainable and resilient industries can be created through digital transformation, electrification and decarbonisation. By integrating advanced technologies and sustainability into our core business, we aim to drive innovation and efficiency in industrial operations, ultimately contributing to a greener future,” he says.

“Africa is becoming more influential in the global automation sector. AATF 2025 showcases the continent's significant strides in providing advanced automation solutions tailored to the specific requirements of diverse industries," Begat concludes.