Valve engineering experts visit KKI

Brighouse-based KKI, which is owned by Japanese firm Nihon KOSO Co., was formed in 1967 under the name Introl, by Mr Singleton. He was managing director from 1967 to 1990, chairman from 1990 to 1995 and is still a consultant to KKI today. Now in his 80s, he has written a number of industry and white papers.

Mr Baumann, who is in his 70s, is a German inventor and engineer, who has registered more than 200 patents in the field of engineering and produced more than 100 publications including valve manuals.

Denis Westcott, managing director, of KKI, said: “I can’t express how much of an honour it has been to host this visit. Both Hans and Edward are hailed as the most experienced and esteemed statesmen in valve engineering. Between them they have contributed over a century of invaluable expertise and knowledge to the industry for which we shall be eternally grateful. Today, they continue to inspire the next generation of engineers, as some of their legendary inventions and practices live on here at KKI.”

David Limb, KKI’s sales director, added: “At KKI we continue to fuse the very best of the traditional and modern engineering techniques across our business. As were Hans and Edward during their working careers, we remain committed to providing world-class service engineering and manufacturing practices for our oil and gas customers around the world.”

Both experts toured KKI’s factories in Brighouse, where the firm opened a new 18,000 sq ft facility last year. The latest factory is the company’s third facility in Brighouse.

KKI, which has turnover of £25m, employs around 170 people.