Building on its storied legacy, Velan continues to redefine the valve industry with a relentless focus on innovation, sustainability, and technological advancement. Whether it is emissions reduction, hydrogen, or fusion energy, Velan is leading the way in addressing modern challenges, integrating cutting-edge digital solutions, and exemplifying an unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship. In this article we explore how the company is shaping the future of valve technology in an era defined by rapid technological change and heightened environmental awareness. On Velan’s 75th anniversary, we look to the future.
By Vahe Najarian, Corporate Manager, Technology R&D, Velan
Advancing Fugitive Emissions Control: A Commitment to Excellence
Velan’s leadership in fugitive emissions (FE) control remains a linchpin of its innovation strategy. The company’s pioneering work in developing low-emission valves has set industry benchmarks, but Velan does not stop here. The introduction of Field Injection Port (FIP) valves, a patent-pending innovation, demonstrates Velan’s ability to address real-world challenges with practical, forward-thinking solutions. FIP valves enable immediate leak mitigation, reducing risks associated with traditional “hot drill and tap” repair methods and enhancing operational efficiency. Velan FIP valves provide even more value to plant operators by extending the life of an already high-performance valve, reducing downtime and saving costs. FIP is now a standard feature on Velan’s API 602 small-forged gate and globe valves, underscoring the company’s dedication to delivering value to its customers. (See Figure 1).
Velan’s novel statistical performance ratings further demonstrate its commitment to excellence. During the last major FE qualification round, Velan dual-qualified 13 product lines to API 624/641 and ISO-51848-1. This resulted in 126 FE qualification test reports and provided an opportunity for a statistical FE performance review, based on which we have established three statistical performance rating definitions, exploring statistical FE performance below 100ppm. By taking the initiative to establish rigorous criteria for FE performance, Velan provides customers with confidence in the reliability and environmental compliance of its products. These ratings are not just numbers; they represent Velan’s promise to deliver valves that meet the most stringent performance standards, even in the most demanding applications (see Table 1).
Embracing Digital Transformation: Smart Valves for a Smarter Future
In an increasingly connected world, Velan is leveraging digital technologies to enhance the functionality and efficiency of its offerings. Smart valves are more than just a technological trend; they represent a qualitative shift in how industries monitor and manage their operations. Velan’s digital solutions provide real-time data and insights, empowering plant operators to make informed decisions that improve efficiency and reduce emissions. Similarly, the company’s Online Valve Monitoring Solutions, best exhibited in applications like Delayed Coker Unit Processes, are a testament to its forward-thinking approach. By integrating ‘Internet of Things’ (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities into its products, Velan is enabling predictive maintenance, reducing downtime, and optimizing performance. This focus on digital innovation aligns with Velan’s broader mission to deliver sustainable, high-performance solutions that meet the evolving needs of its customers.
Sustainability at the Core: A Holistic Approach
Velan’s commitment to sustainability is deeply embedded in its corporate DNA. In the 1960s, Velan conducted an extensive research program in conjunction with Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL), aiming to develop high-performance valve stem packing materials and gland systems with leak-proof, long-lasting, low-maintenance stem seals for the nuclear power industry. This research resulted in several notable achievements, including gland design optimization with shorter and narrower chambers, optimized pre-compressions for both graphite and PTFE packing materials, optimized live loading design criteria, and cycle life design parameters for bellows seal valves.
This research program served as the foundation of Velan’s success in addressing and achieving the 100 ppm Low-E valve and packing challenge mandated by the US EPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency). Collectively, it was a monumental achievement for the valve industry in tackling environmental issues both locally and globally. Additionally, it benefited the North American petrochemical industry by establishing standardized maintenance practices and a vocabulary culture through LDAR (Leak Detection and Repair) programs, resulting in the development of various fugitive emissions standards for valves.
Today, the company’s upcoming Sustainability Report, set to be released in 2025, reflects its undiminished dedication to responsible business practices. This report will highlight Velan’s efforts in key areas such as climate resilience, supply chain circularity, and product innovation, providing a comprehensive overview of its sustainability initiatives.
One of the most pressing challenges in the valve industry is the development of fully sustainable products. Velan is addressing this challenge head-on by focusing on recyclability, repairability, and performance longevity. The company’s emphasis on extending the life of its valves, as mentioned above regarding FIP, not only reduces waste but also aligns with global trends toward circular economy principles.
Collaboration and Industry Leadership
Velan’s success is rooted in its collaborative approach to innovation. As an active member of industry organizations such as the American Petroleum Institute (API), the Manufacturers Standardization Society (MSS), and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Velan plays a pivotal role in shaping industry standards. These collaborations ensure that Velan’s products meet the highest regulatory and environmental requirements, while also fostering harmonization across global markets.
Beyond standardization, Velan works closely with key customers and industries to develop tailored solutions for severe service applications. Whether it is supporting advancements in nuclear energy, hydrogen processes, or fusion technology, Velan’s collaborative approach ensures that its innovations have a meaningful impact on the industries it serves. This spirit of partnership is a driving force behind Velan’s ability to stay ahead of industry trends and deliver solutions that address emerging challenges.
Navigating Emerging Frontiers: Hydrogen and Fusion Energy
As industry evolves, so too do the demands placed on valve technology. Velan is at the forefront of addressing the unique challenges posed by emerging applications in hydrogen and fusion energy. Hydrogen applications, particularly those operating at high temperatures, require innovative solutions to ensure both environmental compliance and safety. Velan’s research in this area focuses on developing packing material selection criteria that can withstand extreme conditions while maintaining low emissions. This represents uncharted territory where qualification solutions must be approached with caution while striving to ensure reliable field performance in the targeted application.
Fusion energy, a field still in its infancy, presents a bold new frontier for valve technology. The primary sealing challenge lies in developing radiation-resistant packing materials capable of providing low-level fugitive emissions sealing. By exploring uncharted territory and pushing the boundaries of what is possible, Velan is helping to shape the future of energy production.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
As Velan looks to the future, it remains committed to its core values of quality, innovation, and sustainability. The challenges ahead are significant, from navigating evolving environmental regulations to developing solutions for emerging industries. Yet, Velan’s history of continuous innovation provides a strong foundation for addressing these challenges. The spirit of the founder, A.K. Velan, endures.
From its early breakthroughs in stem seal technology to its recent advancements in fugitive emissions control and digital solutions, Velan has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in valve technology. As the company looks to the future, its commitment to sustainability, collaboration, and technological advancement ensures that it will remain at the forefront of the industry for years to come. In a world where environmental responsibility and efficiency are paramount, Velan’s innovations are not just a reflection of its legacy—they are a blueprint for the future.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Vahe Najarian is a registered engineer with over 30 years’ experience in valves and machinery. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree (McGill). In over 25 years at Velan, he has held several management positions in R&D, design, and product technology. He is Velan’s corporate subject matter expert on fugitive emissions and sealing technologies. Vahe is active in several valve standards committees, including API and MSS and has worked on several standards task groups for valve design, valve testing and fugitive emissions type qualification.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the profiled company and may not reflect the position of Fugitive Emissions Journal.