Northwest Pipe Company Receives U.S. Patent for Innovative InfraShield® Joint System

The Company's revolutionary system enhances steel pressure pipe resilience in differential settlement and seismic applications

VANCOUVER, Wash., Feb. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Northwest Pipe Company (Nasdaq: NWPX), a leading manufacturer of water-related infrastructure, is proud to announce that the United States Patent and Trademark Office has issued U.S. Patent No. 12215817 for the InfraShield® Joint System ("InfraShield®"), an innovative Geohazard Resistant Steel Pipe (GRSP) solution designed to strengthen the resilience of steel pipelines in geologically vulnerable areas without the need for gasketed joints.

Manufactured in the USA and backed by rigorous testing, InfraShield® enhances 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 utilizes a strain-based design to enhance the resiliency of lap-welded steel pipe. A small projection is manufactured into the steel pipe wall which effectively absorbs deformation imposed by differential settlement or seismic activity without over-stressing the lap-welded joint itself.

"This patent underscores our commitment to engineering excellence and infrastructure resilience," said Scott Montross, President and CEO of Northwest Pipe Company. "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, making 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. For more information about the InfraShield® Joint System, visit www.nwpipe.com.

About Northwest Pipe Company – Founded in 1966, Northwest Pipe Company is a leading manufacturer of water-related infrastructure products. In addition to being the largest manufacturer of engineered steel water pipeline systems in North America, the Company 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 one of the largest offerings of pipeline system joints, fittings, and specialized components. Strategically positioned to meet growing water and wastewater infrastructure needs, Northwest Pipe Company provides solution-based products for a wide range of markets under the ParkUSA, Geneva Pipe and Precast, Permalok®, and Northwest Pipe Company lines. The Company's diverse team is committed to quality and innovation while demonstrating its core values of accountability, commitment, and teamwork. The Company is headquartered in Vancouver, Washington, and has 13 manufacturing facilities across North America. Please visit www.nwpipe.com for more information.

Contact:
Aaron Wilkins
Chief Financial Officer
Northwest Pipe Company
360-397-6294 • [email protected]

SOURCE Northwest Pipe Company