AN engineering firm helping to clean up the environment is preparing for a manufacturing milestone.

GT Emissions Systems says it is close to seeing more than three million of its exhaust valve systems in operation around the world.

Bosses at the business, based in Peterlee, east Durham, say 2018 will be a platform for significant growth, with more than 500,000 engine air valves primed to be despatched from its North-East headquarters.

The business, part of the Knorr-Bremse Group-owned GT Group, makes exhaust gas control systems for vehicles, construction equipment and industrial and marine applications, which help diesel engine manufacturers’ meet emission targets.

The growth in production has been supported by GT Emissions Systems’ integration into Knorr-Bremse in 2016, with the operation designated as the latter’s global Centre of Competence for Engine Air products.

Keith Bendelow, managing director of GT Group and Center of Competence vice-president, said: “The support of Knorr-Bremse has bolstered activity, helping to significantly increase production and position us as a global centre of excellence in the field of engine air management.”

Thorsten Seehars, member of the management board of Knorr-Bremse Commercial Vehicle Systems, added: “Emission reduction continues to be a key consideration for the transport industry.

“It is therefore essential that supply chain partners, like GT Emissions Systems, continually develop innovative solutions that minimise the environmental impact of industrial and off-highway vehicles, in line with evolving legislation.

“Reaching the milestone of having more than three million valves operating in the field is a significant achievement for the business and testament to the ingenuity and dedication of GT Group’s skilled workforce.”

GT Group, founded by Geoff Turnbull, has more than 40 years’ experience in engineering design and manufacturing, with its services and products exported to more than 60 countries.

It is made up of four organisations.

Alongside GT Emissions Systems, it runs GT Project Engineering, which has bases in Consett, County Durham, and Pallion, in Sunderland, and is known for marine work, such as loading systems for subsea cable laying.

Its Alpha Process Controls division specialises in work on emergency release couplings, which are used to move liquid nitrogen gas on ships, while its Aldona Seals arm looks after hydraulic seals and rubber mouldings.