A directional control valve sold by the Barksdale unit of the Controls segment is an integral part of Blow Out Preventer (BOP) systems used on oil and gas drilling rigs worldwide to prevent environmental disasters and loss of life and limb. If, during the drilling process, a high-pressure pocket is hit, that surge of pressure can travel up the well and result in an explosion equal to a five-ton bomb. The BOP unit senses that pressure surge and automatically cuts it off before it reaches the point where an explosion can occur. Chosen for its reliability and value, the Shear-Seal® valve actually “wears in” rather than wearing out and is thus virtually leakproof. Custom engineered versions of the Shear-Seal® can be found in hydraulic power systems, lubricating systems, and the Jaws of Life cutting tool used by rescue teams around the world.

The Controls segment boasts strong Operational Excellence metrics and financial consistency that allow management to focus on profitable growth. Technological innovation and new product introduction are performance drivers in the segment. The proven ability to develop and deliver new, technologically sophisticated products, geographical expansion and increased penetration of the military market represent major opportunities for growth at Controls.