Harper International

Harper International

Robert Harper worked for Cla-Val in his early years, where he gained experience in flow control systems. While working with Cla-Val, which is known throughout the world as producing the world’s highest quality automatic control valves, Bob became well-known for his abilities of understanding flow control systems, and the importance of automatic control values.Bob formed Harper International in 1974 and Hip Bretz joined in 1980. They were exclusive sales representative for Cla-Val as well as other premier manufacturers of fluid control components.

Bob Harper fully retired in 1996. As the company continued to grow, employees of Harper International, Fred Haines and Tom Kuehnel purchased the company in 1996. Tom and Fred agreed to dissolve rather than selling Harper International in 2012, closing and not renaming the company, as well as it’s website, the email known as solutionsbyharper.com and valves101.com, phone numbers and all the company operations in September 2012 after 39 years in the water industry.

In 2013, we were deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend, mentor, and business partner, Bob Harper, the founder of Harper International. Bob’s energetic and joyous approach to his business was contagious. He was always grateful for every order, and every shred of good news. Our industry is richer for his efforts as Bob was the consummate innovator…the original “Valvologist”. During a troubleshooting call, Bob would imitate the sound of an ailing valve, as many of you may recall, whenever the occasion called for it. During a valve presentation or sales call, I always enjoyed his unique way of conveying a most interesting and witty side story on or off subject. We’ll miss you, Bob, you were the genuine article. Harper International, Inc. (1974-2012)

Fred Haines founded Harper Haines Fluid Control, Inc. in October 2012. His ex-partner started another business, a controls company. Fred’s new company continues to provide top quality solutions for fluid control valves, components, pump stations and extravagant service from our new location in Milford, CT. Harper-Haines recently launched a solution for Valve Downtime, offering expert and responsive Preventive Maintenance and Repair Service. We field experienced technicians for valves installed in waterworks, wastewater, pump stations and industrial applications. We are Certified Cla-Val Field Agents and will service control valve, components and pump stations anywhere. Harper Haines is known for our fluid control knowledge. Customers get “application driven answers” in order to provide products for their systems application.

Harper-Haines Fluid Control Team celebrated our first year of business success in 2012 with a special contribution to Water for People through each of our AWWA regional partners. To learn about this wonderful charity promoting clean and safe drinking water globally,visit http://home.waterforpeople.org