Innovating for Tomorrow: Crane Company Celebrates Its 170th Anniversary

Published: 1st May 2025 | Issue 98

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Crane Company, founded on July 4, 1855, by Richard Teller Crane in Chicago, Illinois, has built a legacy of innovation, integrity, and craftsmanship over 170 years. Beginning as a small brass and bell foundry, Crane has grown into a global leader in Process Flow Technologies for mission-critical applications, including cryogenics.

A Heritage of Innovation and Excellence

Richard Teller Crane’s commitment to honesty and superior craftsmanship laid the foundation for the company’s enduring success. Early achievements included the production of engine parts for the railroad industry and the first all-brass valve in 1858. By 1865, Crane expanded to produce a full range of industrial valves and fittings, pioneering mass-production technologies and cementing its reputation as a reliable industry leader. In 1876, Crane secured its patent for a steam valve and became one of the “Big Five” valve manufacturers, shaping the landscape of industrial engineering.

Milestones in Metallurgy and Manufacturing

Crane continually sets industry standards with advancements in metallurgy, such as integrating a steel foundry into its valve plant. The establishment of a metallurgical laboratory in 1890 ensured product quality and innovation. By the early 1900s, Crane was supplying essential components for Chicago's skyscrapers and introducing enameled cast-iron products.

During World Wars I and II, Crane played a critical role in supporting U.S. military efforts, producing valves, fittings, and advanced components for naval vessels and military infrastructure. Notable achievements included pioneering steel alloys for corrosion resistance and high temperatures, earning multiple Army-Navy "E" awards for excellence.

Driving Modern Advancements

Post-war, Crane expanded into refining, chemical, and petrochemical industries, setting benchmarks with innovations like the pressure seal valve and resilient-seated ball valves. Milestones such as the 1942 publication of Flow of Fluids Through Valves, Pipes, Pumps, and Fittings further established Crane as an expert in fluid dynamics [www.TP410.com ].

Recent Innovations

• Crane®FK-TrieX™ Valve: A novel full port triple offset valve exceeding conventional TOV Cv values by a factor of 4x.
• Saunders®HBV: hygienic ball valve that reduces maintenance by 50% using a slot in cartridge design.
• L-TORQ by XOMOX® Sleeved Plug Valves: Featuring 50% lower torque and a replaceable cartridge design.
• Xomox® XLB Lined Ball Valves: Robust solutions for fugitive emissions control.
• Krombach® TUFSEAT™ Ball Valves: Surpassing industry cycle test standards by 70,000 cycles.
• Resistoflex® ROTOmax™: Roto-lined products up to 72” diameter, offering zero-corrosion rate at 300°F.
• Crane Cryogenics™: Jacketed pipe, valves and fittings for mission-critical applications, including rocket launches.

From humble beginnings to cutting-edge advancements in cryogenics, Crane Company remains a symbol of ingenuity, integrity, and commitment to innovation. As it celebrates 170 years, Crane continues to INNOVATE FOR TOMORROW.

Email: news@cranecpe.com

Telephone:	01633 486 666
Email:	news@cranechempharma.com
Website:	www.cranecpe.com
	More information on the Crane ChemPharma & Energy, Saunders BVAA Member Directory Page

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