Inside KITZ Engineered Services: The Most Commonly Requested Valve Modifications and How We Deliver Them

In petrochemical and refinery environments, off-the-shelf valves do not always meet the full scope of application demands. Media compatibility, automation requirements, and access constraints often require thoughtful modification. KITZ Corporation of America’s Engineered Services department closes that gap and turns proven catalog valves into application-specific solutions while maintaining OEM quality and documentation.

Our Engineered Services team is based in our Houston, Texas, facility. We support design engineers and MRO professionals who need more than a standard configuration without the risks of outsourcing modifications to a third party.

Here, we’ll explore the most commonly requested valve modifications and how our end-to-end valve engineering services deliver these quality solutions.

From Catalog Standard to Application-Specific: What Is an “Engineered” Valve?

​​An engineered valve starts with a standard KITZ design that is modified to meet specific application demands, whether that involves upgraded trim for corrosive media, specialized cleaning for oxygen or chlorine service, actuator integration, or extensions that improve operator access.

Because we perform all modifications in-house, accountability remains clear. We use genuine KITZ components throughout the process, and the full manufacturer’s warranty stays intact. You’ll receive official inspection and material test reports with the finished assembly. By working with a single manufacturer for all your valve modification needs, you’ll benefit from maintained product quality and streamlined logistics.

Top 4 High-Demand Valve Modifications for Petrochemical & Refinery Service

1. Specialized Cleaning for Oxygen and Chlorine Services

Our Engineered Services team uses a controlled two-step automated process that begins with a hot parts pre-wash to remove surface residues. Components then move through ultrasonic cleaning, which penetrates internal passages and hard-to-reach areas. Other modification providers only offer manual brush-cleaning, which is prone to human error and cannot reach internal spaces.

2. Trim and Bolting Upgrades for Corrosive Media

We rely on application data—including media composition, temperature, and pressure-to make recommendations for upgraded valve balls, stems, and bolts. We select specialized materials with enhanced corrosion resistance and chemical compatibility to replace standard material components, extending service life and reducing the likelihood of premature failure.

3. Custom Actuation and Automated Valve Assemblies

Our Engineered Services team integrates actuators into standard valve products to create custom valve assemblies. We deliver fully assembled and tested units ready for installation, reducing field labor and simplifying commissioning. This approach supports faster deployment and improves alignment with project schedules.

4. Extensions

Insulated petrochemical and refinery piping systems often limit operator access. Valve stem extensions improve maintenance access and usability without requiring piping redesign. Especially during facility retrofits, this modification enhances operability within existing layout constraints.

Our End-to-End Process: Engineering, Testing, and Traceability

Phase 1: Engineering Consultation and Review

Each project begins with a detailed review of application requirements. Media data, pressure class, operating conditions, and compliance specifications are evaluated to determine whether a standard configuration will suffice or a custom valve solution is required.

Phase 2: Disassembly and Precision Modification

Once the scope is defined, our trained technicians disassemble the valve and complete required machining or component upgrades. Reassembly follows OEM standards to maintain performance, quality, and structural integrity.

Phase 3: Rigorous Quality Assurance and NDT

Our quality assurance and testing protocols verify both material composition and operational performance. Positive Material Identification (PMI) and extended pressure testing confirm that the modified valve meets application requirements before shipment.

Phase 4: Unique Serial Numbering and Documentation

Every modified valve receives a unique serial number for full traceability. Documentation details each specific change made, supporting audits, compliance reviews, and long-term maintenance planning.

Why Speed and Support Matter in the Refinery Lifecycle

Refinery upgrades and MRO activities operate on compressed timelines where delays translate directly into downtime costs. Waiting weeks or months for a fully custom valve or third-party modification can disrupt turnarounds and project schedules.

Our domestic modification capabilities in Houston speed up lead times for custom-made valves. For urgent replacements, short-term upgrades, or critical material modifications, our responsiveness helps minimize disruption throughout the refinery lifecycle.

KITZ Corp. of America: Your Partner for Valve Engineering Services

At KITZ Corporation of America, we’re both a manufacturer and an engineering partner. Engineered Services bridges the gap between catalog products and fully customized solutions by delivering modifications backed by OEM quality, documentation, and accountability. Choose from our diverse selection of butterfly, gate, globe, check, ball, and severe service valves and actuators.

If your project requires more than a standard configuration, request a quote or contact the Houston engineering team to learn more about our valve engineering services.