Processors are increasingly modernising and automating operations to improve both efficiency and food safety. Control-valves and valve automation are used by food processors to mix ingredients and to manage pressures, while protecting pipelines from exterior contamination and bacteria build-up.

US-based Emerson Process Management said the new centres feature an advanced flow laboratory, in which its scientists will develop valve technologies and test valve performance.

On-site application engineers are available to recommend valve and instrument products to meet processors' flow-control requirements.

Michael Train, president of Emerson Process Management Asia Pacific, said the investment in Tianjin is part of the company's developing Chinese strategy.

"The new centres will help Emerson to further innovate and improve its technical expertise to bring industry-leading products close to the customer," he said.

The 12,000-square-meter Emerson campus, within the Wuqing development area in Tianjin, includes a manufacturing facility. Rapid-response manufacturing as well as after-market support services are also offered at the site.

Emerson's Fast PartsT programme provides quick delivery of replacement components for the Asia Pacific region and supports plant start-up, control-valve diagnostics, repairs, and outages, the company said.

The Emerson said the centre also provides FisherR, BettisR, and other leading control-valve and valve-automation brand products to a wide range of process industries.

Emerson Process Management, an Emerson business, works with businesses to automate their production, processing and distribution in the many industries including food and beverage, waterwater, chemical among others.