SISTO Armaturen S.A., a member of the KSB Group, inaugurated a newly built technology centre in Echternach, Luxembourg, on 27 February 2023. The SISTO TechCenter includes testing facilities specifically tailored to the needs of the pharmaceutical industry and biotechnology. Furthermore, this building also features modern office space for the technical departments.

The testing facilities also include a custom-built test stand for sterile process valves. This allows practical testing of valves for sterile processes. Here, developers are able to simulate all the necessary cleaning (CIP) and sterilisation (SIP) processes under original conditions. All common cleaning products (CIP), ultra-pure steam (SIP), compressed air, and vacuum are used, as well as cold and hot water. The tests can be performed according to ASME BPE standards or according to individual specifications of the end user.

In addition to further function and endurance test stands for diaphragm valves and accessories, a variety of facilities for materials testing and testing of mechatronic assemblies are also available. A vacuum chamber with leak detector is available for leak tests using helium in accordance with ISO 15848-1 or German Technical Guidelines on Air Quality Control (TA Luft).

The building covers an area of 350 square metres and has two floors. As part of its sustainability policy, SISTO Armaturen S.A. has designed the building to be climate-neutral. On completion, the building will require neither heating nor cooling. The inauguration of the multi-million euro building took place on 27 February in the presence of Franz Fayot, the Luxembourg Minister of the Economy.

75 years of gas safety and performance optimization

A world market leader from Germany is celebrating its birthday – for 75 years now, the Witten-based company Witt-Gasetechnik has been setting the standard for safety and efficiency in the use of industrial gases. Gas mixers and analysers, pressure regulators and valves – Witt products can be found in industrial applications all over the world. And just in time for the company anniversary, the manufacturer is working on the next milestone in the company’s history under the banner “Witt 4.0”.

Did you know ? Flashback arrestors for welding applications, used worldwide ever since, were first introduced to the market in 1945 by the German manufacturer Witt. Company founder Paul Witt revolutionised the handling of flammable gases with this small but immensely important component. These safety devices remain a globally demanded part of the Witt product portfolio. The manufacturer also offers a comprehensive range of valves for industrial gas applications, such as safety relief valves, gas non-return valves and pressure regulators.
However, the company has long since developed into other niches in the field of gas technology, and with its 200+ employees continues to set new standards. The range of gas mixers is unrivalled internationally and the gas analysers and leak testers also enjoy an excellent reputation.
But even after three quarters of a century, Witt is still young and modern. Its R & D team is constantly improving and expanding the product range, thus responding to changing requirements, and developing game-changing innovations.

Witt 4.0 – smart gas technology

A current example is the shift to digital solutions for networked manufacturing in Industry 4.0 – a change that does not stop at gas technology. Witt is one of the pioneers: Dr. Richard Benning has been driving development forward for years. “Witt 4.0” is what the managing partner, who is the third generation to head the family business, calls this project, thus giving a name to the next revolution from Witt.

The technological breakthrough was achieved two years ago. Witt presented the first prototypes of “smart” fittings: safety devices that can record and transmit important parameters such as pressures and temperatures via sensors. Witt’s engineers managed the feat of integrating the electronics directly into the fittings. Fully integrated valves offer real commercial added value: real-time data from a single device, little space required, quick installation, easy maintenance. In other words, performance and cost advantages compared to piecemeal solutions.
Smart dome pressure regulators that can measure gas pressure and temperature, calculate flow rates and transmit them to a network are now an integral part of the product catalogue. Soon further “smart” fittings will be added. But that is not all.

Data anywhere and anytime

Witt has also long since equipped gas analysers and gas mixers with electronic control systems specially developed for this purpose. All relevant data is recorded, evaluated and output. In this way, these systems, parallel to the smart fittings, are seamlessly networked in the production process and can be controlled “intelligently”.
All components are interconnected via the local network, and can also be read and controlled over the internet. The data converge in real time at the control station controller. Via PC or tablet, the right people have all information available at all times. If something goes wrong or needs to be reset, they can intervene immediately: The networked gas technology thus also stands for more precise process control and minimum rejects, i.e. for maximum efficiency.

Global company with local presence

Witt 4.0 is another important building block for the company to maintain and expand its leading market position. The manufacturer has always worked meticulously on its portfolio and is consistently expanding it. The Witten-based company has long been regarded as a “one-stop shop” for everything relevant to the safe handling of gases.
The products are manufactured in a state-of-the-art production facility in Witten. Quality management is comprehensive, all relevant standards are met and are validated by external accreditations.

Also to know, Witt generates well over half of its sales outside Germany. Through subsidiaries and sales partners, the company is represented on all continents and offers its customers local advice and service.