ValenTech VTEM Electric Actuators Power Athena Group's Landmark Iraqi Energy Project

Athena Group has successfully delivered a critical motor operated gate valve solution to Northern Gas Company (NGC), a subsidiary of the Iraqi Ministry of Oil, with its flagship ValenTech VTEM series electric actuators taking center stage as the core driving force. This project marks a significant breakthrough for ValenTech in the Middle East energy sector, demonstrating the brand's exceptional performance in harsh operating environments and its strong competitiveness in the global high-end actuator market.

Tailored to meet the rigorous demands of Iraq's energy infrastructure, the project integrates Athena's high-performance gate valves (12-24 inches, 300LB-600LB pressure ratings, crafted from A216 WCB and A217 WC1 materials) with ValenTech VTEM multi-turn electric actuators—engineered to deliver unmatched reliability, durability, and operational precision in extreme conditions. Iraq's energy fields are characterized by scorching temperatures, intense sandstorms, and fluctuating pressure loads, making actuator performance a decisive factor in ensuring uninterrupted natural gas transmission. ValenTech's VTEM series rose to the challenge with its industry-leading design and technical innovations.

Beyond environmental resilience, the VTEM series delivers intelligent control and operational flexibility that align with modern energy infrastructure requirements. The non-intrusive setting functionality, enabled by local control buttons and infrared remote commissioning, allows for easy parameter adjustment without disassembling the unit—reducing on-site maintenance time in remote and harsh locations. The rotatable electrical compartment and LCD display ensure clear visibility of operational status from any angle, while the integrated torque sensor provides real-time torque monitoring with adjustable settings (40%-100% of rated torque) to prevent equipment damage from overloading. For emergency scenarios, the manual handwheel with a quick-declutch button ensures fail-safe operation, even during power outages.

This project also showcases the VTEM series' versatility in adapting to diverse system requirements. With torque ranges spanning 100Nm to 3000Nm (and extendable to 600,000Nm with optional gearboxes) and compatibility with multiple power supplies (380VAC/3PH, 220VAC/1PH, 24VDC), the actuators seamlessly integrated with Athena's gate valves to deliver precise flow control for natural gas transmission. The optional explosion-proof enclosure (ExdIICT4/ExdIICT6) further enhances safety in hazardous energy environments, meeting international standards for operational security.
For Athena Group, this successful collaboration with NGC is more than a project milestone—it is a testament to ValenTech's position as a trusted provider of high-performance electric actuators in the global energy sector. By combining Athena's valve expertise with ValenTech's innovative actuator technology, the group delivered a turnkey solution that exceeds the client's expectations for reliability and efficiency.

Looking ahead, Athena Group will continue to prioritize R&D for ValenTech's actuator product line, enhancing technical capabilities and expanding application scenarios to meet the evolving needs of the global energy industry. By deepening partnerships across the Middle East and beyond, ValenTech is poised to become a leading force in driving sustainable, efficient, and safe energy transmission worldwide—proving that superior actuator technology is the backbone of modern energy infrastructure.