Northwest Pipe Company’s InfraShield is a geohazard resistant joint system for C200 steel pipe. (PRNewsfoto/Northwest Pipe Company)
The company’s system is said to enhance steel pressure pipe resilience in differential settlement and seismic applications.
VANCOUVER, Wash.—Northwest Pipe Company, a manufacturer of water-related infrastructure products, recently announced that the United States Patent and Trademark Office has issued U.S. Patent No. 12215817 for its InfraShield® Joint System.
According to a release from Northwest Pipe Company, InfraShield is an innovative geohazard resistant steel pipe (GRSP) system that is designed to strengthen the resilience of steel pipelines in geologically vulnerable areas without the need for gasketed joints. Manufactured in the United States and backed by rigorous testing, InfraShield is reported to enhance pipeline performance of C200 steel pipe by offering a fully welded, easy-to-install system that ensures leak-free reliability while delivering significant cost savings.
The system uses a strain-based design to enhance the resiliency of lap-welded steel pipe. A small projection is manufactured into the steel pipe wall, effectively absorbing deformation imposed by differential settlement or seismic activity without over-stressing the lap-welded joint itself, the release stated.
“This patent underscores our commitment to engineering excellence and infrastructure resilience,” said Scott Montross, president and CEO of Northwest Pipe Company, in the release. “Our in-house engineering team has worked on InfraShield® for several years, resulting in a groundbreaking advancement in steel pipeline technology. This patented solution offers unmatched protection against settlement and geohazards while maintaining the long-term reliability that water utilities and municipalities depend on.”
InfraShield is designed to withstand challenging geological conditions, including seismic activity, landslides, and soil movement. This is said to make it “an essential solution for critical water infrastructure projects.”
“This patented technology reinforces Northwest Pipe Company’s leadership in developing advanced water transmission solutions that deliver lasting performance and value,” the release stated.
Founded in 1966, Northwest Pipe Company is headquartered in Vancouver, Washington, and has 13 manufacturing facilities across North America. The company is reported to be “the largest manufacturer of engineered steel water pipeline systems in North America.” In addition, Northwest Pipe manufactures stormwater and wastewater technology products; high-quality precast and reinforced concrete products; pump lift stations; steel casing pipe; bar-wrapped concrete cylinder pipe; and a large offering of pipeline system joints, fittings, and specialized components.