Ramén Valves commits to a more sustainable future with SuperExpanite surface hardening of valves

Ramén Valves, a leading manufacturer of industrial valves for the process industry, has announced its commitment to a more sustainable future by eliminating the use of hard chroming in its manufacturing processes. Instead, the company has adopted the more environmentally friendly SuperExpanite treatment, a gas-based process that yields no toxic waste and has the lowest carbon footprint in the industry.

Upcoming regulations spark the need for more environmentally friendly surface hardening processes
Hard chroming is a process that increases the hardness of parts in contact with abrasive media, making it a popular solution in the valve industry. However, with the upcoming European Commission’s REACH Committee’s agreement to eliminate the use of chromium trioxide in most manufacturing processes by September 2024, many companies have been seeking alternative solutions. While some hard chroming companies have been promoting the use of alternative chemical solutions, Ramén Valves has decided to go a step further and eliminate all hard chroming solutions.

“We are committed to protecting people and the environment from harmful chemicals, whether they are currently allowed or not. That’s why we have been researching alternative solutions for many years now and have found a successful solution in the SuperExpanite treatment.” says Per Wennersten, CEO, Ramén Valves.

A gas-based process with no toxic waste
SuperExpanite is a patented surface hardening technology, invented by the Danish company Expanite, that increases the hardness, wear-resistance, and improves corrosion resistance of stainless steel and titanium components. The treatment is performed without the use of harmful chemicals and results in a surface layer that is up to 10 times harder than the original material. Ramén Valves began testing the SuperExpanite treatment in 2019 with excellent results and has decided to adopt it as its standard hardening treatment. This decision not only ensures compliance with the new regulations but also reflects Ramén Valves’ commitment to sustainability and responsible manufacturing practices.

“We believe that by eliminating the use of hard chroming and adopting a pure gas-based process like the SuperExpanite treatment, we can reduce our environmental impact and contribute to a safer, healthier future for everyone,” says Stéphane Blanchet, Sales Manager, Ramén Valves.

Innovation and sustainability go hand in hand at Ramén Valves
Ramén Valves has a long history of innovation and excellence in the valve industry, and this latest decision reinforces its commitment to provide high-quality, sustainable solutions to its customers. With the adoption of the SuperExpanite treatment as its standard hardening treatment, Ramén Valves is poised to continue its leadership in the industry.