VAM Announced It Is Expanding Its Connection Technology Center to 90,000 Square Feet

VAM USA a joint venture between Vallourec, Sumitomo Corporation, and NSSMC announced it is expanding its Connection Technology Center to 90,000 square feet in response to customer requests for new, innovative products, and the qualification of existing product lines to new standards or well conditions.

At this facility, VAM connections for shale applications or projects for the Gulf of Mexico undergo the harshest full-scale tests: make and break, simulation of combined loads (tension or compression), bending, high temperatures and fatigue life.

The Technology Center significantly grows VAM USA's ability to design, manufacture, inspect, and test several premium connections at once. Building construction was completed in July, 2012, and all equipment will be fully operational by the end of 2012. At this point, VAM USA will have doubled its R&D capacity from current levels.

The VAM USA Connection Technology Center will become one of the largest and best equipped connection testing facilities in the world. The recent building expansion is already able to support additional equipment to ultimately triple the current VAM USA R&D capacity.

This development positions VAM to remain the world leader in premium connection solutions.