#United States #Vancouver #Northwest Pipe #InfraShield #steel pipeline

Northwest Pipe Company Receives Patent for InfraShield® Joint System

Northwest Pipe Company, a frontrunner in the manufacturing of water infrastructure solutions, has made headlines with the announcement of its latest innovation: the InfraShield® Joint System. Recently awarded U.S. Patent No. 12215817 by the United States Patent and Trademark Office, this groundbreaking product is engineered specifically to enhance the resilience of steel pressure pipes, particularly in geologically vulnerable areas susceptible to seismic activity and differential settlement.

A Significant Advancement in Pipeline Technology

The InfraShield® system represents a pivotal advancement in pipeline engineering, introducing a Geohazard Resistant Steel Pipe (GRSP) solution that eliminates the need for traditional gasketed joints. This innovative approach focuses on improving leak resistance while also saving costs, ultimately benefiting municipalities and utilities that rely on robust water delivery systems.

This engineered system employs a strain-based design, which allows for the pipes to absorb deformation due to issues like ground movement and earthquakes without placing undue stress on the welded joints. The unique structure integrates a small projection into the wall of the steel pipe, effectively providing an adaptive mechanism to handle changes in earth stability.

Enhancing Infrastructure Resilience

Scott Montross, President and CEO of Northwest Pipe Company, emphasized the importance of this patent in the context of engineering excellence and infrastructure resilience. The dedicated efforts of the in-house engineering team over several years culminated in the development of InfraShield®, a testament to the company's commitment to innovation in water transmission technologies. Montross remarked that this patented solution not only provides unmatched protection against geohazards but also assures water utilities and municipalities of long-term reliability.

InfraShield® has been meticulously crafted to withstand challenging geological conditions, including landslides, seismic events, and unforeseen soil movements. This makes it an essential component for critical water infrastructure projects, affirming Northwest Pipe's position as a leader in developing advanced solutions for water transmission that offer enduring performance and substantial value.

History and Future of Northwest Pipe Company

Established in 1966, Northwest Pipe Company has solidified its status as the largest manufacturer of engineered steel water pipeline systems in North America. The company's expansive portfolio includes not only the InfraShield® system but also stormwater and wastewater management products, precast concrete solutions, and various pipeline system components.

Strategically focused on addressing the growing infrastructure needs of water and wastewater systems, Northwest Pipe’s diverse product offerings cover a wide spectrum of applications. Their dedication to innovation aligns with core values of accountability, commitment, and teamwork, fostering a culture that prioritizes both quality and progress. With headquarters based in Vancouver, Washington, the company operates 13 manufacturing facilities throughout North America.

For anyone interested in learning more about the groundbreaking InfraShield® Joint System, further details can be found on their official website at www.nwpipe.com. As Northwest Pipe Company continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in water infrastructure, the InfraShield® system stands as a beacon of their dedication to resilience and reliability in an ever-changing geological landscape.