Rockwell Automation, Milwaukee, Wis., agreed to acquire Anorad Corp., Hauppauge, N.Y., an acquisition that expands the company's prospects in the growing market for high-end linear motion control products.

Anorad is one of the market-share leaders in linear-motor-based precision positioning equipment. The company makes Piezo ceramic linear motors and linear servo motors, as well as positioning stages and platforms, air bearing systems and servo controllers and amplifiers. Founded in 1972, Anorad has 400 employees, one plant in Hauppauge and five regional sales offices. A sales figure for privately held Anorad was not disclosed.

Rockwell Automation has worked with Anorad in the past and has sourced Anorad linear electric motors for certain applications, according to a Rockwell Automation spokesperson.

Following the acquisition, Anorad would become part of Rockwell Automation's Motion and Information Group, which is led by John McDermott, senior vice president. Under the Rockwell umbrella Anorad will continue to operate from Hauppauge under the continuing direction of Amir Chitayat, president. Anwar Chitayat, chief executive officer of Anorad, will become vice president and chief technical officer of the Motion and Information group.

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