Research and development

Our product and service portfolio is built on remarkable innovations, some of which have been industry benchmarks for decades. We have a field-proven track record in developing long-lasting and reliable valve technologies.

Constantly developing our portfolio

Today, valves must withstand more stringent process conditions, such as high process pressures or extreme temperatures. Not only are the technical requirements more demanding, there is also pressure to bring more economical solutions to market.

All research and development projects have sustainability targets, e.g. for product safety and efficiency.

Valmet’s Flow Control business line is constantly developing our portfolio of high-engineered valves, valve controls and standard solutions to meet the diverse needs of our customers. We build on continuous and systematic product renewal and expanding our offering. We are also exploring new manufacturing methods and materials technologies and further leveraging our simulation and design automation capabilities. 100% of our R&D projects have sustainability targets.

In 2020, the focus of our research and development activities was on the renewal and expansion of certain product platforms, e.g. high-pressure ball valve technology. By focusing on the development of seat technology, we are ensuring better internal tightness and thus minimizing harmful fugitive emissions to the atmosphere, even in the most demanding applications.

Next wave in 3D printing

3D printing has evolved from a viable technology for prototyping and training purposes into a robust and reliable production process that is ideal for small, complex shapes. As 3D printing does not require production tooling, such as casting patterns, it makes it economically feasible to customize valve features for an individual valve or customer.

Valmet’s Flow Control business line is one of the 3D frontrunners in the valve business. In 2018, we delivered the first valves with 3D-printed parts. We have recently manufactured an entire 3D-printed valve body, which was installed in a customer process for field testing.

Next generation of valve control

One of our latest innovations in valve automation is the Neles NDX valve controller. Neles NDX is a technology platform for smart digital controllers having independent computing power for accurate and fast control and diagnostics with Industry 4.0 communication capabilities. Neles NDX valve controller has been designed with a strong focus on the user experience and it is compatible with all valve brands in a wide range of applications, regardless of customer or industry.

New materials in valve manufacturing

Neles has recently introduced the third generation of metal matrix composite (MMC) materials. The MMCs are made of metals and ceramics, and thus are both hard and ductile, which is a favorable property profile for wear protection in critical applications. Watch the interview of Jussi Hellman, Manager of Materials Engineering at Neles.

Read more about innovation at Valmet’s Flow Control business line

The first-ever valve with 3D printed valve body for field testing

In May 2021, we have supplied a customer with a valve with 3D printed valve body which will be tested in the customer's process. See the interview with our expert Jukka Borgman to learn more!

3D printing adds real value

Has 3D printing past the innovation phase?

Developing an enhanced customer experience in complex EPC projects through digitalization

Digitalization of the quotation process delivers notable benefits to all parties involved, benefits like savings in valuable engineering hours, optimal solutions for customer requirements and an improved customer experience. This is also what our digitalized valve quotation process is aiming for.

Mobile 3D measurement – a new unique method to determine the right service for valves

Have you ever been worried about the reliability of your valves during an extended operating period? Can you be sure that off-the-shelf spare parts can meet the targeted life cycle? Did you know there are new unique measurement methods to cut maintenance costs and to increase the availability of your production? Let us explain.

The full solution

It is in Neles' DNA to design and manufacture high-quality products that respond to customer demands and requirements.

Q&A: Developing valve technology

We talked with Kalle Suurpää about R&D and testing of our valve solutions.

Valve portfolio built on innovations

In 1973, Antti Nelimarkka, the creative engineer behind Neles range of valves, came up with an idea that was fine-tuned until production commenced in 1975. For the valves to be more reliable in demanding conditions and applications, Nelimarkka thought of using a metallic seat ring instead of a rubber one—and the game-changer was born.

R&D is the ultimate form of customer service