Metso is strengthening its product offering by certifying valve products according to the latest widely accepted fire-safe standard - API 607 6th edition.

The plan is to replace all former fire-safe certificates and to widen the range of Metso fire-safe certified products in order to better serve our customers' needs and requirements and to expand the applications for our product range.

At present, the testing plan applies mainly to Neles ball valves - such as the new D1F-, D2- and X-series valves - as well as L6-butterfly valves and Finetrol-valves. The burnt valves have been selected to achieve as much coverage as possible in terms of size and pressure class with a single test.

State-of-the-art testing facilities

The new tests, to meet the requirements of API 607 6th edition, will be carried out by Metso using its own highly sophisticated fire-safe equipment to test and certify valve products. This equipment, which can be used for valves up to sizes 8" and pressures up to150 bar, is located in the new state-of-the-art laboratory facilities at the Metso Valve Technology Center (located in the Greater Helsinki region), which was opened in September 2011.

The new laboratory is part of a major investment by Metso aimed at raising standards in valve production and service throughout the many industries we serve.

Safety, and fire safety in particular, is a top priority for Metso and all equipment at the new Valve Technology Center incorporates the latest safety features needed to minimize risks related to high temperatures and pressures, and only fully trained laboratory personnel are permitted to carry out such tests.

Metso is a global supplier of sustainable technology and services for mining, construction, power generation, automation, recycling and the pulp and paper industries. We have about 29,000 employees in more than 50 countries. www.metso.com

Metso's automation professionals specialize in process industry flow control solutions, automation and information management systems and applications, and life cycle services. Main products include for example control valves, automation systems, quality control systems and measurement solutions.

Further information for the media

Veli-Matti Kaunismäki Manager, Valves and actuators technology
Tel: + 358 20 483 5845
Email: veli-matti.kaunismaki (at) metso.com

Juha Perttilä Manager, Technology testing centers
Tel: + 358 20 483 5784
Email: juha.perttila (at) metso.com

Photo 1: Metso's fire-safe test equipment in new laboratory facilities.
Photo 2: Neles D1F ball valve under testing