Thanks to a dual acquisition, Framatome and TechnicAtome reinforce their valve operations

Framatome has acquired Velan SAS, now renamed Valserve. In addition, Framatome and TechnicAtome have also acquired Segault SAS. These two new acquisitions will contribute to strengthening the valve operations of the two French nuclear boiler makers and support French industrial sovereignty in the context of the nuclear revival.

On March 31, 2025, Framatome announced the dual acquisition of two companies previously owned by Canadian group Velan Inc. The first is Velan SAS, specialized in the design, manufacturing, and maintenance of nuclear valves for both civilian and military reactors, and in low-temperature cryogenics. Under Framatome, the company is now known as Valserve. The second, Segault SAS, was acquired jointly with TechnicAtome. It retains its name and specializes in high-performance valves designed for extreme-use conditions, notably in civil nuclear and defense sectors. These two acquisitions follow the one made in June 2024, when Framatome and TechnicAtome jointly acquired Vanatome.

Decades of Expertise

Velan SAS was founded in 1974 and is based in Lyon, employing over 300 people. Its valves are internationally recognized and already installed in more than 350 nuclear reactors worldwide, as well as in numerous energy sector facilities. This new acquisition enables Framatome to establish a dedicated valve product line.

By incorporating these key competencies, we are bolstering our supply chain and our ability to address the critical needs of our sectors.”
said Bernard Fontana, CEO of Framatome.

Segault, with 80 employees, has operated since 1921 in Mennecy (Essonne). The acquisition strengthens the specialized activities of both Framatome and TechnicAtome. Its valves equip the reactor buildings of a quarter of the world’s operating nuclear power plants, as well as onboard nuclear boilers used in submarines and on the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle.

“Our relationship with Segault is longstanding as their specialized expertise aligns perfectly with our needs. With this acquisition, we are continuing our efforts to strengthen the supply chain for nuclear propulsion and French deterrence,”
said Loïc Rocard, CEO of TechnicAtome. ■

By François Terminet (Sfen)

Image: Valves from the Tokamak Cooling Water System (TCWS) of the ITER nuclear fusion reactor, produced by Velan. Source: Velan