By Jocelyn Navarro, Ratermann Manufacturing
For companies working with cryogenic and industrial gas systems, valve failure isn’t just a maintenance issue; it’s a safety risk. Pressure relief valves must operate with precision under intense thermal and mechanical stress. That’s why Ratermann Manufacturing has made valve recertification a central part of its operation, helping customers meet industry guidelines, avoid unnecessary downtime and stay within ASME standards.
Now operating a full in-house valve service center in Houston, Ratermann provides certified testing, oxygen cleaning and turnaround repairs for brands including Herose, Kunkle, Anderson-Greenwood and Cash. The company has paired its large product inventory with a growing service division, further positioning itself as a resource for both parts and performance.
“Valve reliability isn’t optional, it’s essential,” said Joel Rodriguez, service manager at Ratermann. “That’s why we’ve made it easier to get valves inspected, recertified and back in the field without compromising safety or compliance.”
Why Recertification Matters
Industry guidelines call for pressure relief valves to be recertified every five years, and for good reason. These valves are critical to preventing overpressure events in cryogenic tanks, piping systems and gas delivery infrastructure. Over time, mechanical fatigue can impact performance. Without regular testing, there’s no guarantee a valve will work when it’s needed.
Ratermann’s ASME-certified test bench allows for full pressure testing and restamping in line with National Board requirements. For customers, this reduces the likelihood of compliance issues or preventable failures and may help extend the life of valves already in service.
If a valve fails in the field, Ratermann’s team can often bring it back into spec through repair and recertification. When timing is tight, multiple service tiers are available, from standard (6 to 10 business days) to rush (under 24 hours). For teams managing production schedules or time-sensitive cryogenic systems, this kind of flexibility can be essential.
Built for Cryogenic and Industrial Gas Needs
The valve service division works on the same high performance components Ratermann stocks: trusted names like Herose, which offers global certifications and temperature ratings down to -425°F. Their technicians are certified for valve repair (VR), test only (TO) and assembler (UV), qualifying them to perform ASME work entirely in-house.
The company also provides oxygen cleaning in a controlled environment, a key step for any valve used in oxygen service. Contamination can result in ignition hazards, and Ratermann’s process supports the cleanliness standards necessary for safe operation.
By combining product access with in-house technical support, Ratermann provides continuity throughout the valve’s lifecycle. Customers can source parts, consult on installation and get the same team to handle maintenance, testing and repairs.
Staying Ahead of Downtime
Fast turnaround has long been part of Ratermann’s approach. The company was built to serve time-sensitive markets such as cryogenic distributors, medical gas suppliers and industrial gas firms. Whether overseeing an oxygen system at a hospital or managing a microbulk fleet, customers rely on systems that work without delay.
Keeping valve services in-house minimizes third-party delays and gives Ratermann tighter quality control. For pressurized systems at ultralow temperatures, that control can make a difference.
“Our commitment to quality and speed helps customers minimize downtime and maximize confidence,” Rodriguez said.
Beyond the Parts
The Houston facility operates alongside other sites in California, Tennessee and North Carolina. With expanded support hours and technical resources online, the company is aiming to improve access and help users stay informed about valve selection, maintenance and certification. The goal is more than supplying products. With its mix of technical expertise, service infrastructure and inventory, Ratermann works to help customers prevent issues before they disrupt operations.
As cryogenic technologies develop and demand for gases like oxygen, nitrogen and hydrogen increases, the infrastructure behind them will need to become more dependable. Valves may be small, but their performance shapes the reliability of the systems they support. With its in-house valve recertification services, Ratermann is contributing to that reliability by helping the industry stay compliant, reduce downtime and maintain safer operations over time.
