Valmet’s expertise and products assure reliability in flow control

By KCI Editorial 
This article was originally published as Spotlight on: Valmet, in the Valve World Americas Journal, May 2025 issue.

Valmet’s strength in flow control lies in the range of products and services offered. The catalogue includes valves, pumps, actuators, valve automation and more, all of which are renowned for setting numerous standards in safety, quality and reliability. Importantly, products and services are also aligned to support the energy transition industry.

Valmet’s key flow control brands sold in North America include Jamesbury™, Neles™, Stonel™, Valvcon™, and Flowrox™. These globally recognized brands have been industry leaders and trusted by customers for decades.

Ruiz states: “In our industry, customers value company experience and longterm product reliability. We bring products onto the market that are based on field-proven technologies and have undergone rigorous testing in our state-of-the art laboratories and elsewhere. For example, products intended to be used in SIS applications are certified by independent third parties.” This commitment to reliability ensures that Valmet’s customers can rely on products such as the Neles 6D valves and Neles NDX 2.0 valve controller to perform consistently in any given application.

Neles 6D ball valve

At Valmet, continuous R&D is a given. The Neles 6D ball valve family stands out as a prime example, highlighting the company’s dedication to creating reliable, high-performing equipment that meets the diverse needs of multiple industries.

Neles NDX intelligent positioner offers a linkage-less design, a full suite of diagnostic capabilities and extremely low air consumption.

Moreover, the Neles 6D product line can be readily integrated with smart technologies, such as the Neles NDX 2.0 valve controller. “Customers are now looking to incorporate smart controllers into standard assemblies to facilitate advanced diagnostics, maintenance planning, and the prevention of process downtime due to premature failure. From day one, the NDX was designed with ease of integration in mind,” states Ruiz.

The valve also scores highly as regards its environmental performance. “The Neles 6D is designed to be fire safe and virtually emission-free, hence it is an excellent choice for customers in the growing renewable energy and hydrogen industries where safety and environmental concerns are paramount,” Ruiz adds.

All new and modified products undergo rigorous testing at all stages of development. Valmet’s testing capabilities are second-to-none, enabling the company to validate the quality and reliability of new product designs. Options for factory acceptance tests include onsite or remote witnessing, whilst cryogenic, fugitive emission and high-pressure gas testing can be performed according to all leading standards.

Sustainability first

Valmet ventures to promote sustainability at all levels. This includes minimizing the environmental impact of valve manufacturing processes, maximizing uptimes of installed products, simplifying maintenance, and facilitating the recycling of end-of-life valves. This commitment is exemplified by innovations like the Neles NDX 2.0 intelligent valve controller, which is suited for linear and rotary valve applications including products from third-party manufacturers.

The Neles NDX 2.0 was designed with sustainability in mind. “Thanks to updated components and innovative design features, the NDX 2.0 can reduce air consumption by up to 90% when compared to other well-known positioners. This helps customers take important steps in energy conservation and lowering emissions,” emphasizes Ruiz.

But the benefits of the NDX 2.0 transcend energy efficiency. Neles NDX 2.0 has North American Class I, Division 1 and Class I, Division 2 certifications for non-incentive and intrinsically safe installations. With improved control performance and superior accuracy, the NDX 2.0 has a substantial impact on process quality and output. The result is better yield and profitability due to reduced process variability. The modular NDX 2.0 benefits from easy installation, simple commissioning plus an intuitive interface and moreover can be used for all valve sizes and in all operating environments.

On the topic of maintenance, Ruiz emphasizes that future servicing and repairs are already considered during the initial design of new valves and actuators. “Take the Neles XH ball valve, engineered with serviceability in mind thanks to ease of maintenance and readily accessible wear parts. This reduces downtime for our customers and extends the overall lifecycle of the valve, further contributing to sustainability and reliability.”

Valmet launched its first digital valve controller in 1996 demonstrating a long history of expertise and innovation in flow control technology.

Selection and sizing

To enhance the customer experience during valve selection, Valmet offers "Nelprof", a standard selection and sizing tool. Accessible via the Valmet website, Nelprof is free to use software that simplifies the valve and actuator selection process. Users can easily input the process conditions and requirements, leaving Nelprof to provide recommendations for optimized performance. Clients can then select appropriate products whilst avoiding common mistakes like oversizing or improper constructions. Clearly, Valmet takes pride in not only providing a product but also in ensuring that support tools can be utilized throughout the entire lifecycle of the valve. This approach engenders customer confidence in Valmet’s commitment.

Introducing the Neles XH ball valve

The Neles XH ball valve offers the following benefits:

• Reduced size and weight
• Enhanced operational safety
• Detachable lifting mounts for larger valves, improving maneuverability and safety during installation
• Wide range of materials options
• Suitable for demanding applications in oil & gas, petrochemicals, high-pressure hydrogen systems, etc

A strong project partner

From modest upgrades to world-scale new-builds, Valmet has consistently proven itself to be an attractive partner for all EPC activities. Longterm relationships are often the cornerstone of success, states Kyle. “Partnering with a supplier you know is much easier than with one you don’t. Valmet has spent decades collaborating with customers, including numerous EPCs, always striving to add value to their projects. Valmet’s continued efforts in supporting our customers will build on the positive relationships we have developed.”

Of course, Valmet’s portfolio of automated on-off and control valves are at the core of what the company deliversto projects. Distributed control systems and safety systems can additionally be furnished. “The overall goal is to be ableto support the customer through the entirety of the project. The fact that we have acquired vast applications experience and built-up strong relationships with companies on all sides of industry means we are ideally placed to help our clients,” Rayhill explains.

“The Neles XH ball valve was engineered with serviceability in mind thanks to ease of maintenance and readily accessible wear parts”

Valmet’s undeniable ability to provide both valve and automation systems is a significant advantage. By choosing Valmet as a supplier, customers benefit from seamless compatibility and optimized performance across their control and valve systems. Meanwhile, valve OEMs and skid manufacturers can rely on Valmet to deliver engineered valve automation solutions for third-party valves. Rayhill: “With our engineered solutions, our customers experience a comprehensive offering that meets their specifications. From actuators and on/off valve controllers to positioners, limit switches, and instrumentation requirements, our unique approach means that we are their one-stop shop for all valve automation components. Our solutions are based on proven technologies and are guaranteed to meet appropriate performance and environmental regulations, regardless of valve make, model or original manufacturer."

Valmet: The home of Jamesbury, Neles, Stonel, Valvcon and Flowrox

Following a corporate merger in 2022, Valmet created its Flow Control Business Line as an ideal platform for multiple, well-established valve and actuator brands. Today, the business line includes tried and trusted brand names such as Jamesbury, Neles, Neles Easyflow, Stonel, Valvcon and Flowrox. 

Comments Rayhill: “Valmet has already become a familiar moniker to many of our regular flow control clients. However, we appreciate that some customers may not  yet have made the connection. Our message is therefore one of continuity. Customers looking to purchase or maintain Jamesbury, Neles, Stonel, Valvcon or Flowrox valves and actuators can continue to rely on us at Valmet for all their needs.”

Energy transition

Many observers see an important role for hydrogen in the energy transition. Fortunately, Valmet can leverage an extensive track record. “We have been serving hydrogen applications for over forty years in sectors like refining, chemicals, and industrial gas processes. This long-standing experience gives Valmet a significant advantage in tackling all emerging hydrogen-related challenges,” says Ruiz. Valmet is closely monitoring evolving needs. “Of course, fugitive emissions remain a top priority, hence we have developed stem packing, seal solutions and special body types. In addition to emissions, we also keep a close eye on the process conditions to make sure we combat the potential of hydrogen embrittlement with the proper materials,” indicates Ruiz.

Valmet’s extensive knowledge of valves for oxygen applications – over 30,000 installations and counting - is definitely a major asset. Ruiz: “We have been providing oxygen valve solutions for decades. Although the oxygen and hydrogen processes vary, the protocols we have developed for oxygen as regards safety, material selection, emissions, etc are invaluable for other gases.”

The company’s valve solutions for hydrogen have already been proven in both atmospheric and pressurized alkaline electrolysers. High temperature valve solutions are available for solid oxidizer electrolyser cells. “Our current product scope aims to cover all of our customers’ valve needs in the energy transition,” notes Ruiz.

Positive relationships

As industries throughout the Americas face up to major challenges, Valmet is on hand to deliver field-tested, reliable flow-control solutions. “In North America, many clients purchase Valmet products through the convenience of channel partners. Hence, we have established an intricate ecosystem with tried and trusted distributors who fully understand the specific requirements of their local industries and customers. Further support is available from multiple Valmet locations in the US and Canada, including five service centers plus a well-appointed Valve Technology Center in Shrewsbury, MA.”

In North America, many clients purchase Valmet products through the convenience of channel partners. Hence, we have established an intricate ecosystem with tried and trusted distributors who fully understand the specific requirements of their local industries and customers.

Kyle Rayhill’s final remarks clearly set out the positive relationships Valmet enjoys with customers. “Valmet’s flow control business will continue to explore innovation opportunities and maintain their presence as an industry leading solutions provider. Whether you have special requirements that need uniquely designed products, or a standard application that requires proven solutions, Valmet has you covered.”