NEWS
IMI’s 3D printed valve trims boost efficiency
June 20 , 2025
The valves, produced by IMI, were installed after existing valves had become insufficient due
to severe erosion and leakage caused by insufficient pressure reduction. The 3D printed
alternatives, which are produced in metal with an ABJ soft seat, are said to have been
customised to the specific conditions of each valve casing and were produced much quicker
and cheaper than their conventional counterparts.The components were manufactured via
IMI’s Retrofit3D which is designed to provide cost-effective solutions for improving the
performance of control valves without the need for a complete replacement. Retrofit3D
components integrate IMI’s DRAG technology, which divides flows into a series of right-angled
smaller passages, reducing the differential pressure incrementally and increasing control.
The upgraded components are said to increase the number of pressure-reducing steps in
the valve four-fold. Paired with a soft seat in a ripple shape of Teflon with a metal spring,
the valve is said to achieve leakage class VI for applications requiring very tight shut-off.
There’s also thought to be a positive environmental impact after a lifecycle assessment of
Retrofit3D undertaken by environmental and engineering consultancy Ricardo found that
IMI’s additive manufacturing technique can, in some cases, reduce environmental impact
between 85% and 96%.
to severe erosion and leakage caused by insufficient pressure reduction. The 3D printed
alternatives, which are produced in metal with an ABJ soft seat, are said to have been
customised to the specific conditions of each valve casing and were produced much quicker
and cheaper than their conventional counterparts.The components were manufactured via
IMI’s Retrofit3D which is designed to provide cost-effective solutions for improving the
performance of control valves without the need for a complete replacement. Retrofit3D
components integrate IMI’s DRAG technology, which divides flows into a series of right-angled
smaller passages, reducing the differential pressure incrementally and increasing control.
The upgraded components are said to increase the number of pressure-reducing steps in
the valve four-fold. Paired with a soft seat in a ripple shape of Teflon with a metal spring,
the valve is said to achieve leakage class VI for applications requiring very tight shut-off.
There’s also thought to be a positive environmental impact after a lifecycle assessment of
Retrofit3D undertaken by environmental and engineering consultancy Ricardo found that
IMI’s additive manufacturing technique can, in some cases, reduce environmental impact
between 85% and 96%.