Sept. 18, 2025 – IMI has successfully delivered what are believed to be the largest production choke valves ever manufactured to a landmark unmanned processing platform in the North Sea. The 100D DRAG multi-stage, multi-turn control valves, manufactured at the company’s IMI CCI production facility in Austria, measure 20” x 20” and are rated to ASME 4500. With a design pressure of 686 barg, the valve body and bonnet comprise of forged ASTM A182 F22 Cl, while a full internal Inconel 625 weld overlay offers enhanced corrosion resistance. Leveraging IMI’s patented DRAG™ technology, the trim is made from solid tungsten carbide to provide extreme durability in high-pressure, erosive service.
Following the successful completion of factory acceptance testing in Austria, three 100D DRAG valves have now been delivered to the site. Ronald Simon, principal engineer for Oil & Gas and valve doctor at IMI, said, “The successful production and delivery of the 100D DRAG valves underscores our capability to provide cutting-edge flow control solutions for high-pressure, high-flow offshore applications. “Designed for use within an unmanned offshore platform, which itself presents a unique operational challenge, these valves are built to the highest quality standards which are essential to ensuring reliable, safe and efficient production in remote environments.”
Simon added: “Ultimately, this delivery marks a significant engineering milestone for IMI and reaffirms our commitment to supplying industry-leading flow control solutions for the most demanding offshore applications.”
