Rotork has won the contracts to supply hundreds of intelligent electric valve actuators for new oil pipeline and distribution network modernisation projects in Eastern European countries. Most of the orders are for the latest generation, enhanced IQ electric actuator design, which has been re-engineered with rationalised electronics and new levels of powerful diagnostic and ommunication features to meet the most demanding operating conditions. In Romania, over 500 ‘non-intrusive’ IQ actuators are being supplied for the modernisation of the 4500km state-owned strategic crude oil pipeline network that links the Black Sea with central Europe. The contract was awarded by German turnkey contractors ABB Pipeline Management, who are responsible for all aspects of the project, including the introduction of modern computerised control techniques. The Romanian pipeline network, operated by Conpet, consists of pipework and valves ranging in diameter from 50mm to over 700mm, connecting oil and gas fields to refineries and tank farms and in some areas linking with railways from remote production fields. In neighbouring Ukraine, almost 300 IQ valve actuators have been ordered for a new oil terminal at the Black Sea port of Odessa and a pipeline linking into the distribution network at Brodi. A further 200 IQ actuators have also been ordered from Rotork’s Russian subsidiary for a new Baltic oil terminal and associated pipeline.